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I 

THE 



HISTOET 



MARION COUNTY 



OHIO 



CONTAINING 



A History of the County; its Townships, Towns, Churches, 

Schools, etc ; General and Local Statistics; Military 

Record; Portraits of Early Settlers and Prominent 

Men ; History of The Northwest Territory; 

History of Ohio; Miscellaneous 

matters, etc., etc. 



ILLTJSTEATED, 






CHICAGO: 

LEGGETT, CONAWAY& CO 
1883. 



1 










PREFACE. 



After months of unremitting toil, the result of our efforts to produce a 
reliable history of Marion County is before the public. None can better appre- 
ciate than those who so kindly and liberally assisted us, the difficulties incident 
to the preparation of a work of this character. After a thorough inspection 
of public documents and of newspaper files ; after old settlers and prominent 
citizens have been interviewed, the whole mass of information had to be sys- 
tematized into one harmonious whole ; and after all this there intervenes the in- 
completeness of the public documents, the often imperfect, because hastily pre- 
pared, items in the newspaper files, and the conflicting statements of pioneers 
who have memory alone upon which to place their dependence. But while 
perfection is written upon no human work, we trust that on the whole the His- 
tory of Marion County may as nearly approximate to this title as is possible. 
To this end no pains have been spared, wherever possible, the manuscript hav- 
ing been submitted for inspection to those who furnished the facts, and in the 
biographical department invariably opportunity has been given for thorough 
revision. 

We take this opportunity, in general terms, to tender our warmest thanks 
to the county officials, pioneers, pastors of churches, members of the bar, offi- 
cers of societies, and especially the editorial corps of Marion Count}', for the 
many acts of courtesy and kindness which the}' have extended to us while la- 
boring in their midst. And in this connection we cannot forbear to name 
Messrs. J. E. Davids, J. S. Reed, T. P. Wallace, Col. W. W. Concklin. Dr. T. 
B. Fisher, Hon. J. J. Hane, W. Z. Davis, J. F. McNeal, J. A. Wolford, George 
B. Christian, J. C. Johnston, Rev. S. D. Bates, Dr. F. W. Thomas, Capt. Valen- 
tine Lapham, Henry True, George Crawford, S. R. Dumble and R. D. Dumm, 
John R. Knapp (of Washington, D. C), and many others, who in various ways 
materially aided us in the preparation of this volume. 

We feel assured that its mechanical execution, the press work, the binding, 
and the portrait work are such as to insure a favorable reception, and we now 
issue our work to the people of Marion County. 

LEGGETT, CONAWAY & CO. 
Chicago, October, 1883. 



CONTENTS. 



PART I. 

HISTORY OP THE NORTHWEST TERRRITORY. 



PAGE. 

Geographical Position 19 

Early Explorations 20 

Discovery of Ohio 32 

English Explorations and Settlements 34 



PAGE. 

American Settlements 59 

Division of the Northwest Territory 65 

Tecumseh and the War of 1812 69 

Black Hawk and the Black Hawk War 73 



PART II. 
HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 



History of Ohio 93 

French Histor* 96 

Ordinance of 1787, No. 32 105 

The War of 1812 122 

Banking 126 

The Canal System 128 

Ohio Land Tracts 129 

Improvements 132 

State Boundaries 136 

Organization of Counties 137 

Description of Counties 137 

Early Events 137 



Governors of Ohio 160 

Ancient Works 174 

Some Genera! Characteristics 177 

Outline Geology of Ohio 179 

Ohio's Bank During the War 182 

A Brief Mention of Prominent Ohio Generals... 191 

Some Discussed Subjects 196 

Conclusion 200 

Comments upon the Ordinance of 1787, from the 

Statutes of Ohio. Edited by Salmon P. 

Chase, and Published in the year 1833 204 



PART III. 

HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 



CHAPTEB I.— Geology, Zoology, Meteor- 
ology 215 

Situation and Area 215 

Surface, Features and Soil 215 

Geological Structure 215 

Material Besources 218 

Animals 219 

Birds 220 

Fishes 224 

Beptiles 224 

Anecdotal 227 

Meteorology 228 

CHAPTEB II. — Indians and Early Settle- 
ment 230 

Prehistoric 230 

F. C. Buehrmund's Collection 231 

Other Collections 233 

Historic or Modern Indians 233 

The Tribes of this Vicinity 234 

The Burning of Col. William Crawford 234 

The Wyandots and Delawares 235 

The Greenville Treaty 236 

Capt. Beckley's Beminisconces of Indian 

Life 237 

Last Exodus of the Indian* 242 

The Wyandot's Farewell Song 245 

Early White Occupants of Ohio 245 

Early Settlement of Marion County 248 



First Marriages 253 

The First Deed 255 

The First Will 255 

CHAPTEB III— Pioneer Life 256 

The Log Cabin 257 

Sleeping Accommodations 259 

Cooking 259 

Women's Work 260 

Beligious Worship 260 

Hospitality 264 

Trade and Money 264 

Milling 265 

Agricultural Implements 266 

Hog Killing 266 

Wild Hogs 267 

Bee Hunting 267 

The Shakes 2C.7 

Education 268 

Spelling and Singing Schools 270 

Guarding Against Indians 271 

Uees 271 

A Retrospect.... 271 

CHAPTER IV.— Reminiscences 273 

By Capt. George Beekley 273 

By William La Bue 287 

By Daniel S. Drake 288 

By Henry Peters 289 

By Joseph Morris 290 



CONTENTS. 



PAGE. 

CHAPTER V— Organic 293 

Marion County 294 

First County Officers and their Work 295 

Districts 296 

The County Seat 296 

The First Court House 299 

The Proposed Court House 301 

The Jail 301 

Infirmary 302 

Wall Maps 302 

County Atlas 302 

Table of Air Line Distances 303 

Post Offices in Marion County 303 

CHAPTER VI.— Political 305 

Log Cabin Campaign of 1840 306 

Pole-Raising 309 

Election Returns 311 

Representatives in Congress 338 

State Senators 338 

Representatives to the Legislature 338 

County Officers 339 

First Justices of the Peace 340 

Personal Sketches 341 

CHAPTER VII.— Bench and Bar 347 

Introductory 347 

The Bench 348 

The Common Pleas Court 356 

Some of the Associate Judges 362 

Bill Anderson 363 

The Barol the Past 365 

The Bar of the Present 372 

CHAPTER VIII.— Material Progress 377 

Population 377 

First Roads and Turnpikes 377 

Railroads 380 

Proposed Railroads 383 



PAGE. 

Express and Telegraph 384 

Agriculture — 384 

Marion County Agricultural Society 385 

Patrons of Husbandry 386 

Fine Stock 389 

Marion County Importing Company 389 

Manufactures in 1881 390 

Buildings, value of, in 1881 390 

Valuation of Property 391 

Financial Condition of the County 391 

CHAPTER IX— Religion, Temperance, Edu- 
cation, Literature and Art 393 

Churches 393 

County Bible Society *. 394 

< ounty Sunday School Union 396 

Temperance 396 

Educational 399 

Literature 401 

Marion Art School 410 

Music 411 

CHAPTER X.— Medical 414 

Early Physicians of Marion County 414 

First County Bible Society 416 

The New Organization 417 

CHAPTER XL— The Press 418 

Early Marion Journals 418 

The Independent 421 

The Mirror 425 

Daily Star 432 

Prospect Advocate 433 

La Rue News 434 

Caledonia Argus 434 

CHAPTER XIL— Miscellaneous 135 

Criminal 436 

Cholera 438 



PART IV. 

MILITARY HISTORY. 



CHAPTER I.— Earlier Wars 441 

Revolutionary War 441 

War of 1812 442 

Mexican War 444 

CHAPTER II— Militia 445 



CHAPTER III.— War of the Rebellion 447 

CHAPTER IV.— Regimental Histories and 

Soldiers' Roster 454 

War Reminiscences of James F. Mohr 482 



PART V. 
TOWNSHIP HISTORIES. 



CHAPTER I.— Marion Village 487 

Jacob's Well 487 

War Road 487 

First Settlers 488 

General Progress 488 

Marion in 1825 490 

Marion in RS'J" 49i 

Marion in 1828...: 495 

Sundry Beginnings 497 

Reminiscences of Marion. 498 

Business Establishments 501 

Municipal History 507 

Churches : 517 

Secret Societies 527 

Educational 535 

Miscellaneous Societies 539 

Two Great Fires 54:i 

Anecdotal 543 

Marion Township - _ >4C> 

Biographical Sketches 550 



CHAPTER II.— Big Island Township...^ 650 

Biographical Sketches 654 

CHAPTER III.— Rowling Green Township 672 

Biographical Sketches 676 

CHAPTER IV.— Claridon Township 691 

Biographical Sketches 710 

CHAPTER V.— Grand Township 757 

Biographical Sketches 760 

CHAPTER VI.— (hand Prairie Township 767 

Biographical Sketches 772 

CHAPTER VII.— Green Camp Township 778 

Biographical Sketches 785 

CHAPTER VII I— Montgomery Township 804 

Biographical Sketches 821 

CHAPTER IX— Pleasant Township 866 

Biographical Sketches 874 

CHAPTER X.— Prospect Township 888 

Biographical Sketches 910 

CHAPTER XL— Richland Township 949 

Biographical Sketches 954 



CONTENTS. 



PAGE. 

CHAPTER XII.— Salt Rock Township 962 

Biographical Sketches 966 

CHAPTER XIII.— Scott Township 970 

Biographical Sketches 975 



PAGE. 

CHAPTER XIV.— Tully Township 988 

Biographical Sketches 393 

CHAPTER XV.— Waldo Township 1004 

Biographical Sketches 1014 



PORTRAITS. 



Baiu, John >■ 530 

Baker, Eber 211 

Bowen, Judge Ozias 351 

Brocklesby, William 563 

Court, Joseph 387 

Crawford, George 423 

Fields, Rev. Joseph 406 

Garberson, J. R 494 

Gast, David 475 

Hoch, Enoch 631 

Holverstott, Henry 262 

Kerr, Robert 6 9 7 

Likins, James 728 



Messenger, Col. Everett 188 

Miller, Obadiah 761 

Peters, Nathan - 226 

Roads, J. Q -279 

Rosencrans, John 370 

Seaburn, Jacob 243 

Thew, Henry 511 

Thew William 169 

Thew, William P 598 

Van Fleet, H. T 334 

Vaughan, J. H 458 

Wood, Hampton 664 



ILLUSTRATIONS. 



Source of the Mississippi 22 

La Salle Landing on the Shores of Green Bay... 24 

Buffalo Hunt 26 

Trapping 28 

Mouth of the Mississippi 31 

High Bridge 33 

Pontiac, the Ottawa Chieftain 42 

Indians Attacking Frontiersmen 55 



Present Site Lake Street Bridge, Chicago in lS->3 o< 

A Pioneer Dwelling 60 

Lake Bluff. 62 

Tecumseh, the Shawnee Chieftain 68 

Indians Attacking a Stockade 71 

Black Hawk, the Sac Chieftain 74 

Perry's Monument, Cleveland 91 

Niagara Falls 92 



MISCELLANEOUS. 



Map of Marion County .14-15 

Constitution of the United States 79 

Area of the United States 203 

Marion County Court House, Lithograph 298 

Proposed Marion County Court House, Litho- 
graph 315 



Marion Cemetery Vault 524 

Population of the Principal Countries in the 

World 203 

Population of Ohio by Counties 203 

Population of Marion County 377 




INDEX. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 

[Ex-Union soldiers are marked with a *.] 



PAGE. 

Abel, Christian 910 

Abston, John N 373 

Ackerman, Henry 550 

Adams, Benjamin C 910 

Allen, Curtis 550 

Allen, E. G 551 

*Allinger, G. C 821 

Almendinger, Jacob 912 

Amrine, David 822 

Anderson, Ezra 822 

Anderson, James H 368 

Anderson, John 551 

Anderson, Joseph 823 

Anderson, Thomas J 362 

Anderson, Mrs. Sarah 823 

Anselment, John W 710 

Apt, George W 711 

*Apt, Capt. Jacob F 711 

Aronhalt, William 785 

Augenstein, Daniel 1014 

Augenstein, George F 1015 

Augenstein, W. D 1015 

*Ault, George W 711 

Ault, John A 993 

Aye, Melville C 712 

Aye, Morris J 712 

Backus, Thomas 365 

Bader, Samuel 676 

Bain, John 823 

*Bain, William 824 

Bain, William (deceased) 346 

Bair, A. J 367 

Baker, Charles 551 

B*ker, Hon. Eber 341 

Baldinger, Jacob 993 

Barks. George F 552 

Bartram. Hon. John / 363 

Bartraml Samuel H 372, 552 

♦Bates, Rev. Samuel D 553 

Battenfeld, J 553 

Bauer, Philip 554 

*Beach,John 993 

Bean, D. J 421 

Beckley, Mrs. Eliza 712 

Beckl.v, F. C 554 

Beckley, Capt. George 342 

Bechtold, Christian 824 

bechtold, John C 825 

Bee;:, Judge Thomas 361 

Beerbower, Peter 554 

*Beerbowar, Samuel T 555 

Behner, Gottleib 874 

Behiier, John 875 

Bell, David M 676 

Bell, Jonathan 556 

Bell, J. L 556 

Bell, Layfayette 676 

Hell. Mrs. Margaret 676 

Bell, Samuel 557 

Bender, Philip..... ...1015 

Bennett, Judge Sauford S 362 

Berger, Jacob 825 

Beringer, John 954 

Berridge, Samuel 713 

Berry, James H 875 

Kerry, James R 785 

*Borry, William A 786 

Biggerstalf, Friend 912 



PACK. 

Billings, Joseph 414 

Birch, David 825 

Birch, Martin J 825 

Blanchard. John 713 

Bland, William 557 

Boalt, Charles L 365 

Bonham, Harrison 677 

*Bonham, Timothy C 677 

Bottenfield, Meeker 912 

Bowdish, Dr., Russell C 654 

Bowen, Hon. Ozias 359 

*Bower, David J 760 

Bower, Jacob P 761 

Boyd, Austin A ,. 913 

Boyd, John Wesley 913 

Boyd, Robert A 557 

Boyd, Robert G 875 

Boynton, Cashius 714 

Brady, Albert J 654 

Brady, B. D 655 

Bretz, Andrew D 772 

Brewer, Emery 772 

Bricker, John 655 

Brigel, Michael 558 

Briggs, Silas W 773- 

Briggs, W. W 416- 

*Bnnker, John 786 

Britton , James 655 

Britton, Mrs. Mary S 655 

Brenizer, Dr. N. 914 

Brown, Ellis W 827 

Brown, Ezekiel 773 

Brown, George 558 

Brown, Hon. William 343 

Brocklesby, William 714 

Brownlee, D.W 994 

Brownlee, James 994 

Brugger, John 787 

Brundige Family 1005 

Bi-mdige, John 1016 

Brundige, John F 1017 

Brunner, Hon. L. A 431 

Bryan, James E 559 

Bunker, Peleg 368 

Burdge, Marshall S 827 

Burkhart, John S 994 

Burtsfield, John 773 

Busby, Hon. George H 342 

Bush, Frederick 714 

Camp, B.J 559 

Campbell, Francis 559 

Campbell, Michael 773 

Campbell, W. J 827 

Carey, William A 787 

Chard, David 787 

Chase, M. B 374 

♦Christian, George B 130 

Christian, Dr. J. M 560 

Christanz, John 715 

Church, James S28 

Church, Oliver 828 

Clark, A. L 561 

(lark, David M 829 

( Hark, Enoch 761 

Clark, Oeorge S 678 

Clark, Isaac 762 

Clark, John G 561 

*Clark, Joseph 994 



INDEX. 



PAGE. 

'Clark, J. W 561 

*Clark, Nathan 678 

Clark, Robert T 561 

(lark, Samuel W 678 

(lark, William N 715 

Clary, Michael 562 

Cleveland, Sumner 829 

♦Click, Michael 876 

(line, Jerome N 715 

*Cline, William H 715 

*Clowes, H. R 433 

*Cluff, Ami 716 

Clutter, William 975 

Cochran, Alexander 995 

Codding, J. Q 562, 374 

Coify, James 562 

*Cole, Ira B 788 

Cole, William 788 

Conch, Simeon A 414 

Concklin, W. W 565 

Conklin, Ezra M 1017 

Conklin, Jacob S 361 

Conley, Edmund 565 

Coon, Elkana 566 

Coons, C 656 

Conrad, George W 566 

Conrad, Harry 566 

Coonrod, Mrs. Mary 774 

Cook Brothers 915 

Cook, Frank M 914 

Cook, G. W 915 

Cook, Dr. E. R 914 

Coulter, J. Harvey 976 

Court, B. Frank 876 

Court, George 876 

Court, John J 915 

Court, Jr., Joseph 877 

Court, Joseph 567 

Court, Stephen A 567, 375 

Court, William F 915 

Copeland, George D 376 

Copeland, Dr., Joshua 829 

Copeland, Josiah S 345 

Coutu, Joseph B 656 

*Cranmer, A. 656 

*Cratty, Joseph 915 

Cratty. Robert 916 

*Crawford, George 422 

Crissinger, David... 995 

Crissinger, Elias 976 

Crissinger, John 716 

Criswell, Dr. John H 717 

Croft, John 717 

Croft. Samuel 717 

Cromer, Christian H 877 

Cross, T. A 371 

Crowley, James 830 

Culbertson, James 568 

Cull, John 568 

Cummin, T. S 568 

*Cunningham, H. H 569 

Cunningham, Isaac D 877 

Curl, Mrs. Sarah E 717 

Curren, Hugh 1017 

Cusick, Bartholomew 569 

Cyphers, Barnet 995 

Davids, John E 570, 372 

Davis, Dr. B. W 571 

*Davis, John J 788 

Davis, Josiah T 917 

Davis, Nehemiah 763 

Davis, Richard B 877 

*Davis. William Z 572,373 

Day, Allen 657 

Day, Samuel 831 

Deal, Harrison S31 

Deal, Henry 762 

Delauder, George D 831 

Denison, L 572 

*Denman, Isaac 1018 

Denman, Dr. William C 573 

Denman, William E 679 

Dennig, William C 573 

Devore, Hon. James W 718 

Dickson, Isaac 996 

Dickson, Thomas 990 

Dickson, W. H 996 



I PAGE. 

I Diebold, John 573 

Diegle, George 574, 374 

! Dietrich, Philip 574 

I Dilts, Austin M 718 

Dilts, Peter 719 

I Dix Brothers 918 

*Dix, Clark 575 

Dix, Elijah 918 

I Dodd, Thomas P 679 

! Dodds, S. C 762 

Dombaugh, Philip 462 

*Donithen, Alfred L 1018 

Douce, Mrs. Ann 719 

Douce, George W : 719 

Douce, James L .. 720 

Douce, Richard R 720 

Douce, William T 720 

| Dowling, John W -» 976 

Drake, Daniel S 1008 

Drake, Francis M 1019 

Drake, Capt. William S 1007 

*Drake, Dr. William S 575 

*Drollsbough, John 997 

Dumble, John B 426 

*Dunible, Samuel R 421 

Dumm, R. D 431 

Duncan, Thomas 371 

Dutt, Philip 878 

Dutton, Benjamin P 657 

*Durfee, Bradford R 367 

Durfee, E 5«5 

Ehlers, John 721 

Eibling, Gottleib 576 

*Elseroad, John W 789 

Emery, James 1019 

Emery, Martih 954 

Epley, Francis M 721 

Evans, John 576 

Everett, William 763 

Everhardt, John 720 

Farnum, Dr. J. L 918 

Fatzler, Jacob F 789 

Fehl, Valentine 764 

Fetter, Jr., George 721 

Fields, Eward D 721 

Fields, John 722 

Fields, Joseph 722 

Fies, William 577 

Fink, Mrs. Elizabeth 723 

Firstenberger, Daniel 955 

Firstenberger, Elias 955 

Firstenberger, Jacob 955 

Fish, Samuel 872 

Fish, Samuel A 790 

Fisher, Charles C 375 

♦Fisher, J.B 657 

Fisher, T. B 577 

Fisher, William 367 

Flaherty, Anthony 832 

Folk, Byron 878 

Foos, John A 723 

Foos, Hiram K 658 

*Fox, Jr., Jacob F 920 

Fox, Sr.. Jacob F 919 

Frame, H. C 658 

*Francis, Joseph A 723 

Francis, P. K 1020 

Free, Adam 878 

Free, Dr., Daniel 790 

Frederick, John L 833 

*Gable, Abraham 724 

*Gabler, William 1021 

Garberson, Charles F 578, 375 

Garberson, Judge John R 724 

Gavin, Henry C 725 

;: ( laivin, William 726 

Gast, Christian 920 

Cast, Christian 921 

Gast, David 922 

Cast, George 922 

Gast, G. F 923 

Gast, John B 923 

Gast, John M 923 

Cast, Philip M 924 

Cast, Rev. Philip 923 

(last, William W 924 

Gearhiser, George W 1021 



INDEX. 



PAGE. 

Gearhiser, Jacob 1021 

Giddis, .John ,T 726 

Gillespie, Evan 833 

Gillespie, Noah 764 

Glidden, Dr. T. J 924 

Qodman, H. C 371 

*Godman, (ien. James H 365 

Gotnpf, J. G 955 

Gompf, John P 1022 

Gooding, Charles H 879 

Gooding, George 879 

Gooding, John 879 

Gorenflo, Frederick, Jr 880 

Gorton, Hezekiah 343 

Gracely, Christian 833 

Gracely, Christopher 658 

Grant, Samuel H 790 

Gray, George 362 

Gray, J. F 658 

Gregory, James D 579 

Grimke, Frederick 359 

Griswold, S. A 421 

Gruber, Abraham... 579 

Gruber, Sidney W 579 

Gruber, Thomas B 579 

Gugle, John 579 

Gurley, John 580 

Gurley, John 581 

Gunn, Lewis 580 

Guthery, Hon. John D 679 

Guthery, Philip E 680 

Guthrie, Joseph D 791 

Guthrie, J. H 659 

Haberman, Christian 581 

Haberman, Fred 582 

*Haberman, John 791 

Hahn, Dr. Charles 582 

Hain, Adam 880 

Hain, Daniel 880 

Hain, Henry 925 

*Haines, Columbus L 727 

Haines, L.C 583 

Haines, Mrs. M. F 727 

Haines, M. W 584 

Halloway, Dr. George 415 

Halt, Frederick 956 

Hane, Hon. J.J 584 

Hanley, John 727 

*Harrah, Mathew 835 

Harraman, Aaron (559 

Harraman, James 659 

Harraman, M. J 835 

Harris, Jacob 774 

♦Harris, John 681 

Harrison, John V 585 

Harrison, Michael R 727 

Hardy, Capt. Elisha 585 

Harder, Perry 834 

Harper, Charles 791 

Harper, James 834 

Harsch, Wesley 586 

Harshberger, J. R 586 

♦Harshberger, L. D 925 

Harvey, D. H 587 

Harvey, James M.- 587 

Harvey, Paul G 587 

Harvey, Thomas 587 

Hastings, John 836 

Hastings, John D 836 

♦Hastings, Hunter 835 

Havens, Mrs. James 402 

Hazen, Martin L 792 

Hecker, Jacob 660 

Heimlich, John - 956 

Heiner, John 660 

Heller, Uev. J. M 588 

Henness, George ". 434 

Henderson, Mrs. Martha 837 

Herbster, Benjamin K 926 

Hettler, Frederick G 660 

Higgins, David 359 

♦Highly, Robert L 728 

Hill, Alexander 977 

Hill, Kdraon E 977 

Hill, Hon. Robert 774 

Hill, Samuel 977 

Hiller, Martin 792 



pa<;k. 

Hinds, Charles W 728 

Hinds, John B 728 

Hinds, Joseph D 729 

Hinds, Mrs. R. A 729 

Hinds, William W 729 

Hinerman, Frederick 775 

Hinklin, Henry 837 

Hinklin, Mrs. Susan 837 

Hippie, Dr. J. R 1022 

Hipsher, Adam 977 

Hipsher, Lemma 978 

Hipsher, Uriah 978 

Hipsher, Z. W 978 

Hite, Benjamin F 775 

Hoberman, H. C 588 

Hoch, Enoch 661 

Hodder, Thomas H 428 

Holverstott, Jacob 73o 

Holverstott, Henry J 730 

Holverstott, La Fayette J 730 

Holverstott, Michael 838 

Holverstott, Peter W 731 

Holmes, William 362 

*Hood, John 589 

Hopkins, Archibald 661 

Hopkins, Hon. John J 838 

Hopkins, Reuben 881 

Hopkins, Bobert 589 

Hord, Amaziah H 590 

Hord, Hon. Peyton 589 

Hostetter, John G 839 

Houser, Anthony 979 

Howison, John H 927 

Howser, Andrew H 732 

Howser, Jacob 732 

Howser, James 732 

Howser, John H 732 

Huber, Edward 590 

Hudson, John 591 

Hudson, Mrs. Sarah A 662 

Hughes, E van 927 

Hull, E. H 371 

Hull, William 371 

Hume, John F 368 

Hume, S 432 

♦Humphrey, David J 592 

Hummer, Mrs. Pauline 591 

Hummer, William T 979 

Hunter, Hezekiah 733 

Hurd, Adolphus R 792 

Idlemau, C. M 376 

Idleman, Rev., Jacob 869 

Idleman, Silas 593 

Imbody, John 793 

Irey, James S 734 

*Irey, John F 793 

*Irey, Harrison H 733 

Irvine, James and Brothers 966 

fosleib, Frederick A 594 

Jackson, Abner M 361 

Jacoby, Michael .* 957 

Jones, Albert 681 

Jones, Andrew J 682 

Jones, David 997 

Jones, John 682 

Jones, Levi 1022 

Jones, Nelson 1023 

Johnson, James 928 

Johnson, John 681 

♦Johnson, Joseph E 839 

Johnson, Mrs. Martha 839 

Johnson, R. H 594 

Johnson, Mrs. Sarah E 840 

Johnson, William C. M. D 595, 416 

Johnson, William G., Jr 662 

Johnson, William G., Sr 662 

Johnston, Elizabeth 794 

♦Johnston, J. C 595, 372 

Johnston, Jesse T 794 

Johnston, John N 794 

Johnston, Bezin W 794 

♦Kanable, Byron 881 

♦Keiler, Jacob 596 

♦Keller, C. F 1024 

Keller. Gottlop 795 

♦Kelley, Tim 596 

Kellogg, George 997 



INDEX. 



PAGE. 

Kellogg, W. II 998 

Kemper, Benjamin G 840 

Kennedy, J. W 998 

"'Kennedy, Thadeus C • 979 

Kennedy, W. K 998 

Kerr, Mrs. Jane 998 

Kerr, Robert 979 

Key, George 599 

*Keyes, George W 734 

*Kibler, John 795 

King, A. L. D 967 

King, George J 967 

King, James 599 

King, John 840 

King, Samuel H 967 

Kinsler, John 599 

Kinsler, John H 599 

Kinnamon, William 734 

Kirts, William 928 

Knapp, James W 841" 

*Knapp, John R 426 - 

*Knachel, Emmanuel 929 

Knickel, Christian 1024 

Kniekel, Henry 882 

Knight, George C 898 

Knowles, Capt. Hiram 981 

Kling, Amos H 600 

Klingel, Adam....TT>. 958 

Klingel, Lucas 1024 

Klinefelter, Joseph 881 

Kolb, Jacob 682 

*Koons, Hiram A 735 

Kridler, Alexander 841 

Kramer, William C 958 

Kraner, Christian 600 

Lafferty, William F 735 

Lance, Joseph 999 

Lane, Ebenezer 358 

*Lannon, Patrick 601 

*Lapham, Capt. Valentine 601 

La Rue, David H 795 

La Rue, Luther R 841 

La Rue, Maj William 811 

La Rue, William P 683 

La Tourrette, Abram 601 

Lawrence, Charles W 602 

Lawrence, Daniel 602 

Lawrence, George 603 

Lawrence, George E 603 

Lawrence, James 736 

Lawrence, William 361 

Leatham, Henry 099 

Lee, John C 736 

Lee, Noah 737 

Leech, Dr. W. C 603 

Leeper, William 738 

Leffler, Andrew 603 

Leffler, Charles W 604 

Leffler, Godfrey 604 

Leffler, J. G .\ 605 

Leffler, John F 605 

Lenox, Luke 683 

Leonard, James H 842 

Leonard, John E 605 

Likins, James 981 

Lindsay, James 981 

Lindsey, J. F 606 

Lindsay, Oliver 738 

Lingo, Edward H 842 

Linn, Daniel 606 

Linn, Philip Jr., 607 

Lippincott, Christopher S 843 

*Little, David D 929 

Little, James M ... 843 

Livingston, J 415 

Long, James 844 

Longacre, Elmus 662 

*Lucas, H. S 607 

Lust, Jacob D 775 

Lust, John F 60S 

Luvisi, Daniel 663 

Mack, George 882 

Mack, Albright 958 

Mahaffey, Samuel 967 

Malone, John W 775 

Maloney, Bryan 9:!0 

Mann , ( yms' B 345 



PAGE. 

Manning, Jabez P , 415 

Marggraf, Charles T.,i 

Marggraf, Gustavus 738 

Magruder, T. J 608 

Markert, J. C 609 

Markey, John , 609 

Martin, Jacob F 959 

Martin, John 739 

•Martin, John T 795 

Mason, Isaac 7o9 

Mason, Joseph 082 

Marsh, James F 844 

Marshall, Dr. Samuel B 845 

Matthews .Albin D '. 609 

Matthews, John 663 

Matthews, John B 610 

Matthews, J. N _ 610 

Mautz, Jacob 959 

McClellan, Mrs. Elizabeth 845 

McClenathan, John L 959 

McDole, John W 846 

McDonald, James 739 

McDonald, J. S 366 

McDowell, John Adair 358 

McElheny, Thomas D 846 

McElheny, Theodore 846 

McKinstry, Mathew 999 

McMurray, Dr. A. B 610 

*McMurray, Thomas J 611 

McNeal, Allen 1000 

*McNeal, J. F 611, 374 

McNeff, Thomas 684 

McWherter, William B 776 

Mears, George N 846 

Mears. Robert 847 

Meinhart, John 796 

Melvin, Mrs. Elizabeth (Adair) 684 

Melvin, William A 684 

♦Merchant, Isaac A 739 

Merchant, John T 612 

Merrill, John 363 

Merritt, Caleb 740 

*Messenger, Col. Everett 664 

Messenger, Mrs. Elizabeth M 663 

Messenger, Orren 664 

Messenger, Reuben W 665 

Messenger, Mrs. Patience 664 

Metcalf Benjamin F 360 

Metz, Henry 847 

Metz, James 847 

Metz, Leonard 665 

Metzger, John 740 

*Miller, Mathew G 685 

Miller, Jacob, Jr 1025 

Miller, Mrs. Mary 982 

Miller, Obadiah 741 

Miller, T. S 982 

Miller, Thomas S „ 847 

Miller, Washington E 848 

Miller, William 741 

Milisor, Jacob 882 

Millisor, Barney F 740 

*Morgenthaler, Henrv 614 

Mohr, C. L .*. 930 

Mohr, David 931 

*Mohr, James F 932 

Monnett, Abraham 983 

Monnett, Josephus 984 

Monnett, John T 776 

Monnett, M. H 984 

Morral, David 849 

Morral, Milton 849 

Morral, Samuel, Jr 968 

Morral, Samuel, Sr 967 

Morral, William L . 849 

Mollov, Edmond L 613 

Moon^ Henry N S49 

Moore, Charles 618 

Moore, John E 685 

Moore, William II 613 

Morris, Albert B 796 

Morris, John R 796 

Morris, Joseph 850 

Morris, Joseph 960 

Morris, Rev. William R 850 

Morrow, Adam T 932 

Morrow Brothers 932 



INDEX. 



PAGE. 

Morrow, James 742 

*Morrow, James M 933 

Morrow, John F 742 

Morrow, Joseph 932 

Morrow, Joseph K 932 

♦Mounts, Amos C 883 

Mouser, Isaac 850 

Mouser, David 014 

Mouser, Dr. J. A 851 

Mouser, John B 614 

♦Mouser, Robert 1 968 

Muntsinger, W. M (114 

Mustain, James C 852 

Mvers.Elias 852 

Mvers, Gilbert N 852 

Myers, John J 883 

Myers, Jonathan 853 

Myers, Mrs. Mary 884 

Mvers, William J 853 

Neff, Mrs. Rosanna 1001 

Neimeyer, Conrad 933 

Neimeyer, Reuben 933 

Nesbitt, Henry W 742 

Neubauer, Charles 960 

Newcomer, James K 429 

Nickelson, Jobn 884 

Norton, Alson 414 

Norris, C. H 015 

Noyes, Charles 853 

O'Hara, Lara 854 

Orr, Joseph 685 

Osborne, A 371 

Osborn, Lewis 743 

Osbun, Nathaniel 765 

Owens, Mrs. Jane 854 

Owen, William T 015 

Parker, William E 854 

♦Patten, Charles L 797 

Patten, Benjamin R 743 

Patten, L. L 615 

Patten, Orren 616 

Patten, Dr. Milton 797 

Payne, M. V 373 

Penry, David 933 

♦Penry, John P 934 

Penry, Thomas L 934 

Pettibone, Milo D 365 

♦Peters, Capt. Ebenezer 610 

Peters, Harvey 617 

Peters, Nathan 718 

♦Peters, Wilson 019 

Pettey, Hugh B 798 

Pettit, David 619 

Pfeiffer, John 666 

Phillips, Philip 411 

Phillips. Thomas , 934 

Pittmau, Mrs. Jane M 743 

Plotner, Mrs. Sarah 1001 

Pommert, Christian 744 

Porter, David H 798 

Postles, George H 856 

Prettyman, Cord H 855 

Pretty man, David 855 

I'ugh, Thomas 936 

Pugh, Wesley 936 

Raichley, Lewis F 376 

Ramer, Henry 744 

Ramer, Winfield S 744 

Ranck, Lewis 745 

Randall, John 930 

Randall, Kelsey E". 937 

Randall, M. F 937 

♦Rapp, William C • • 619 

Raub, William L 686 

Rayl, James & 799 

Rayl, John '. 799 

Rayl, Samuel L 020 

Reber, Felix 621 

Redd, Philip O... 884 

Redding, J W 666 

Reed, J. S 021 

Reeser, William 937 

Reid, William II 415 

Reiley, John (3d) 937 

Reiner, (iodfrey 1020 

Reiner, Jacob 1026 

Betierer, David 885 



pa<;ic. 

Retterer, George 960 

Retterer. Jacob 961 

Rhoads, George 006 

Rhoads, Henry 968 

♦Rhoads, Milton H 908 

Rice, E. Melvin 745 

Rice, John 985 

Rider, Harvey 885 

Ridgway, John H 686 

Riley, Ellas 622 

Riley, James B 023 

Riley, John P 622 

Riley, John S 623 

Riley, S. R 856 

Riley, William 856 

Riley, Horace W 667 

Ringer, Jacob C 938 

Rinker, George C 745 

Ritzier, George A 799 

Roads, J. Q 938 

Roberts, J. J 939 

Roberts, Thomas \V 746 

Roberts, Madison 985 

Robinson, Alexander 856 

Robinson, Daniel T 939 

♦Robinson, Thomas M 985 

♦Robinson, William H 968 

Robbins, William 367 

Rowe, George 367 

Rosencrans, Hon. John 985 

Rosencrans, S. F 987 

Roston, Mrs. Catherine 1002 

Roston, Miles 1002 

♦Rubins, Edward H 765 

♦Rubins, Joseph S 766 

Ruehrmund, F. C 023 

Rundle, Mrs. Minerva 401 

Runyan, Noah M 371 

Rupp. S. H 624 

Russell, William A 939 

Russell, William M 940 

Ruthardt, Jacob 021 

♦Rutter, Orsamus 940 

Sager, Benjamin 686 

Sager, Benjamin F 687 

♦Salmon, George E 885 

Sappington, John A 667 

Sargent, Richard 025 

Sawyer, Dr. Charles E 857 

♦Schaft'ner, Henry 625 

♦Schaaf, Jacob A 1026 

♦Schoenlaub, Jacob 020 

Schoenlaub, Jacob J 626 

Schneider, John 025 

Schotte, Henry 688 

Schrote, Jacob 026 

Schweinfurth, George 627 

♦Scofield, Capt. William E 371 

Scofield, Will E 375 

♦Scott, Dr. J.K 857 

♦Scranton, Leroy 858 

♦Scranton, Warner 858 

Seaburn, Jacob 766 

Seckel, Andrew 987 

Seckel, Thomas M 746 

Seckel, Washington 746 

Seiter, Daniel, Sr 961 

Sells, P. C 940 

♦Sharp, Henry II 858 

Sharpless, P. 027 

Sharrock, Timothy 1002 

Shewey, David 747 

Shields, D. A 371 

Short, John 688 

Short, Henry L 688 

Shoots, Barton 776 

Shoots, Landy 770 

Showen, Peter 028 

Shrock, Adam 628 

Shupp, Isaac 028 

Sifritt, Joseph II 689 

♦Simons, II. L 859 

Simons, Mrs. Lydia s.~>9 

Slagle, Jacob 1002 

♦Slagle, Joseph 869 

Slanser, Joseph 800 

Sloan, Wm. B 367 



INDEX. 



PAGE. 

Smeltzer, Daniel J 800 

-ataith, David 747 

Smith, Isaac 629 

- Smith, James 747 

— -Smith, J.K 667 

♦Smith, John J 747 

-Smith, JohnS 1027 

— -xSmith, Samuel 748 

Smith, S. N 941 

"Smith, Thomas 941 

-Smith, T R 376 

*Smith, William J 748 

Snyder, George 629 

Spelman, E. G 367 

Sprague, Sarah 860 

Sprague, William H 861 

Stahl, B. F 374 

Stallsniitli, William M 886 

Steinhelfer, Christopher 1003 

Stiffler, Alpheus 886 

Stockman, Daniel 1028 

Strelitz, Julius 630 

Strinc, John 1027 

*Sulser, Jacob H 1003 

Suit, Joseph 667 

Sutter, Rev. John J 630 

Sutton, Rev. Jeremiah A 8<>0 

*Sweney, Dr. Robert L 633 

Swinnerton, James 6o4 

Swinnerton, James (deceased) 776 

Taylor, Amos 968 

Tavenner, Addison 886 

Terpany, Charles H 634 

Terry, Chauipness 766 

Thew, Henry 861 

Thew, John W 749 

Thew, Richard 749 

Thew, P. B 635 

Thew, William 750 

Thew, William P 751 

Thomas, Charles E 942 

Thomas, Dr. F. W 635 

Thomas, John H 636 

Thomas, William B 942 

Thompson, Thomas A 969 

Thomasson, Albert 689 

Thomasson, John D 689 

*Thomasson, Richard H 690 

*Titus, Major S. N 777 

*Titus, John C 636 

Tidd, A. M 374 

Toplift', Mrs. Dorcas 861 

*Travis, John B 800 

Treese, Henry 943 

Tristram, Bartholomew 636 

Trumbo, Emanuel 690 

Trumbo, Henry 690 

True, Henry 637 

True, Dr. H. A 416,637 

*Turney, Clark 638 

Turney, W. A 638 

*Uhler, Ira 638 

Ulsh, David 752 

Ulsh, George 752 

Ulsh, Harrison 752 

Ulsh, John 753 

Ulsh, Levi 753 

Ulsh, Samuel 753 

Uncapher, Andrew 801 

Uncapher, Daniel 639 

Uncapher, Edward W 639 

Uncapher, Isaiah 668 

Uncapher, James O 640 

Uncapher, John A 668 

Uncapher, John G 668 

Uncapher, Joseph 640 

Uncapher., Martin V 640 

Uncapher, Thomas J 669 

*Underwood, Benjamin E 753 

Underwood, Elihu F 753 

Vanarsdall, Mrs. Lucy 862 

*Van Fleet, H. T 640, 373 

*Van Houten, Charles 886 



PAGE. 

*Vanorsdall, John A 864 

Vaughau, James H i'n 

Virden, George W §62 

Virden, Henry H 863 

Virden, Henry M 863 

Virden, Joshua D 863 

Virden, T. D 863 

Virden, William A 863 

Virden, William J 864 

Waddel, William 1029 

Walters, Daniel 777 

Walters, G. W 777 

Walters, James^C 643 

Wall, Joseph S01 

Wallace, Thomas P 641 

Waples, Eli 864 

Ward, Washington P 943 

*Watkins, Ephraim II 691 

Watkins, Thomas P 644 

Watkins, Watkin 944 

Watkins, Watt 945 

Watson, Cooper K 371 

Weaver, John II 644 

*Weber, Jacob 754 

Weeks, Mrs. Jeannette 755 

*Weeks, O. W 644 

Weir, Samuel 987 

Weisel, Redden S 945 

Weist, Philip 865 

Welch, Solomon B 945 

Weston, David M 801 

Weston, John 802 

Wheat, Almeron 371 

Wick, George J 962 

Wilcox, Hira .1008 

Williams, Andrew M 755 

Williams, Benjamin 645 

Williams, George W 755 

Williams. John J 372 

Wilson, Amos H, 865 

Wilson, Richard 345 

Wilson, Samuel 1029 

Wishek, John H 375 

*Wittred, William 756 

Wittred, William P 756 

Wixtead, John 669 

Wixtead, William 669 

Wolfe, Henry R 969 

Wolfe, Nelson L 969 

Wolford, J. A 645, 375 

Wolford, John G 803 

Wolfinger, Elias 961 

Wolfinger, William 802 

Wood, George S 670 

Wood, F. M 670 

Wood, Hampton 670 

Wood, Isaac M 671 

Wood, Dr. James M 865 

Wood, William B 671 

Wottring, James F 946 

Wottring, L. H 946 

Wrenn, Mrs. Priscilla 1004 

Wright, G. H 646 

Wyatt, David H 1030 

Wyatt Family 1006 

*Wyatt, James B 647' 

Wyatt, John B 946 

Wynn, Charles 947 

Wynn, Edward 947 

*Wynn, Isaac 80S 

Wynn, John 948 

Yake, Daniel 647 

Yake, Jacob 962 

Yake, John J 647 

Yauger, Mrs. Mary 671 

Young, B. G 648, 375 

Young, Gabriel M 948 

Young, Isaac 648 

Zachman, Francis X 1030 

*Zachman, Solomon 649 

Zieg, Christian 887 

Zieg, Justus 887 

Ziegler, Mrs. Lydia 756 



PART I. 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 








Plr" 



The Northwest Territory. 



GEOGRAPHICAL POSITION. 

When the Northwestern Territory was ceded to the United States 
by Virginia in 1784, it embraced only the territory lying between the 
Ohio and the Mississippi Rivers, and north to the northern limits of the 
United States. It coincided with the area now embraced in the States 
of Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, Wisconsin, and that portion of 
Minnesota lying on the east side of the Mississippi River. The United 
States itself at that period extended no farther west than the Mississippi 
River ; but by the purchase of Louisiana in 1803, the western boundary 
of the United States was extended to the Rocky Mountains and the 
Northern Pacific Ocean. The new territory thus added to the National 
domain, and subsequently opened to settlement, has been called the 
" New Northwest," in contradistinction from the old " Northwestern 
Territory. " 

In comparison with the old Northwest this is a territory of vast 
magnitude. It includes an area of 1,887,850 square miles ; being greater 
in extent than the united areas of all the Middle and Southern States, 
including Texas. Out of this magnificent territory have been erected 
eleven sovereign States and eight Territories, with an aggregate popula- 
tion, at the present time, of 13,000,000 inhabitants, or nearly one third of 
the entire population of the United States. 

Its lakes are fresh-water seas, and the larger rivers of the continent 
flow for a thousand miles through its rich alluvial valleys and far- 
stretching prairies, more acres of which are arable and productive of the 
highest percentage of the cereals than of any other area of like extent 
on the globe. 

For the last twenty years the increase of population in the North- 
west has been about as three to one in any other portion of the United 
States. 

(19) 



20 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 



EARLY EXPLORATIONS. 

In the year 1541, DeSoto first saw the Great West in the New 
World. He, however, penetrated no farther north than the 35th parallel 
of latitude. The expedition resulted in his death and that of more than 
half his army, the remainder of whom found their way to Cuba, thence 
to Spain, in a famished and demoralized condition. DeSoto founded no 
settlements, produced no results, and left no traces, unless it were that 
he awakened the hostility of the red man against the white man, and 
disheartened such as might desire to follow up the career of discovery 
for better purposes. The French nation were eager and ready to seize 
upon any news from this extensive domain, and were the first to profit by 
DeSoto's defeat. Yet it was more than a century before any adventurer 
took advantage of these discoveries. 

In 1616, four years before the pilgrims " moored their bark on the 
wild New England shore," Le Caron, a French Franciscan, had pene- 
trated through the Iroquois and Wyandots (Hurons) to the streams which 
run into Lake Huron ; and in 1634, two Jesuit missionaries founded the 
first mission among the lake tribes. It was just one hundred years from 
the discovery of the Mississippi by DeSoto (1541) until the Canadian 
envoys met the savage nations of the Northwest at the Falls of St. Mary, 
below the outlet of Lake Superior. This visit led to no permanent 
result; yet it was not until 1659 that any of the adventurous fur traders 
attempted to spend a Winter in the frozen wilds about the great lakes, 
nor was it until 1660 that a station was established upon their borders by 
Mesnard, who perished in the woods a few months after. In 1665, Claude 
Allouez built the earliest lasting habitation of the white man among the 
Indians of the Northwest. In 1668, Claude Dablon and James Marquette 
founded the mission of Sault Ste. Marie at the Falls of St. Mary, and two 
years afterward, Nicholas Perrot, as agent for M. Talon, Governor Gen- 
eral of Canada, explored Lake Illinois (Michigan) as far south as the 
present City of Chicago, and invited the Indian nations tq meet him at a 
grand council at Sault Ste. Marie the following Spring, where they were 
taken under the protection of the king, and formal possession was taken 
of the Northwest. This same year Marquette established a mission at 
Point St. Ignatius, where was founded the old town of Michillimackinac. 
•'During M. Talon's explorations and Marquette's residence at St. 
Ignatius, they learned of a great river away to the west, and fancied 
— as all others did then — that' upon its fertile banks whole tribes of God's, 
children resided, to whom the sound of the Gospel had never come. 
Filled with a wish to go and preach to them, and in compliance with a 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 21 

request of M. Talon, who earnestly desired to extend the domain of his 
king, and to ascertain whether the river flowed into the Gulf of Mexico 
or the Pacific Ocean, Marquette with Joliet, as commander of the expe- 
dition, prepared for the undertaking. 

On the 13th of May, 1673, the explorers, accompanied by five assist- 
ant French Canadians, set out from Mackinaw on their daring voyage of 
discovery. The Indians, who gathered to witness their departure, were 
astonished at the boldness of the undertaking, and endeavored to dissuade 
them from their purpose by representing the tribes on the Mississippi as 
exceedingly savage and cruel, and the river itself as full of all sorts of 
frightful monsters ready to swallow them and their canoes together. But, 
nothing daunted by these terrific descriptions, Marquette told them he 
was willing not only to encounter all the perils of the unknown region 
they were about to explore, but to lay down his life in a cause in which 
the salvation of souls was involved ; and having prayed together they 
separated. Coasting along the northern shore of Lake Michigan, the 
adventurers entered Green Bay, and passed thence up the Fox River and 
Lake Winnebago to a village of the Miamis and Kickapoos. Here Mar- 
quette was delighted to find a beautiful cross planted in the middle of the 
town ornamented with white skins, red girdles and bows and arrows, 
which these good people had offered to the Great Manitou, or God, to 
thank him for the pity he had bestowed on them during the Winter in 
giving them an abundant " chase." This was the farthest outpost to 
which Dablon and Allouez had extended their missionary labors the 
year previous. Here Marquette drank mineral waters and was instructed 
in the secret of a root which cures the bite of the venomous rattlesnake. 
He assembled the chiefs and old men of the village, and, pointing to 
Joliet, said: " My friend is an envoy of France, to discover new coun- 
tries, and I am an ambassador from God to enlighten them with the truths 
of the Gospel." Two Miami guides were here furnished to conduct 
them to the Wisconsin River, and they set out from the Indian village on 
the 10th of June, amidst a great crowd of natives who had assembled to 
witness their departure into a region where no white man had ever yet 
ventured. The guides, having conducted them across the portage, 
returned. The explorers launched their canoes upon the Wisconsin, 
which they descended to the Mississippi and proceeded down its unknown 
waters. What emotions must have swelled their breasts as they struck 
out into the broadening current and became conscious that they were 
now upon the bosom of ths Father of Waters. The mystery was about 
to be lifted from the long-sought river. The scenery in that locality is 
beautiful, and on that delightful seventeenth of June must have been 
clad in all its primeval loveliness as it had been adorned by the hand of 



22 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 



Nature. Drifting rapidly, it is said that the bold bluffs on either hand 
" reminded them of the castled shores of their own beautiful rivers of 
France." By-and-by, as they drifted along, great herds of buffalo appeared 
on the banks. On going to the heads of the valley they could see a 
country of the greatest beauty and fertility, apparently destitute of inhab- 
itants yet presenting the appearance of extensive manors, under the fas- 
tidious cultivation of lordly proprietors. 




SOURCE OF THE MISSISSIPPI. 



On June 25, they went ashore and found some fresh traces of men upon 
the sand, and a path which led to the prairie. The men remained in the 
boat, and Marquette and Joliet followed the path till they discovered a 
village on the banks of a river, and two other villages on a hill, within a 
half league of the first, inhabited by Indians. They were received most 
hospitably by these natives, who had never before seen a white person. 
After remaining a few days they re-embarked and descended the river to 
about latitude 33°, where they found a village of the Arkansas, and being 
satisfied that the river flowed into the Gulf of Mexico, turned their course 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 23 

up the river, and ascending the stream to the mouth of the Illinois, 
rowed up that stream to its source, and procured guides from that point 
to the lakes. " Nowhere on this journey," says Marquette, " did we see 
such grounds, meadows, woods, stags, buffaloes, deer, wildcats, bustards, 
swans, ducks, parroquets, and even beavers, as on the Illinois River." 
The party, without loss or injury, reached Green Bay in September, and 
reported their discovery — one of the most important of the age, but of 
which no record was preserved save Marquette's, Joliet losing his by 
the upsetting of his canoe on his way to Quebec. Afterward Marquette 
returned to the Illinois Indians by their request, and ministered to them 
until 1675. On the 18th of May, in that year, as he was passing the 
mouth of a stream — going with his boatmen up Lake Michigan — he asked 
to land at its mouth and celebrate Mass. Leaving his men with the canoe, 
he retired a short distance and began his devotions. As much time 
passed and he did not return, his men went in search of him, and found 
him upon his knees, dead. He had peacefully passed away while at 
prayer. He was buried at this spot. Charlevoix, who visited the place 
fifty years after, found the waters had retreated from the grave, leaving 
the beloved missionary to repose in peace. The river has since been 
called Marquette. 

While Marquette and his companions were pursuing their labors in 
the West, two men, differing widely from him and each other, were pre- 
paring to follow in his footsteps and perfect the discoveries so well begun 
by him. These were Robert de La Salle and Louis Hennepin. 

After La Salle's return from the discovery of the Ohio River (see 
the narrative elsewhere), he established himself again among the French 
trading posts in Canada. Here he mused long upon the pet project of 
those ages — a short way to China and the East, and was busily planning an 
expedition up the great lakes, and so across the continent to the Pacific, 
when Marquette returned from the Mississippi. At once the vigorous mind 
of LaSalle received from his and his companions' stories the idea that by fol- 
lowing the Great River northward, or by turning up some of the numerous 
western tributaries, the object could easily be gained. He applied to 
Frontenac, Governor General of Canada, and laid before him the plan, 
dim but gigantic. Frontenac entered warmly into his plans, and saw that 
LaSalle's idea to connect the great lakes by a chain of forts with the Gulf 
of Mexico would bind the country so wonderfully together, give un- 
measured power to France, and glory to himself, under whose adminis- 
tration he earnestly hoped all would be realized. 

LaSalle now repaired to France, laid his plans before the King, who 
warmly approved of them, and made him a Chevalier. He also received 
from all the noblemen the warmest wishes for his success. The Chev- 



24 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 



alier returned to Canada, and busily entered upon his work. He at 
once rebuilt Fort Frontenac and constructed the first ship to sail on 
these fresh-water seas. On the 7th of August, 1679, having been joined 
by Hennepin, he began his voyage in the Griffin up Lake Erie. He 
passed over this lake, through the straits beyond, up Lake St. Clair and 
into Huron. In this lake they encountered heavy storms. They were 
some time at Michillimackinac, where LaSalle founded a, fort, and passed 
on to Green Bay, the " Baie des Puans " of the French, where he found 
a large quantity of furs collected for him. He loaded the Griffin with 
these, and placing her under the care of a pilot and fourteen sailors, 




LA SALLE LANDING ON THE SHORE OF GREEN BAY. 

started her on her return voyage. The vessel was never afterward heard 
of. He remained about these parts until early in the Winter, when, hear- 
ing nothing from the Griffin, he collected all the men — thirty working 
men and three monks — and started again upon his great undertaking. 

By a short portage they passed to the Illinois or Kankakee, called by 
the Indians, "Theakeke," zvolf, because of the tribes of Indians called 
by that name, commonly known as the Maliingans, dwelling there. The 
French pronounced it Kiakiki, which became corrupted to Kankakee. 
"Falling down the said river by easy journeys, the better to observe the 
country," about the last of December they reached a village of the Illi- 
nois Indians, containing some five hundred cabins, but at that moment 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 25 

no inhabitants. The Seur de LaSalle being in want of some breadstuff's, 
took advantage of the absence of the Indians to help himself to a suffi- 
ciency of maize, large quantities of which he found concealed in holes 
under the wigwams. This village was situated near the present village 
of Utica in LaSalle County, Illinois. The corn being securely stored, 
the voyagers again betook themselves to the stream, and toward evening, 
on the 4th day of January, 1680, they came into a lake which must have 
been the lake of Peoria. This was called by the Indians Pim-i-te-wi, that 
is, a place where there are many fat beasts. Here the natives were met 
with in large numbers, but they were gentle and kind, and having spent 
some time with them, LaSalle determined to erect another fort in that 
place, for he had heard rumors that some of the adjoining tribes were 
trying to disturb the good feeling which existed, and some of his men 
were disposed to complain, owing to the hardships and perils of the travel. 
He called this fort " Crevecoeur'''' (broken-heart), a name expressive of the 
very natural sorrow and anxiety which the pretty certain loss of his ship, 
Griffin, and his consequent impoverishment, the danger of hostility on the 
part of the Indians, and of mutiny among his own men, might well cause 
him. His fears were not entirely groundless. At one time poison was 
placed in his food, but fortunately was discovered. 

While building this fort, the Winter wore away, the prairies began to 
look green, and LaSalle, despairing of any reinforcements, concluded to 
return to Canada, raise new means and new men, and embark anew in 
the enterprise. For this purpose he made Hennepin the leader of a party 
to explore the head waters of the Mississippi, and he set out on his jour- 
ney. This journey was accomplished with the aid of a few persons, and 
was successfully made, though over an almost unknown route, and in a 
bad season of the year. He safely reached Canada, and set out again for 
the object of his search. 

Hennepin and his party left Fort Crevecoeur on the last of February, 
1680. When LaSalle reached this place on his return expedition, he 
found the fort entirely deserted, and he was obliged to return again to 
Canada. He embarked the third time, and succeeded. Seven days after 
leaving the fort, Hennepin reached the Mississippi, and paddling up the 
icy stream as best he could, reached no higher than the Wisconsin River 
by the 11th of April. Here he and his followers were taken prisoners by a 
band of Northern Indians, who treated them with great kindness. Hen- 
nepin's comrades were Anthony Auguel and Michael Ako. On this voy- 
age they found several beautiful lakes, and " saw some charming prairies." 
Their captors were the Isaute or Sauteurs, Chippewas, a tribe of the Sioux 
nation, who took them up the river until about the first of May, when 
they reached some falls, which Hennepin christened Falls of St. Anthony 



26 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 



in honor of his patron saint. Here they took the land, and traveling 
nearly two hundred miles to the northwest, brought them to their villages. 
Here they were kept about three months, were treated kindly by their 
captors, and at the end of that time, were met by a band of Frenchmen, 





BUFFALO HUNT. 

headed by one Seur de Luth, who, in pursuit of trade and game, had pene- 
trated thus far by the route of Lake Superior ; and with these fellow- 
countrymen Hennepin and his companions were allowed to return to the 
borders of civilized life in November, 1680, just after LaSalle had 
returned to the wilderness on his second trip. Hennepin soon after went 
to France, where he published an account of his adventures. 



I 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 27 

The Mississippi was first discovered by De Soto in April, 1541, in his 
vain endeavor to find gold and precious gems. In the following Spring, 
De Soto, weary with hope long deferred, and worn out with his wander- 
ings, fell a victim to disease, and on the 21st of May died. His followers, 
reduced by fatigue and disease to less than three hundred men, wandered 
about the country nearly a year, in the vain endeavor to rescue them- 
selves by land, and finally constructed seven small vessels, called brig- 
antines, in which they embarked, and descending the river, supposing it 
would lead them to the sea, in July they came to the sea (Gulf of 
Mexico), and by September reached the Island of Cuba. 

They were the first to see the great outlet of the Mississippi; but, 
being so weary and discouraged, made no attempt to claim the country, 
and hardly had an intelligent idea of what they had passed through. 

To La Salle, the intrepid explorer, belongs the honor of giving the 
first account of the mouths of the river. His great desire was to possess 
this entire country for his king, and in January, 1682, he and his band of 
explorers left the shores of Lake Michigan on their third attempt, crossed 
the Portage, passed down the Illinois River, and on the 6th of February 
reached the banks of the Mississippi. 

On the 13th they commenced their downward course, which they 
pursued with but one interruption, until upon the 6th of March they dis- 
covered the three great passages by which the river discharges its waters 
into the gulf. La Salle thus narrates the event : 

" We landed on the bank of the most western channel, about three 
leagues (nine miles) from its mouth. On the seventh, M. de La Salle 
went to reconnoiter the shores of the neighboring sea, and M. de Tonti 
meanwhile examined the great middle channel. They found the main 
outlets beautiful, large and deep. On the eighth we reascended the river, 
a little above its confluence with the sea, to find a dry place beyond the 
reach of inundations. The elevation of the North Pole was here about 
twenty-seven degrees. Here we prepared a column and a cross, and to 
the column were affixed the arms of France with this inscription : 

" Louis Le Grand, Roi de France et de Navarre, regne ; Le neuvieme April, 1682." 

The whole party, under arms, chanted the Te Deum, and then, after 
a salute and cries of "Vive le Roi" the column was erected by M. de 
La Salle, who, standing near it, proclaimed in a loud voice the authority of 
the King of France. La Salle returned and laid the foundations of the Mis- 
sissippi settlements in Illinois ; thence he proceeded to France, where 
another expedition was fitted out, of which he was commander, and in two 
succeeding voyages failed to find the outlet of the river by sailing along 
the shore of the gulf. On the third voyage he was killed, through the 



28 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 



treachery of his followers, and the object of his expeditions was not 
accomplished until 1609, when D'Iberville, under the authority of the 
crown, discovered, on the second of March, by way of the sea, the mouth 
of the " Hidden River." This majestic stream was called by the natives 
" Malhoucliia" and by the Spaniards, " la Palissade" from the great 



11 / 




mm* 

TRAPPING. 

number of trees about its mouth. After traversing the several outlets, 
and satisfying himself as to its certainty, he erected a fort near its western 
outlet, and returned to France. 

An avenue of trade was now opened out which was fully improved. 
In 1718, New Orleans was laid out and settled by some European colo- 
nists. In 1762, the colony was made over to Spain, to be regained by 
France under the consulate of Napoleon. In 1803, it was purchased by 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 29 

the United States for the sum of fifteen million dollars, and the territory 
of Louisiana and commerce of the Mississippi River came under the 
charge of the United States. Although LaSalle's labors ended in defeat 
and death, he had not worked and suffered in vain. He had thrown 
open to France and the world an immense and most valuable country ; 
had established several ports, and laid the foundations of more than one 
settlement there. " Peoria, Kaskaskia and Cahokia, are to this day monu- 
ments of LaSalle's labors ; for, though he had founded neither of them 
(unless Peoria, which was built nearly upon the site of Fort Crevecoeur,) 
it was by those whom he led into the West that these places were 
peopled and civilized. He was, if not the discoverer, the first settler of 
the Mississippi Valley, and as such deserves to be known and honored." 
The French early improved the opening made for them. Before the 
year 1698, the Rev. Father Gravier began a mission among the Illinois, 
and founded Kaskaskia. For some time this was merely a missionary 
station, where none but natives resided, it being one of three such vil- 
lages, the other two being Cahokia and Peoria. What is known of 
these missions is learned from a letter written by Father Gabriel Marest, 
dated " Aux Cascaskias, autrement dit de lTmmaculate Conception de 
la Sainte Vierge, le 9 Novembre, 1712." Soon after the founding of 
Kaskaskia, the missionary, Pinet, gathered a flock at Cahokia, while 
Peoria arose near the ruins of Fort Crevecoeur. This must have been 
about the year 1700. The post at Vincennes on the Oubache river, 
(pronounced Wa-ba, meaning summer cloud moving siviftly') was estab- 
lished in 1702, according to the best authorities.* It is altogether prob- 
able that on LaSalle's last trip he established the stations at Kaskaskia 
and Cahokia. In July, 1701, the foundations of Fort Ponchartrain 
were laid by De la Motte Cadillac on the Detroit River. These sta- 
tions, with those established further north, were the earliest attempts to 
occupy the Northwest Territory. At the same time efforts were being 
made to occupy the Southwest, which finally culminated in the settle- 
ment and founding of the City of New Orleans by a colony from England 
in 1718. This was mainly accomplished through the efforts of the 
famous Mississippi Company, established by the notorious John Law, 
who so quickly arose into prominence in France, and who with his 
scheme so quickly and so ignominiously passed away. 

From the time of the founding of these stations for fifty years the 
French nation were engrossed with the settlement of the lower Missis- 
sippi, and the Avar with the Chicasaws, who had, in revenge for repeated 

* There is considerable dispute about this date, some asserting it was founded as late as 1742. When 
the new court house at Vincennes was erected, all authorities on the subject were carefully examined, and 
1702 fixed upon as the correct date. It was accordingly engraved on the corner-stone of the court house. 



30 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

injuries, cut off the entire colony at Natchez. Although the company 
did little for Louisiana, as the entire West was then called, yet it opened 
the trade through the Mississippi River, and started the raising of grains 
indigenous to that climate. Until the year 1750, but little is known of 
the settlements in the Northwest, as it was not until this time that the 
attention of the English was called to the occupation of this portion of the 
New World, which they then supposed they owned. Vivier, a missionary 
among the Illinois, writing from " Aux Illinois," six leagues from Fort 
Chartres, June 8, 1750, says : " We have here whites, negroes and 
Indians, to say nothing of cross-breeds. There are five French villages, 
and three villages of the natives, within a space of twenty-one leagues 
situated between the Mississippi and another river called the Karkadaid 
(Kaskaskias). In the five French villages are, perhaps, eleven hundred 
whites, three hundred blacks and some sixty red slaves or savages. The 
three Illinois towns do not contain more than eight hundred souls all 
Id. Most of the French till the soil; they raise wheat, cattle, pigs and 
horses, and live like princes. Three times as much is produced as can 
be consumed ; and great quantities of grain and flour are sent to New 
Orleans." This city was now the seaport town of the Northwest, and 
save in the extreme northern part, where only furs and copper ore were 
found, almost all the products of the country found their way to France 
by the mouth of the Father of Waters. In another letter, dated Novem- 
ber 7, 1750, this same priest says : " For fifteen leagues above the 
mouth of the Mississippi one sees no dwellings, the ground being too low 
to be habitable. Thence to New Orleans, the lands are only partially 
occupied. New Orleans contains black, white and red, not more, I 
think, than twelve hundred persons. To this point come all lumber, 
bricks, salt-beef, tallow, tar, skins and bear's grease ; and above all, pork 
and flour from the Illinois. These things create some commerce, as forty 
vessels and more have come hither this year. Above New Orleans, 
plantations are again met with ; the most considerable is a colony of 
Germans, some ten leagues up the river. At Point Coupee, thirty-five 
leagues above the German settlement, is a fort. Along here, within five 
or six leagues, are not less than sixty habitations. Fifty leagues farther 
up is the Natchez post, where we have a garrison, who are kept prisoners 
through fear of the Chickasaws. Here and at Point Coupee, they raise 
excellent tobacco. Another hundred leagues brings us to the Arkansas, 
where we have also a fort and a garrison for the benefit of the river 
traders. * * * From the Arkansas to the Illinois, nearly five hundred 
leagues, there is not a settlement. There should be, however, a fort at 
the Oubache (Ohio), the only path by which the English can reach the 
Mississippi. In the Illinois country are numberless mines, but no one to 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 



31 



work them as they deserve." Father Marest, writing from the post at 
Vincennes in 181 2, makes the same observation. Vivier also says : " Some 
individuals dig lead near the surface and supply the Indians and Canada. 
Two Spaniards now here, who claim to be adepts, say that our mines are 
like those of Mexico, and that if we would dig deeper, we should find 
silver under the lead ; and at any rate the lead is excellent. There is also 
in this country, beyond doubt, copper ore, as from time to time large 
pieces are found in the streams." 




MOUTH OF THE MISSISSIPPI. 



At the close of the year 1750, the French occupied, in addition to the 
lower Mississippi posts and those in Illinois, one at Du Quesne, one at 
the Mauinee in the country of the Miamis, and one at Sandusky in what 
may be termed the Ohio Valley. In the northern part of the Northwest 
they had stations at St. Joseph's on the St. Joseph's of Lake Michigan, 
at Fort Ponchartrain (Detroit), at Michillimackanac or Massillimacanac, 
Fox River of Green Bay, and at Sault Ste. Marie. The fondest dreams of 
LaSalle were now fully realized. The French alone were possessors of 
this vast realm, basing their claim on discovery and settlement. Another 
nation, however, was now turning its attention to this extensive country, 



32 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

and hearing of its wealth, began to lay plans for occupying it and for 
securing the great profits arising therefrom. 

The French, however, had another claim to this country, namely, the 



DISCOVERY OF THE OHIO. 

This " Beautiful" river was discovered by Robert Cavalier de La- 
Salle in 1669, four years before the discovery of the Mississippi by Joliet 
and Marquette. 

While LaSalle was at his trading post on the St. Lawrence, he found 
leisure to study nine Indian dialects, the chief of which was the Iroquois. 
He not only desired to facilitate his intercourse in trade, but he longed 
to travel and explore the unknown regions of the West. An incident 
soon occurred which decided him to fit out an exploring expedition. 

While conversing with some Senecas, he learned of a river called the 
Ohio, which rose in their country and flowed to the sea, but at such a 
distance that it required eight months to reach its mouth. In this state- 
ment the Mississippi and its tributaries were considered as one stream. 
LaSalle believing, as most of the French at that period did, that the great 
rivers flowing west emptied into the Sea of California, was anxious to 
embark in the enterprise of discovering a route across the continent to 
the commerce of China and Japan. 

He repaired at once to Quebec to obtain the approval of the Gov- 
ernor. His eloquent appeal prevailed. The Governor and the Intendant, 
Talon, issued letters patent authorizing the enterprise, but made no pro- 
vision to defray the expenses. At this juncture the seminary of St. Sul- 
pice decided to send out missionaries in connection with the expedition, 
and LaSalle offering to sell his improvements at LaChine to raise money, 
the offer was accepted by the Superior, and two thousand eight hundred 
dollars were raised, with which LaSalle purchased four canoes and the 
necessary supplies for the outfit. 

On the 6th of July, 1669, the party, numbering twenty-four persons, 
embarked in seven canoes on the St. Lawrence ; two additional canoes 
carried the Indian guides. In three days they were gliding over the 
bosom of Lake Ontario. Their guides conducted them directly to the 
Seneca village on the bank of the Genesee, in the vicinity of the present 
City of Rochester, New York. Here they expected to procure guides to 
conduct them to the Ohio, but in this they were disappointed. 

The Indians seemed unfriendly to the enterprise. LaSalle suspected 
that the Jesuits had prejudiced their minds against his plans. After 
waiting a month in the hope of gaining their object, they met an Indian 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 



33 



from the Iroquois colony at the head of Lake Ontario, who assured them 
that they could there find guides, and offered to conduct them thence. 

On their way they passed the mouth of the Niagara River, when they 
heard for the first time the distant thunder of the cataract. Arriving 




HIGH BRIDGE, LAKE BLUFF, LAKE COUNTY, ILLINOIS. 



among the Iroquois, they met with a friendly reception, and learned 
from a Shawanee prisoner that they could reach the Ohio in six weeks. 
Delighted with the unexpected good fortune, they made ready to resume 
their journey ; but just as they were about to start they heard of the 
arrival of two Frenchmen in a neighboring village. One of them proved 
to be Louis Joliet, afterwards famous as an explorer in the West. Es 



34 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

had been sent by the Canadian Government to explore the copper mines 
on Lake Superior, but had failed, and was on his way back to Quebec. 
He gave the missionaries a map of the country he had explored in the 
lake region, together with an account of the condition of the Indians in 
that quarter. This induced the priests to determine on leaving the 
expedition and going to Lake Superior. LaSalle warned them that the 
Jesuits were probably occupying that field, and that they would meet 
with a cold reception. Nevertheless they persisted in their purpose, and 
after worship on the lake shore, parted from LaSalle. On arriving at 
Lake Superior, they found, as LaSalle had predicted, the Jesuit Fathers, 
Marquette and Dablon, occupying the field. 

These zealous disciples of Loyola informed them that they wanted 
no assistance from St. Sulpice, nor from those who made him their patron 
saint ; and thus repulsed, they returned to Montreal the following June 
without having made a single discovery or converted a single Indian. 

After parting with the priests, LaSalle went to the chief Iroquois 
village at Onondaga, where he obtained guides, and passing thence to a 
tributary of the Ohio south of Lake Erie, he descended the latter as far 
as the falls at Louisville. Thus was the Ohio discovered by LaSalle, the 
persevering and successful French explorer of the West, in 1669. 

The account of the latter part of his journey is found in an anony- 
mous paper, which purports to have been taken from the lips of LaSalle 
himself during a subsequent visit to Paris. In a letter written to Count 
Frontenac in 1667, shortly after the discovery, he himself says that he 
discovered the Ohio and descended it to the falls. This was regarded as 
an indisputable fact by the French authorities, who claimed the Ohio 
Valley upon another ground. When Washington was sent by the colony 
of Virginia in 1753, to demand of Gordeur de St. Pierre why the French 
had built a fort on the Monongahela, the haughty commandant at Quebec 
replied : " We claim the country on the Ohio by virtue of the discoveries 
of LaSalle, and will not give it up to the English. Our orders are to 
make prisoners of every Englishman found trading in the Ohio Valley." 



ENGLISH EXPLORATIONS AND SETTLEMENTS. 

When the new year of 1750 broke in upon the Father of Waters 
and the Great Northwest, all. was still wild save at the French posts 
already described. In 1749, when the English first began to think seri- 
ously about sending men into the West, the greater portion of the States 
of Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota were yet 
under the dominion of the red men. The English knew, however, pretty 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 35 

conclusively of the nature of the wealth of these wilds. As early as 
1710, Governor Spotswood, of Virginia, had commenced movements to 
secure the country west of the Alleghenies to the English crown. In 
Pennsylvania, Governor Keith and James Logan, secretary of the prov- 
ince, from 1719 to 1731, represented to the powers of England the neces- 
sity of securing the Western lands. Nothing was done, however, by that 
power save to take some diplomatic steps to secure the claims of Britain 
to this unexplored wilderness. 

England had from the outset claimed from the Atlantic to the Pacific, 
on the ground that the discovery of the seacoast and its possession was a 
discovery and possession of the country, and, as is well known, her grants 
to the colonies extended " from sea to sea." This was not all her claim. 
She had purchased from the Indian tribes large tracts of land. This lat- 
ter was also a strong argument. As early as 1684, Lord H oward, Gov- 
ernor of Virginia, held a treaty with the six nations. These were the 
great Northern Confederacy, and comprised at first the Mohawks, Onei- 
das, Onondagas, Cayugas, and Senecas. Afterward the Tuscaroras were 
taken into the confederacy, and it became known as the Six Nations. 
They came under the protection of the mother country, and again in 
1701, they repeated the agreement, and in September, 1726, a formal deed 
was drawn up and signed by the chiefs. The validity of this claim has 
often been disputed, but never successfully. In 1744, a purchase was 
made at Lancaster, Pennsylvania, of certain lands within the " Colony of 
Virginia," for which the Indians received .£200 in gold and a like sum in 
goods, with a promise that, as settlements increased, more should be paid. 
The Commissioners from Virginia were Colonel Thomas Lee and Colonel 
William Beverly. As settlements extended, the promise of more pay was 
called to mind, and Mr. Conrad Weiser was sent across the mountains with 
presents to appease the savages. Col. Lee, and some Virginians accompa- 
nied him with the intention of sounding the Indians upon their feelings 
regarding the English. They were not satisfied with their treatment, 
and plainly told the Commissioners why. The English did not desire the 
cultivation of the country, but the monopoly of the Indian trade. In 
1748, the Ohio Company was formed, and petitioned the king for a grant 
of land beyond the Alleghenies. This was granted, and the government 
of Virginia was ordered to grant to them a half million acres, two hun- 
dred thousand of which were to be located at once. Upon the 12th of 
June, 1749, 800,000 acres from the line of Canada north and west was 
made to the Loyal Company, and on the 29th of October, 1751, 100,000 
acres were given to the Greenbriar Company. All this time the French 
were not idle. They saw that, should the British gain a foothold in the 
West, especially upon the Ohio, they might not only prevent the French 



30 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

settling upon it, but in time would come to the lower posts and so gain 
possession of the whole country. Upon the 10th of May, 1774, Vaud- 
reuil, Governor of Canada and the French possessions, well knowing the 
consequences that must arise from allowing the English to build trading- 
posts in the Northwest, seized some of their frontier posts, and to further 
secure the claim of the French to the West, he, in 1749, sent Louis Cel- 
eron with a party of soldiers to plant along the Ohio River, in the mounds 
and at the mouths of its principal tributaries, plates of lead, on which 
were inscribed the claims of Fiance. These were heard of in 1752, and 
within the memory of residents now living along the " Oyo," as the 
beautiful river was called by the French. One of these plates was found 
with the inscription partly defaced. It bears date August 10, 1749, and 
a copy of the inscription with particular account of the discovery of the 
plate, was sent by DeWitt Clinton to the American Antiquarian Society, 
among whose journals it may now be found.* These measures did not, 
however, deter the English from going on with their explorations, and 
though neither party resorted to arms, yet the conflict was gathering, and 
it was only a question of time when the storm would burst upon the 
frontier settlements. In 1750, Christopher Gist was sent by the Ohio 
Company to examine its lands. He went to a village of the Twigtwees, 
on the Miami, about one hundred and fifty miles above its mouth. He 
afterward spoke of it as very populous. From there he went down 
the Ohio River nearly to the falls at the present City of Louisville, 
and in November he commenced a survey of the Company's lands. Dur- 
ing the Winter, General Andrew Lewis performed a similar work for the 
Greenbriar Company. Meanwhile the French were busy in preparing 
their forts for defense, and in opening roads, and also sent a small party 
of soldiers to keep the Ohio clear. This party, having heard of the Eng- 
lish post on the Miami River, early in 1652, assisted by the Ottawas and 
Chippewas, attacked it, and, after a severe battle, in which fourteen of 
the natives were killed and others wounded, captured the garrison. 
(They were probably garrisoned in a block house). The traders were 
carried away to Canada, and one account says several were burned. This 
fort or post was called by the English Pickawillany. A memorial of the 
king's ministers refers to it as " Pickawillanes, in the center of the terri- 
tory between the Ohio and the Wabash. The name is probably some 
variation of Pickaway or Picqua in 1773, written by Rev. David Jones 
Pickaweke." 

* The following is a translation of the inscription on the plate: "In the year 1749. reign of Louis XV., 
King of France, we, Celeron, commandant of a detachment by Monsieur the Marquis of Gallisoniere, com- 
mander-in-chief of New France, to establish tranquility in certain Indian villages of these cantons, have 
burled this plate at the confluence of the Toradakoin, this twenty- ninth of July, near the river Ohio, otherwise 
Beautiful River, as a monument of renewal of possession which we have taken of the said river, and all its 
tributaries; inasmuch as the preceding Kings of France have enjoyed it, and maintained it by their arms and 
treaties; especially by those of Ryswick, Utrecht, and Aix La Chapelle." 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY 37 

This was the first blood shed between the French and English, and 
occurred near the present City of Piqua, Ohio, or at least at a point about 
forty-seven miles north of Dayton. Each nation became now more inter- 
ested in the progress of events in the Northwest. The English deter- 
mined to purchase from the Indians a title to the lands they wished to 
occupy, and Messrs. Fry (afterward Commander-in-chief over Washing- 
ton at the commencement of the French War of 1775-1763), Loraax and 
Patton were sent in the Spring of 1752 to hold a conference with the 
natives at Logstown to learn what they objected to in the treaty of Lan- 
caster already noticed, and to settle all difficulties. On the 9th of June, 
these Commissioners met the red men at Logstown, a little village on the 
north bank of the Ohio, about seventeen miles below the site of Pitts- 
burgh. Here had been a trading point for many years, but it was aban- 
doned by the Indians in 1750. At first the Indians declined to recognize 
the treaty of Lancaster, but, the Commissioners taking aside Montour, 
the interpreter, who was a son of the famous Catharine Montour, and a 
chief among the six nations, induced him to use his influence in their 
favor. This he did, and upon the 13th of June they all united in signing 
a deed, confirming the Lancaster treaty in its full extent, consenting to a 
settlement of the southeast of the Ohio, and guaranteeing that it should 
not be disturbed by them. These were the means used to obtain the first 
treaty with the Indians in the Ohio Valley. 

Meanwhile the powers beyond the sea were trying to out-mano3uvre 
each other, and were professing to be at peace. The English generally 
outwitted the Indians, and failed in many instances to fulfill their con- 
tracts. They thereby gained the ill-will of the red men, and further 
increased the feeling by failing to provide them with arms and ammuni- 
tion. Said an old chief, at Easton, in 1758 : " The Indians on the Ohio 
left you because of your own fault. When we heard the French were 
coming, we asked you for help and arms, but we did not get them. The 
French came, they treated us kindly, and gained our affections. The 
Governor of Virginia settled on our lands for his own benefit, and, when 
we wanted help, forsook us." 

At the beginning of 1653, the English thought they had secured by 
title the lands in the West, but the French had quietly gathered cannon 
and military stores to be in readiness for the expected blow. The Eng- 
lish made other attempts to ratify these existing treaties, but not until 
the Summer could the Indians be gathered together to discuss the plans 
of the French. They had sent messages to the French, warning them 
away ; but they replied that they intended to complete the chain of forts 
already begun, and would not abandon the field. 

Soon after this, no satisfaction being obtained from the Ohio regard- 



38 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

ing the positions and purposes of the French, Governor Dinwiddie of 
Virginia determined to send to them another messenger and learn from 
them, if possible, their intentions. For this purpose he selected a young 
man, a surveyor, who, at the early age of nineteen, had received the rank 
of major, and who was thoroughly posted regarding frontier life. This 
personage was no other than the illustrious George Washington, who then 
held considerable interest in Western lands. He was at this time just 
twenty-two years of age. Taking Gist as his guide, the two, accompanied 
by four servitors, set out on their perilous march. They left Will's 
Creek on the 10th of November, 1753, and on the 22d reached the Monon- 
gahela, about ten miles above the fork. From there they went to 
Logstown, where Washington had a long conference with the chiefs of 
the Six Nations. From them he learned the condition of the French, and 
also heard of their determination not to come down the river till the fol- 
lowing Spring. The Indians were non-committal, as they were afraid to 
turn either way, and, as far as they could, desired to remain neutral. 
Washington, finding nothing could be done with them, went on to 
Venango, an old Indian town at the mouth of French Creek. Here the 
French had a fort, called Fort Machault. Through the rum and flattery 
of the French, he nearly lost all his Indian followers. Finding nothing 
of importance here, he pursued his way amid great privations, and on the 
11th of December reached the fort at the head of French Creek. Here 
he delivered Governor Dinwiddie's letter, received his answer, took his 
observations, and on the 16th set out upon his return journey with no one 
but Gist, his guide, and a few Indians who still remained true to him, 
notwithstanding the endeavors of the French to retain them. Their 
homeward journey was one of great peril and suffering from the cold, yet 
they reached home in safety on the 6th of January, 1754. 

From the letter of St. Pierre, commander of the French fort, sent by 
Washington to Governor Dinwicldie, it was learned that the French would 
not give up without a struggle. Active preparations were at once made 
in all the English colonies for the coming conflict, while the French 
finished the fort at Venango and strengthened their lines of fortifications, 
and gathered their forces to be in readiness. 

The Old Dominion was all alive. Virginia was the center of great 
activities ; volunteers were called for, and from all the neighboring 
colonies men rallied to the conflict, and everywhere along the Potomac 
men were enlisting under the Governor's proclamation — which promised 
two hundred thousand acres on the Ohio. Along this river they were 
gathering as far as Will's Creek, and far beyond this point, whither Trent 
had come for assistance for his little band of forty-one men, who were 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 39 

working away in hunger and want, to fortify that point at the fork of 
the Ohio, to which both parties were looking with deep interest. 

" The first birds of Spring filled the air with their song ; the swift 
river rolled by the Allegheny hillsides, swollen by the melting snows of 
Spring and the April showers. The leaves were appearing ; a few Indian 
scouts were seen, but no enemy seemed near at hand ; and all was so quiet, 
that Frazier, an old Indian scout and trader, who had been left by Trent 
in command, ventured to his home at the mouth of Turtle Creek, ten 
miles up the Monongahela. But, though all was so quiet in that wilder- 
ness, keen eyes had seen the low intrenchment rising at the fork, and 
swift feet had borne the news of it up the river ; and upon the morning 
of the 17th of April, Ensign Ward, who then had charge of it, saw 
upon the Allegheny a sight that made his heart sink — sixty batteaux and 
three hundred canoes filled with men, and laden deep with cannon and 
stores. * * * That evening he supped with his captor, Contrecceur, 
and the next day he was bowed off by the Frenchman, and with his men 
and tools, marched up the Monongahela." 

The French and Indian war had begun. The treaty of Aix la 
Chapelle, in 1748, had left the boundaries between the French and 
English possessions unsettled, and the events already narrated show the 
French were determined to hold the country watered by the Mississippi 
and its tributaries ; while the English laid claims to the country by virtue 
of the discoveries of the Cabots, and claimed all the country from New- 
foundland to Florida, extending from the Atlantic to the Pacific. The 
first decisive blow had now been struck, and the first attempt of the 
English, through the Ohio Company, to occupy these lands, had resulted 
disastrously to them. The French and Indians immediately completed 
the fortifications begun at the Fork, which they had so easily captured, 
and when completed gave to the fort the name of DuQuesne. Washing- 
ton was at Will's Creek when the news of the capture of the fort arrived. 
He at once departed to recapture it. On his way he entrenched him- 
self at a place called the " Meadows," where he erected a fort called 
by him Fort Necessity. From there he surprised and captured a force of 
French and Indians inarching against him, but was soon after attacked 
in his fort by a much superior force, and was obliged to yield on the 
morning of July 4th. He was allowed to return to Virginia. 

The English Government immediately planned four campaigns ; one 
against Fort DuQuesne ; one against Nova Scotia ; one against Fort 
Niagara, and one against Crown Point. These occurred during 1755-6, 
and were not successful in driving the French from their possessions. 
The expedition against Fort DuQuesne was led by the famous General 
Braddock, who, refusing to listen to the advice of Washington and those 



40 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

acquainted with Indian warfare, suffered such an inglorious defeat. This 
occurred on the morning of July 9th, and is generally known as the battle 
of Monongahela, or " Braddock's Defeat." The war continued with 
various vicissitudes through the years 1756-7 ; when, at the commence- 
ment of 1758, in accordance with the plans of William Pitt, then Secre- 
tary of State, afterwards Lord Chatham, active preparations were made to 
carry on the war. Three expeditions were planned for this year : one, 
under General Amherst, against Louisburg ; another, under Abercrombie, 
against Fort Ticonderoga ; and a third, under General Forbes, against 
Fort DuQuesne. On the 26th of July, Louisburg surrendered after a 
desperate resistance of more than forty days, and the eastern part of the 
Canadian possessions fell into the hands of the British. Abercrombie 
.captured Fort Frontenac, and when the expedition against Fort DuQuesne, 
of which Washington had the active command, arrived there, it was 
found in flames and deserted. The English at once took possession, 
rebuilt the fort, and in honor of their illustrious statesman, changed the 
name to Fort Pitt. 

The great object of the campaign of 1759, was the reduction of 
Canada. General Wolfe was to lay siege to Quebec ; Amherst was to 
reduce Ticonderoga and Crown Point, and General Prideaux was to 
capture Niagara. This latter place was taken in July, but the gallant 
Prideaux lost his life in the attempt. Amherst captured Ticonderoga 
and Crown Point without a blow ; and Wolfe, after making the memor- 
able ascent to the Plains of Abraham, on September 13th, defeated 
Montcalm, and on the 18th, the city capitulated. In this engagement 
Montcolm and Wolfe both lost their lives. De Levi, Montcalm's successor, 
marched to Sillery, three miles above the city, with the purpose of 
defeating the English, and there, on the 28th of the following April, was 
fought one of the bloodiest battles of the French and Indian War. It 
resulted in the defeat of the French, and the fall of the City of Montreal. 
The Governor signed a capitulation by which the whole of Canada was 
surrendered to the English. This practically concluded the war, but it 
was not until 1763 that the treaties of peace between France and England 
were signed. This was done on the 10th of February of that year, and 
under its provisions all the country east of the Mississippi and north of 
the Iberville River, in Louisiana, were ceded to England. At the same 
time Spain ceded Florida to Great Britain. 

On the 13th of September, 1760, Major Robert Rogers was sent 
from Montreal to take charge of Detroit, the only remaining French post 
in the territory. He arrived there on the 19th of November, and sum- 
moned the place to surrender. At first the commander of the post, 
Beletre, refused, but on the 29th, hearing of the continued defeat of the 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 41 

French arms, surrendered. Rogers remained there until December 23d 
under the personal protection of the celebrated chief, Pontiac, to whom, 
no doubt, he owed his safety. Pontiac had come here to inquire the 
purposes of the English in taking possession of the country. He was 
assured that they came simply to trade with the natives, and did not 
desire their country. This answer conciliated the savages, and did much 
to insure the safety of Rogers and his party during their stay, and while 
on their journey home. 

Rogers set out for Fort Pitt on December 23, and was just one 
month on the way. His route was from Detroit to Maumee, thence 
across the present State of Ohio directly to the fort. This was the com- 
mon trail of the Indians in their journeys from Sandusky to the fork of 
the Ohio. It went from Fort Sandusky, where Sandusky City now is, 
crossed the Huron river, then called Bald Eagle Creek, to " Mohickon 
John's Town" on Mohickon Creek, the northern branch of White 
Woman's River, and thence crossed to Beaver's Town, a Delaware town 
on what is now Sandy Creek. At Beaver's Town were probably one 
hundred and fifty warriors, and not less than three thousand acres of 
cleared land. From there the track went up Sandy Creek to and across 
Big Beaver, and up the Ohio to Logstown, thence on to the fork. 

The Northwest Territory was now entirely under the English rule. 
New settlements began to be rapidly made, and the promise of a large 
trade was speedily manifested. Had the British carried out their promises 
with the natives none of those savage butcheries would have been perpe- 
trated, and the country would have been spared their recital. 

The renowned chief, Pontiac, was one of the leading spirits in these 
atrocities. We will now pause in our narrative, and notice the leading 
events in his life. The earliest authentic information regarding this 
noted Indian chief is learned from an account of an Indian trader named 
Alexander Henry, who, in the Spring of 1761, penetrated his domains as 
far as Missillimacnac. Pontiac was then a great friend of the French, 
but a bitter foe of the English, whom he considered as encroaching on his 
hunting grounds. Henry was obliged to disguise himself as a Canadian 
to insure safety, but was discovered by Pontiac, who bitterly reproached 
him and the English for their attempted subjugation of the West. He 
declared that no treaty had been made with them; no presents sent 
them, and that he would resent any possession of the West by that nation. 
He was at the time about fifty years of age, tall and dignified, and was 
civil and military ruler of the Ottawas, Ojibwas and Pottawatamies. 

The Indians, from Lake Michigan to the borders of North Carolina, 
were united in this feeling, and at the time of the treaty of Paris, ratified 
February 10, 1763, a general conspiracy was formed to fall suddenly 



42 



THE NOKTHWEST TEREITOKI. 




PONTIAC, THE OTTAWA CHIEFTAIN. 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 43 

upon the frontier British posts, and with one blow strike every man dead. 
Pontiac was the marked leader in all this, and was the commander 
of the Chippewas, Ottawas, Wyandots, Miamis, Shawanese, Delawares 
and Mingoes, who had, for the time, laid aside their local quarrels to unite 
in this enterprise. 

The blow came, as near as can now be ascertained, on May 7, 1763. 
Nine British posts fell, and the Indians drank, " scooped up in the hollow 
of joined hands," the blood of many a Briton. 

Pontiac's immediate field of action was the garrison at Detroit. 
Here, however, the plans were frustrated by an Indian woman disclosing 
the plot the evening previous to his arrival. Everything was carried out, 
however, according to Pontiac's plans until the moment of action, when 
Major Gladwyn, the commander of the post, stepping to one of the Indian 
chiefs, suddenly drew- aside his blanket and disclosed the concealed 
musket. Pontiac, though a brave man, turned pale and trembled. He 
saw his plan was known, and that the garrison were prepared. He 
endeavored to exculpate himself from any such intentions ; but the guilt 
was evident, and he and his followers were dismissed with a severe 
reprimand, and warned never to again enter the walls of the post. 

Pontiac at once laid siege to the fort, and until the treaty of peace 
between the British and the Western Indians, concluded in August, 1764, 
continued to harass and besiege the fortress. He organized a regular 
commissariat department, issued bills of credit written out on bark, 
which, to his credit, it may be stated, were punctually redeemed. At 
the conclusion of the treaty, in which it seems he took no part, he went 
further south, living many year.s among the Illinois. 

He had given up all hope of saving his country and race. After a 
time he endeavored to unite the Illinois tribe and those about St. Louis 
in a war with the whites. His efforts were fruitless, and only ended in a 
quarrel between himself and some Kaskaskia Indians, one of whom soon 
afterwards killed him. His death was, however, avenged by the northern 
Indians, who nearly exterminated the Illinois in the wars which followed. 

Had it not been for the treachery of a few of his followers, his plan 
for the extermination of the whites, a masterly one, would undoubtedly 
have been carried out. 

It was in the Spring of the year following Rogers' visit that Alex- 
ander Henry went to Missillimacnac, and everywhere found the strongest 
feelings against the English, who had not carried out their promises, and 
were doing -nothing to conciliate the natives. Here he met the chief, 
Pontiac, who, after conveying to him in a speech the idea that their 
French father would awake soon and utterly destroy his enemies, said : 
" Englishman, although you have conquered the French, you have not 



44 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

yet conquered us ! We are not your slaves ! These lakes, these woods, 
these mountains, were left us by our ancestors. They are our inheritance, 
and we will part with them to none. Your nation supposes that we, like 
the white people, can not live without bread and pork and beef. But you 
ought to know that He, the Great Spirit and Master of Life, has provided 
food for us upon these broad lakes and in these mountains." 

He then spoke of the fact that no treaty had been made with them, 
no presents sent them, and that he and his people were yet for war. 
Such were the feelings of the Northwestern Indians immediately after 
the English took possession of their country. These feelings were no 
doubt encouraged by the Canadians and French, who hoped that yet the 
French arms might prevail. The treaty of Paris, however, gave to the 
English the right to this vast domain, and active preparations were going 
on to occupy it and enjoy its trade and emoluments. 

In 1762, France, by a secret treaty, ceded Louisiana to Spain, to pre- 
vent it falling into the hands of the English, who were becoming masters 
of the entire West. The next year the treaty of Paris, signed at Fon- 
tainbleau, gave to the English the domain of the country in question. 
Twenty years after, by the treaty of peace between the United States 
and England, that part of Canada lying south and west of the Great 
Lakes, comprehending a large territory which is the subject of these 
sketches, was acknowledged to be a portion of the United States ; and 
twenty years still later, in 1803, Louisiana was ceded by Spain back to 
France, and by France sold to the United States. 

In the half century, from the building of the Fort of Crevecoeur by 
LaSalle, in 1680, up to the erection of Fort Chartres, many French set- 
tlements had been made in that quarter. These have already been 
noticed, being those at St. Vincent (Vincennes), Kohokia or Cahokia, 
Kaskaskia and Prairie du Rocher, on the American Bottom, a large tract 
of rich alluvial soil in Illinois, on the Mississippi, opposite the site of St. 
Louis. 

By the treaty of Paris, the regions east of the Mississippi, including 
all these and other towns of the Northwest, were given over to England; 
but they do not appear to have been taken possession of until 1765, when 
Captain Stirling, in the name of the Majesty of England, established him- 
self at Fort Chartres bearing with him the proclamation of General Gage, 
dated December 30, 1764, which promised religious freedom to all Cath- 
olics who worshiped here, and a right to leave the country with their 
effects if they wished, or to remain with the privileges of Englishmen. 
It was shortly after the occupancy of the West by the British that the 
war with Pontiac opened. It is already noticed in the sketch of that 
chieftain. By it many a Briton lost his life, and many a frontier settle- 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 45 

merit in its infancy ceased to exist. This was not ended until the year 
17G4, when, failing to capture Detroit, Niagara and Fort Pitt, his confed- 
eracy became disheartened, and, receiving no aid from the French, Pon- 
tiac abandoned the enterprise and departed to the Illinois, among whom 
he afterward lost his life. 

As soon as these difficulties were definitely settled, settlers began 
rapidly to survey the country and prepare for occupation. During the 
year 1770, a number of persons from Virginia and other British provinces 
explored and marked out nearly all the valuable lands on the Mononga- 
hela and along the banks of the Ohio as far as the Little Kanawha. This 
was followed by another exploring expedition, in which George Washing- 
ton was a party. The latter, accompanied by Dr. Craik, Capt. Cnuvford 
and others, on the 20th of October, 1770, descended the Ohio from Pitts- 
burgh to the mouth of the Kanawha ; ascended that stream about fourteen 
miles, marked out several large tracts of land, shot several buffalo, which 
were then abundant in the Ohio Valley, and returned to the fort. 

Pittsburgh was at this time a trading post, about which was clus- 
tered a village of some twenty houses, inhabited by Indian traders. This 
same year, Capt. Pittman visited Kaskaskia and its neighboring villages. 
He found there about sixty-five resident families, and at Cahokia only 
forty-five dwellings. At Fort Chartres was another small settlement, and 
at Detroit the garrison were quite prosperous and strong. For a year 
or two settlers continued to locate near some of these posts, generally 
Fort Pitt or Detroit, owing to the fears of the Indians, who still main- 
tained some feelings of hatred to the English. The trade from the posts 
was quite good, and from those in Illinois large quantities of pork and 
flour found their way to the New Orleans market. At this time the 
policy of the British Government was strongly opposed to the extension 
of the colonies west. In 1763, the King of England forbade, by royal 
proclamation, his colonial subjects from making a settlement beyond the 
sources of the rivers which fall into the Atlantic Ocean. At the instance 
of the Board of Trade, measures were taken to prevent the settlement 
without the limits prescribed, and to retain the commerce within easy 
reach of Great Britain. 

The commander-in-chief of the king's forces wrote in 1769 : " In the 
course of a few years necessity will compel the colonists, should they 
extend their settlements west, to provide manufactures of some kind for 
themselves, and when all connection upheld by commerce with the mother 
country ceases, an independency in their government will soon follow." 

In accordance with this policy, Gov. Gage issued a proclamation 
in 1772, commanding the inhabitants of Vincennes to abandon their set- 
tlements and join some of the Eastern English colonies. To this they 



46 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

strenuously objected, giving good reasons therefor, and were allowed to 
remain. The strong opposition to this policy of Great Britain led to its 
change, and to such a course as to gain the attachment of the French 
population. In December, 1773, influential citizens of Quebec petitioned 
the king for an extension of the boundary lines of that province, which 
was granted, and Parliament passed an act on June 2, 1774, extend- 
ing the boundary so as to include the territory lying within the present 
States of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and Michigan. 

In consequence of the liberal policy pursued by the British Govern- 
ment toward the French settlers in the West, they were disposed to favor 
that nation in the war which soon followed with the colonies ; but the 
early alliance between France and America soon brought them to the side 
of the war for independence. 

In 1774, Gov. Dunmore, of Virginia, began to encourage emigration 
to the Western lands. He appointed magistrates at Fort Pitt under the 
pretense that the fort was under the government of that commonwealth. 
One of these justices, John Connelly, who possessed a tract of land in the 
Ohio Valley, gathered a force of men and garrisoned the fort, calling it 
Fort Dunmore. This and other parties were formed to select sites for 
settlements, and often came in conflict with the Indians, who yet claimed 
portions of the valley, and several battles followed. These ended in the 
famous battle of Kanawha in July, where the Indians were defeated and 
driven across the Ohio. 

During the years 1775 and 1776, by the operations of land companies 
and the perseverance of individuals, several settlements were firmly estab- 
lished between the Alleghanies and the Ohio River, and western land 
speculators were busy in Illinois and on the Wabash. At a council held 
in Kaskaskia on July 5, 1773, an association of English traders, calling 
themselves the " Illinois Land Company," obtained from ten chiefs of the 
Kaskaskia, Cahokia and Peoria tribes two large tracts of land lying on 
the east side of the Mississippi River south of the Illinois. In 1775, a mer- 
chant from the Illinois Country, named Viviat, came to Post Vincennes 
as the agent of the association called the " Wabash Land Company." On 
the 8th of October he obtained from eleven Piankeshaw chiefs, a deed for 
37,497,600 acres of land. This deed was signed by the grantors, attested 
by a number of the inhabitants of Vincennes, and afterward recorded in 
the office of a notary public at Kaskaskia. This and other land com- 
panies had extensive schemes for the colonization of the West ; but all 
were frustrated by the breaking out of the Revolution. On the 20th of 
April, 1780, the two companies named consolidated under the name of the 
" United Illinois and Wabash Land Company." They afterward made 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 47 

strenuous efforts to have these grants sanctioned by Congress, but all 
signally failed. 

When the War of the Revolution commenced, Kentucky was an unor- 
ganized country, though there were several settlements within her borders. 

In Hutchins' Topography of Virginia, it is stated that at that time 
" Kaskaskia contained 80 houses, and nearly 1,000 white and black in- 
habitants — the whites being a little the more numerous. Cahokia con- 
tains 50 houses and 300 white inhabitants, and 80 negroes. There were 
east of the Mississippi River, about the year 1771 " — when these observa- 
tions were made — " 300 white men capable of bearing arms, and 230 
negroes/' 

From 1775 until the expedition of Clark, nothing is recorded and 
nothing known of these settlements, save what is contained in a report 
made by a committee to Congress in June, 1778. From it the following 
extract is made : 

"Near the mouth of the River Kaskaskia, there is a village which 
appears to have contained nearly eighty families from the beginning of 
the late revolution. There are twelve families in a small village at la 
Prairie du Rochers, and near fifty families at the Kahokia Village. There 
are also four or five families at Fort Chartres and St. Philips, which is five 
miles further up the river." 

St. Louis had been settled in February, 1764, and at this time con- 
tained, including its neighboring towns, over six hundred whites and one 
hundred and fifty negroes. It must be remembered that all the country 
west of the Mississippi was now under French rule, and remained so until 
ceded again to Spain, its original owner, who afterwards sold it and the 
country including New Orleans to the United States. At Detroit there 
were, according to Capt. Carver, who was in the Northwest from 1766 to 
1768, more than one hundred houses, and the river was settled for more 
than twenty miles, although poorly cultivated — the people being engaged 
in the Indian trade. This old town has a history, which we will here 
relate. 

It is the oldest town in the Northwest, having been founded by 
Antoine de Lamotte Cadillac, in 1701. It was laid out in the form of an 
oblong square, of two acres in length, and an acre and a half in width. 
As described by A. D. Frazer, who first visited it and became a permanent 
resident of the place, in 1778, it comprised within its limits that space 
between Mr. Palmer's store (Conant Block) and Capt. Perkins' house 
(near the Arsenal building), and extended back as far as the public barn, 
and was bordered in front by the Detroit River. It was surrounded by 
oak and, cedar pickets, about fifteen feet long, set in the ground, and had 
four gates — east, west, north and south. Over the first three of these 



4$ THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

gates were block houses provided with four guns apiece, each a six- 
pounder. Two six-gun batteries were planted fronting the river and in a 
parallel direction with the block houses. There were four streets running 
east and west, the main street being twenty feet wide and the rest fifteen 
feet, while the four streets crossing these at right angles were from ten 
to fifteen feet in width. 

At the date spoken of by Mr. Frazer, there was no fort within the 
enclosure, but a citadel on the ground corresponding to the present 
northwest corner of Jefferson Avenue and Wayne Street. The citadel was 
inclosed by pickets, and within it were erected barracks of wood, two 
stories high, sufficient to contain ten officers, and also barracks sufficient 
to contain four hundred men, and a provision store built of brick. The 
citadel also contained a hospital and guard-house. The old town of 
Detroit, in 17T8, contained about sixty houses, most of them one story, 
with a few a story and a half in height. They were all of logs, some 
hewn and some round. There was one building of splendid appearance, 
called the " King's Palace," two stories high, which stood near the east 
gate. It was built for Governor Hamilton, the first governor commissioned 
by the British. There were two guard-houses, one near the west gate and 
the other near the Government House. Each of the guards consisted of 
twenty-four men and a subaltern, who mounted regularly every morning 
between nine and ten o'clock, Each furnished four sentinels, who were 
relieved every two hours. There was also an officer of the day, who pjr- 
formed strict duty. Each of the gates was shut regularly at sunset, 
even wicket gates were shut at nine o'clock, and all the keys were 
delivered into the hands of the commanding officer. They were opened 
in the morning at sunrise. No Indian or squaw was permitted to enter 
town with any weapon, such as a tomahawk or a knife. It was a stand- 
ing order that the Indians should deliver their arms and instruments of 
every kind before they were permitted to pass the sentinel, and they were 
restored to them on their return. No more than twenty-five Indians were 
allowed to enter the town at any one time, and they were admitted only 
at the east and west gates. At sundown the drums beat, and all the 
Indians were required to leave town instantly. There was a council house 
near the water side for the purpose of holding council with the Indians. 
The population of the town was about sixty families, in all about two 
hundred males and one hundred females. This town was destroyed by 
fire, all except one dwelling, in 1805. After which the present "new" 
town was laid out. 

On the breaking out of the Revolution, the British held every post of 
importance in the West. Kentucky was formed as a component part of 
Virginia, and the sturdy pioneers of the West, alive to their interests, 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 4<) 

and recognizing the great benefits of obtaining the control of the trade in 
this part of the New World, held steadily to their purposes, and those 
within the commonwealth of Kentucky proceeded to exercise their 
civil privileges, by electing John Todd and Richard Gallaway, 
burgesses to represent them in the Assembly of the parent state. 
Early in September of that year (1777) the first court was held 
in Harrodsburg, and Col. Bowman, afterwards major, who had arrived 
in August, was made the commander of a militia organization which 
had been commenced the March previous. Thus the tree of loyalty 
was growing. The chief spirit in this far-out colony, who had represented 
her the year previous east of the mountains, was now meditating a move 
unequaled in its boldness. He had been watching the movements of the 
British throughout the Northwest, and understood their whole plan. He 
saw it was through their possession of the posts at Detroit, Vincennes, 
Kaskaskia, and other places, which would give them constant and easy 
access to the various Indian tribes in the Northwest, that the British 
intended to penetrate the country from the north and soutn, ana annihi- 
late the frontier fortresses. This moving, energetic man was Colonel, 
afterwards General, George Rogers Clark. He knew the Indians were not 
unanimously in accord with the English, and he was convinced that, could 
the British be defeated and expelled from the Northwest, the natives 
might be easily awed into neutrality ; and by spies sent for the purpose, 
he satisfied himself that the enterprise against the Illinois settlements 
might easily succeed. Having convinced himself of the certainty of the 
project, he repaired to the Capital of Virginia, which place he reached on 
November 5th. While he was on his way, fortunately, on October 17th, 
Burgoyne had been defeated, and the spirits of the colonists greatly 
encouraged thereby. Patrick Henry was Governor of Virginia, and at 
once entered heartily into Clark's plans. The same plan had before been 
agitated in the Colonial Assemblies, but there was no one until Clark 
came who was sufficiently acquainted with the condition of affairs at the 
scene of action to be able to guide them. 

Clark, having satisfied the Virginia leaders of the feasibility of his 
plan, received, on the 2d of January, two sets of instructions — one secret, 
the other open — the latter authorized him to proceed to enlist seven 
companies to go to Kentucky, subject to his orders, and to serve three 
months from their arrival in the West. The secret order authorized him 
to arm these troops, to procure his powder and lead of General Hand 
at Pittsburgh, and to proceed at once to subjugate the country. 

With these instructions Clark repaired to Pittsburgh, choosing rather 
to raise his men west of the mountains, as he well knew all were needed 
in the colonies in the conflict there. He sent Col. W. B. Smith to Hoi- 



50 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

ston for the same purpose, but neither succeeded in raising the required 
number of men. The settlers in these parts were afraid to leave their 
own firesides exposed to a vigilant foe, and but few could be induced to 
join the proposed expedition. With three companies and several private 
volunteers, Clark at length commenced his descent of the Ohio, which he 
navigated as far as the Falls, where he took possession of and fortified 
Corn Island, a small island between the present Cities of Louisville, 
Kentucky, and New Albany, Indiana. Remains of this fortification may 
yet be found. At this place he appointed Col. Bowman to meet him 
with such recruits as had reached Kentucky by the southern route, and 
as many as could be spared from the station. Here he announced to 
the men their real destination. Having completed his arrangements, 
and chosen his party, he left a small garrison upon the island, and on the 
24th of June, during a total eclipse of the sun, which to them augured 
no good, and which fixes beyond dispute the date of starting, he with 
his chosen band, fell down the river. His plan was to go by water as 
far as Fort Massac or Massacre, and thence march direct to Kaskaskia. 
Here he intended to surprise the garrison, and after its capture go to 
Cahokia, then to Vincennes, and lastly to Detroit. Should he fail, he 
intended to march directly to the Mississippi River and cross it into the 
Spanish country. Before his start he received two good items of infor- 
mation : one that the alliance had been formed between France and the 
United States ; and the other that the Indians throughout the Illinois 
country and the inhabitants, at the various frontier posts, had been led to 
believe by the British that the " Long Knives" or Virginians, were the 
most fierce, bloodthirsty and cruel savages that ever scalped a foe. With 
this impression on their minds, Clark saw that proper management would 
cause them to submit at once from fear, if surprised, and then from grati- 
tude would become friendly if treated with unexpected leniency. 

The march to Kaskaskia was accomplished through a hot July sun, 
and the town reached on the evening of July 4. He captured the fort 
near the village, and soon after the village itself by surprise, and without 
the loss of a single man or by killing any of the enemy. After sufficiently 
working upon the fears of the natives, Clark told them they were at per- . 
feet liberty to worship as they pleased, and to take whichever side of the 
great conflict they would, also he would protect them from any barbarity 
from British or Indian foe. This had the desired effect, and the inhab- 
itants, so unexpectedly and so gratefully surprised by the unlooked 
for turn of affairs, at once swore allegiance to the American arms, and 
when Clark desired to go to Cahokia on the 6th of July, they accom- 
panied him, and through their influence the inhabitants of the place 
surrendered, and gladly placed themselves under his protection. Thus 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 51 

the two important posts in Illinois passed from the hands of the English 
into the possession of Virginia. 

In the person of the priest at Kaskaskia, M. Gibault, Clark found a 
powerful ally and generous friend. Clark saw that, to retain possession 
of the Northwest and treat successfully with the Indians within its boun- 
daries, he must establish a government for the colonies he had taken. 
St. Vincent, the next important post to Detroit, remained yet to be taken 
before the Mississippi Valley was conquered. M. Gibault told him that 
he would alone, by persuasion, lead Vincennes to throw off its connection 
with England. Clark gladly accepted his offer, and on the 14th of July, 
in company with a fellow-townsman, M. Gibault started on his mission of 
peace, and on the 1st of August returned with the cheerful intelligence 
that the post on the " Oubache " had taken the oath of allegiance to 
the Old Dominion. During this interval, Clark established his courts, 
placed garrisons at Kaskaskia and Cahokia, successfully re-enlisted his 
men, sent word to have a fort, which proved the germ of Louisville, 
erected at the Falls of the Ohio, and dispatched Mr. Rocheblave, who 
had been commander at Kaskaskia, as a prisoner of war to Richmond. 
In October the County of Illinois was established by the Legislature 
of Virginia, John Todd appointed Lieutenant Colonel and Civil Governor, 
and in November General Clark and his men received the thanks of 
the Old Dominion through their Legislature. 

In a speech a few days afterward, Clark made known fully to the 
natives his plans, and at its close all came forward and swore alle- 
giance to the Long Knives. While he was doing this Governor Hamilton, 
having made his various arrangements, had left Detroit and moved down 
the Wabash to Vincennes intending to operate from that point in reducing 
the Illinois posts, and then proceed on down to Kentucky and drive the 
rebels from the West. Gen. Clark had, on the return of M. Gibault, 
dispatched Captain Helm, of Fauquier County, Virginia, with an attend- 
ant named Henry, across the Illinois prairies to command the fort. 
Hamilton knew nothing of the capitulation of the post, and was greatly 
surprised on his arrival to be confronted by Capt. Helm, who, standing at 
the entrance of the fort by a loaded cannon ready to fire upon his assail- 
ants, demanded upon what terms Hamilton demanded possession of the 
fort. Being granted the rights of a prisoner of war, he surrendered to 
the British General, who could scarcely believe his eyes when he saw the 
force in the garrison. 

Hamilton, not realizing the character of the men with whom he was 
contending, gave up his intended campaign for the Winter, sent his four 
hundred Indian warriors to prevent troops from coming down the Ohio, 



52 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

and to annoy the Americans in all ways, and sat quietly down to pass the 
Winter. Information of all these proceedings having reached Clark, he 
saw that immediate and decisive action was necessary, and that unless 
he captured Hamilton, Hamilton would capture him. Clark received the 
news on the 29th of January, 1779, and on February 4th, having suffi- 
ciently garrisoned Kaskaskia and Cahokia, he sent down the Mississippi 
a " battoe," as Major Bowman writes it, in order to ascend the Ohio and 
Wabash, and operate with the land forces gathering for the fray. 

On the next day, Clark, with his little force of one hundred and 
twenty men, set out for the post, and after incredible hard marching 
through much mud, the ground being thawed by the incessant spring 
rains, on the 22d reached the fort, and being joined by his " battoe," at 
once commenced the attack on the post. The aim of the American back- 
woodsman was unerring, and on the 24th the garrison surrendered to the 
intrepid boldness of Clark. The French were treated with great kind- 
ness, and gladly renewed their allegiance to Virginia. Hamilton was 
sent as a prisoner to Virginia, where he was kept in close confinement. 
During his command of the British frontier posts, he had offered prizes 
to the Indians for all the scalps of Americans they would bring to him, 
and had earned in consequence thereof the title " Hair-buyer General," 
by which he was ever afterward known. 

Detroit was now without doubt within easy reach of the enterprising 
Virginian, could he but raise the necessary force. Governor Henry being 
apprised of this, promised him the needed reinforcement, and Clark con- 
cluded to wait until he could capture and sufficiently garrison the posts. 
Had Clark failed in this bold undertaking, and Hamilton succeeded in 
uniting the western Indians for the next Spring's campaign, the West 
would indeed have been swept from the Mississippi to the Allegheny 
Mountains, and the great blow struck, which had been contemplated from 
the commencement, by the British. 

" But for this small army of dripping, but fearless Virginians, the 
union of all the tribes from Georgia to Maine against the colonies might 
have been effected, and the whole current of our history changed." 

At this time some fears were entertained by the Colonial Govern- 
ments that the Indians in the North and Northwest were inclining to the 
British, and under the instructions of Washington, now Commander-in- 
Chief of the Colonial army, and so bravely fighting for American inde- 
pendence, armed forces were sent against the Six Nations, and upon the 
Ohio frontier, Col. Bowman, acting under the same general's orders, 
marched against Indians within the present limits of that State. These 
expeditions were in the main successful, and the Indians were compelled 
to sue for peace. 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 53 

During this same year (1779) the famous " Land Laws" of Virginia 
were passed. The passage of these laws was of more consequence to the 
pioneers of Kentucky and the Northwest than the gaining of a few Indian 
conflicts. These laws confirmed in main all grants made, and guaranteed 
to all actual settlers their rights and privileges. After providing for the 
settlers, the laws provided for selling the balance of the public lands at 
forty cents per acre. To carry the Land Laws into effect, the Legislature 
sent four Virginians westward to attend to the various claims, over many 
of which great confusion prevailed concerning their validity. These 
gentlemen opened their court on October 13, 1779, at St. Asaphs, and 
continued until April 26, 1780, when they adjourned, having decided 
three ^thousand claims. They were succeeded by the surveyor, who 
came in the person of Mr. George May, and assumed his duties on the 
10th day of the month whose name he bore. With the opening of the 
next year (1780) the troubles concerning the navigation of the Missis- 
sippi commenced. The Spanish Government exacted such measures in 
relation to its trade as to cause the overtures made to the United States 
to be rejected. The American Government considered they had a right 
to navigate its channel. To enforce their claims, a fort was erected below 
the mouth of the Ohio on the Kentucky side of the river. The settle- 
ments in Kentucky were being rapidly filled by emigrants. It was dur- 
ing this year that the first seminary of learning was established in the 
West in this young and enterprising Commonwealth. 

The settlers here did not look upon the building of this fort in a 
friendly manner, as it aroused the hostility of the Indians. Spain had 
been friendly to the Colonies during their struggle for independence, 
and though for a while this friendship appeared in danger from the 
refusal of the free navigation of the river, yet it was finally settled to the 
satisfaction of both nations. 

The Winter of 1779-80 was one of the most unusually severe ones 
ever experienced in the West. The Indians always referred to it as the 
"Great Cold." Numbers of wild animals perished, and not a few 
pioneers lost their lives. The following Summer a party of Canadians 
and Indians attacked St. Louis, and attempted to take possession of it 
in consequence of the friendly disposition of Spain to the revolting 
colonies. They met with such a determined resistance on the part of the 
inhabitants, even the women taking part in the battle, that they were 
compelled to abandon the contest. They also made an attack on the 
settlements in Kentucky, but, becoming alarmed in some unaccountable 
manner, they fled the country in great haste. 

About this time arose the question in the Colonial Congress con- 
cerning the western lands claimed by Virginia, New York, Massachusetts 



54 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

and Connecticut. The agitation concerning this subject finally led New 
York, on the 19th of February, 1780, to pass a law giving to the dele- 
gates of that State in Congress the power to cede her western lands for 
the benefit of the United States. This law was laid before Congress 
during the next month, but no steps were taken concerning it until Sep- 
tember 6th, when a resolution passed that body calling upon the States 
claiming western lands to release their claims in favor of the whole body. 
This basis formed the union, and was the first after all of those legislative 
measures which resulted in the creation of the States of Ohio, Indiana, 
Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin and Minnesota. In December of the same 
year, the plan of conquering Detroit again arose. The conquest might 
have easily been effected by Clark had the necessary aid been furnished 
him. Nothing decisive was done, yet the heads of the Government knew 
that the safety of the Northwest from British invasion lay in the capture 
and retention of that important post, the only unconquered one in the 
territory. 

Before the close of the year, Kentucky was divided into the Coun- 
ties of Lincoln, Fayette and Jefferson, and the act establishing the Town 
of Louisville was passed. This same year is also noted in the annals of 
American history as the year in which occurred Arnold's treason to the 
United States. 

Virginia, in accordance with the resolution of Congress, on the 2d 
day of January, 1781, agreed to yield her western lands to the United 
States upon certain conditions, which Congress would not accede to, and 
the Act of Cession, on the part of the Old Dominion, failed, nor was 
anything farther done until 1783. During all that time the Colonies 
were busily engaged in the struggle with the mother country, and in 
consequence thereof but little heed was given to the western settlements. 
Upon the 4th of July, 1773, the first birth north of the Ohio River of 
American parentage occurred, being that of John L. Roth, son of John 
Roth, one of the Moravian missionaries, whose band of Christian Indians 
suffered in after years a horrible massacre by the hands of the frontier 
settlers, who had been exasperated by the murder of several of their 
neighbors, and in their rage committed, without regard to humanity, a 
deed which forever afterward cast a shade of shame upon their lives. 
For this and kindred outrages on the part of the whites, the Indians 
committed many deeds of cruelty which darken the years of 1771 and 
1772 in the history of the Northwest. 

During the year 1782 a number of battles among the Indians and 
frontiersmen occurred, and between the Moravian Indians and the Wyan- 
dots. In these, horrible acts of cruelty were practised on the captives, 
many of such dark deeds transpiring under the leadership of the notorious 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 



55 



frontier outlaw, Simon Girty, whose name, as well as those of his brothers, 
was a terror to women and children. These occurred chiefly in the Ohio 
valleys. Cotemporary with them were several engagements in Kentucky, 
in which the famous Daniel Boone engaged, and who, often by his skill 
and knowledge of Indian warfare, saved the outposts from cruel destruc- 




INDIANS ATTACKING FEONTIEKSJIEN. 

tion. By the close of the year victory had perched upon the American 
banner, and on the 30th of November, provisional articles of peace had 
been arranged between the Commissioners of England and her uncon- 
querable colonies. Cornwallis had been defeated on the 19th of October 
preceding, and the liberty of America was assured. On the 19th of 
April following, the anniversary of the battle of Lexington, peace was 



56 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

proclaimed to the army of the United States, and on the 3d of the next 
September, the definite treaty which ended our revolutionary struggle 
was concluded. By the terms of that treaty, the boundaries of the West 
were as follows : On the north the line was to extend along the center of 
the Great Lakes ; from the western point of Lake Superior to Long Lake ; 
thence to the Lake of the Woods ; thence to the head of the Mississippi 
River ; down its center to the 31st parallel of latitude, then on that line 
east to the head of the Appalachicola River ; down its center to its junc- 
tion with the Flint ; thence straight to the head of St. Mary's River, and 
thence down along its center to the Atlantic Ocean. 

Following the cessation of hostilities with England, several posts 
were still occupied by the British in the North and West. Among these 
was Detroit, still in the hands of the enemy. Numerous engagements 
with the Indians throughout Ohio and Indiana occurred, upon whose 
lands adventurous whites would settle ere the title had been acquired by 
the proper treaty. 

To remedy this latter evil, Congress appointed commissioners to 
treat with the natives and purchase their lands, and prohibited the set- 
tlement of the territory until this could be done. Before the close of the 
year another attempt was made to capture Detroit, which was, however, 
not pushed, and Virginia, no longer feeling the interest in the Northwest 
she had formerly done, withdrew her troops, having on the 20th of 
December preceding authorized the whole of her possessions to be deeded 
to the United States. This was done on the 1st of March following, and 
the Northwest Territory passed from the control of the Old Dominion. 
To Gen. Clark and his soldiers, however, she gave a tract of one hundred 
and fifty thousand acres of land, to be situated any where north of the 
Ohio wherever they chose to locate them. They selected the region 
opposite the falls of the Ohio, where is now the dilapidated village of 
Clarksville, about midway between the Cities of New Albany and Jeffer- 
sonville, Indiana. 

While the frontier remained thus, and Gen. Haldimand at Detroit 
refused to evacuate alleging that he had no orders from his King to do 
so, settlers were rapidly gathering about the inland forts. In the Spring 
of 1784, Pittsburgh was regularly laid out, and from the journal of Arthur 
Lee, who passed through the town soon after on his way to the Indian 
council at Fort Mcintosh, we suppose it was not very prepossessing in 
appearance. He says : 

" Pittsburgh is inhabited almost entirely by Scots and Irish, who 
live in paltry log houses, and are as dirty as if in the north of Ireland or 
even Scotland. There is a great deal of trade carried on, the goods being 
bought at the vast expense of forty-five shillings per pound from Phila- 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 5T 

delphia and Baltimore. They take in the shops flour, wheat, skins and 
money. There are in the town four attorneys, two doctors, and not a 
priest of any persuasion, nor church nor chapel." 

Kentucky at this time contained thirty thousand inhabitants, and 
was beginning to discuss measures for a separation from Virginia. A 
land office was opened at Louisville, and measures were adopted to take 
defensive precaution against the Indians who were yet, in some instances, 
incited to deeds of violence by the British. Before the close of this year, 
1784, the military claimants of land began to occupy them, although no 
entries were recorded until 1787. 

The Indian title to the Northwest was not yet extinguished. They 
held large tracts of lands, and in order to prevent bloodshed Congress 
adopted means for treaties with the original owners and provided for the 
surveys of the lands gained thereby, as well as for those north of the 
Ohio, now in its possession. On January 31, 1786, a treaty was made 
with the Wabash Indians. The treaty of Fort Stanwix had been made 
in 1784. That at Fort Mcintosh in 1785, and through these much land 
was gained. The Wabash Indians, however, afterward refused to comply 
with the provisions of the treaty made with them, and in order to compel 
their adherence to its provisions, force was used. During the year 1786, 
the free navigation of the Mississippi came up in Congress, and caused 
various discussions, which resulted in no definite action, only serving to 
excite speculation in regard to the western lands. Congress had promised 
bounties of land to the soldiers of the Revolution, but owing to the 
unsettled condition of affairs along the Mississippi respecting its naviga- 
tion, and the trade of the Northwest, that body had, in 1783, declared 
its inability to fulfill these promises until a treaty could be concluded 
between the two Governments. Before the close of the year 1786, how- 
ever, it was able, through the treaties with the Indians, to allow some 
grants and the settlement thereon, and on the 14th of September Con- 
necticut ceded to the General Government the tract of land known as 
the " Connecticut Reserve," and before the close of the following year a 
large tract of land north of the Ohio was sold to a company, who at once 
took measures to settle it. By the provisions of this grant, the company 
were to pay the United States one dollar per acre, subject to a deduction 
of one-third for bad lands and other contingencies. They received 
750,000 acres, bounded on the south by the Ohio, on the east by the 
seventh range of townships, on the west by the sixteenth range, and on 
the north by a line so drawn as to make the grant complete without 
the reservations. In addition to this, Congress afterward granted 100,000 
acres to actual settlers, and 214,285 acres as army bounties under the 
resolutions of 1789 and 1790. 



58 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

While Dr. Cutler, one of the agents of the company, was pressing 
its claims before Congress, that body was bringing into form an ordinance 
for the political and social organization of this Territory. When the 
cession was made by Virginia, in 1784, a plan was offered, but rejected. 
A motion had been made to strike from the proposed plan the prohibition 
of slavery, which prevailed. The plan was then discussed and altered, 
and finally passed unanimously, with the exception of South Carolina. 
By this proposition, the Territory was to have been divided into states 




PRESENT SITE OF LAKE STREET BRIDGE, CHICAGO, IN 1833. 



by parallels and meridian lines. This, it was thought, would make ten 
states, which were to have been named as follows — beginning at the 
northwest corner and going southwardly : Sylvania, Michigania, Cher- 
sonesus, Assenisipia, Mesopotamia, Illenoia, Saratoga, Washington, Poly- 
potamia and Pelisipia. 

There was a more serious objection to this plan than its category of 
names,— the boundaries. The root of the difficulty was in the resolu- 
tion of Congress passed in October, 1780, which fixed the boundaries 
of the ceded lands to be from one hundred to one hundred and fifty miles 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 59 

square. These resolutions being presented to the Legislatures of Vir- 
ginia and Massachusetts, they desired a change, and in July, 1786, the 
subject was taken up in Congress, and changed to favor a division into 
not more than five states, and not less than three. This was approved by 
the State Legislature of Virginia. The subject of the Government was 
again taken up by Congress in 1786, and discussed throughout that year 
and until July, 1787, when the famous "Compact of 1787" was passed, 
and the foundation of the government of the Northwest laid. This com- 
pact is fully discussed and explained in the history of Illinois in this book, 
and to it the reader is referred. 

The passage of this act and the grant to the New England Company 
was soon followed by an application to the Government by John Cleves 
Symmes, of New Jersey, for a grant of the land between the Miamis. 
This gentleman had visited these lands soon after the treaty of 1786, and, 
being greatly pleased with them, offered similar terms to those given to the 
New England Company. The petition was referred to the Treasury 
Board with power to act, and a contract was concluded the following 
year. During the Autumn the directors of the New England Company 
were preparing to occupy their grant the following Spring, and upon the 
23d of November made arrangements for a party of forty-seven men, 
under the superintendency of Gen. Rufus Putnam, to set forward. Six 
boat-builders were to leave at once, and on the first of January the sur- 
veyors and their assistants, twenty-six in number, were to meet at Hart- 
ford and proceed on their journey westward ; the remainder to follow as 
soon as possible. Congress, in the meantime, upon the 3d of October, 
had ordered seven hundred troops for defense of the western settlers, and 
to prevent unauthorized intrusions ; and two days later appointed Arthur 
St. Clair Governor of the Territory of the Northwest. 

AMERICAN SETTLEMENTS. 

The civil organization of the Northwest Territory was now com- 
plete, and notwithstanding the uncertainty of Indian affairs, settlers from 
the East began to come into the country rapidly. The New England 
Company sent their men during the Winter of 1787-8 pressing on over 
the Alleghenies by the old Indian path which had been opened into 
Braddock's road, and which has since been made a national turnpike 
from Cumberland westward. Through the weary winter days they toiled 
on, and by April were all gathered on the Yohiogany, where boats had 
been built, and at once started for the Muskingum. Here they arrived 
on the 7th of that month, and unless the Moravian missionaries be regarded 
as the pioneers of Ohio, this little band can justly claim that honor. 



60 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 



Gen. St. Clair, the appointed Governor of the Northwest, not having 
yet arrived, a set of laws were passed, written out, and published by 
being nailed to a tree in the embryo town, and Jonathan Meigs appointed 
to administer them. 

Washington in writing of this, the first American settlement in the 
Northwest, said : " No colony in America was ever settled under 
such favorable auspices as that which has just commenced at Muskingum. 
Information, property and strength will be its characteristics. I know 
many of its settlers personally, and there never were men better calcu- 
lated to promote the welfare of such a community." 




^vj^.^^^^M^^^ 



A riONEER DWELLING. 



On the 2d of July a meeting of the directors and agents was held 
on the banks of the Muskingum, " for the purpose of naming the new- 
born city and its squares." As yet the settlement was known as the 
"Muskingum," but that was now changed to the name Marietta, in honor 
of Marie Antoinette. The square upon which the block - houses stood 
was called " Campus Martins ;" square number 19, "Capitolium;" square 
number 61, "Cecilia;" and the great road through the covert way, " Sacra 
Via." Two days after, an oration was delivered by James M. Varnum, 
who with S. H. Parsons and John Armstrong had been appointed to the 
judicial bench of the territory on the 16th of October, 1787. On July 9, 
Gov. St. Clair arrived, and the colony began to assume form. The act 
of 1787 provided two district grades of government for the Northwest, 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 61 

under the first of which the whole power was invested in the hands of a 
governor and three district judges. This was immediately formed upon 
the Governor's arrival, and the first laws of the colony passed on the 25th 
of July. These provided for the organization of the militia, and on the 
next day appeared the Governor's proclamation, erecting all that country 
that had been ceded by the Indians east of the Scioto River into the 
County of Washington. From that time forward, notwithstanding the 
doubts yet existing as to the Indians, all Marietta prospered, and on the 
2d of September the first court of the territory was held with imposing 
ceremonies. 

The emigration westward at this time was very great. The com- 
mander at Fort Harmer, at the mouth of the Muskingum, reported four 
thousand five hundred persons as having passed that post between Feb- 
ruary and June, 1788 — many of whom would have purchased of the 
"Associates," as the New England Company was called, had they been 
ready to receive them. 

On the 26th of November, 1787, Symmes issued a pamphlet stating 
the terms of his contract and the plan of sale he intended to adopt. In 
January, 1788, Matthias Denman, of New Jersey, took an active interest 
in Symmes' purchase, and located among other tracts the sections upon 
which Cincinnati has been built. Retaining one-third of this locality, he 
sold the other two-thirds to Robert Patterson and John Filson, and the 
three, about August, commenced to lay out a town on the spot, which 
was designated as being opposite Licking River, to the mouth of which 
they proposed to have a road cut from Lexington. The naming of the 
town is thus narrated in the "Western Annals " : — " Mr. Filson, who had 
been a schoolmaster, was appointed to name the town, and, in respect to 
its situation, and as if with a prophetic perception of the mixed race that 
were to inhabit it in after days, he named it Losantiville, which, being 
interpreted, means : ville, the town ; anti, against or opposite to ; os, the 
mouth ; L. of Licking." 

Meanwhile, in July, Symmes got thirty persons and eight four-horse 
teams under way for the West. These reached Limestone (now Mays- 
ville) in September, where were several persons from Redstone. Here 
Mr. Symmes tried to found a settlement, but the great freshet of 1789 
caused the " Point," as it was and is yet called, to be fifteen feet under 
water, and the settlement to be abandoned. The little band of settlers 
removed to the mouth of the Miami. Before Symmes and his colony left 
the " Point," two settlements had been made on his purchase. The first 
was by Mr. Stiltes, the original projector of the whole plan, who, with a 
colony of Redstone people, had located at the mouth of the Miami, 
whither Symmes went with his Maysville colony. Here a clearing had 



62 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 



been made by the Indians owing to the great fertility of the soil. Mr. 
Stiltes with his colony came to this place on the 18th of November, 1788, 
with twenty-six persons, and, building a block-house, prepared to remain 
through the Winter. They named the settlement Columbia. Here they 
were kindly treated by the Indians, but suffered greatly from the flood 
of 1789. 

On the 4th of March, 1789, the Constitution of the United States 
went into operation, and on April 30, George Washington was inaug- 
urated President of the American people, and during the next Summer, 
an Indian war was commenced by the tribes north of the Ohio. The 
President at first used pacific means ; but these failing, he sent General 
Harmer against the hostile tribes. He destroyed several villages, but 




LAKE BLUFF 
The frontage of Lake Bluff Grounds on Lake Michigan, with one hundred and seventy feet of gradual ascent. 

was defeated in two battles, near the present City of Fort Wayne, 
Indiana. From this time till the close of 1795, the principal events were 
the wars with the various Indian tribes. In 1796, General St. Clair 
was appointed in command, and marched against the Indians ; but while 
he was encamped on a stream, the St. Mary, a branch of the Maumee, 
he was attacked and defeated with the loss of six hundred men. 

General Wayne was now sent against the savages. In August, 1794, 
he met them near the rapids of the Maumee, and gained a complete 
victory. This success, followed by vigorous measures, compelled the 
Indians to sue for peace, and on the 30th of July, the following year, the 
treaty of Greenville was signed by the principal chiefs, by which a large 
tract of country was ceded to the United States. 

Before proceeding in our narrative, we will pause to notice Fort 
Washington, erected in the early part of this war on the site of Cincinnati. 
Nearly all of the great cities of the Northwest, and indeed of the 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 63 

whole country, have had their nuclei in those rude pioneer structures, 
known as forts or stockades. Thus Forts Dearborn, Washington, Pon- 
chartrain, mark the original sites of the now proud Cities of Chicago, 
Cincinnati and Detroit. So of most of the flourishing cities east and west 
of the Mississippi. Fort Washington, erected by Doughty in 1790, was a 
rude but highly interesting structure. It was composed of a number of 
strongly-built hewed log cabins. Those designed for soldiers' barracks 
were a story and a half high, while those composing the officers quarters 
were more imposing and more conveniently arranged and furnished. 
The whole were so placed as to form a hollow square, enclosing about an 
acre of ground, with a block house at each of the four angles. 

The logs for the construction of this fort were cut from the ground 
upon which it was erected. It stood between Third and Fourth Streets 
of the present city (Cincinnati) extending east of Eastern Row, now 
Broadway, which was then a narrow alley, and the eastern boundary of 
of the town as it was originally laid out. On the bank of the river, 
immediately in front of the fort, was an appendage of the fort, called the 
Artificer's Yard. It contained about two acres of ground, enclosed by 
small contiguous buildings, occupied by workshops and quarters of 
laborers. Within this enclosure there was a large two-story frame house, 
familiarly called the " Yellow House," built for the accommodation of 
the Quartermaster General. For many years this was the best finished 
and most commodious edifice in the Queen City. Fort Washington was 
for some time the headquarters of both the civil and military governments 
of the Northwestern Territory. 

Following the consummation of the treaty various gigantic land spec- 
ulations were entered into by different persons, who hoped to obtain 
from the Indians in Michigan and northern Indiana, large tracts of lands. 
These were generally discovered in time to prevent the outrageous 
schemes from being carried out, and from involving the settlers in war. 
On October 27, 1795, the treaty between the United States and Spain 
was signed, whereby the free navigation of the Mississippi was secured. 

No sooner had the treaty of 1795 been ratified than settlements began 
to pour rapidly into the West. The great event of the year 1796 was the 
occupation of that part of the Northwest including Michigan, which was 
this year, under the provisions of the treaty, evacuated by the British 
forces. The United States, owing to certain conditions, did not feel 
justified in addressing the authorities in Canada in relation to Detroit 
and other frontier posts. When at last the British authorities were 
called to give them up, they at once complied, and General Wayne, who 
had done so much to preserve the frontier settlements, and who, before 
the year's close, sickened and died near Erie, transferred his head- 



Q4 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

quarters to the neighborhood of the lakes, where a county named after 
him was formed, which included the northwest of Ohio, all of Michigan, 
and the northeast of Indiana. During this same year settlements were 
formed at the present City of Chillicothe, along the Miami from Middle- 
town to Piqua, while in the more distant West, settlers and speculators 
began to appear in great numbers. In September, the City of Cleveland 
was laid out, and during the Summer and Autumn, Samuel Jackson and 
Jonathan Sharpless erected the first manufactory of paper — the " Red- 
stone Paper Mill" — in the West. St. Louis contained some seventy 
houses, and Detroit over three hundred, and along the river, contiguous 
to it, were more than three thousand inhabitants, mostly French Canadians, 
Indians and half-breeds, scarcely any Americans venturing yet into that 
part of the Northwest. 

The election of representatives for the territory had taken place, 
and on the 4th of February, 1799, they convened at Losantiville — now 
known as Cincinnati, having been named so by Gov. St. Clair, and 
considered the capital of the Territory — to nominate persons from whom 
the members of the Legislature were to be chosen in accordance with 
a previous ordinance. This nomination being made, the Assembly 
adjourned until the 16th of the following September. From those named 
the President selected as members of the council, Henry Vandenburg, 
of Vincennes, Robert Oliver, of Marietta, James Findlay and Jacob 
Burnett, of Cincinnati, and David Vance, of Vanceville. On the 16th 
of September the Territorial Legislature met, and on the 24th the two 
houses were duly organized, Henry Vandenburg being elected President 
of the Council. • 

The message of Gov. St. Clair was addressed to the Legislature 
September 20th, and on October 13th that body elected as a delegate to 
Congress Gen. Wm. Henry Harrison, who received eleven of the votes 
cast, being a majority of one over his opponent, Arthur St. Clair, son of 
Gen. St. Clair. 

The whole number of acts passed at this session, and approved by 
the Governor, were thirty-seven — eleven others were passed, but received 
his veto. The most important of those passed related to the militia, to 
the administration, and to taxation. On the 19th of December this pro- 
tracted session of the first Legislature in the West was closed, and on the 
30th of December the President nominated Charles Willing Bryd to the 
office of Secretary of the Territory vice Wm. Henry Harrison, elected to 
Congress. The Senate confirmed his nomination the next day. 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 65 



DIVISION OF THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

The increased emigration to the Northwest, the extent of the domain, 
and the inconvenient modes of travel, made it very difficult to conduct 
the ordinary operations of government, and rendered the efficient action 
of courts almost impossible. To remedy this, it was deemed advisable to 
divide the territory for civil purposes. Congress, in 1800, appointed a 
committee to examine the question and report some means for its solution. 
This committee, on the 3d of March, reported that : 

" In the three western countries there has been but one court having 
cognizance of crimes, in five years, and the immunity which offenders 
experience attracts, as to an asylum, the most vile and abandoned crim- 
inals, and at the same time deters useful citizens from making settlements 
in such society. The extreme necessity of judiciary attention and assist- 
ance is experienced in civil as well as in criminal cases. * * * * To 
minister a remedy to these and other evils, it occurs to this committee 
that it is expedient that a division of said territory into two distinct and 
separate governments should be made ; and that such division be made 
by a line beginning at the mouth of the Great Miami River, running 
directly north until it intersects the boundary between the United States 
and Canada." 

The report was accepted by Congress, and, in accordance with its 
suggestions, that body passed an Act extinguishing the Northwest Terri- 
tory, which Act was approved May 7. Among its provisions were these : 

" That from and after July 4 next, all that part of the Territory of 
the United States northwest of the Ohio River, which lies to the westward 
of a line beginning at a point on the Ohio, opposite to the mouth of the 
Kentucky River, and running thence to Fort Recovery, and thence north 
until it shall intersect the territorial line between the United States and 
Canada, shall, for the purpose of temporary government, constitute a 
separate territory, and be called the Indiana Territory." 

After providing for the exercise of the civil and criminal powers of 
the territories, and other provisions, the Act further provides: 

" That until it shall otherwise be ordered by the Legislatures of the 
said Territories, respectively, Chillicothe on the Scioto River shall be the 
seat of government of the Territory of the United States northwest of the 
Ohio River ; and that St. Vincennes on the Wabash River shall be the 
seat of government for the Indiana Territory." 

Gen. Wm. Henry Harrison was appointed Governor of the Indiana 
Territory, and entered upon his duties about a year later. Connecticut 
also about this time released her claims to the reserve, and in March a law 



6G THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

was passed accepting this cession. Settlements had been made upon 
thirty-five of the townships in the reserve, mills had been built, and seven 
hundred miles of road cut in various directions. On the 3d of November 
the General Assembly met at Chillicothe. Near the close of the year, 
the first missionary of the Connecticut Reserve came, who found no 
township containing more than eleven families. It was upon the first of 
October that the secret treaty had been made between Napoleon and the 
King of Spain, whereby the latter agreed to cede to France the province 
of Louisiana. 

In January, 1802, the Assembly of the Northwestern Territory char- 
tered the college at Athens. From the earliest dawn of the western 
colonies, education was promptly provided for, and as early as 1787, 
newspapers were issued from Pittsburgh and Kentucky, and largely read 
throughout the frontier settlements. Before the close of this year, the 
Congress of the United States granted to the citizens of the Northwestern 
territory the formation of a State government. One of the provisions of 
the " compact of 1787" provided that whenever the number of inhabit- 
ants within prescribed limits exceeded 45,000, they should be entitled to 
a separate government. The prescribed limits of Ohio contained, from a 
census taken to ascertain the legality of the act, more than that number, 
and on the 30th of April, 1802, Congress passed the act defining its limits, 
and on the 29th of November the Constitution of the new State of Ohio, 
so named from the beautiful river forming its southern boundary, came 
into existence. The exact limits of Lake Michigan were not then known, 
but the territory now included within the State of Michigan was wholly 
within the territory of Indiana. 

Gen. Harrison, while residing at Vincennes, made several treaties 
with the Indians, thereby gaining large tracts of lands. The next year is 
memorable in the history of the West for the purchase of Louisiana from 
Fiance by the United States for $15,000,000. Thus by a peaceful mode, 
the domain of the United States was extended over a large tract of 
country west of the Mississippi, and was for a time under the jurisdiction 
of the Northwest government, and, as has been mentioned in the early 
part of this narrative, was called the "New Northwest." The limits 
of this history will not allow a description of its territory. The same year 
large grants of land were obtained from the Indians, and the House of 
Representatives of the new State of Ohio signed a bill respecting the 
College Township in the district of Cincinnati. 

Before the close of the year, Gen. Harrison obtained additional 
giants of lands from the various Indian nations in Indiana and the present 
limits of Illinois, and on the 18th of August, 1804, completed a treaty at 
St. Louis, whereby over 51,000,000 acres of lands were obtained from the 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 6V 

aborigines. Measures were also taken to learn the condition of affairs in 
and about Detroit. 

C. Jouett, the Indian agent in Michigan, still a part of Indiana Terri- 
tory, reported as follows upon the condition of matters at that post : 

" The Town of Detroit. — The charter, which is for fifteen miles 
square, was granted in the time of Louis XIV. of France, and is now, 
from the best information I have been able to get, at Quebec. Of those 
two hundred and twenty-five acres, only four are occupied by the town 
and Fort Lenault. The remainder is a common, except twenty-four 
acres, which were added twenty years ago to a farm belonging to Wm. 
Macomb. * * * A stockade incloses the town, fort and citadel. The 
pickets, as well as the public houses, are in a state of gradual decay. The 
streets are narrow, straight and regular, and intersect each other at right 
angles. The houses are, for the most part, low and inelegant." 

During this year, Congress granted a township of land for the sup- 
port of a college, and began to offer inducements for settlers in these 
wilds, and the country now comprising the State of Michigan began to 
fill rapidly with settlers along its southern borders. This same year, also, 
a law was passed organizing the Southwest Territory, dividing it into two 
portions, the Territory of New Orleans, which city was made the seat of 
government, and the District of Louisiana, which was annexed to the 
domain of Gen. Harrison. 

On the 11th of January, 1805, the Territory of Michigan was formed, 
Wm. Hull was appointed governor, with headquarters at Detroit, the 
change to take effect on June 30. On the 11th of that month, a fire 
occurred at Detroit, which destroyed almost every building in the place. 
When the officers of the new territory reached the post, they found it in 
ruins, and the inhabitants scattered throughout the country. Rebuild- 
ing, however, soon commenced, and ere long the town contained more 
houses than before the fire, and many of them much better built. 

While this was being done, Indiana had passed to the second grade 
of government, and through her General Assembly had obtained large 
tracts of land from the Indian tribes. To all this the celebrated Indian, 
Tecumthe or Tecumseh, vigorously protested, and it was the main cause 
of his attempts to unite the various Indian tribes in a conflict with the 
settlers. To obtain a full account of these attempts, the workings of the 
British, and the signal failure, culminating in the death of Tecumseh at 
the battle of the Thames, and the close of the war of 1812 in the Northwest, 
we will step aside in our story, and relate the principal events of his life, 
and his connection with this conflict. 



6* 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 




TECUMSEH, THE SHAWANOE CHIEFTAIN. 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 69 



TECUMSEH, AND THE WAR OF 1812. 

This famous Indian chief was born about the year 1768, not far from 
the site of the present city of Springfield, Ohio. His father, Puckeshinwa, 
was a member of the Kisopok tribe of the Swanoese nation, and his 
mother, Methontaske, was a member of the Turtle tribe of the same 
people. They removed from Florida about the middle of the last century 
to the birthplace of Tecumseh. In 1774, his father, who had risen to be 
chief, was slain at the battle of Point Pleasant, and not long after Tecum- 
seh, by his bravery, became the leader of his tribe. In 1795 he was 
declared chief, and then lived at Deer Creek, near the site of the 
present City of Urbana. He remained here about one year, when he 
returned to Piqua, and in 1798, he went to White River, Indiana. In 
1805, he and his brother, Laulewasikan (Open Door), who had announced 
himself as a prophet, went to a tract of land on the Wabash River, given 
them by the Pottawatomies and Kickapoos. From this date the chief 
comes into prominence. He was now about thirty-seven years of age, 
was five feet and ten inches in height, was stoutly built, and possessed of 
enormous powers of endurance. His countenance was naturally pleas- 
ing, and he was, in general, devoid of those savage attributes possessed 
by most Indians. It is stated he could read and write, and had a confi- 
dential secretary and adviser, named Billy Caldwell, a half-breed, who 
afterward became chief of the Pottawatomies. He occupied the first 
house built on the site of Chicago. At this time, Tecumseh entered 
upon the great work of his life. He had long objected to the grants of 
land made by the Indians to the whites, and determined to unite all the 
Indian tribes into a league, in order that' no treaties or grants of land 
could be made save by the consent of this confederation. 

He traveled constantly, going from north to south ; from the south 
to the north, everywhere urging the Indians to this step. He was a 
matchless orator, and his burning words had their effect. 

Gen. Harrison, then Governor of Indiana, by watching the move- 
ments of the Indians, became convinced that a grand conspiracy was 
forming, and made preparations to defend the settlements. Tecumseh's 
plan was similar to Pontiac's, elsewhere described, and to the cunning 
artifice of that chieftain was added his own sagacity. 

During the year 1809, Tecumseh and the prophet were actively pre- 
paring for the work. In that year, Gen. Harrison entered into a treaty 
with the Delawares, Kickapoos, Pottawatomies, Miamis, Eel River Indians 
and Weas, in which these tribes ceded to the whites certain lands upon 
the Wabash, to all of which Tecumseh entered a bitter protest, averring 



70 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

as one principal reason that he did not want the Indians to give up any 
lands north and west of the Ohio River. 

Tecumseh, in August, 1810, visited the General at Vincennes and 
held a council relating to the grievances of the Indians. Becoming unduly 
angry at this conference he was dismissed from the village, and soon after 
departed to incite the southern Indian tribes to the conflict. 

Gen. Harrison determined to move upon the chief's headquarters at 
Tippecanoe, and for this purpose went about sixty-five miles up the 
Wabash, where he built Fort Harrison. From this place he went to the 
prophet's town, where he informed the Indians he had no hostile inten- 
tions, provided they were true to the existing treaties. He encamped 
near the village early in October, and on the morning of November 7, he 
was attacked by a large force of the Indians, and the famous battle of 
Tippecanoe occurred. The Indians were routed and their town broken 
up. Tecumseh returning not long after, was greatly exasperated at his 
brother, the prophet, even threatening to kill him for rashly precipitating 
the war, and foiling his (Tecumseh's) plans. 

Tecumseh sent word to Gen. Harrison that he was now returned 
from the South, and was read}' - to visit the President as had at one time 
previously been proposed. Gen. Harrison informed him he could not go 
as a chief, which method Tecumseh desired, and the visit was never 
made. 

In June of the following year, he visited the Indian agent at 
Fort Wayne. Here he disavowed any intention to make a war against 
the United States, and reproached Gen. Harrison for marching against his 
people. The agent replied to this ; Tecumseh listened with a cold indif- 
ference, and after making a few general remarks, with a haughty air drew 
his blanket about him, left the council house, and departed for Fort Mai- 
den, in Upper Canada, where he joined the British standard. 

He remained under this Government, doing effective work for the 
Crown while engaged in the war of 1812 which now opened. He was, 
however, always humane in his treatment of the prisoners, never allow- 
ing his warriors to ruthlessly mutilate the bodies of those slain, or wan- 
tonly murder the captive. 

In the Summer of 1813, Perry's victory on Lake Erie occurred, and 
shortly after active preparations were made to capture Maiden. On the 
27th of September, the American army, under Gen. Harrison, set sail for 
the shores of Canada, and in a few hours stood around the ruins of Mai- 
den, from which the British army, under Proctor, had retreated to Sand- 
wich, intending to make its way to the heart of Canada by the Valley of 
the Thames. On the 29th Gen. Harrison was at Sandwich, and Gen, 
Mc Arthur took possession of Detroit and the territory of Michigan. 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 



71 



On the 2d of October, the Americans began their pursuit of Proctor, 
whom they overtook on the 5th, and the battle of the Thames followed. 
Early in the engagement, Tecumseh who was at the head of the column 
of Indians was slain, and they, no longer hearing the voice of their chief- 
tain, fled. The victory was -decisive, and practically closed the war in 
the Northwest. 




INDIANS ATTACKING A STOCKADE. 



Just who killed the great chief has been a matter of much dispute ; 
but the weight of opinion awards the act to Col. Richard M. Johnson, 
who fired at him with a pistol, the shot proving fatal. 

In 1805 occurred Burr's Insurrection. He took possession of a 
beautiful island in the Ohio, after the killing of Hamilton, and is charged 
by many with attempting to set up an independent government. His 
plans were frustrated by the general government, his property confiscated 
and he was compelled to flee the country for safety. 



72 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

In January, 1807, Governor Hull, of Michigan Territory, made a 
treaty with the Indians, whereby all that peninsula was ceded to the 
United States. Before the close of the year, a stockade was built about 
Detroit. It was also during this year that Indiana and Illinois endeavored 
to obtain the repeal of that section of the compact of 1787, whereby 
slavery was excluded from the Northwest Territory. These attempts, 
however, all signally failed. 

In 1809 it was deemed advisable to divide the Indiana Territory. 
This was done, and the Territory of Illinois was formed from the western 
part, the seat of government being fixed at Kaskaskia. The next year, 
the intentions of Tecumseh manifested themselves in open hostilities, and 
then began the events already narrated. 

While this war was in progress, emigration to the West went on with 
surprising rapidity. In 1811, under Mr. Roosevelt of New York, the 
first steamboat trip was made on the Ohio, much to the astonishment of 
the natives, many of whom fled in terror at the appearance of the 
" monster." It arrived at Louisville on the 10th day of October. At the 
close of the first week of January, 1812, it arrived at Natchez, after being 
nearly overwhelmed in the great earthquake which occurred while on its 
downward trip. 

The battle of the Thames was fought on October 6, 1813. It 
effectually closed hostilities in the Northwest, although peace was not 
fully restored until July 22, 1814, when a treaty was formed at Green- 
ville, under the direction of General Harrison, between the United States 
and the Indian tribes, in which it was stipulated that the Indians should 
cease hostilities against the Americans if the war were continued. Such, 
happily, was not the case, and on the 24th of December the treaty 
of Ghent was signed by the representatives of England and the United 
States. This treaty was followed the next year by treaties with various 
Indian tribes throughout the West and Northwest, and quiet was again 
restored in this part of the new world. 

On the 18th of March, 1816, Pittsburgh was incorporated as a city. 
It then had a population of 8,000 people, and was already noted for its 
manufacturing interests. On April 19, Indiana Territory was allowed 
to form a state government. At that time there were thirteen counties 
organized, containing about sixty-three thousand inhabitants. The first 
election of state officers was held in August, when Jonathan Jennings 
was chosen Governor. The officers were sworn in on November 7, and 
on December 11, the State was formally admitted into the Union. For 
some time the seat of government was at Corydon, but a more central 
location being desirable, the present capital, Indianapolis (City of Indiana), 
was laid out January 1, 1825. 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 73 

On the 28th of December the Bank of Illinois, at Shawneetown, was 
chartered, with a capital of $300,000. At this period all banks were 
under the control of the States, and were allowed to establish branches 
at different convenient points. 

Until this time Chillicothe and Cincinnati had in turn enjoyed the 
privileges of being the capital of Ohio. But the rapid settlement of the 
northern and eastern portions of the State demanded, as in Indiana, a 
more central location, and before the close of the year, the site of Col- 
umbus was selected and surveyed as the future capital of the State. 
Banking had begun in Ohio as early as 1808, when the first bank was 
chartered at Marietta, but here as elsewhere it did not bring to the state 
the hoped-for assistance. It and other banks were subsequently unable 
to redeem their currency, and were obliged to suspend. 

In 1818, Illinois was made a state, and all the territory north of her 
northern limits was erected into a separate territory and joined to Mich- 
igan for judicial purposes. By the following year, navigation of the lakes 
was increasing with great rapidity and affording an immense source of 
revenue to the dwellers in the Northwest, but it was not until 1826 that 
the trade was extended to Lake Michigan, or that steamships began to 
navigate the bosom of that inland sea. 

Until the year 1832, the commencement of the Black Hawk War, 
but few hostilities were experienced with the Indians. Roads were 
opened, canals were dug, cities were built, common schools were estab- 
lished, universities were founded, many of which, especially the Michigan 
University, have achieved a world wide-reputation. The people were 
becoming wealthy. The domains of the United States had been extended, 
and had the sons of the forest been treated with honesty and justice, the 
record of many years would have been that of peace and continuous pros- 
perity. 

BLACK HAWK AND THE BLACK HAWK WAR. 

This conflict, though confined to Illinois, is an important epoch in 
the Northwestern history, being the last war with the Indians in this part 
of the United States. 

Ma-ka-tai-me-she-kia-kiah, or Black Hawk, was born in the principal 
Sac village, about three miles from the junction of Rock River with the 
Mississippi, in the year 1767. His father's name was Py-e-sa or Pahaes ; 
his grandfather's, Na-na-ma-kee, or the Thunderer. Black Hawk early 
distinguished himself as a warrior, and at the age of fifteen was permitted 
to paint and was ranked among the braves. About the year 1783, he 
went on an expedition against the enemies of his nation, the Osages, one 



74 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 




BLACK HAWK, THE SAC CHIEFTAIN. 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 75 

of whom he killed and scalped, and for this deed of Indian bravery he was 
permitted to join in the scalp dance. Three or four years after he, at the 
head of two hundred braves, went on another expedition against the 
Osages, to avenge the murder of some women and children belonging to 
his own tribe. Meeting an equal number of Osage warriors, a fierce 
battle ensued, in which the latter tribe lost one-half their number. The 
Sacs lost only about nineteen warriors. He next attacked the Cherokees 
for a similar cause. In a severe battle with them, near the present City 
of St. Louis, his father was slain, and Black Hawk, taking possession of 
the " Medicine Bag," at once announced himself chief of the Sac nation. 
He had now conquered the Cherokees, and about the year 1800, at the 
head of five hundred Sacs and Foxes, and a hundred Iowas, he waged 
war against the Osage nation and subdued it. For two years he battled 
successfully with other Indian tribes, all of whom he conquered. 

Black Hawk does not at any time seem to have been friendly to 
the Americans. When on a visit to St. Louis to see his " Spanish 
Father," he declined to see any of the Americans, alleging, as a reason, 
he did not want two fathers. 

The treaty at St. Louis was consummated in 1804. The next year the 
United States Government erected a fort near the head of the Des Moines 
Rapids, called Fort Edwards. This seemed to enrage Black Hawk, who 
at once determined to capture Fort Madison, standing on the west side of 
the Mississippi above the mouth of the Des Moines River. The fort was 
garrisoned by about fifty men. Here he was defeated. The difficulties 
with the British Government arose about this time, and the War of 1812 
followed. That government, extending aid to the Western Indians, by 
giving them arms and ammunition, induced them to remain hostile to the 
Americans. In August, 1812, Black Hawk, at the head of about five 
hundred braves, started to join the British forces at Detroit, passing on 
his way the site of Chicago, where the famous Fort Dearborn Massacre 
had a few days before occurred. Of his connection with the British 
Government but little is known. In 1813 he with his little band descended 
the Mississippi, and attacking some United States troops at Fort Howard 
was defeated. 

In the early part of 1815, the Indian tribes west of the Mississippi 
were notified that peace had been declared between the United States 
and England, and nearly all hostilities had ceased. Black Hawk did not 
sign any treaty, however, until May of the following year. He then recog- 
nized the validity of the treaty at St. Louis in 1804. From the time of 
signing this treaty in 1816, until the breaking out of the war in 1832, he 
and his band passed their time in the common pursuits of Indian life. 

Ten years before the commencement of this war, the Sac and Fox 



76 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

Indians were urged to join the Iowas on the west bank of the Father of 
Waters. All were agreed, save the band known as the British Band, of 
which Black Hawk was leader. He strenuously objected to the removal, 
and was induced to comply only after being threatened with the power of 
the Government. This and various actions on the part of the white set- 
tlers provoked Black Hawk and his band to attempt the capture of his 
native village now occupied by the whites. The war followed. He and 
his actions were undoubtedly misunderstood, and had his wishes been 
acquiesced in at the beginning of the struggle, much bloodshed would 
have been prevented. 

Black Hawk was chief now of the Sac and Fox nations, and a noted 
warrior. He and his tribe inhabited a village on Rock River, nearly three 
miles above its confluence with the Mississippi, where the tribe had lived 
many generations. When that portion of Illinois was reserved to them, 
they remained in peaceable possession of their reservation, spending their 
time in the enjoyment of Indian life. The fine situation of their village 
and the quality of their lands incited the more lawless white settlers, who 
from time to time began to encroach upon the red men's domain. From 
one pretext to another, and from one step to another, the crafty white 
men gained a foothold, until through whisky and artifice they obtained 
deeds from many of the Indians for their possessions. The Indians were 
finally induced to cross over the Father of Waters and locate among the 
Iowas. Black Hawk was strenuously opposed to all this, but as the 
authorities of Illinois and the United States thought this the best move, he 
was forced to comply. Moreover other tribes joined the whites and urged 
the removal. Black Hawk would not agree to the terms of the treaty 
made with his nation for their lands, and as soon as the military, called to 
enforce his removal, had retired, he returned to the Illinois side of the 
river. A large force was at once raised and marched against him. On 
the evening of May 14, 1832, the first engagement occurred between a 
band from this army and Black Hawk's band, in which the former were 
defeated. 

This attack and its result aroused the whites. A large force of men 
was raised, and Gen. Scott hastened from the seaboard, by way of the 
lakes, with United States troops and artillery to aid in the subjugation of 
the Indians. On the 24th of June, Black Hawk, with 200 warriors, was 
repulsed by Major Demont between Rock River and Galena. The Ameri- 
can army continued to move up Rock River toward the main body of 
the Indians, and on the 21st of July came upon Black Hawk and his band, 
and defeated them near the Blue Mounds. 

Before this action, Gen. Henry, in command, sent word to the main 
army by whom he was immediately rejoined, and the whole crossed the 



THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 77 

Wisconsin in pursuit of Black Hawk and his band who were fleeing to the 
Mississippi. They were overtaken on the 2d of August, and in the battle 
which followed the power of the Indian chief was completely broken. He 
fled, but was seized by the Winnebagoes and delivered to the whites. 

On the 21st of September, 1832, Gen. Scott and Gov. Reynolds con- 
cluded a treaty with the Winnebagoes, Sacs and Foxes by which they 
ceded to the United States a vast tract of country, and agreed to remain 
peaceable with the whites. For the faithful performance of the provi- 
sions of this treaty on the part of the Indians, it was stipulated that 
Black Hawk, his two sons, the prophet Wabokieshiek, and six other chiefs 
of the hostile bands should be retained as hostages during the pleasure 
of the President. They were confined at Fort Barracks and put in irons. 

The next Spring, by order of the Secretary of War, they were taken 
to Washington. From there they were removed to Fortress Monroe, 
"there to remain until the conduct of their nation was such as to justify 
their being set at liberty." They were retained here until the 4th of 
June, when the authorities directed them to be taken to the principal 
cities so that they might see the folly of contending against the white 
people. , Eve^where they were observed by thousands, the name of the 
old chief being extensively known. By the middle of August they 
reached Fort Armstrong on Rock Island, where Black Hawk was soon 
after released to go to his countrymen. As he passed the site of his birth- 
place, now the home of the white man, he was deeply moved. His village 
where he was born, where he had so happily lived, and where he had 
hoped to die, was now another's dwelling place, and he was a wanderer. 

On the next day after his release, he went at once to his tribe and 
his lodge, His wife was yet living, and with her he passed the remainder 
of his days. To his credit it may be said that Black Hawk always re- 
mained true to his wife, and served her with a devotion uncommon among 
the Indians, living with her upward of forty years. 

Black Hawk now passed his time hunting and fishing. A deep mel- 
ancholy had settled over him from which he could not be freed. At all 
times when he visited the whites he was received with marked atten- 
tion. He was an honored guest at the old settlers' reunion in Lee County, 
Illinois, at some of their meetings, and received many tokens of esteem. 
In September, 1838, while on his way to Rock Island to receive his 
annuity from the Government, he contracted a severe cold which resulted 
in a fatal attack of bilious fever which terminated his life on October 3. 
His faithful wife, who was devotedly attached to him, mourned deeply 
during his sickness. After his death he was dressed in the uniform pre- 
sented to him by the President while in Washington. He was buried in 
a grave six feet in depth, situated upon a beautiful eminence. " The 



78 THE NORTHWEST TERRITORY. 

body was placed in the middle of the grave, in a sitting posture, upon a 
seat constructed for the purpose. On his left side, the cane, given him 
by Henry Clay, was placed upright, with his right hand resting upon it. 
Many of the old warrior's trophies were placed in the grave, and some 
Indian garments, together with his favorite weapons." 

No sooner was the Black Hawk war concluded than settlers began 
rapidly to pour into the northern parts of Illinois, and into Wisconsin, 
now free from Indian depredations. Chicago, from a trading post, had 
grown to a commercial center, and was rapidly coming into prominence. 
In 1835, the formation of a State Government in Michigan was discussed, 
but did not take active form until two years later, when the State became 
a part of the Federal Union. 

The main attraction to that portion of the Northwest lying west of 
Lake Michigan, now included in the State of Wisconsin, was its alluvial 
wealth. Copper ore was found about Lake Superior. For some time this 
region was attached to Michigan for judiciary purposes, but in 183(3 was 
made a territory, then including Minnesota and Iowa. The latter State 
was detached two years later. In 1848, Wisconsin was admitted as a 
State, Madison being made the capital. We have now traced the various 
divisions of the Northwest Territory (save a little in Minnesota) from 
the time it was a unit comprising this vast territory, until circumstances 
compelled its present division. 



CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES 79 



CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 
AND ITS AMENDMENTS. 

We, the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union, 
establish justice, insure domestic tranquillity, provide for the common 
defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty 
to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution 
for the United States of America. 

Article I. 

Section 1. All legislative powers herein granted shall be vested in 
a Congress of the United States, which shall consist of a Senate and 
House of Representatives. 

Sec. 2. The House of Representatives shall be composed of mem- 
bers chosen every second year by the people of the several states, and the 
electors in each state shall have the qualifications requisite for electors of 
the most numerous branch of the State Legislature. 

No person shall be a representative who shall not have attained to the 
age of twenty-live years, and been seven years a citizen of the United 
States, and who shall not, when elected, be an inhabitant of that state in 
which he shall be chosen. 

Representatives and direct taxes shall be apportioned among the sev- 
eral states which may be included within this Union, according to their 
respective numbers, which shall be determined by adding to the whole 
number of free persons, including those bound to service for a term of 
years, and excluding Indians not taxed, three-fifths of all other persons. 
The actual enumeration shall be made within three 3-ears after the first 
meeting of the Congress of the United States, and within every subse- 
quent term of ten years, in such manner as they shall by law direct. The 
number of Representatives shall not exceed one for every thirty thousand, 
but each state shall have at least one Representative ; and until such 
enumeration shall be made the State of New Hampshire shall be entitled 
to choose three, Massachusetts eight, Rhode Island and Providence Plan- 
tations one, Connecticut five, New York six, New Jersey four, Pennsylva- 
nia eight, Delaware one, Maryland six, Virginia ten, North Carolina five, 
and Georgia three. 

When vacancies happen in the representation from any state, the 
Executive authority thereof shall issue writs of election to fill such 
vacancies. 

The House of Representatives shall choose their Speaker and other 
officers, and shall have the sole power of impeachment. 

Sec. 3. The Senate of the United States shall be composed of two 
Senators from each state, chosen by the Legislature thereof for six years ; 
and each Senator shall have one vote. 

Immediately after they shall be assembled in consequence of the first 
election, they shall be divided as equally as may be into three classes. 
The seats of the Senators of the first class shall be vacated at the expira- 



80 AND ITS AMENDMENTS. 

tion of the second year, of the second class at the expiration of the fourth 
year, and of the third class at the expiration of the sixth year, so that 
one-third may be chosen every second year; and if vacancies happen by 
resignation or otherwise, during the recess of the Legislature of any state, 
the Executive thereof may make temporary appointments until the next 
meeting of the Legislature, which shall then fill such vacancies. 

No person shall be a Senator who shall not have attained to the age 
of thirty years and been nine years a citizen of the United States, and 
who shall not, when elected, be an inhabitant of that state for which he 
shall be chosen. 

The Vice-President of the United States shall be President of the 
Senate, but shall have no vote unless they be equally divided. 

The Senate shall choose their other officers, and also a President pro 
tempore, in the absence of the Vice-President, or when he shall exercise 
the office of President of the United States. 

The Senate shall have the sole power to try all impeachments. When 
sitting for that purpose they shall be on oath or affirmation. When the 
President of the United States is tried the Chief Justice shall preside. 
And no person shall be convicted without the concurrence of two-thirds 
of the members present. 

Judgment, in cases of impeachment, shall not extend further than to 
removal from office, and disqualification to hold and enjoy any office of 
honor, trust, or profit under the United States ; but the party convicted 
shall nevertheless be liable and subject to indictment, trial, judgment, 
and punishment according to law. 

Sec. 4. The times, places and manner of holding elections for Sen- 
ators and Representatives shall be prescribed' in each state by the Legis- 
lature thereof; but the Congress may at any time by law make or alter 
such regulations, except as to the places of choosing Senators. 

The Congress shall assemble at least once in every year, and such 
meeting shall be on the first Monday in December, unless they shall by 
law appoint a different day. 

Sec. 5. Each house shall be the judge of the election, returns, and 
qualifications of its own members, and a majority of each shall constitute 
a quorum to do business ; but a smaller number may adjourn from day to 
day, and may be authorized to compel the attendance of absent members 
in such manner and under such penalties as each house may provide. 

Each house may determine the rules of its proceedings, punish its 
members for disorderly behavior, and, with the concurrence of two-thirds, 
expel a member. 

Each house shall keep a journal of its proceedings, and from time to 
time publish the same, excepting such parts as may, in their judgment, 
require secrecy ; and the yeas and nays of the members of either house 
on any question shall, at the desire of one-fifth of those present, be entered 
on the journal. 

Neither house, during the session of Congress, shall, without the 
consent of the other, adjourn for more than three days, nor to any other 
place than that in which the two houses shall be sitting. 

Sec. b\ The Senators and Representatives shall receive a compen- 
sation for their services, to be ascertained by law, and paid out of the 
treasury of the United States. They shall in all cases, except treason, 



CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES 



81 



felony, and breach of the peace, be privileged from arrest during their 
attendance at the session of their respective houses, and in going to and 
returning from the same ; and for any speech or debate in either house 
they shall not be questioned in any other place. 

No Senator or Representative shall, during the time for which he was 
elected, be appointed to any civil office under the authority of the United 
States, which shall have been created, or the emoluments whereof shall 
have been increased during such time ; and no person holding any office 
under the United States, shall be a member of either house during his 
continuance in office. 

Sec. 7. All bills for raising revenue shall originate in the House of 
Representatives ; but the Senate may propose or concur with amendments 
as on other bills. 

Every bill which shall have passed/the House of Representatives and 
the Senate, shall, before it becomes a law, be presented to the President 
of the United States ; if he approve he shall sign it ; but if not he shall 
return it, with his objections, to that house in which it shall have origi- 
nated, who shall enter the objections at large on their journal, and 
proceed to reconsider it. If, after such reconsideration two-thirds of that 
house shall agree to pass the bill, it shall be sent, together with the objec- 
tions, to the other house, by which it shall likewise be reconsidered, and if 
approved by two-thirds of that house, it shall become a law. But in all 
such cases the votes of both houses shall be determined by yeas and nays, 
and the names of the persons voting for and against the bill shall be entered 
on the journal of each house respectively. If any bill shall not be returned 
by the President within ten days (Sundays excepted), after it shall have 
been presented to him, the same shall be a law, in like manner as if he 
had signed it, unless the Congress, by their adjournment, prevent its 
return, in which case it shall not be a law. 

Every order, resolution, or vote to which the concurrence of the 
Senate and House of Representatives may be necessary (except on a 
question of adjournment), shall be presented to the President of the 
United States, and before the same shall take effect shall be approved by 
him, or, being disapproved by him, shall be re-passed by two-thirds of 
the Senate and House of Representatives, according to the rules and lim- 
itations prescribed in the case of a bill. 

Sec. 8. The Congress shall have power — 

To lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts and excises, to pay the debts, 
and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United 
States ; but all duties, imposts, and excises shall be uniform throughout 
the United States ; 

To borrow money on the credit of the United States ; 

To regulate commerce with foreign nations, and among the several 
States, and with the Indian tribes ; 

To establish a uniform rule of naturalization, and uniform laws on 
the subject of bankruptcies throughout the United States ; 

To coin money, regulate the value thereof, and of foreign coin, and 
fix the standard of weights and measures ; 

To provide for the punishment of counterfeiting the securities and 
current coin of the United States ; 

To establish post offices and post roads ; 



g2 AND ITS AMENDMENTS. 

To promote the progress of sciences and useful arts, by securing, 
for limited times, to authors and inventors, the exclusive right to their 
respective writings and discoveries ; 

To constitute tribunals inferior to the Supreme Court ; 

To define and puni.sli piracies and felonies committed on the high 
seas, and offenses against the law of nations ; 

To declare war, grant letters of marque and reprisal, and make rules 
concerning captures on land and water ; 

To raise and support armies, but no appropriation of money to that 
use shall be for a longer term than two years ; 

To provide and maintain a navy ; 

To make rules for the government and regulation of the land and 
naval forces ; 

To provide for calling forth the militia to execute the laws of the 
Union, suppress insurrections, and repel invasions ; 

To provide for organizing, arming and disciplining the militia, and 
for governing such part of them as may be employed in the service of the 
United States, reserving to the states respectively the appointment of the 
officers, and the authority of training the militia according to the disci- 
pline prescribed by Congress ; 

To exercise legislation in all cases whatsoever over such district (not 
exceeding ten miles square) as may, by cession of particular states, and the 
acceptance of Congress, become the seat of the government of the United 
States, and to exercise like authority over all places purchased by the 
consent of the Legislature of the state in which the same shall be, for 
the erection of forts, magazines, arsenals, dock yards, and other needful 
buildings ; and 

To make all laws which shall be necessary and proper for carrying 
into execution the foregoing powers, and all other powers vested by this 
Constitution in the government of the United States, or in any depart- 
ment or officer thereof. 

Sec. 9. The migration or importation of such persons as any of the 
states now existing shall think proper to admit, shall not be prohibited 
by the Congress prior to the year one thousand eight hundred and eight, 
but a tax or duty may be imposed on such importation, not exceeding ten 
dollars for each person. 

The privilege of the writ of habeas corpus shall not be suspended, 
unless when in cases of rebellion or invasion the public safety may 
require it. 

No bill of attainder or ex post facto law shall be passed. 

No capitation or other direct tax shall be laid, unless in proportion 
to the census or enumeration hereinbefore directed to be taken. 

No tax or duty shall be laid on articles exported from any state. 

No preference shall be given by any regulation of commerce or rev- 
enue to the ports of one state over those of another ; nor shall vessels 
bound to or from one state be obliged to enter, clear, or pay duties in 
another. 

No money shall be drawn from the Treasury, but in consequence of 
appropriations made by law ; and a regular statement and account of 
the receipts and expeditures of all public money shall be published from 
time to time. 



CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES 83 

No title of nobility shall be granted by the United States : and no 
person holding any office of profit or trust under them, shall, without the 
consent of the Congress, accept of any present, emolument, office, or title 
of any kind whatever, from any king, prince, or foreign state. 

Sec. 10. No state shall enter into any treaty, alliance, or confeder- 
ation ; grant letters of marque and reprisal ; coin money ; emit bills of 
credit ; make anything but gold and silver coin a tender in payment of 
debts ; pass any bill of attainder, ex post facto law, or law impairing the 
obligation of contracts, or grant any title of nobility. 

No state shall, without the consent of the Congress, lay any imposts 
or duties on imports or exports, except what may be absolutely necessary 
for executing its inspection laws, and the net produce of all duties and 
imposts laid by any state on imports or exports, shall be for the use of the 
Treasury of the United States ; and all such laws shall be subject to the 
revision and control of the Congress. 

No state shall, without the consent of Congress, lay any duty on 
tonnage, keep troops or ships of war in time of peace, enter into any 
agreement or compact with another state, or with a foreign power, or 
engage in war, unless actually invaded, or in such imminent danger as will 
not admit of delay. 

Article II. 

Section 1. The Executive power shall be vested in a President of 
the United States of America. He shall hold his office during the term 
of four years, and, together with the Vice-President chosen for the same 
term, be elected as follows : 

Each state shall appoint, in such manner as the Legislature thereof 
may direct, a number of Electors, equal to the whole number of Senators 
and Representatives to which the state may be entitled in the Congress ; 
but no Senator or Representative, or person holding an office of trust or 
profit under the United States, shall be appointed an Elector. 

[ * The Electors shall meet in their respective states, and vote by 
ballot for two persons, of whom one at least shall not be an inhabitant of 
the same state with themselves. And they shall make a list of all the 
persons voted for, and of the number of votes for each ; which list they 
shall sign and certify, and transmit, sealed, to the seat of the government 
of the United States, directed to the President of the Senate. The Pres- 
ident of the Senate shall, in the presence of the Senate and House of Rep- 
resentatives, open all the certificates, and the votes shall then be counted. 
The person having the greatest number of votes shall be the President, 
if such number be a majority of the whole number of Electors appointed ; 
and if there be more than one who have such majority, and have an equal 
number of votes, then the House of Representatives shall immediately 
choose by ballot one of them for President ; and if no person have a ma- 
jority, then from the five highest on the list the said House shall in like 
manner choose the President. But in choosing the President, the vote 
shall be taken by states, the representation from each state having one 
vote ; a quorum for this purpose shall consist of a member or members 
from two-thirds of the states, and a majority of all the states shall be 
necessary to a choice. In every case, after the choice of the President, 

•This clause between, brackets has been superseded and annulled by the Twelttbameuduient. 



84 AND ITS AMENDMENTS. 

the person having the greatest number of votes of the Electors shall be 
the Vice-President. But if there should remain two or more who have 
equal votes, the Senate shall choose from them by ballot the Vice-Presi- 
dent.] 

The Congress may determine the time of choosing the Electors, and 
the day on which they shall give their votes ; which day shall be the same 
throughout the United States. 

No person except a natural born citizen, or a citizen of the United 
States at the time of the adoption of this Constitution, shall be eligible 
to the office of President ; neither shall any person be eligible to that 
office who shall not have attained the age of thirty-five years, and been 
fourteen years a resident within the United States. 

In case of the removal of the President from office, or of his death, 
resignation, or inability to discharge the powers and duties of the said 
office, the same shall devolve on the Vice-President, and the Congress 
may by law provide for the case of removal, death, resignation, or inabil- 
ity, both of the President and Vice-President, declaring what officer sshall 
then act as President, and such officer shall act accordingly, until the dis- 
ability be removed, or a President shall be elected. 

The President shall, at stated times, receive for his services a com- 
pensation which shall neither be increased nor diminished during the 
j^eriod for which he shall have been elected, and he shall not receive 
within that period any other emolument from the United States or any of 
them. 

Before he enters on the execution of his office, he shall take the fol- 
lowing oath or affirmation : 

" I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the 
office of President of the United States, and will, to the best of my ability, 
preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States." 

Sec. 2. The President shall be commander in chief of the army and 
navy of the United States, and of the militia of the several states, when 
called into the actual service of the United States ; he may require the 
opinion, in writing, of the principal officer in each of the executive 
departments, upon any subject relating to the duties of their respective 
offices, and he shall have power to grant reprieves and pardon for offenses 
against the United States, except in cases of impeachment. 

He shall have power, by and with the advice and consent of the 
Senate, to make treaties, provided two-thirds of the Senators present con- 
cur; and he shall nominate, and by and with the advice of the Senate, 
shall appoint ambassadors, other public ministers and consuls, judges of 
the Supreme Court, and all other officers of the United States whose 
appointments are not herein otherwise provided for, and which shall be 
established by law ; but the Congress may by law vest the appointment 
of such inferior officers as they think proper in the President alone, in 
the courts of law, or in the heads of departments. 

The President shall have power to fill up all vacancies that may 
happen during the recess of the Senate, by granting commissions which 
shall expire at the end of their next session. 

Sec. 3. He shall from time to time give to the Congress information 
of the state of the Union, and recommend to their consideration such mea- 
sures as he shall judge necessary and expedient ; he may on extraordinary 



CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES 85 

occasions convene both houses, or either of them, and in case of disagree- 
ment between them, with respect to the time of adjournment, he may 
adjourn them to such time as he shall think proper ; he shall receive 
ambassadors and other public ministers ; he shall take care that the laws be 
faithfully executed, and shall commission all the officers of the United 
States. 

Sec. 4. The President, Vice-President, and all civil officers of the 
United States, shall be removed from office on impeachment for, and con- 
viction of, treason, bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanors. 

Article III. 

Section I. The judicial power of the United States shall be vested 
in one Supreme Court, and such inferior courts as the Congress may from 
time to time ordain and establish. The Judges, both of the Supreme and 
inferior courts, shall hold their offices during good behavior, and shall, at 
stated times, receive for their services a compensation, which shall not be 
diminished during their continuance in office. 

Sec. 2. The judicial power shall extend to all cases, in law and 
equity, arising under this Constitution, the laws of the United States, and 
treaties made, or which shall be made, under their authority ; to all cases 
affecting ambassadors, other public ministers, and consuls ; to all cases of 
admiralty and maritime jurisdiction ; to controversies to which the United 
States shall be a party ; to controversies between two or more states ; 
between a state and citizens of another state ; between citizens of differ- 
ent states ; between citizens of the same state claiming lands under grants 
of different states, and between a state or the citizens thereof, and foreign 
states, citizens, or subjects. 

In all cases affecting ambassadors, other public ministers, and consuls, 
and those in which a state shall be a party, the Supreme Court shall have 
original jurisdiction. 

In all the other cases before mentioned, the Supreme Court shall 
have appellate jurisdiction, both as to law and fact, with such exceptions 
and under such regulations as the Congress shall make. 

The trial of all crimes, except in cases of impeachment, shall be by 
jury ; and such trial shall be held in the state where the said crimes shall 
have been committed ; but when not committed within any state, the 
trial shall be at such place or places as the Congress may by law have 
directed. 

Sec. 3. Treason against the United States shall consist only in levy- 
ing war against them, or in adhering to their enemies, giving them aid 
and comfort. No person shall be convicted of treason unless on the tes- 
timony of two witnesses to the same overt act, or on confession in open 
court. 

The Congress shall have power to declare the punishment of treason, 
but no attainder of treason shall work corruption of blood, or forfeiture, 
except during the life of the person attainted. 

Article IV. 

Section 1. Full faith and credit shall be given in each state to the 
public acts, records, and judicial proceedings of everv other state. And 



86 AND ITS AMENDMENTS. 

the Congress may, by general laws, prescribe the manner in which such 
acts, records, and proceedings shall be proved, and the effect thereof. 

Sec. 2. The citizens of each state shall be entitled to all privileges 
and immunities of citizens in the several states. 

A person charged in any state with treason, felony, or other crime, 
who shall flee from justice and be found in another state, shall, on demand 
of the executive authority of the state from which he fled, be delivered 
up, to be removed to the state having jurisdiction of the crime. 

No person held to service or labor in one state, under the laws thereof 
escaping into another, shall, in consequence of any law or regulation 
therein, be discharged from such service or labor, but shall be delivered 
up on the claim of the party to whom such service or labor may be due. 

Sec. 3. New states may be admitted b}^ the Congress into this Union ; 
but no new state shall be formed or erected within the jurisdiction of any 
other state ; nor any state be formed by the junction of two or more states, 
or parts of states, without the consent of the Legislatures of the states 
concerned, as well as of the Congress. 

The Congress shall have power to dispose of and make all needful 
rules and regulations respecting the territory or other property belonging 
to the United States ; and nothing in this Constitution shall be so construed 
as to prejudice any claims of the United States or of any particular state. 

Sec. 4. The United States shall guarantee to every state in this 
Union a republican form of government, and shall protect each of them 
against invasion, and on application of the Legislature, or of the Execu- 
tive (when the Legislature can not be convened), against domestic vio- 
lence. 

Article V. 

The Congress, whenever two-thirds of both houses shall deem it 
necessar}', shall propose amendments to this Constitution, or, on the ap- 
plication of the Legislatures of two-thirds of the several states, shall call 
a convention for proposing amendments, which, in either case, shall be 
valid to all intents and purposes as part of this Constitution, when rati- 
fied by the Legislatures of three fourths of the several states, or by con- 
ventions in three-fourths thereof, as the one or the other mode of ratifi- 
cation may be proposed by the Congress. Provided that no amendment 
which may be made prior to the year one thousand eight hundred and 
eight shall in any manner affect the first and fourth clauses in the ninth 
section of the first article ; and that no state, without its consent, shall 
be deprived of its equal suffrage in the Senate. 

Article VI. 

All debts contracted and engagements entered into before the adop- 
tion of this Constitution shall be as valid against the United States under 
this Constitution as under the Confederation. 

This Constitution, and the laws of the United States which shall be 
made in pursuance thereof, and all treaties made, or which shall be made, 
under the authority of the United States, shall be the supreme law of the 
land ; and the Judges in every state shall be bound thereby, anything in 
the Constitution or laws of any state to the contrary notwithstanding. 

The Senators and Representatives before mentioned, and the mem- 



CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES 



87 



bers of the several state Legislatures, and all executive and judicial offi- 
cers, both of the United States and of the several states, shall be bound 
by oath or affirmation to support this Constitution ; but no religious test 
shall ever be required as a qualification to any office or public trust under 
the United States. 

Article VII. 

The ratification of the Conventions of nine states shall be sufficient 
for the establishment of this Constitution between the states so ratifying 
the same. 

Done in convention by the unanimous consent of the states present, the 
seventeenth day of September, in the year of our Lord one thousand 
seven hundred and eighty-seven, and of the independence of the 
United States of America the twelfth. In witness whereof we have 
hereunto subscribed our names. 

GEO. WASHINGTON, 

President and Deputy from Virginia. 



New Hampshire. 
John Langdon, 
Nicholas Gilman. 

Massachusetts. 
Nathaniel Gorham, 
Rufus King. 

Connecticut. 
Wm. Sam'l Johnson, 
Roger Sherman. 



Delaware. 
Geo. Read, 
John Dickinson, 
Jaco. Broom, 
Gunning Bedford, Jr., 
Richard Bassett. 

Maryland. 
James M' Henry, 
Danl. Carroll, 
Dan. of St. Thos. Jenifer. 



New York. 
Alexander Hamilton. 

New Jersey. 
Wil. Livingston, 
Wm. Paterson, 
David Brearley, 
Jona. Dayton. 

Pennsylvania. 
B. Franklin, 
Robt. Morris, 
Thos. Fitzsimons, 
James Wilson, 
Thos. Mifflin, ■ 
Geo. Clymer, 
Jared Ingersoll, 
Gouv. Morris. 



Virginia. 
John Blair, 
James Madison, Jr. 

North Carolina. 
Wm. Blount, 
Hit. Williamson, 
Rich'd Dobbs Spaight. 

South Carolina. 
j. rutledge, 
Charles Pinckney, 
Chas. Cotesworth Pinckney, 
Pierce Butler. 

Georgia. 
William Few, 
Abr. Baldwin. 

WILLIAM JACKSON, Secretary, 



88 AND ITS AMENDMENTS. 



Articles in Addition to and Amendatory op the Constitution 
of the United States op America. 

Proposed by Congress and ratified by the Legislatures of the several states, 
pursuant to the fifth article of the original Constitution. 

Article I. 

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, 
or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of 
speech, or of the press ; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, 
and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. 

Article II. 

A well regulated militia being necessary to the security of a free 
state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed. 

Article III. 

No soldier shall, in time of peace, be quartered in any house without 
the consent of the owner, nor in time of war but in a manner to be pre- 
scribed by law. 

Article IV. 

The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, 
and effects against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be vio- 
lated ; and no warrants shall issue but upon probable cause, supported by 
oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched 
and the persons or things to be seized. 

Article V. 

No person shall be held to answer for a capital or otherwise infamous 
crime, unless on a presentment or indictment of a Grand Jury, except in 
cases arising in the land or naval forces, or in the militia when in actual 
service in time of war or public danger ; nor shall any person be subject 
for the same offense to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb ; nor shall 
be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself, nor be 
deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law ; nor 
ehall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation. 

Article VI. 

In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a 
speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury of the state and district 
wherein the crime shall have been committed, which district shall have 
been previously ascertained by law, and to be informed of the nature and 
cause of the accusation; to be confronted with the witnesses against him; 
to have compulsory process for obtaining witnesses in his favor ; and to 
have the assistance of counsel for his defense. 

Article VII. 

In suits at common law, where the value in controversy shall exceed 
twenty dollars, the right of trial by jury shall be preserved, and no fact 



CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES 89 

tried by a jury shall be otherwise re-examined in any court of the United 
States than according to the rules of the common law. 

Article VIII. 

Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, 
nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted. 

Article IX. 

The enumeration, in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be 
construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people. 

Article X. 

The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, 
nor prohibited by it to the states, are reserved to the states respectively, 
or to the people. 

Article XI. 

The judicial power of the United States shall not be construed to 
extend to any suit in law or equity commenced or prosecuted against one 
of the United States by citizens of another state, or by citizens or sub- 
jects of any foreign state. 

Article XII. 

The Electors shall meet in their respective states and vote by ballot 
for President and Vice-President, one of whom, at least, shall not be an 
inhabitant of the same state with themselves ; they shall name in their 
ballots the person to be voted for as president, and in distinct ballots the 
person voted for as Vice-President, and they shall make distinct lists of 
all persons voted for as President, and of all persons voted for as Vice- 
President, and of the number of votes for each, which list they shall sign 
and certify, and transmit sealed to the seat of the government of the United 
States, directed to the President of the Senate. The President of the 
Senate shall, in presence of the Senate and House of Representatives, 
open all the certificates, and the votes shall then be counted. The person 
having the greatest number of votes for President shall be the President, 
if such number be a majority of the whole number of Electors appointed ; 
and if no person have such majority, then from the persons having the 
highest number not exceeding three on the list of those voted for as 
President, the House of Representatives shall choose immediately, by 
ballot, the President. But in choosing the President, the votes shall be 
taken by States, the representation from each state having one vote; a 
quorum for this purpose shall consist of a member or members from two- 
thirds of the states, and a majority of all the states shall be necessary to 
a choice. And if the House of Representatives shall not choose a Presi- 
dent whenever the right of choice shall devolve upon them, before the 
fourth day of March next following, then the Vice-President shall act as 
President, as in the case of the death or other constitutional disability of 
the President. The person having the greatest number of votes as Vice- 
President, shall be the Vice-President, if such number be the majority 
of the whole number of electors appointed, and if no person have a major- 



90 AND ITS AMENDMENTS. 

ity then from the two highest numbers on the list, the Senate shall choose 
the Vice-President ; a quorum for the purpose shall consist of two-thirds 
of the whole number of Senators, and a majority of the whole number 
shall be necessary to a -choice. But no person constitutionally ineligible 
to the office of President shall be eligible to that of Vice-President of the 
United States. 

Akticle XIII. 

Section 1. Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a 
punishment for crime, whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, 
shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their juris- 
diction. 

Sec. 2. Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appro- 
priate legislation. 

Article XIV. 

Section 1. All persons born or naturalized in the United States and 
subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States, and 
of the state wherein they reside. No state shall make or enforce any law 
which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United 
States; nor shall any state deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, 
without due process of law, nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction 
the equal protection of the laws. 

Sec. 2. Representatives shall be appointed among the several states 
according to their respective numbers, counting the whole number of per- 
sons in each state, excluding Indians not taxed ; but when the right to 
vote at any election for the choice of Electors for President and Vice- 
President of the United States, Representatives in Congress, the execu- 
tive and judicial officers of a state, or the members of the Legislature 
thereof, is denied to any of the male inhabitants of such state, being 
twenty-one years of age and citizens of the United States, or in any way 
abridged except for participation in rebellion or other crimes, the basis of 
representation therein shall be reduced in the proportion which the num- 
ber of such male citizens shall bear to the whole number of male citizens 
twenty-one years of age in such state. 

Sec. 3. No person shall be a Senator or Representative in Congress, 
or Elector of President and Vice-President, or hold any office, civil or 
military, under the United States, or under any state, who, having previ- 
ously taken an oath as a Member of Congress, or as an officer of the 
United States, or as a member of any state Legislature, or as an execu- 
tive or judicial officer of any state to support the Constitution of the 
United States, shall have engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the 
6ame, or given aid or comfort to the enemies thereof. But Congress may. 
by a vote of two-thirds of each house, remove such disability. 

Sec. 4. The validity of the public debt of the United States author- 
ized by law, including debts incurred for payment of pensions and boun- 
ties for services in suppressing insurrection or rebellion, shall not be ques- 
tioned. But neither the United States nor any state shall pay any debt 
or obligation incurred in the aid of insurrection or rebellion against the 
United States, or any loss or emancipation of any slave, but such debts, 
obligations, and claims shall be held illegal and void. 



CONSTITUTION OP THE UNITED STATES. 

Article XV. 



91 



Section 1. The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not 
be denied or abridged by the United States, or by any State, on account of race, 
color, or previous condion of servitude. 




PERRY'S MONUMENT, CLEVELAND, OHIO. 

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PART II 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 



HI8T0EY OF OHIO. 



IT is not our province in a volume of this description, to delineate the chronol- 
ogy of prehistoric epochs, or to dwell at length upon those topics pertaining 
to the scientific causes which tended to the formation of a continent, undiscov- 
ered for centuries, by the wisdom and energy of those making a history of the 
Old World, by the advancement of enlightenment in the Eastern Hemisphere. 

Naturally, the geological formation of the State of Ohio cannot be entirely 
separated from facts relative to the strata, which, in remote ages accumulated 
one layer above the other, and finally constituted a "built-up" America, from 
a vast sea. The action of this huge body of water washed sediment and what- 
ever came in its way upon primitive rocks, which were subjected to frequent 
and repeated submersions, emerging as the water subsided, thus leaving a 
stratum or layer to solidify and mark its number in the series — a system of 
growth repeated in trees of the forest — in those descernible rings that count so 
many years. The southeastern part of North America emerging a second 
time from the Silurian Sea, which extended west to the Rocky Mountains and 
north to the primitive hills of British America, a succession of rock -bound, 
salt-water lakes remained. These covered a large portion of the continent, and 
their water evaporating, organic and mineral matter remained to solidify. This 
thick stratum has been designated by geologists as the water-lime layer. This 
constitutes the upper layer of rock in the larger portion of the west half of 
Ohio. In other sections it forms the bed rock. 

Following the lime-rock deposit, must have been more frequent sweeps of 
the great sea, since the layers are comparatively thin, proving a more speedy 
change. During this scientific rising and falling of the sea, other actions were 
taking place, such as volcanic and other influences which displaced the regular- 
ity of the strata, and occasionally came out in an upheaval or a regular perpen- 
dicular dip. A disturbance of this character formed the low mountain range 
extending from the highlands of Canada to the southern boundary of Tennes- 
see. This "bulge" is supposed to be the consequence of the cooling of the 
earth and the pressure of the oceans on either side of the continent. Geolo- 
gists designate this as the Cincinnati arch. This forms a separation between 
the coal fields of the Alleghanies and those of Illinois. 

Passing over several periods, we reach the glacial, during which the topog- 
raphy of the continent was considerably modified, and which is among the 
latest epochs of goology, though exceedingly remote as compared with human 



94 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 



history. Previously, a torrid heat prevailed the entire Northern hemisphere. 
Now the temperature of the frigid zone crept southward until it reached Cincin- 
nati. A vast field of ice, perhaps hundreds of feet thick, extended from the 
north pole to this point. As this glacial rigor came southward, the flow of 
the St. Lawrence River was stopped, and the surplus water of the great lake 
basin was turned into the Ohio and Mississippi. This glacial sea was by no 
means stationary even after its southern limit had been reached. It possessed 
the properties of a solid and a fluid. Its action was slow but powerful, grind- 
ing mountains to powder and forming great valleys and basins. Separating 
into two glacial portions, one moved toward the watershed north of the Ohio 
River ; and, continuing westerly, it hollowed out the basin of Lake Erie and 
crushed the apex of the Cincinnati arch. From this point, it turned south- 
ward and swept with a regular course through the Maumee and Miami Valleys 
to the Ohio River. The southern border constantly melting, and flowing toward 
the Gulf of Mexico, the great field was pressed forward by the accumulations 
of ice in the northern latitudes. Thus for ages, this powerful force was fitting 
the earth for the habitation of man. The surface was leveled, huge rocks 
broken and reduced to pebbles, sand, clay, etc., other soil and surface-material — 
while the debris was embedded at the bottom. In some sections, as the ice 
melted and freed the bowlders and rocks, the lighter material was swept away. 
The glacier moving forward, and the forces proving an " equilibrium," the 
edge of this ice-field was held in a solid stronghold, and the material thus de- 
posited forms a ridge, called by geologists "terminal moraine," first exemplified 
in Ohio by the "Black Swamp," in the Maumee Valley. 

The most extreme rigor of this period beginning to wane, the ice of the 
Maumee and Miami Valleys began to move slowly forward, toward the north, 
reaching the points now termed Hudson, Mich.; Fort Wayne, Ind., and Kenton, 
Ohio — reaching somewhat further south than Lima and Van Wert. The edge of 
the glacier was defined in outline by the present western border of Lake Erie, and 
parallel with it. Climatic influences " acting and counteracting," the glacial 
force was concentrated, the Maumee Valley being subjected to a grinding proc- 
ess, and a deposit of material going on, which now forms the boundary of the 
" Black Swamp." As our readers are aware, the waters of the St. Joseph and 
St. Mary's meet at Fort Wayne, and their united waters form the Maumee; 
thence the turn is northwest, and, wearing an outlet through the ridge, it 
reaches the head of Lake Erie. 

The torrid zone yet gaining the ascendency, the ice-fields continuing their 
reverse motion, and retreating toward the north, the basin of the great lakes 
was formed ; and the blocks of ice melting therein, a vast sea of fresh water was 
formed, which gradually overflowed a portion of Canada and Michigan, But 
the St. Lawrence, that important outlet, was under the restraint of an ice 
blockade, and the surplus water of the fresh sea was turned into the Ohio and 
and Mississippi. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 95 

Later, mountains of ice-float were drifted from the north by winds and cur- 
rents, into temperate latitudes, and melting, deposited rocks, stones and general 
debris. Following the iceberg-drift, came the permanent elevation above the ocean- 
level. The St. Lawrence outlet was formed. The inland sea was assuming its 
division into lakes. The united waters of Erie and Huron flowed through the 
Wabash Valley and into the Ohio, until, through some agency, that section was 
dry, and the lakes drained in another direction. The action of the glacial 
period in the Erie basin vicinity created what is known as the "Niagara lime- 
stone," by grinding upper strata and drifting the debris elsewhere. This seems 
to have occurred at intervals, exposures being made in Seneca, Sandusky and 
Wood Counties, and beneath the axis of the Cincinnati arch. Oriskany lime- 
stone is also available in another stratum, which has been brought to the surface. 
Again, there is a carboniferous stratum of limestone, and along the Maumee is 
a thin exposure of the Hamilton limestone and shale. 

A glacier having both fluid and solid properties, it will readily be compre- 
hended that obdurate projections of rock resisted its action, and created currents 
in other directions, for its forces. When this specified epoch had ceased to be, 
Ohio was a rough, irregular and crude mixture of ridges and knobs and pinnacles, 
which were "leveled up " and finished by iceberg-drift and inland-sea deposits. 
This settled and accumulated, and the work of hundreds of years produced a 
beautiful surface, its inequalities overcome, the water having receded and " terra 
firma" remaining. A deep bed of clay, sufficiently compact to hold the germs 
of organic matter, and sufficiently porous to absorb moisture, was especially 
adapted to encourage the growth of vegetation. These seeds had been brought 
by the winds and waves and natural agencies, and now began to produce plants 
and shrubs, which withered to enrich the soil, after scattering broadcast seeds 
that would again perpetuate verdure. Worms, land crabs and burrowing ani- 
mals assisted in the creation of soil, while the buffalo, deer and bear followed, 
as soon as forestry appeared. Decomposed foliage and fallen timber aided in 
the great work of preparing the present State of Ohio for the habitation of man. 
Prairie, marsh, forest, rivers and lakes were formed, which, in turn, were modi- 
fied and prepared for a grand destiny by other influences. 

In glancing over the compiled histories of Ohio, those containing details of 
her early struggles, afflictions and triumphs, we are especially impressed with 
its near and sympathetic relation with the great Northwest, and the republic of 
the United States of America. From the early years when white men built 
their rude cabins in the then tangled wilderness, to the opulent and magnificent 
present of this united nation, Ohio has been stanch, loyal and earnest, both 
in action and principle. 

We shall endeavor to trace the history of the State concisely and accurately, 
according to the data given by the most reliable historians. We are obliged to 
glean the prominent events only, our space being limited, compared with the 
multitudinous interests connected with this important part of the United States. 



96 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

FRENCH HISTORY. 

All through early French history, is the fact especially prominent, that in 
their explorations and expeditions, they united piety and business. They were 
zealous in sending out their missionaries, but they were always attended by 
traders and those who were as skilled in the world's profit and loss, as their 
companions were in propagating Christianity. 

Prior to the landing of the Pilgrim Fathers upon Plymouth Rock, the 
Upper Lakes were visited by the French, and records prove that during the first 
half of the seventeenth century, a vagabondish set, working in the interests of 
the fur company of New France, understood the geographical position of the 
lakes and their tributary streams. M. Perrot, an intelligent explorer, made 
overtures of peace to the Indian tribes around these bodies of water, and 
effected a treaty, which, it is claimed, established the right for the French, in 
the name of their king, to hold the place near St. Mary's Falls. They further 
assert that the Mississippi was discovered by the French from Lake Superior, 
but this is not authenticated, and Father Marquette and M. Joliet are accepted 
as the first who found this large stream, in 1763. The good missionary won 
his way with his patient and sympathetic nature. 

Ohio was, like the other portions of the West, originally in the possession 
of aborigines or Indians. Of their origin, many suppositions are advanced, 
but no certainties sustained. From practical evidences, the Mound-Builders 
were active in Ohio, and here as elsewhere, their work marked retrogression 
rather than advancement. The territory of Ohio was claimed by the French, 
and included in that wide tract between the Alleghanies and the Rockies, held 
by them under the name of Louisiana. Before the year 1750, a French trad- 
ing-post was established at the mouth of the Wabash, and communication was 
established between that point and the Maumee, and Canada. Between the 
years 1678 and 1682, the intrepid La Salle and Father Hennepin, assisted by 
Fondi, an Italian, with a small band of followers, inaugurated a series of 
explorations about the great lakes anfl. the Mississippi, building forts on their 
way and planting the French priority. In 1680, La Salle erected a stockade at 
the foot of the rapids of the Maumee, which was a general rendezvous for mission- 
aries, traders and explorers, besides constituting a primitive "stock exchange." 

The English colonies were at this time east of the Alleghanies, while the 
French were establishing themselves west of this range, gaining an entrance 
north and south, the two portions separated by hostile and barbarous foejs. 
La Salle's spirit of adventure led him into new fields, but Father Hennepin 
was detailed to investigate that part of the world now known as the State of 
Ohio. The records assert that he published a volume containing an account of 
his observations "in the country between New Mexico and the frozen ocean," 
in 1684, together with maps of Lakes Erie, Huron and Michigan, and a plat 
of the larger streams in Ohio. 



ttlSTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 97 

Apparently, the French more speedily comprehended the value of their 
advantages in the New World than^the English, and vigorously inaugurated and 
sustained commercial and religious projects. They were essentially benefited 
by the mediation of the Catholic priests between settlers and Indians, this 
really earnest class everywhere ingratiating themselves with the savages. The 
Order of Jesuits were very vigorous, and representatives were stationed at every 
trading-post, village and settlement. The English colonists engaged mostly in 
agriculture, while the French took a lively interest in the fur trade with the 
natives, probably from their former settlement in Quebec and thereabouts, where 
the climate is advantageous for this business. This added to the influence of 
the priests, and the natural assimilation of French and the Indians, through 
the tact and amiability of the former, the French possessions gained more 
rapidly than the English or Spanish. They courted their daughters and 
married them. They engaged in feasts and trades, and took advantage of 
those unimpeded times to extend their dominion with surprising celerity. A 
chain of trading, missionary and military posts extended from New Orleans to 
Quebec, by way of the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers, thence via Mackinaw and 
Detroit to Lakes Erie and Ontario. This route was shortened thereafter by 
following the Ohio River to the Wabash, following the latter upward, and 
down the Maumee to Lake Erie. 

About the same time, and to check the advancement of the French, the 
Ohio Company was formed by the English. This was an outgrowth of the 
contest between these two nations for the ascendency, whether empire, settle- 
ment or individual. After thirty years' peace between these two nations, 
u King George's War" opened the campaign in 1744, but terminated in 1748, 
the treaty at Aix-la-Chapelle unfortunately omitting a settlement of any division 
of claims in America. , The English, French and Spanish were the first to 
enter America, and the right of possession by each monarch or empire was 
held by right of a first discovery. The only right that England could advance 
regarding Ohio was that the portion of the Six Nations found in the Ohio 
Valley had placed some of their lands under British jurisdiction, and that other 
portions had been purchased at Lancaster, Penn., by means of a treaty with 
the same nations. All this was strenuously denied and ignored by the French. 
Thus several conflicting influences swept carnage over fair Ohio. The Indians were 
allied to one side and the other, and were against each other. The Indians and 
French would advance against the English, and they, in retaliation, would 
make a raid into the Indian territory and overcome a French settlement. 
Whenever they could as well, Indians would take the cause in their own keep- 
ing and fight each other. The wide, verdant fields of Ohio were drenohed 
ghastly red under a glowing sun, and the great forests echoed moans from the 
dying and distressed. The English colonists had partially overcome their 
deprivation, caused by a struggle for subsistence, and means to guard against 
the savages — this distress augmented by campaigns against Canada — by their 



98 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

increased numbers and wealth, but were now alarmed by the French rule in 
America, which gained so rapidly, unmolested as it was by Indian raids and 
other devastating circumstances. A constant conflict was going on between 
Lake Erie and the Upper Ohio. Atrocities and massacres were committed 
indiscriminately, which opened the way for a desperate class of marauders and 
villains from the colonies and European States. These people enlisted with 
the Indians on cither Bide for the purpose of leadership and plunder. Every 
fortification, trading-post and settlement was garrisoned or deserted, and the 
ground between the Alleghanies and the Maumee became a conflict field, rife 
with thrilling deeds, sacrifice and adventures, the half never having been 
chronicled, and many heroes falling uncrowned by even a lasting memory, since 
during these times the people kept few annals, and cared less for historical 
memories than anything on earth. • They were living, and dying, and struggling, 
and that was more than they could carry through safely. The French formed 
a road from the Ohio River to Detroit, via the foot of the Lower Rapids of the 
Maumee, and the foot of the Lower Rapids of the Sandusky. 

The Ohio Company obtained a charter under English views, from the 
British Government, with a grant of 6,000 acres of land on the Ohio. The 
English now reverted to the times of the Cabots, and protested that by right 
they held the entire country between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, bounded 
by those parallels of latitude defining their Atlantic coast settlements. France 
claimed the region drained by the Mississippi and tributaries, the great lakes 
and their tributaries, the area being west of the Alleghanies. Ohio was thus 
included in the disputed tract. 

The Ohio Company was formed in 1748, by a number of Virginians and 
Londoners, two brothers of George Washington taking conspicuous parts in the 
movement ; Tliomas Lee was especially active. When the surveys were begun, 
the Governor of Canada entered vigorous protests, and indicated his displeasure 
by a prompt line of posts from Erie to Pittsburgh, named respectively, Presque 
Isle, Le Boeuf, Vedango, Kittaning and Du Quesne. The latter was begun 
by the English, captured by the French, and by them completed. 

The first English settlement of which we can find traces was a block -house 
at Piqua, about the year 1752. It was attacked, and a bitter struggle ensued, 
resulting in the death of fourteen of the assailants. Those within the garrison 
suffered severely, many being burned, and the remainder captured and dis- 
patched to Canada. 

In 1753, the French and Indian war actively began. It did not extend 
beyond the American continent until 1756, when the home governments took 
an interest in its progress beyond encouraging their respective colonists to pur- 
sue the war-path to a direful finale for their adversaries. For four years, the 
French captured and conquered, spreading terror wherever they went, and 
they followed every Englishman that set his foot on Ohio soil to the death. 
We may state that these people had not retained their civilized habits, and 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 99 

constant association with savages had embued them with barbarous methods of 
warfare which were sickening and revolting to the English, and to which they 
could not resort. It is highly probable that French success was vastly brought 
about by these means, together with the assistance of their Indian allies. In 
1758, when the English hope was almost exterminated, the elder Pitt being 
placed at the head of the administration, a new and energetic system was 
inaugurated, wise measures instituted, and military science triumphed over 
savage cunning and French intrigue. The first brilliant English achievement 
was the conquest of Canada. When the home governments interfered, the 
war assumed the character of a French and English conflict, regardless of 
Indian right, yet the tribes continued to participate in the carnage. 

A certain Christian, Frederick Post, a Moravian missionary, located upon 
the Muskingum, near Beavertown. Heckewelder consented to become his 
associate. The Indians receiving them kindly, under conditions that Post 
should serve as tutor, this missionary began clearing a field for the purpose of 
planting corn for sustenance. This did not accord with Indian logic. They 
had stipulated that he teach and he was planting corn, which to them was a 
signal of the coming of other whites, the building of a fort and encroachments 
upon the Indians. They referred to the French priests, who were in good 
physical condition, did not till land, but were in charge of the Great Spirit 
who provided for them, a conclusive proof to them that when divine work was 
acceptable to the Great Spirit, priests were somehow sustained by other than 
the plans which disturbed their great hunting-grounds. However, they 
allowed him a small space, and he remained with them, preaching and teaching 
during the summer of 1762, when, accompanied by one of the principal chiefs, 
he returned to Lancaster, Penn., where a treaty was concluded. On his return 
to his post, he was met by Heckewelder, who imparted the tidings that friendly 
Indians had warned him that the war was about to sweep over their section, 
and destruction awaited them if they remained. The mission was accordingly 
abandoned. This failure was not so bitter as the English effort to sustain their 
trading-post in 1749, on the Great Miami, afterward called Laramie's store. 
It pursued a feeble existence until 1752, when a French raid upon the Twig- 
twees and English colonists proved fatal. 

A European treaty now excluded the French from any rights to make 
treaties with the Indians, and the English, in their flush of victory after Pitt's 
succession, assumed the authority over Indians and lands. The savages did 
not accept the situation with anything resembling the gentle spirit of resigna- 
tion, and the Ottawa chief, Pontiac, led the several tribes into a general war 
against the intruders. It was no longer French and English, but Indian and 
English, the former being instigated and assisted many times by the French, 
now desperate and unscrupulous in a mad spirit for revenge. 

The intention of the Indians was to drive the whites east of the mountains, 
destroying their numerous strongholds in Pennsylvania and Virginia, if they 



100 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

failed in their hope of utterly exterminating them. Pontiac had effected a 
consolidation of the tribes ranging from Mackinaw to North Carolina, thus 
being enabled to swoop down upon all the settlements simultaneously. A 
deadly beginning was made in the Ohio Valley, and only two or three English 
traders escaped out of the one hundred and twenty located in that vicinity. 
The forts at Presque Isle, St. Joseph and Mackinaw, were captured amid scenes 
of slaughter too terrible to perpetuate in description. The years 1763 and 
1764 were literally drenched in human carnage and anguish. Ohio was a 
great field of crime, murder, pain and horror. The expeditions of Bradstreet 
and Bouquet crushed the war in 1764, and Pontiac with his Ottawas removed 
to the Maumee and settled. English settlement now progressed with great 
rapidity, but this was destined to be disturbed in 1774, by the action of Lord 
Dunmore, who led an expedition against the tribes of the Ohio country, termi- 
nated by his treaty on the Scioto plains. At this period, the colonists were not 
in strict harmony with England, and the spirit of revolution was spreading 
every day. 

When Lord Dunmore made his treaty, the affirmation was made and gained 
ground that he, being a thorough loyalist, had compromised under such terms 
as held the Indians British allies against the settlers. Directly following this 
treaty, was the deliberate murder of a number of Indians, near Wheeling, 
including the family of the great chief, Logan — which inaugurated retaliating 
atrocities. 

In the year 1773, July 4, the first white child was born within the 
present limits of Ohio, and was christened John L. Roth, son of a Mora- 
vian missionary. All the settlers of these Moravian towns on the Muskingum 
were made prisoners in September of the same year. Heckwelder was trans- 
ported to Detroit, but English tyranny failed to find any evidence against him 
or his colaborers, and they were reluctantly released, and returned to their fam- 
ilies in Sandusky. Poverty added to their sufferings, and in the forlorn 
hope of finding a remnant of their property at the old settlements, which might 
assist in mitigating their necessities, they wearily went thitherward. They 
began gathering their grain, but the Wyandots attacked them, and many lives 
were lost. Frontiersmen had also grown jealous of them, and a body of about 
ninety marched out together, for the fiendish purpose of pillaging, slaughtering 
and laying waste all Moravian towns and posts. With the wily insidiousness of 
savages, they went about their diabolical plan. The Moravians were cordial and 
bade this band welcome, when they reached their towns in the guise of friend- 
ship. Williamson, the leader, and the gleaners, were called from the fields, 
when, to the dismay of these trusting and frank people, they were all bound, 
and only fifteen out of the marauding band of ninety were in favor of even 
sparing the lives of these hapless men, women and children. Forty men, 
twenty-two women and thirty-four children were then cruelly and heartlessly 
murdered, their sufferings laughed to scorn, and the last sound that fell on their 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 101 

ears was exultant derision. It would seem that whatever the Indians left un- 
done, in the way of horror, in the State of Ohio, the whites improved upon, and 
blackened the pages of American history with deeds of blood. Succeeding this 
barbarity, was the expedition against Moravian Indian towns, upon the San- 
dusky. Not an Indian, whether an enemy or friend, old or young, male or 
female, was to escape the assault, including an extermination of the Moravian 
element. 

Col. William Crawford led the expedition, which counted 500 men, in their 
dastardly work. Warning had in some manner reached the towns, and 
the troops found them deserted. But the Indians were incensed, and 
their wrath had not driven them to hiding-places, but to a preparation to 
meet their foes. They fought desperately, and Crawford's troops were defeated 
and scattered, many being captured, and among them, Col. Crawford himself. 
It is hardly probable that Crawford could justly expect much mercy at the 
hands of his captors. His battle-cry had been "no quarter," and yet he evi- 
dently hoped for some consideration, as he requested an interview with Simon 
Girty, who lived with and influenced the Indians. Accounts state that Craw- 
ford implored the aid of Girty, and at last secured a promise to use his power 
to obtain the Colonel's pardon. However, this was of no avail, and it is doubt- 
ful whether Girty was disposed to intercede. The prisoners were tortured and 
put to death, and Crawford's agonies were protracted as long as possible. Dr. 
Knight managed to disable the Indian who had him in charge, and made his 
escape to the settlements, where he related the result of the expedition and the 
tortures of the captured. 

On October 27, 1784, a treaty was concluded, at Fort Stanwix, with the 
sachems and warriors of the Mohawks, Onondagas, Senecas, Cayugas, Onei- 
das and Tuscarawas, and the Six Nations then ceded to the Colonial Govern- 
ment all claims to the country west of a line defined by the western boundary 
to the Ohio — thus rendering the Indian claim to a large portion of Ohio lands 
practically extinct. 

Although the French and Indian war was a series of heart-rending events, 
it was a serious and remarkable school of discipline for the untrained troops 
which soon engaged in the Revolutionary struggle. On the fields of Ohio, many 
valuable officers, who earned distinction in the war of independence, learned their 
first lessons in intrepid valor. 

During the Revolution, the colonial troops were engaged east of the moun- 
tains, and western settlements and frontier people were left alone to defend them- 
selves and their property against encroachments and attacks. 

The Indian tribes again became belligerent, and united with the English 
against the "Americans." The latter held a line of posts along the Upper 
Ohio, while the British were stationed in the old French strongholds on the 
lakes and the Mississippi. The unscrupulous whites and Indians ranged at ran- 
dom between this boundary and the Cuyahoga, thence southerly to the Ohio, 



102 history OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

thus including the Scioto and Miami Valleys. Southeastern Ohio constituted 
"the neutral ground." 

Gen. Clarke's expedition, although chiefly confined to Indiana and Illinois, 
greatly influenced the settlement of Ohio. His exploits and the resolution of 
his troops were chiefly instrumental in holding the country west of the Alle- 
ghanies, and insuring its possession by the United States during the Revolution. 
The British had been emphatic, in. the Paris treaty, at the time of the settlement 
of the French and English difficulties, in demanding the Ohio River as the 
northern boundary of the United States. The American Commissioners relied 
upon Gen. Clarke's valor and energy in holding the country west of the Alle- 
ghanies, which he had conquered, and the British Commissioners were compelled 
to give their consent, under civil and military measures. In 1783, by the 
treaty of Paris, at the close of the Revolutionary war, the English relinquished 
all rights to the fertile territory between the Alleghanies and the Mississippi, 
and the United States held undisputed possession. 

January 10, 1786, Gens. Rufus Putnam and Benjamin Tupper circulated a 
pamphlet, proposing the formation of a company for the purpose of settling the 
Ohio lands, and soliciting the attention and consideration of all those desiring a 
future home and prosperity. A meeting was also called, to assemble during the 
following February, and select delegates to represent each county in Massachu- 
setts. These dignitaries should convene during the month of March, at the 
" Bunch of Grapes " tavern, in Boston, for the purpose of definitely forming the 
association, and adopting such measures as would benefit all directly interested. 
The meeting and " convention " followed, and the subscription books were opened. 
One million dollars, chiefly represented by Continental certificates, was the 
price of the land. The shares were valued at $1,000 each, and there was a 
division of a thousand shares. The first payment was to be $10 per share, this 
money to be set aside for such expenses as might accrue. A year's interest was 
to be devoted to the establishment of the settlement, and those families who 
were unable to incur the expense of moving were to be assisted. Those who 
purchased shares to the number of twenty were entitled to a representation by 
an agent, who was permitted to vote for Directors. This plan matured and was 
acted upon during the following year. It may be that the action of Connecti- 
cut, in ceding her territorial claims to the General Government, with few excep- 
tions, greatly encouraged this new undertaking. That tract was, until recently, 
designated the " Western Reserve " — an extent 170 miles from the western 
boundary of Pennsylvania, and parallel thereto, being reserved. 

On October 27, 1787, a contract was made between the Board of the Treas- 
ury, for the United States, and Manasseh Cutler and Winthrop Sargent, agents 
for the Directors of the New England Ohio Company, for the purchase of a tract 
of land, bounded by the Ohio, and from the mouth of the Scioto to the inter- 
section of the western boundary of the seventh townships, then surveying ; 
thence by said boundary to the northern boundary of the tenth township from 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 103 

the Ohio ; thence, by a due west line, to the Scioto ; thence, by the Scioto, to 
the beginning. 

However fertile and attractive Ohio was known to have been, settlement did 
not gain rapidly after the close of the war with England, although the United 
States has gained her freedom. It was more than six years after Cornwallis 
laid down his sword, before a white settlement was formed on the Ohio side of the 
river. The French and Indian war had incited the English to be jealous of her 
colonial conquests, and mistrusting their loyalty, they had, so soon as the French 
claims were annulled, taken measures to crush all colonial claims also, and a 
royal proclamation rescinded all colonial land grants and charters, holding all 
the country west of the sources of the Atlantic rivers under the protection and 
sovereignty of the king of Great Britain, for the use of the Indians. All white 
persons were forbidden to remain or settle within the prescribed limits. Parlia- 
ment then attached this tract to Quebec, and the English Government felt assured 
that the thirteen colonies were restricted and held secure east of the Alleghanies. 

The result of the war between the colonies and England did not constitute 
an Indian treaty. Although England signed over her title and right, the sava- 
ges held the land and ignored all white agreements, one way or the other. 
Whenever an attempt at settlement was undertaken, Indian depredations proved 
disastrous. The tribes were encouraged by the English fur traders, and the 
English commandant at Detroit incited them to destroy all Americans who 
attempted to usurp the rights of red men. 

Added to this serious difficulty was the unsettled debate regarding State 
claims, which rendered a title precarious. A treaty, signed at Fort Mcintosh, 
previous to the war, and authenticated, shows that during the conflict the Dela- 
wares and Wyandots occupied the Indian and British frontier, on the southern 
shore of Lake Erie, from the Cuyahoga to the Maumee, and from the lake to 
the sources of its tributaries. Later, these two tribes ceded to the United 
States "the neutral ground," by warranty deed, and by quit-claim, the terri- 
tory south and west of the described tract, set apart for their use. 

By special measures, the grant of Congress in the matter of the Ohio Com- 
pany extended to nearly 5,000,000 acres, valued at $3,500,000. The original 
Ohio Company obtained 1,500,000 acres, the remaining being reserved by indi- 
viduals, for private speculation. 

The same year, Congress appointed Arthur St. Clair, Governor, and Win- 
throp Sargent, Secretary, of the Territory. 

Fort Harmar had previously been built, at the mouth of the Muskingum, 
and in 1788, 'a New England colony attempted the " Muskingum settlement," 
on the opposite side, which was afterward named Marietta. In July, 1788, the 
Territorial officers were received in this village, and there established the first 
form of civil government, as set forth in the Ordinance of 1787. Three United 
States Judges were appointed, and Courts of Common Pleas, Probate and 
Justice were established. 



104 JI1STOKY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

If the stormy times were supposed to be of the past, that composure was 
rudely broken by the utter disregard of the Shawnee and other Indian tribes, 
who soon induced the Delawares and Wyandots to repudiate their consent in the 
matter of settlement. The miseries of frontier horrors were repeated. The 
British commandant at Detroit instigated many of these hostilities, yet the 
American Government took honorable action in assuring the English represent- 
ative that American military preparations in the West was not an expedition 
against Detroit, or other British possessions, although the possession of Detroit 
by that nation was in direct opposition to the treaty of 1783. Gov. St. Clair, 
to avert the direful consequences of a border war, dispatched a Frenchman, 
Gameline, to the principal Indian towns of the Wabash and Maumee countries, 
to request them to meet the United States agents, and make a compromise for 
the benefit of both parties, at the same time reiterating the desire of the General 
Government to adhere to the Fort Harmar treaty. The Miamis, Shawnees, 
Ottawas, Kickapoos and Delawares received this representative kindly, but 
declined the wampum sent by the Governor, and deferred giving an answer 
until they had considered the subject with the " father at Detroit." 

Blue Jacket, chief of the Shawnees, informed the Frenchman that the Indi- 
ans doubted the sincerity of the Americans. The new settlement on the Ohio 
was a proof that the whites intended to crowd further and further, until the 
Indians were again and again robbed of their just right. He then emphatically 
asserted that unless the north side of the river was kept free from these inroads 
there could be no terms of peace with the Shawnees, and many other tribes. 

Blue Jacket was unusually intelligent and sagacious, and expressed himself 
eloquently. He was persistent in his determination to engage in the war of 
extermination, should the white settlements continue north of the Ohio. 

These overtures were continued, but they failed in producing any arrange- 
ment that permitted the whites to locate north of the Ohio. 

Congress called upon Kentucky and Pennsylvania to lend the aid of their 
militia. Gen. Harmar was instructed to destroy the Miami villages at the 
head of the Maumee. Late in the fall of 1790, he executed this order. 

The Indians had stored a large quantity of provisions, in expectation of a 
campaign, and this dependence was devastated. Without authority, and with 
undue carelessness, he divided his army and attempted to achieve other victo- 
ries. He more than lost what he had gained. Two raids upon the Wabash In- 
dians, thereafter, proved successful, but the campaign under Gov. St. Clair was 
not calculated to establish peace or obtain power, and was deemed but little less 
than a failure. 

The year 1792 was a series of skirmishes, so far as a settlement was con- 
cerned, but 1793 succeeded well enough to convene a meeting of United States 
Commissioners and representatives of the hostile tribes, at the rapids of the 
Maumee. It is highly probable that a satisfactory treaty might have been 
arranged, had it not been for the intervention and malicious influence of the 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 105 

British Superintendent of Indian Affairs, Col. McKee, his assistant Capt. 
Elliott, and the notorious Capt. Simon Girty, who instigated the savages to 
deeds more horrible than their own barbarisms. 

It was evident that a severe struggle must ensue, and Capt. Wayne, in 
1792, appointed to the command of the Western army, was called upon to con- 
duct the campaign. He exhibited his wisdom in the beginning, by preparing 
his men in military discipline and fully equipping them before marching to meet 
a savage foe in a wilderness. Various causes detained the army, and it was not 
until the fall of lt93, that the force marched from Fort Washington (Cincin- 
nati) to begin the battle. 

It was already late in the season, and, before any progress had been made, 
the army went into winter quarters at Greenville, on a branch of the Big 
Miami. 

In the mean time, the Ohio Company had not matured its practical " settle- 
ment plan," although a generous grant had been obtained. In 1792, they 
received a clear title to 750,000 acres of land, for which the full price had pre- 
viously been paid, in Continental currency. Congress set aside 214,285 acres 
as army bounties, and 100,000 acres to actual settlers. The two latter appro- 
priations joined that of the Ohio Company. 

There had been numerous conventions, discussions and other fruitless 
attempts to somehow form a plan for the government of the Northwest Terri- 
tory, but it was not until July 13, 1787, that an ordinance was passed, and that 
was the result of Dr. Cutler's efforts. Every State sustained its measures. 

This ordinance was the foundation of the constitution of the future State of 
Ohio, and indeed, permeates the entire Northwestern creed. 

ORDINANCE OF 1787.— No. 32. 
An Ordinance for the Government of the Territory of the United States, Northwest of 
the Ohio River. 

Be it ordained by the United States in Congress assembled, That the said Territory, for the pur- 
pose of government, be one district; subject, however, to be divided into two districts, as future cir- 
cumstances may, in the opinion of Congress, make it expedient. 

Be it ordained by the authority aforesaid, That the estates of both resident and non-resident 
proprietors in the said Territory, dying intestate, shall descend to and be distributed among their 
children and the descendants of a deceased child, in equal parts; the descendants of a deceased 
child or grandchild to take the share of their deceased parent in equal parts among them. And 
when there shall be no children or descendants, then in equal parts to the next of kin in equal 
degree : and among collaterals, the children of a deceased brother or sister of the intestate shall 
have, in equal parts among them, their deceased parent's share; and there shall in no case be a 
distribution between kindred of the whole and half blood, saving in all cases to the widow of 
intestate, her third part of the real estate, for life, and one-third part of the personal estate ; and 
this law relative to descents and dower, shall remain in full force until altered by the Legis- 
lature of the district. And until the Governor and Judges shall adopt laws as hereinafter 
mentioned, estates in said Territory may be devised or bequeathed by wills in writing, signed 
and sealed by him or her in whom the estate may be (being of full age), and attested by three 
witnesses: and real estate may be conveyed by lease and release, or bargain and sale, signed and 
sealed, and delivered by the person (being i» lull age) in whom the estate may be, and attested 



106 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

by two witnesses, provided such wills be duly proved, and such conveyances be acknowledged, or 
the execution thereof duly proved and be recorded within one year after proper magistrates, 
courts and registers shall be appointed for that purpose. And personal property may be trans- 
ferred by delivery, saving, however, to the French and Canadian inhabitants and other settlers of 
the Kaskaskias, St. Vincent's and the neighboring villages, who have heretofore professed them- 
selves citizens of Virginia, their laws and customs now in force among them, relative to the 
descent and conveyance of property. 

Be it ordained by the authority aforesaid, That there shall be appointed from time to time, by 
Congress, a Governor whose commission shall continue in force for a term of three years, unless 
sooner revoked by Congress. He shall reside in the district and have a freehold estate therein, 
of a thousand acres of land while in the exercise of his office. 

There shall be appointed from time to time by Congress, a Secretary whose commission shall 
continue in force for two years, unless sooner revoked. He shall reside in the district, and shall 
have a freehold estate therein in 500 acres of land, while in the exercise of his office. It shall be 
his duty to keep and preserve the acts and laws passed by the Legislature, and the public records 
of the district, and the proceedings of the Governor in his executive department, and transmit 
authentic copies of such acts and proceedings every six months, to the Secretary of Congress. 
There shall also be appointed a court to consist of three Judges, any two of whom to form a 
court, who shall have a common law jurisdiction and shall reside in the district and have each 
therein a freehold estate in 500 acres of land, while in the exercise of their office, and their 
commissions shall continue in force during good behavior. 

The Governor and Judges, or a majority of them, shall adopt and publish in the district 
such laws of the original States, criminal and civil, as may be necessary and best suited to the 
circumstances of the district, and report them to Congress from time to time, which laws shall be 
in force in the district until the organization of the General Assembly therein, unless disapproved 
by Congress. But afterward, the Legislature shall have authority to alter them, as they shall 
think fit, 

The Governor, for the time being, shall be commander-in-chief of the militia, appoint and 
commission all officers in the same, below the rank of general officers. All general officers shall 
be appointed and commissioned by Congress. 

Previous to the organization of the General Assembly, the Governor shall appoint such mag- 
istrates and other civil officers in each county or township, as he shall find necessary for the 
preservation of the peace and good order in the same. After the General Assembly shall be 
organized, the powers and duties of magistrates and other civil officers shall be regulated and 
defined by the said Assembly, but all magistrates and other civil officers not herein otherwise 
directed, shall, during the continuance of this temporary government, be appointed by the 
Governor. 

For the prevention of crimes and injuries, the laws to be adopted or made shall have force 
in all parts of the district, and for the execution of process, criminal or civil, the Governor shall 
make proper divisions thereof, and he shall proceed from time to time as circumstances may 
require, to lay out the parts of the district in which the Indian titles shall have been extin- 
guished, into counties and townships, subject, however, to such alterations as may thereafter be 
made by the Legislature. So soon as there shall be 5,000 free male inhabitants of full age in the 
district, upon giving proof thereof to the Governor, they shall receive authority with time and 
place, to elect representatives from their counties or townships, to represent them in the General 
Assembly. Provided, That for every 500 free male inhabitants, there shall be one representative, 
and so on progressively with the number of free male inhabitants, shall the right of representa- 
tion increase, until the number of representatives shall amount to twenty-five. After which, the 
number shall be regulated by the Legislature. Provided, That no person be eligible or qualified 
to act as a representative unless he shall have been a citizen of one of the United States three 
years, and be a resident in the district, or unless he shall have resided in the district three 
years, and in either case, shall likewise hold in his own right in fee simple 200 acres of land 
within the same. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 107 

Provided, Also, that a freehold in 50 acres of land in the district, having been a citizen of 
one of the States, and being a resident in the district, or the like freehold and two years' resi- 
dence in the district, shall be necessary to qualify a man as an elector of a representative. 

The representatives thus elected, shall serve for the term of two years. And in case of the 
death of a representative or removal from office, the Governor shall issue a writ to the county or 
township for which he was a member, to elect another in his stead, to serve for the residue of the 
term. 

The General Assembly or Legislature shall consist of the Governor, Legislative Council, and 
a House of Representatives. The Legislative Council shall consist of five members, to continue 
in office five years, unless sooner removed by Congress; any three of whom to be a quorum. 
And the members of the Council shall be nominated and appointed in the following manner, to wit : 

As soon as representatives shall be elected, the Governor shall appoint a time and place for 
them to meet together, and when met, they shall nominate ten persons, residents in the district, 
and each person in a freehold in 500 acres of land, and return their names to Congress, five of 
whom Congress shall appoint and commission as aforesaid. And whenever a vacancy shall hap- 
pen in the Council by death or removal from office, the House of Representatives shall nominate 
two persons, qualified as aforesaid, for each vacancy, and return their names to Congress, one of 
whom Congress shall appoint and commission for the residue of the term. And every five years, 
four months at least before the expiration of the time of service of the members of the Council, 
the said House shall nominate ten persons qualified as aforesaid, and return their names to 
Congress, five of whom Congress shall appoint and commission to serve as members of the 
Council five years, unless sooner removed. And the Governor, Legislative Council and House 
of Representatives shall have authority to make laws in all cases, for the good government 
of the district, not repugnant to the principles and articles in this Ordinance, established and 
declared. 

And all bills having passed by a majority in the House, and by a majority in the Council, 
shall be referred to the Governor for his assent. But no bill or legislative act whatever, shall be 
of any force without his assent. The Governor shall have power to convene, prorogue and dis- 
solve the General Assembly, when in his opinion it shall be expedient. 

The Governor, Judges, Legislative Council, Secretary, and such other officers as Congress 
shall appoint in the district, shall take an oath or affirmation of fidelity and of office. The Gov- 
ernor before the President of Congress, and all other officers before the Governor. 

As soon as a Legislature shall be formed in the district, the Council and House assembled 
in one room, shall have authority by joint ballot to elect a delegate to Congress, who shall 
have a seat in Congress, with a right of debating, but not of voting, during this temporary gov- 
ernment. 

And for extending the fundamental principles of civil and religious liberty, which forms 
the basis whereon these republics, their laws and constitutions, are created ; to fix and establish 
those principles as the basis of all laws, constitutions and governments, which forever hereafter 
shall be formed in said Territory. To provide for the establishment of States, and permanent 
governments therein, and for their admission to a share in the Federal Council on an equal footing 
with the original States, at as early periods as may be consistent with the general interest. 

It is hereby ordained and declared by the authority aforesaid, That the following articles shall 
be considered as articles of compact between the original States and the people, and States in 
said Territory, and forever remain unaltered unless by common consent, to wit : 

Article II. The inhabitants of said Territory shall always be entitled to the benefits of the 
writ of habeas corpus, and of the trial by jury; of a proportionate representation of the people 
in the Legislature, and of judicial procedure according to the course of common law. All per- 
sons shall be bailable, except for capital offenses, where the proof shall be evident or the pre- 
sumption great. All fines shall be moderate, and no cruel or unreasonable punishment shall be 
inflicted. No man shall be deprived of his liberty or property, but by the judgment of his peers 
or the law of the land. And should the public exigencies make it necessary for the common 
preservation, to take any person's property, or to demand his particular services, full compensation 



108 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

shall be made for the same. And in the just preservation of rights and property, it is under- 
stood and declared that no law aught ever to be made or have force in the said Territory, 
that shall in any manner whatever interfere with or effect private contracts or engagements bona 
fide and without fraud, previously formed. 

Art. III. Religion, morality and knowledge being necessary to good government and the 
happiness of mankind, schools and the means of education shall forever be encouraged. The 
utmost good faith shall always be observed toward the Indians ; their lands and property shall 
never be taken from them without their consent; and in their property, rights and liberty they 
shall never be invaded or disturbed, unless in just and lawful wars authorized by Congress. But 
laws founded in justice and humanity, shall from time to time be made for preventing wrongs 
being done to them, and for preserving peace and friendship with them. 

Art. IV. The said Territory and the States which may be formed therein, shall ever remain 
a part of the confederacy of the United States of America, subject to the articles of confedera- 
tion, and to such alterations therein as shall be constitutionally made, and to all the acts and 
ordinances of the United States in Congress assembled conformable thereto. The inhabitants and 
settlers in said Territory shall be subject to pay a part of the federal debts contracted or to be 
contracted, and a proportional part of the expenses of the Government, to be apportioned on 
them by Congress, according to the same common rule and measure by which apportionments 
thereof shall be made on the other States, and the taxes for paying their proportion shall be laid 
and levied by the authority and directions of the Legislature of the district or districts or new 
States, within the time agreed upon by the United States in Congress assembled. The Legisla- 
tures of those districts or new States, shall never interfere with the primary disposal of the soil 
by the United States in Congress assembled, nor with any regulations Congress may find neces- 
sary for securing the title in such soil to the bona-fide purchasers. No tax shall be imposed on 
lands the property of the United States, and in no case, shall non-residents be taxed higher than 
residents. The navigable waters leading into the Mississippi and St Lawrence, and the carry- 
ing places between the same, shall be common highways, and forever free as well to the inhabi- 
tants of the said Territory as to the citizens of the United States and those of any other States 
that may be admitted into the confederacy, without any tax, impost or duty therefor. 

Art. V. There shall be formed in said Territory not less than three, nor more than five, 
States, and the boundaries of the States, as soon as Virginia shall alter her act of cession and 
consent to the same, shall become fixed and established as follows, to wit : The western State in 
the said Territory shall be bounded by the Mississippi, the Ohio, the Wabash Rivers ; a direct 
line drawn from the Wabash and Post St. Vincent, due north to the Territorial line between the 
United States and Canada; and by the said Territorial line to the Lake of the Woods and Missis- 
sippi. The middle State shall be bounded by the said direct line, the Wabash from Post St. Vin- 
cent to the Ohio, by the Ohio, by a direct line drawn due north from the mouth of the Great 
Miami to the said Territorial line. The eastern State shall be bounded by the last-mentioned 
direct line, the Ohio, Pennsylvania and said territorial line. Provided, however, and it is further 
understood and declared, that the boundaries of those three' States shall be subject so far to be 
altered, that, if Congress shall hereafter find it expedient, they shall have authority to form one 
or two States in that part of the said Territory which lies north of an east and west line drawn 
through the southerly bend or extreme of Lake Michigan. And whenever any of the said States 
shall have 60,000 free inhabitants therein, such State shall be admitted by its delegates into the 
Congress of the United States on an equal footing with the original States in all respects what- 
ever, and shall be at liberty to form a permanent constitution and State government. Provided, 
The constitution and government so to be formed, shall be represented, and in conformity to the 
principles contained in these articles ; and so far as it can be consistent with the general interest 
of the confederacy, such admission shall be allowed at an earlier period, and when there may be 
a less number of free inhabitants than 60,000. 

Art. VI. There shall be neither slavery nor involuntary servitude in the said Territory, 
otherwise than in the punishment of crimes whereof the party shall have been duly convicted. 
Provided always, That any person escaping into the same from whom labor or service is lawfully 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 109 

claimed in one of the original States, each fugitive may be lawfully claimed and conveyed to the 
person claiming his or her labor or services as aforesaid. 

Be it ordained by the authority aforesaid, That the resolutions of the 23d of April, 1784, 
relative to the subject of this ordinance, be and the same are hereby repealed and declared null 
and void. 

The passage of this ordinance, since known as the " Ordinance of 1787," 
was immediately followed by an application to the Government, by John Cleves 
Symmes, of New Jersey, in behalf of the country, between the Miamis, and a 
contract was concluded the following year. The Ohio Company were exceed- 
ingly energetic in inaugurating settlements. Gen. Putman, with a party of 
forty-seven men, set out on an exploring expedition, accompanied by six boat 
builders. On the 1st of January, 1788, twenty-six surveyors followed, from 
Hartford, Conn. They arrived in Ohio on the 7th of April, 1788, and their 
active energy founded the permanent beginning of this great Western State- 
When we review the dangerous experiments that have been made, in this land 
west of the Alleghanies, the horrors which had overwhelmed every attempt, we 
can faintly realize the stalwart courage that sent these men on their way, and 
sustained them in their pioneer hardships. With characteristic vigor, they 
began their little town. Enthusiastic and happy, they did not rest from their 
toilsome march over the old Indian roads, but kept busily at work to estab- • 
lish an oasis in this wide expanse of wilderness, before they should take nec- 
essary ease to recuperate their strength. 

The wise men met on the 2d of May, and the little town was named 
Marietta. Situated as it was, in the midst of danger, they had used precaution 
to build and equip a fortified square, which was designated Campus Martius ; 
Square No. 19 was Capitolium, and Square No. 61 was Cecelia, and the main 
street was Sacra Via. 

Marietta was especially fortunate in her actual "first families." Ten of the 
forty-eight men had received a thorough college education ; the remaining were 
individuals of sterling merit, honorable, and several had already attained reputations 
for superior excellence of abilities. Patriotic and brave, the settlement certainly 
possessed a foundation that promised well for the future. The following 4th of 
July was an auspicious event, and the Hon. James M. Varnum was the eloquent 
orator of the occason. 

The opening of the court, on the 2d of September, was a solemn ceremonial, 
the High Sheriff leading with drawn sword, followed by citizens, with an escort 
of officers from Fort Harmar, the members of the bar, the Governor and Clergy- 
men, the Judges of the Court of Common Pleas — Gen. Rufus Putman and 
Benjamin Tupper — all these constituted an imposing spectacle, as they pro- 
gressed over a path which had been cut through the forest to Campus Martius 
Hall, the edifice of law and order. 

The Judges took their seats, a prayer was offered by the Rev. Dr. Cutler, 
and immediately the Sheriff, Col. Ebenezer Sprout, proclaimed the response, 
and the court of impartial justice was convened. 



110 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

This ceremonial was, perhaps, made all the more impressive by the presence 
of several powerful Indian chiefs, who had journeyed to Marietta for the pur- 
pose of making a treaty. 

The settlement now increased rapidly, new cabins were erected constantly. 
On the 17th of December, a society event occurred, in the form of a grand ball, 
fifteen ladies being present. 

John Cleves Symmes had contracted for 2,000,000 acres of land, and suc- 
ceeded in obtaining his grant, but circumstances prevented him from meeting 
his part of the obligations, and the specification was reduced to 1,000,000. 
After vain attempt to make his payments, a settlement was finally effected for 
248,540 acres, and Symmes was prepared to dispose of clear titles to new-com- 
ers. In 1788, a town was established within the boundaries of his grant, at the 
mouth of the little Miami, known as Columbia, and in the early part of 1787 
another was formed opposite the mouth of the Licking River, by name Losanti- 
ville, analyzed by a frontier scholar — ville, the town ; anti, opposite to ; os, the 
mouth of; L, Licking. 

Judge Symmes had projected building his main town at North Bend. This 
plan was frustrated by reason of Ensign Luce — who had been commissioned by 
Gen. Harmar to erect a fort — deciding that North Bend was not suitable for the 
purpose. He selected Losantiville for the purpose, and Fort Washington was 
the result. In 1790, Gov. St. Clair was called to inspect the settlement, and 
proceeded to organize Hamilton County, at the same time calling the town 
Cincinnati. 

It will be remembered that Connecticut ceded most of her western lands to 
General Government, retaining, however, a minor portion. As the settlements 
began to increase on the " Virginia Reserve" and between the Scioto and Miami 
Rivers, all those holding claims were not disposed to part with them, while 
others were anxious to secure grants for the purpose of speculation, rather than 
the advancement of civilization. The Scioto Company was a questionable ad- 
herent of the Ohio Company, and began operations, which resulted well, what- 
ever their purpose may have been. 

Gen. Putnam cleared the land and directed the building of 100 dwellings and 
six block-houses. During 1791, the colony arrived, consisting of 500 persons. 
Only ten of these were tillers of the soil. Viscount Malartie ventured into the 
wilderness, but instead of settling, joined Gen. St. Clair's army, and was ulti- 
mately his aid-de-camp. Indian conquests were not to his taste, and he soon 
returned to France. This new colony was essentially French, and its location 
was Gallia County. The name " Gallipolis " was selected. 

These settlers, being unaccustomed to severe toil, and disinclined to learn 
its hard lesson, soon became demoralized, through deprivation and absolute 
want. Congress came to their aid with a land grant of 24,000 acres, but few 
of them cared to enter claims, and soon all traces of the old town were lost, and 
its inhabitants scattered. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. Ill 

Gen. St. Clair having become unpopular, through repeated failures in Indian 
campaigns, and Gen. Anthony Wayne having wintered at Fort Washington, 
the spring of 1793 was opened by a march of the army, well disciplined and 
led by " Mad Anthony," on a campaign that must crush the rapidly increasing 
depredations of the Indians, notwithstanding which these new settlements had 
been made. All winter, Gen. Wayne had dispatched scouts, spies and hardy 
frontiersmen on errands of discovery, and his plans were, therefore, practically 
matured. His army cut its way through the forests, gathering horses, provis- 
ions, etc., as they marched, and finally came nearly up to the enemy before dis- 
covery. They again returned to Fort Washington, as the Commander-in-Chief, 
under the order of the Executive, had proclaimed inaction until the Northern 
or British Commissioners and Indians should convene and discuss the situation 
and prospects. Gen. Wayne, meantime, drilled his men at " Hobson's Choice," 
a place near Fort Washington. 

The Commissioners came from Detroit, and assembled at Capt. Matthew 
Elliot's house, at the mouth of the Detroit River. 

A meeting was called at Sandusky, and twenty Indian representatives were 
present, to argue the grounds of a treaty. Simon Girty acted as interpreter, 
and has been vehemently accused of unfaithfulness in this trust, since he did 
not advocate the adjustment of matters on any grounds. The Indians reiterated 
their rights and wrongs, and offered to receive the half of the purchase money, 
provided the actual settlers would accept it as the price of the land, move away, 
and leave the original owners the proud possessors of their lands. The Govern- 
ment would then expend less money than they would have done in a full Indian 
purchase, or a long and cruel war. This being out of the question and rejected, 
a decided specification was made that the Ohio boundary was to be obliterated, 
and a new one adopted, that encompassed a mere fraction of territory. This 
was also rejected, The Indians indignantly bade the Americans to go back to 
their father, and they would return to their tribes. 

The council was terminated in confusion. It is highly probable that some 
settlement might have been made, had it not been for English influence which 
instigated the savages, in the hope of ultimately making conquests for them- 
selves. The commander at Detroit evinced great uneasiness whenever there 
was a shadow of an opportunity for a peaceful understanding. • 

On Christmas Day, 1793, a detachment of the army encamped on the 
identical ground made memorable by St. Clair's horrible defeat. A reward was 
offered for every human skull that was found, and 600 were gathered. The 
bones of the victims were removed from the spot where they built Fort Recovery. 
This point was left in charge of Alexander Gibson. 

Early in the year 1794, Lord Dorchester addressed the Commissioners in 
behalf of the English. Even at this time, Gen. Wayne, to avoid the terrors of 
a great war, again made overtures of peace, dispatching Freeman, Trueman and 
Hardin, all initiated in savage tactics, on errands of mercy — and the three men 



112 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

jcece inhumanly murdered. The English went so far as to order Gov. Simcoe 
to erect a fort, in April, 1794, on the Rapids of the Maumee, thus rousing the 
Indians by a bold proof that they had espoused their cause. In May, the 
Spanish, who were ever jealous of colonial encroachments, were willing to aid 
in a general raid against the Americans. 

In June, a scouting party from Fort Recovery, fell into an Indian ambush 
and suffered severely, their foes following them to the very entrance. The siege 
continued for two days. It was plainly evident that white men augmented the 
Indian force ; ounce balls and buck-shot surely came from their rifles. Again, 
the Indians immediately began a search beneath the logs where pieces of artillery 
were hidden during the great battle of St Clair, but fortunately, Fort Recovery 
had the use of them and they accomplished much. 

On July 26, Scott joined Wayne at Greenville, with 1,600 mounted 
Kentuckians, and on the 28th, the legion took up its line of deadly march. 
Halting at Girty's Town, they built Fort Mary's, later on Fort Adams. Throw- 
ing the enemy off their guard by feints and counter-marching, the troops surprised 
the Indians, and without the slightest resistance took possession of their villages 
at the confluence of the Auglaize and Maumee. They found provision in 
abundance, and tarried a week building Fort Defiance. 

Again Gen. Wayne would have made terms of peace, on the principle of the 
Government to arrest bloodshed, but the Indians were rendered cruelly intent 
on war by an addition of a body of British militia from Detroit, and by regulars 
stationed at a fort they had built on the left bank of the river, below the rapids, 
called Fort Miami. The "Fallen Timber" ground was selected as the field 
for a battle by the savages, in the expectation that the trees cast down by a 
tornado and there remaining, would seriously impede American progress. 

August 15th, Wayne marched down the river, and at Roche de Boeuf, erected 
a fortification for their stores and luggage, naming it " Fort Deposit." On the 
20th, the American army began the attack. Maj. Price and Maj. Gen. Scott 
were heroic in their assistance, and after a sharp, deadly conflict, the enemy 
was routed, fleeing in confusion, and leaving their dead and wounded strewn 
thickly over the field. The savages were pressed to the front always, and when 
the carnage was painful, the British troops not engaged looked on coolly from the 
fort and offered no assistance, aiding their own, however, when possible. Gen. 
Wayne being an ardent soldier, was apt to forget his position, and impetuously 
place himself constantly in danger. Lieut. Harrison is reported to have 
rei [nested the General not to forget to give him field orders, in his own partici- 
pation in the battle, and to have received the reply that the standing order was 
always to charge bayonets. 

Notwithstanding the treaty of 1783, and the fact that the British were tres- 
passing, they encroached upon the Ohio soil, and essayed to vindicate their 
action by discarding American claims and recognizing the Indian rights, whereby 
they might seek their own colonization and make treaties. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. lit 

Maj. Campbell was in command at Fort Miami, and when lie saw the sava- 
ges being cut down almost mercilessly, he not only refrained from offering aid, 
but when, in their desperate retreat, they attempted to enter the fort for pro- 
tection, he ordered the doors closed in their faces. 

On the following day, Campbell sent a message to Wayne, demanding a 
reason for hostile action, adding that Great Britain was not now at war with the 
United States. He received a characteristic reply. 

During the Revolution, Detroit was an important British point, and the 
Maumee was its outlet. Therefore, the English clung tenaciously to this pos- 
session, giving, as it did, the advantage of the great fur trade. The English 
Government evidently regretted ceding so much of her territory in the West, 
and were searching for an excuse to quarrel and attempt to regain at least a part 
of what they had lost. Their policy was to sustain the bitter hatred between 
the Indians and the Americans. 

The settlement of the Maumee Valley had been rapid, but the very name 
was an agony of remembrance of frightful massacres and atrocities. Col. 
McKee, the British Indian agent, and his assistant, Capt. Elliott, were from 
Pennsylvania, but being Tories, they had assimilated with the Indians. They 
joined the Shawnee tribe and married Indian wives, and made their fortunes 
thereby, through British appointments to secure the savage interests. The 
Indians were directly served by McKee and Elliott, with ammunition and sup- 
plies, during the Wayne conflict. 

Several skirmishes ensued, but severe weather approaching, the troops 
moved for quarters, and on the 14th day of September, they attacked the Miami 
villages, captured them with provisions and stores, and erected a fort, leaving 
it in charge of Lieut. Col. Hamtramck. With cheers and rifle-shooting, this post 
was named Fort Wayne. The main army marched into Greenville and went into 
winter quarters. 

AVayne had achieved a brilliant victory, but his success did not overcome his 
practical reasoning, and he was unwilling to subject his men to a severe winter's 
campaign unless necessity was peremptory. 

Gov. Simcoe, Col. McKee and a few of the most savage Indian chiefs 
attempted to rally the Indians for a new attack. Gov. Simcoe, of Detroit, was 
aware that the mounted volunteers under Wayne had been allowed to return 
home, and that the term of service of a portion of the " Legion " was about to 
expire. 

The British and Indians held a conference, but the latter were weary with 
fighting for the glory of the Great Father at Detroit, and did not enter into the 
plan. The winter proved most poverty stricken to them, the English failing to 
supply them, and their crops and sustenance having been destroyed by Wayne. 
They were then fully prepared to listen to the faintest signal from Wayne to 
conciliate affairs, and the Wyandots and Delawares were the first to confer with 
him on the subject. Their position was exposed and they had suffered severely. 



114 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

They soon influenced other tribes to consider the question. As a mass, they 
were convinced of their inability to overcome the Americans, and had become 
impatient and disgusted with the duplicity of their British friends, who had not 
hesitated to sacrifice them in every instance, and who deserted them in their 
hour of distress. United, they sued for peace. Terms were made, and about 
the 1st of August, the famous Greenville treaty was ratified and established, 
and the old Indian war in Ohio terminated. 

The Wyandots, Delawares, Shawnees, Chippewas, Ottawas, Pottawatomies, 
Miamis, Eel Rivers, Weas, Kickapoos, Piankeshaws and Kaskaskias were thus 
conciliated. The old Indian boundary line, settled upon at the Fort Mcintosh 
treaty, was retained, and the southwestern line was prolonged from old Fort 
Recovery, southwest of the Ohio River. 

" The general boundary lines between the lands of the United States and 
the lands of the said Indian tribes shall begin at the mouth of the Cuyahoga 
River, and thence run up the same to the portage between that and the Tus- 
carawas Branch of the Muskingum ; thence down that branch to the crossing- 
place above Fort Laurens ; thence westerly to a fork of that branch of the 
Great Miami River (running into the Ohio), at or near which fork stood Lar- 
amie's store — Mary's River, which is a branch of the Miami that runs into Lake 
Erie ; thence a westerly course to Fort Recovery, which stands on a branch of 
the Wabash ; thence southwesterly on a direct line to the Ohio, so as to inter- 
sect that river opposite the mouth of the Kentucky or Cuttawa River." 

This boundary line has, ever since this memorable treaty, been a prominent 
landmark, and may now be traced as the southern boundary line of Stark, Ash- 
land, Richland and Marion Counties, and the northern line, in part, of Tuscar- 
awas and Knox. Old Fort Recovery was located in Mercer, near the Indiana 
line. Laramie's store was in Shelby. 

Within the Indian Reservation, the United States held sixteen distinct sec- 
tions of land, for the purpose of military posts, so arranged that the Govern- 
ment had full right of way north and west. 

The "Joy treaty " between England and the United States was ratified early 
in 1796, and the British were obliged to vacate Detroit and Fort Miami, and recall 
the fact that they had no claim or right to either points. Gen. Wayne received 
them, and accompanied by Gov. St. Clair, proceeded to Detroit. Here the lat- 
ter laid out a county, calling it Wayne, and designated Detroit as its seat of 
justice. This was the fifth county in the Northwest Territory, north of tin' 
Ohio River. Washington County, with Marietta as a seat of justice, was first 
established ; next Hamilton, with Cincinnati as a county seat. Wayne County 
was organized in 1796, and included about twenty-six of the present counties, 
in the northwest part of the State, covering about a quarter of its area, besides 
parts of Indiana and Michigan. 

In other parts of the State, the population was rapidly increasing. In May, 
1795, the Legislature authorized a committee to institute measures for the 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 117 

disposal of their Western lands. The Virginia and Connecticut Reservations 
required some action on the part of Government, inasmuch as ceding a portion 
and re-selling had in a measure disturbed free titles. Fifty-six persons negoti- 
ated and purchased lands, receiving quit-claim titles and entire rights. They 
re-sold to John Morgan and John Caldwell and Jonathan Bruce, in trust. Thus 
3,000,000 acres were prepared for settlement. Upon the quit-claim deeds of 
these representatives, the full title of lands included within the old Western 
Reserve rests. 

Judge Symmes began his active operations in 1796, and by the close of 
1797 all lands east of the Cuyahoga were laid out in townships, five miles square. 
The agent of the Connecticut Land Company was Gen. Moses Cleveland, and in 
his honor the leading city in the Reserve was named. Some townships were 
retained for private sale, and others were disposed of by lottery, in 1798. 

Wayne's treaty led to the formation of Dayton, and the peopling of that 
section. A difficulty arose regarding the original Symmes grant and its modifi- 
cation. Symmes had sold land titles, in good faith, beyond his vested power, 
and Congress was now called upon to adjust these claims and titles. Seventeen 
days after the Wayne or Greenville treaty, St. Clair, Wilkinson, Dayton and 
Ludlow contracted with Symmes for seven and eight ranges, between the Mad 
and Little Miami Rivers. November 4, 1795, Mr. Ludlow laid out Dayton. 

During the years 1790 and 1795, the Governor and Supreme Judges of the 
Northwest Territory had published sixty-four statutes. Thirty-four of these 
were ratified at Cincinnati, for the purpose of forming a complete statutory. It 
was termed the " Maxwell Code." 

Mr. Nathaniel Massie founded a town on the Scioto, which was called 
Chillicothe. The Iroquois treaty had previously invited settlement, and embryo 
towns had begun as early as 1769, under the protection of the Connecticut 
Company. A land company was organized in Hartford, Conn., in 1795, sending 
out forty-three surveyors to divide the townships of that part of the Western 
Reserve, east of the Cuyahoga, five miles square. The first resident of the town 
of Cleveland was Mr. Job Stiles and family, and Mrs. Stiles was the mother of 
the first white child born on the Reserve. Some other parts of the territory 
progressed more rapidly in population. 

Along the Muskingum, Scioto and Miami, towns began to spring up, which 
might perhaps better be termed farming settlements. 

Cincinnati was increasing, and in 1796, had reached 100 cabins, 15 frame 
houses and 600 persons, with prospects for a firm future. 

The Virginia Military Land District was between the Little Miami and 
Scioto, and was rapidly increasing in population. 

Mr. Massie was unceasing in his efforts to advance the West, and laid out 
Manchester, offering inducements that could not fail to attract settlers. 

Ebenezer Zane procured a grant in consideration of opening a bridle path 
from the Ohio River at Wheeling, over the country via Chillicothe, to Limestone, 



118 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

in Kentucky. The year following, the United States mail was taken over 
this route. \ 

The comparatively tranquil condition of the country and the inducements it 
had to offer encouraged a rapid settlement of the Territory. A prominent 
feature of the early growth of Ohio was the general prevalence of reliable, 
stanch principle. The people were of the good colonial stock. 

In 1800, Chillicothe was denominated the seat of the Territorial govern- 
ment, and the first stone edifice in the State was begun in this town, soon after 
this appointment. About this time, a serious difficulty suddenly occurred to 
those individuals who had taken lands on the Western Reserve of Connecticut. 
That Eastern power had, it is true, ceded a part of her claim to the General 
Government, and had stipulated for the sale of certain other tracts. At the 
same time, the State had not signed away her jurisdiction over some sections of 
her claim, and those unfortunate people in and about Dayton found themselves 
without any government upon which they might depend in a case of emergency. 
The matter was, accordingly, presented to the Territorial government, which 
interceded with the Eastern State, and, sanctioned by the Assembly at Congress, 
Connecticut relinquished her jurisdiction in 1800. 

Cleveland was an important point, and was growing in the mean time. How- 
ever, it had suffered exceedingly from the ravages of fever and ague. For a 
period of two months, there was not an individual, but a boy thirteen years 
of age, able to procure food for the others. Flour was out of all rational con- 
sideration, and the meal upon which they lived was pounded by hand. In 
1799, Williams and Myatt erected a grist-mill at the falls, near Newbury. 

A startling agitation occurred in 1801, which in these days would cause but a 
ripple in the political sea, but happening during a time when legislative dignity 
and state authority were regarded with reverential awe, it created the most 
intense feeling. Great indignation was openly expressed. 

The Governor and several legislators felt that they had been insulted in 
the performance of their respective duties, at Chillicothe, while the Assembly 
was in session in 1801. No measures being taken by the authorities at the 
capital to protect the Executive, a law was passed removing the seat of govern- 
ment to Cincinnati. 

This circumstance led to a general consideration of the advantages of a 
State government, and a popular desire was expressed for a change in this 
respect. Gov. St. Clair had fallen into disfavor through his failure as a military 
leader and his failures in the Indian campaigns, and from his assuming powers 
which Avere not vested in him, especially the subdivision of counties. He was 
also identified with the Federal party, which was not popular in Ohio. The 
opposition was strong in the Assembly, but was in the minority in the House of 
Representatives. The boundary question was agitated at the same time. The 
intention was to thus effect the limits of Ohio that a State government would 
necessarily have to be postponed. Against this measure, Tiffin, Worthington, 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 119 

Langham, Darlington, Massie, Dunlavy and Morrow strenuously objected. After 
considerable discussion, Thomas Worthington obtained leave of absence from 
the session, and journeyed to Washington in behalf of a State government. It 
was obvious that the Territory, under the ordinance, was not entitled to a 
change. Massie suggested the feasibility of appointing a committee to address 
Congress on the subject. This the House refused to pass. 

An effort was then made to take a census, but any action on this subject 
was postponed until the next session. 

During all this ineffectual struggle, Worthington was doing his best in Wash- 
ington, and succeeded so well that on March 4, a report was made to the House 
in favor of the State government. This report was made on a basis that the 
census, in 1800, summed up over 45,000 for Ohio. 

April 30, Congress passed a law carrying into effect the views expressed on 
this subject. A convention met on November 1. Its members were generally 
Jeffersonian in their views. Gov. St. Clair proposed to address them as their 
chief executive magistrate. Several members resolutely opposed this action, 
insisting upon a vote, which, through courtesy and not a sense of right, resulted 
in permitting him to address them. He advised the postponement of the State 
government until the original eastern portion of the State was sufficiently pop- 
ulated to demand this right. Only one, out of thirty-three, voted to sustain 
the Governor in these views. 

The convention agreed to the views of Congress. November 29, the agree- 
ment was ratified and signed, as was the constitution of the State of Ohio. 
The General Assembly was ordered to convene the first Tuesday of March, 1803. 

This was carried into effect. A constitution was framed for the new State, 
adhering to the Ordinance of 1787. The rights and duties of citizens were 
plainly set forth, and general business was transacted. The new State consti- 
tution was signed by : 

Edward Tiffin, President and Representative from Ross County. 

Adams County — Joseph Darlington, Israel Donalson, Thomas Vinker. 

Belmont County — James Caldwell and Elijah Woods. 

Clermont County — Philip Gatch and James Sargent. 

Fairfield County — Henry Abrams and Emanuel Carpenter. 

Hamilton County — John W. Brown, Charles Willing Byrd, Francis Dun- 
lavy, William Goforth, John Gitchel, Jeremiah Morrow, John Paul, John Riley, 
John Smith and John Wilson. 

Jefferson County — Rudolph Blair, George Humphry, John Milligan, Nathan 
Updegraff and Bezaleel Wells. 

Ross County — Michael Baldwin, James Grubb, Nathaniel Massie and F. 
Worthington. 

Washington County — Ephraim Cutler, Benjamin Ives Gilman, John Mc- 
Intyre and Rufus Putnam. 

Thomas Scott, Secretary. 



120 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

The first Legislature of the State, under the new constitution, created eight 
new counties, viz., Gallia, Scioto, Franklin, Columbiana, Butler, Warren, 
Greene and Montgomery. 

The first State officers were : Michael Baldwin, Speaker of the House ; Na- 
thaniel Massie, President of the Senate ; William Creighton, Secretary of 
State ; Col. Thomas Gibson, Auditor ; William McFarland, Treasurer ; Return 
J. Meigs, Jr., Samuel Huntington and William Sprigg, Judges of the Supreme 
Court ; Francis Dunlavy, Willis Silliman and Calvin Pease, Judges of the Dist- 
rict Court. 

The General Assembly held a second session in December, at which time 
the militia law was revised, also giving aliens equal proprietary rights with native 
citizens. The revenue system was modified and improved. Acts authorizing 
the incorporation of townships were passed, and for the establishment of coun- 
ties. Furthermore, Jacob White, Jeremiah Morrow and William Ludlow were 
authorized to locate a township for collegiate purposes, according to previous 
specified terms of Congress. The Symmes grant and the college specification 
collided materially, but the irregularity of the former was not to create any 
inconvenience for the latter. Mr. Symmes had in good faith marked off this 
township, but circumstances preventing the perfection of his plans, that lapsed 
with the others, and the original township was now entered by settlers. 

Accordingly, thirty-six sections, west of the Great Miami, were selected, 
and are now held by the Miami University. 

Gov. St. Clair, notwithstanding his unpopularity, was re-appointed. 

Ohio was under a system of government which guaranteed the best improve- 
ments ; her Legislature being composed of her best statesmen, and the laws 
passed having the general interest of the people embodied in them. 

A bill was passed, appropriating the net proceeds of the land lying within 
said State, sold by Congress after the 20th day of June, 1802, after deducting 
all expenses incident to the same, to be applied to the laying-out of roads, 
leading from the navigable waters emptying into the Atlantic to the Ohio, to 
the said State, and through the same ; such roads to be laid out under the 
authority of Congress, with the consent of the several States through which the 
road shall pass. In conformity with these provisions, steps were taken, in 1805, 
which resulted in the making of the Cumberland or National road. 

Burr, at this time, began an organization for the ostensible purpose of 
making a settlement on the Wachita, but his party being armed and his plans 
not being frankly disclosed, an investigation proved that his real design was a 
mutinous revolt against Governmental powers, and to gratify his ambition by 
founding his own kingdom in Mexico, and defeating the Spanish. If success 
crowned his efforts, his ultimate victory was to rupture the Union by forcing the 
Western States to withdraw from their allegiance. By gaining an influence 
over the noble but misguided Blcnnerhasset, he established his headquarters on 
his island in the Ohio. The history of Burr's expedition is already well known. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 121 

The final capture by Gov. Tiffin, of ten boats loaded with stores, on the Mus- 
kingum, and four near Marietta, decided the fate of this scheme, and Burr was 
finally arrested and put on trial May 22, 1807. 

The advancement of the settlement of the State was in no manner impeded, 
and towns sprang up, farms were laid out, and all other improvements inaugu- 
rated which tended to a permanent prosperity. 

In 1808, Tecumseh left Greenville to join the Prophet on the banks of the 
Tippecanoe, a tributary of the Upper Wabash, on a tract of land granted herein 
by the Pottawatomies. 

The Indians were virtually by treaty allowed but a small proportion of land 
within the boundaries of the State, and were maintaining peaceful attitudes 
toward the whites, with exceptional border depredations, which were settled by 
mutual understanding. 

Although the United States had gained independence, and was treating with 
England as with other foreign powers, the British persisted in violating the 
national rights of the United States, impressing American seamen into the 
British service, seizing American vessels engaged with France in trade, and 
otherwise violating the rights of an independent nation, at peace with the Brit- 
ish power. 

The mission upon which Henry was sent by the British, to create disturb- 
ance between the States, and thus broken, to weaken the strength of the Gen- 
eral Government, added fuel to the fire, and united indignation cried for war. 

British agents again bargained with the Indians of the Wabash and Maumee 
Valleys, desiring them to inaugurate another war upon the western sections and 
to make a desperate attack upon the settlements south of the lakes. The Brit- 
ish agent at Maiden negotiated in rifles, powder, ball, merchandise, lead, blank- 
ets and shirts. The Indians were inspired again with the hope that the whites 
would be driven back, and that all the country north of the Ohio would again 
revert to them. 

The Canadians in league with the English, gave the savages unlimited 
quantities of whisky, which naturally aroused their fierce natures to acts of 
violence and blood. It is highly probable that the use of liquor was the main 
cause of the deterioration of the best traits of the Indian character, after the 
Revolution. Again, many unscrupulous men upon the frontier did not hesi- 
tate to commit the most merciless crimes against the Indians, such was the 
prejudice against them, and the courts invariably failed to indict them for these 
atrocities. This error on the part of the Americans served to influence the 
savages against them. 

At this time, the seats of justice were distant over a hundred miles each 
from the other, uninhabited tracts frequently extending between them which were 
absolute wildernesses. The routes were in many cases difficult and circuitous. 

As early as 1808, there was a mail communication for the people on the 
Lower Maumee, many days elapsing between the arrivals and departures of 



122 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

the same, however. Horace Gunn was the carrier. Benoni Adams brought 
the news from Cleveland to the same point, his trip requiring a fortnight. It 
must be remembered that this journey was mostly made on foot. The Black 
Swamp could not be traversed in any other manner. 

THE WAR OF 1812. 

The war of 1812 can be called a continuation of the Revolution, with all 
justice. Although rumors had reached Ohio, that active preparations were 
being made for general action, no official tidings had been sent to Hull, com- 
mander-in-chief of the Western forces. 

The Secretary of War, instead of sending a special messenger directly to 
Hull, communicated with the post adjacent, depending upon a continuation of 
the news from that point. At the same time, advices were sent the British 
post at Maiden and Detroit. Hull sent out a packet with official papers, stores, 
etc., the day previous to that on which the official intelligence arrived that an 
open rupture existed between the two powers, and this was of course captured. 

The Western forces marched to Detroit and crossed over to Sandwich, pre- 
paratory to attacking Maiden, a post most favorable for the transportation of 
stores, troops, etc. which was therefore considered valuable. 

Peter Minard first gave the news to the settlers of the Maumee. He had 
heard from a Delaware chief, who assured him a general massacre was to take 
place in the valley. Maj. Spafford paid no heed to this "idle fear," until a 
few days thereafter a messenger came to his quarters, reporting a band of fifty 
Pottawatomies on the march to join the hostile tribes near Maiden. They had 
plundered and burned Monclova, and had nearly reached the rapids. 

The Major, with his family and settlers, immediately launched a barge on 
the river and were able to reach old Fort Miami just as the savages reached 
Maumee City. They could plainly witness the flames that devoured their old 
homes. They kept on their way in their miserable craft, until they reached 
Milan, where they learned that the entire country was in danger. 

Although the Indians were defeated in the battle of Tippecanoe in the fall 
of 1811, they plotted vigorously with the English for the invasion of Ohio. 

Gen. William Hull marched from the southwestern part of the State 
directly north, crossing the counties of Champaign, Logan, Hardin, Hancock 
and Wood, establishing military posts along the route and cutting a way 
through the wilderness of the unsettled portions. He crossed the Maumee on 
the 1st of July, and marched to Detroit. 

Hull was evidently actuated in his succeeding disgraceful failures by two 
fears — lack of confidence in the ability of his troops, and the belief that they 
might desert him in action. He proclaimed freedom, and a necessity of sub- 
mitting to the Canadians under existing circumstances. He held out induce- 
ments to the British regulars to desert their cause and essayed to pacify the 
savages, but he accomplished nothing beyond jeopardizing the American cause 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 123 

and disgracing his army. His men became restless. Col. Miller and Col. 
Cass were delighted when detailed on scouting expeditions, and did not hesi- 
tate to attack advancing squads of the enemy. At last, an attack was made on 
the Niagara frontier, and Hull speedily abandoned his project and collected his 
forces at Detroit. 

Meantime, Col. Proctor had reached Maiden, and quickly perceiving the 
advantage of a post at that point, whereby he could cut off supplies and starve 
Hull into subjection, he massed his forces about this section, captured Van 
Horn and his two hundred men, and withstood the attack of Miller, although 
he gained nothing by so doing. Again Hull displayed his weakness by recall- 
ing his forces from further molestations. 

Gen. Brock, however, reached Maiden on the 13th of August, 1812, and 
began war preparations. 

Gen. Dearborn placed a force on the Niagara frontier, but an armistice was 
made with the British. Hull dispatched a third party under McArthur, to 
open communications to the Raisin River. 

Gen. Brock appeared at Sandwich and began to erect batteries, which Hull 
would not allow to be molested. The result was, that on the 26th of August 
Detroit was surrendered to the enemy, and not a blow had been struck in its 
defense. 

By this dastardly act, 1,400 brave men who had not been permitted to 
make a single effort to sustain the American cause, were surrendered to 300 
English regulars, 400 Canadians and their Indian allies. Gen. Hull was, in 
consequence of this series of '"mistakes," accused of treason and cowardice, 
and convicted of the latter. By the middle of August, the British had gained 
the control over most of the Northwestern Territory. 

The appointment of William Henry Harrison to the position of com- 
mander in chief of the Western forces, was most opportune. He speedily 
raised a vigorous army, and advanced by three routes to the foot of the rapids. 

Gen. Harrison commanded the right wing, and marched by the way of Upper 
Sandusky, where he located his depot of supplies. Gen. Tupper commanded 
the center, Fort McArthur, in Hardin County, being his base, while Gen. Win- 
chester marched from Fort Defiance down the Maumee to the foot of the rapids. 

A large force of British and Indians moved up the left bank of the Mau- 
mee toward Fort Wayne, and Gen. Harrison, to intercept them, marched to 
the confluence of the Auglaize with the Maumee. 

Harrison was aware that the enemy would be also hemmed in by Win- 
chester. The weather was rainy, and the prospects were that a most unfortun- 
ate season was to follow the expected engagements. Harrison heard that 
Winchester had reached Fort Defiance, and that the Indians and British were 
retreating down the Maumee. He followed, and marched to Winchester's 
camp, where he arrived in season to quell a mutiny under command of Col. 
Allen, of the Kentucky troops. 



124 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

In January, 1813, Winchester had reached the rapids, where he received 
tidings that Frenchtown was menaced and exposed. Without orders, he sent a 
party to the rescue, which defeated the enemy. The weather was intensely 
cold, and the company lay within eighteen miles of Maiden, where the enemy 
was collected in full force, consequently re-enforcements must be dispatched 
immediately or the town again left to its fate. 

Winchester then marched with a force of 259 men, and upon arriving at 
nightfall, insisted upon remaining on open ground, although warned repeatedly 
that this would be a most dangerous experiment. 

In the morning, he was surprised by the enemy, massed directly before 
him, with a battery within three hundred yards of his camp, and a shower of 
bombs, balls and grape-shot falling among his exposed troops, and the yells of 
Indians reminding him of his fatal error. Lewis, who led the party out in the 
beginning and had apprehended the danger, bravely defended himself behind 
garden pickets. Winchester was defeated on the 22d of January, 1813, and 
the Indians were permitted to massacre the prisoners and the settlers. 

Harrison fell back to the foot of the rapids. On the 1st of February, he 
began the construction of Fort Meigs. On the 27th of April, Proctor and 
Tecumseh attacked this fort, and laid siege with the full expectation of success. 
The stipulation was that Gen. Harrison was to be delivered to Tecumseh. 
While the balls and bombs were making havoc with the fort, the Indians were 
climbing trees and pouring a galling fire down upon the troops. Gen. Proctor 
invited Harrison to surrender, which was politely declined, with the assurance 
that the British General would have the opportunity to distinguish himself as a 
soldier before such a proceeding was enacted, 

Gen. Clay was descending the Maumee with 1,200 Kentuckians in flat 
boats. Orders went from Harrison that 800 men should land on the left bank, 
take and spike the British cannon, and then to enter the fort, from which 
soldiers were to issue to assist the re-enforcements. 

Capt. Hamilton was to pilot Gen. Clay to the fort, cutting their way 
through. All succeeded, Col. Dudley taking the batteries and spiking the 
cannon. But his men, too much elated by their success, against orders, and 
against the repeated expostulations of Col. Dudley, insisted on pursuing the 
Indians. Col. Dudley would not desert them. This act proved their ruin. 
By a decoy, they were led into a defile which proved an ambush, and the men 
found themselves surrounded by savages, without means of escape. 

A most frightful massacre began, and every man would have fallen had not 
Tecumseh sternly forbidden the cowardly carnage. One of his principal chiefs 
ignored this order, and the next instant the great warrior buried his hatchet in 
his head. The brave Col. Dudley was, however, tomahawked and scalped. 

There were no immediate signs that the fort would be surrendered, and the 
siege was raised on the 9th of May. It was renewed on the 20th of July, and 
abandoned a few days later. The enemy decided this stronghold was invulnerable. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 125 

On the 1st of August, the enemy proceeded to Fort Stevenson, at Lower 
Sandusky, garrisoned by 150 men under Maj. Croghan. The fort had the 
use of but one piece of cannon. The enemy with Tecumseh's Indians num- 
bered 3,300 strong, with six pieces of cannon. 

Gen. Proctor again tendered the offer to surrender, adding that a refusal 
would only bring about a useless resistance, and a massacre by the Indians. 
The reply was, that before the fort went over to the British, not an American 
would be left to be massacred, as they should hold out to the last man. Proc- 
tor opened fire. The first movement was an assault upon the northwest angle 
of the fort, as if to make a breach and thus carry the works. The command- 
ant strengthened that point by bags of sand, and during the night stealthily 
placing his one cannon in a concealed position, he filled it with slugs. 

The following day, the fire again swept the northwest corner, and, evening 
approaching, a column of 350 men swept up within twenty yards of the walls. 
They were met by the musketry, which had little effect, and the ditch was soon 
filled with men. The next instant the hidden cannon, so placed as to sweep 
the ditch, suddenly began action, and the surprised assailants quickly recoiled, 
and the fort was saved, with the loss of only one man. 

The next morning, the enemy had disappeared, evidently in haste, as guns, 
clothing and stores were left behind. They had lost over one hundred and 
fifty men by this useless attempt. Croghan had previously received orders to 
evacuate the fort from Gen. Harrison, and his determination to hold the position 
merited Harrison's reprimand and remand of commission. Such was the sev- 
erity of military law. However, the rank of Colonel was immediately conferred 
upon him by the President, for his gallantry. The ladies of Chillicothe pre- 
sented him with an elegant testimonial in the shape of a sword. 

It was decided to make a naval warfare effectual in the recovery of the 
Northwestern Territory, and accordingly vessel-building began under Commo- 
dore Perry's supervision. 

The British looked upon this proceeding with derision, fully intending to 
use these boats for their own purpose. They publicly proclaimed their intention. 

By the 1st of August, 1813, Commodore Perry set sail a flotilla, the Law- 
rence and the Niagara, of twenty guns each, with smaller vessels following. 
Some difficulty was encountered in launching the larger vessels, on account of 
the shallowness of the water. 

Perry's first destination was Put-in-Bay, thirty miles from Maiden, where 
the British fleet lay under the guns of the fort. On the 10th of September, 
the British fleet — exceeding the American by ten guns — under Commodore 
Barclay, appeared off Put-in-Bay, distant about ten miles. Perry immediately 
set sail. The wind shifting, the Americans had the advantage. 

Perry hoisted the Union Jack. A general preparation was made for the 
conflict. An ominous silence settled over all as the fleets approached. A 
bugle sounded on the enemy's ship Detroit, and a furious fire was opened upon 



126 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

the Lawrence. The frightful and desperate battle that ensued is so familiar 
that it is not necessary for us to repeat its details. It forever remains in his- 
tory as a prominent, desperate struggle that turned the tide most decisively in 
favor of the Americans. Hand to hand, for three hours, this furious struggle 
surged, resulting in a pronounced victory for the Americans. 

Commodore Perry immediately requested parole for his severely wounded 
antagonist, Commodore Barclay. Capt. Elliott was at this engagement highly 
commended by Perry for his bravery. 

Gen. Harrison now made preparations to follow Proctor, and reached Mai- 
den on the 27th of September. 

Proctor had retreated to Sandwich, and thence Harrison followed him, 
overtaking the enemy on the 9th of October, on the bank of the Thames. An 
engagement ensued, which was not particularly marked in its events, but which 
practically terminated the war in the Northwest. 

Tecumseh fell during this battle, and his death disheartened the savages to 
such an extent that they were willing to make terms of peace. Accordingly 
a treaty was concluded on the 22d of July, 1814, with the Wyandots, Dela- 
wares, Shawnees, Senecas and Miamis, the tribes engaged in hostilities. 

Again Ohio was able to turn her attention to the improvements within her 
own boundaries. Weary and disabled though she was, her ambition and 
energy were unimpaired. The struggle had been severe, but a grand reward 
had been won, and peace and independence belonged to these sturdy, earnest, 
pioneers. 

In 1815, a town was founded near Fort Meigs, and, in 1816, Gen. John 
E. Hunt and Judge Robert A. Forsythe located at Maumee. 

BANKING. 

Up to the year 1817, Ohio had no banking system, and on the 28th of 
January of that year, the United States Bank opened a branch at Cincinnati, 
and yet another during the following October at Chillicothe. These branches 
found a large amount of business to transact, and while being of assistance in 
various ways to the State, also received a fine revenue themselves. The State 
therefore resolved upon a tax levy, and, in 1819, the branches were to pay 
$50,000 each, and the State Auditor was authorized to issue his warrant for 
the collection of the same. 

The bank branches demurred, but the State was decided, and the banks 
accordingly filed a bill in chancery, in the United States Circuit Court, setting 
forth reasons whereby their prayer that Ralph Osborn, State Auditor, should 
be restrained from making such collection, should be seriously considered. 

Osborn being counseled not to appear on the day designated in the" writ, an 
injunction was obtained, with the security given in the shape of bonds from the 
bank, to the amount of $100,000. On the. 14th of September, the bank sent a 
commissioner to Columbus, who served upon the Auditor a copy of the petition 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 127 

for the injunction, and a subpoena to make an appearance before the court 
on the first Monday in the following January. Osborn submitted both the 
petition and the injunction to the Secretary of State, with his warrant for col- 
lecting the tax. Legally, the matter was somewhat complicated. 

The Auditor desired the Secretary of State to take legal advice, and if the 
papers did not actually amount to an injunction, to give orders for the execu- 
tion of the warrant. 

The decision was that the papers did not equal a valid injunction. The State 
writ for collection was therefore given over to John L. Harper, with directions 
to enter the banking-house and demand the payment of the tax. In case of a 
refusal, the vault was to be entered and a levy made upon the amount required. 
No violence was to be used, and if force was used to deter the act, the 
same was to be reported to a proper magistrate and an affidavit made to that 
fact. 

On September 17, Mr. Harper went about his errand, taking with him T. 
Orr and J. MacCollister. After securing access to the vault, a demand was 
made for the payment of the tax. This was promptly refused, and a notice 
given of the granting of the injunction. This was disregarded, and the officer 
seized $98,000 in gold, silver and notes. This was placed in charge of the 
State Treasurer, Mr. H. M. Curry. 

The officers were arrested and imprisoned by the United States Circuit 
Court, and the money returned to the bank. The case was reviewed by 
the Supreme Court, and the measures of the Circuit Court were sustained. The 
State, therefore, submitted. In the mean time, the Legislature had prepared 
and passed a resolution, as follows: 

Resolved, by the General Assembly of the State of Ohio, That in respect to the powers of the 
Governments of the several States that compose the American Union, and the powers of the Fed- 
eral Government, this General Assembly do recognize and approve the doctrines asserted by the 
Legislatures of Kentucky and Virginia in their resolutions of November and December, 1798, 
and January, 1800, and do consider their principles have been recognized and adopted by a 
majority of the American people. 

Resolved further, That this General Assembly do assert and will maintain by all legal and 
constitutional means, the rights of States to tax the business and property of any private corpo- 
ration of trade, incorporated by the Congress of the United States, and located to transact its 
corporate business within any State. 

Resolved further, That the bank of the United States is a private corporation of trade, the 
capital and business of which may be legally taxed in any State where they may be found. 

Resolved further, That the General Assembly do protest against the doctrines that the politi- 
cal rights of the separate States that compose the American Union and their powers as sovereign 
States, may be settled and determined in the Supreme Court of the United States, so as to con- 
clude and bind them in cases contrived between individuals, and where they are, no one of them, 
parties direct. 

The bank was thus debarred from the aid of State laws in the collection of 
its dues and in the protection of its rights. An attempt was made to effect a 
change in the Federal constitution, which would take the case out of the 
United States Courts. This, however, proved ineffectual. 



128 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

The banking system in Ohio has, by reason of State surveillance, not been 
subjected to those whirlwind speculations and questionable failures which have 
marked many Western States, in the establishment of a firm basis upon which 
a banking law could be sustained, with mutual benefit to the institution and the 
people. 

THE CANAL SYSTEM. 

In the first part of 1817, the Legislature considered a resolution relating 
to a canal between Lake Erie and the Ohio River. No action was taken and 
the subject was not again agitated until 1819. Gov. Brown appointed three 
commissioners in 1820, for the purpose of employing an efficient engineer and 
such assistants as he deemed necessary, for the purpose of surveying a practical 
route for this canal. The commissioners were restricted in their actions until 
Congress should accept a proposition in behalf of the State, for a donation and 
sale of the public lands lying upon and near the route of the proposed canal. 
A delay was thus occasioned for two years. 

In 1822, the matter was referred to a committee of the House of Repre- 
sentatives. This committee approved and recommended the employment of the 
engineer. They furthermore added illustrations to prove the feasibility of the 
project. 

James Geddes, a skillful engineer of New York, was in due time appointed 
to the position and instructed to make the necessary examinations and sur- 
veys. 

The surveys were made, and estimates given of the expenses, which docu- 
ments were laid before the Legislature at several sessions. 

In 1825, an act was passed providing for the internal improvement of the 
State by navigable canals. Directly thereafter, the State set vigorously about 
the work of constructing two canals, one leading from the Ohio to Lake Erie, 
by way of the valleys of the Scioto and Muskingum, the other from Cincinnati 
to Dayton. 

The first canal-boat from Cincinnati to Dayton, reached her destination in 
1829, on the 25th of January. This outlet of communication was extended 
to Lake Erie, and was completed in 1845. The largest artificial lake now 
known is on the elevation between the Ohio and the lake, in Mercer County, 
and supplies the St. Mary's feeder of the Miami Canal, about three miles dis- 
tant, eastwardly. This reservoir is about nine miles long, and from two to 
four broad. 

Two walls of earth, from ten to twenty feet high, were formed, on the east 
and west, which united with the elevations north and south, surrounded this 
basin. When the water was admitted, whole farms were submerged, and the 
"neighbors" complained lest this overflow should tempt miasma. So great 
was the excitement, that over one hundred and fifty residents of the county 
united, and with shovels and spades, made a breach in the embankment. 
Many holding prominent positions in the county were engaged in this work, 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 129 

and all laid themselves liable to the State laws, which made the despoiling of 
public works a penitentiary offense. 

The matter was taken up by the courts, but a grand jury could not be 
found in Mercer County to find a bill of indictment. 

The officers who had charge of the work, ignored the law requiring the cut- 
ing and saving of the timber on lands appropriated, for canal reservoirs. The 
trees were ruthlessly girdled, and thousands of acres of valuable timber that 
might have been highly desirable in the building of bridges, etc., were 
destroyed. However, an adjustment was finally effected, and the work was 
prosecuted with the entire approbation of the people, who were convinced that 
convenient transportation was to be desired. 

OHIO LAND TRACTS. 

After the Indians relinquished all claims against the lands of those States 
west of the Alleghanies, as they had been obtained by conquest, the United 
States, as a government, owned the soil. When Ohio was admitted into the 
Union, a stipulation was made that the fee simple to all the lands within its 
boundaries, with the exception of those previously sold or granted, should vest 
in the General Government. At the present writing, but few tracts remain 
that can be called " public lands." In this, as in other States, tracts are des- 
ignated by their pioneer signification or the purpose to which they were origi- 
nally devoted. In Ohio, these tracts are known as : 



1. 


Congress Lands. 


8. 


Symmes' Purchase. 


15. 


Maumee Road. 


o 


United States Military. 


9. 


Refugee Tract. 


16. 


School Lands. 


3 


Virginia Military. 


10. 


French Grant. 


17. 


College Lands. 


1. 


Western Reserve. 


11 


Dohrman's Grant. 


18. 


Ministerial Lands. 


5. 


Fire Lands. 


12. 


Zane's Grant. 


19. 


Moravian Lands. 


6. 


Ohio Company's Purchase. 


13. 


Canal Lands. 


20. 


Salt Sections. 


7. 


Donation Tract. 


14. 


Turnpike Lands. 







The lands sold by the direct officers of the Government, under the direc- 
tion of Congress, according to the laws, are known as Congress lands. They 
are properly surveyed, and laid out in townships six miles square, under the 
direction of the Government, and the expense incurred settled by Congress. 
These townships are subdivided into sections, containing 640 acres. One sec- 
tion is reserved, in every township, for educational purposes, to be utilized in 
any manner approved by the State as being the best to aid the cause for which 
they are assigned. 

The Western Reserve will be remembered as the tract originally belonging to 
Connecticut. It lies in the northeast quarter of the State. A half-million acres 
were donated by the old Eastern State, when her claim was in force, to sufferers 
from fire during the Revolutionary war, which created the name, " fire lands." 
Many settled here whose homes were destroyed by the British during the war. 

It will be remembered, that on account of discoveries by subjects of empires, 
in the New World, the " Old World " kings laid claim to different portions 



130 . HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

of the young continent. At that period, European knowledge of American 
geographical positions and limits was exceedingly meager, which occasioned 
several wars and more discussions. These Old- World sovereigns also assumed 
the authority to sell or present tracts of land to their subjects, in those terri- 
tories they deemed their own. 

King Charles II of England granted to his loyal subjects the colony of 
Connecticut, in 1662, placing with them a charter of right to all lands within 
certain prescribed boundaries. But these " boundaries " frequently conflicted 
with those of others, and sometimes extended to the Pacific Ocean, or " South 
Sea," as it was then termed. Connecticut, by her original charter rights, held 
all lands between the forty -first and forty-second parallels of north latitude, and 
from Providence Plantation on the east, to Pacific Ocean on the west, except- 
ing the New York and Pennsylvania colonies. As late as the establishment of 
the United States as an independent government, those colliding claims fre- 
quently engendered confusion and warm discussion between the nation and 
Connecticut, regarding the original colony claim. This was compromised by 
the national claims being relinquished in regard to the territorial claim in Ohio, 
and Connecticut holding the 3,800,000 acres described as the " Western Reser- 
vation." The Government held the right of jurisdiction. 

In 1796, Congress set aside a certain division of land, to satisfy the claims 
of officers and soldiers of the Revolutionary war. It includes the 2,500,000 
acres between the Greenville treaty line and the Congress and refugee lands, 
and " VII ranges of townships," on the east, and the Scioto River, west. This 
constitutes the " Military Tract." The " Virginia Military Tract " lies between 
the Scioto and Little Miami Rivers, and extends south to the Ohio. 

James I, in his authorized charter to the Virginia colony, in the year 
1609, made rather visionary boundary lines, sweeping over the continent, west 
of the Ohio River, " of the north and south breadth of Virginia." Virginia 
reconciled the matter by relinquishing all her claims northwest of the Ohio 
River, with the exception of a tract for the purpose of donating the same to her 
troops of the Revolution — their claims demanding such a return in some section. 
Unfortunately, this tract was not regularly surveyed, and conflicting "lines " 
have given rise to litigation ever since that stipulation was made. 

The Ohio Company's Purchase has already been described — as has the 
Symmes Purchase. 

The Refugee Tract covers an area of 100,000 acres, extending eastwardly 
from the Scioto River forty-eight miles, in a strip of country four and one-half 
miles broad, north to south. Columbus, the capital of the State, is situated in 
the western portion. This land was donated by Congress to those individuals 
who left the British dominions and rule, during the Revolution, and espoused 
the American cause. 

The French Tract borders on the Ohio River, in the southeastern quarter 
of Scioto County. It includes 24,000 acres, and was ceded to those French 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 131 

families that lost their claims at Gallipolis, through invalid titles ; 1,200 acres 
were added, after the above grant of 1795. 

Dohrman's Grant includes a section, six miles square, in the southeastern 
portion of Tuscarawas County. It was granted to Arnold Henry Dohrman, a 
Portuguese merchant, as a token of appreciation of the aid and shelter he ren- 
dered American cruisers and vessels of war, during the Revolution. 

The Moravian Lands were originally grants by the old Continental Con- 
gress, in 1787, and confirmed by the act of the Government Congress, in 1796, 
to the Moravian Brethren, of Bethlehem, Penn., in sacred trust, and for the 
use of those Indians who embraced Christianity and civilization, desiring to live 
and settle thereon. These three tracts include 4,000 acres each, and are situ- 
ated in Tuscarawas County. In 1823, the Indians relinquished their rights to 
the 12,000 acres in this county, for 24,000 acres, in a territory designated by 
the United States, together with an annuity of $400. 

Zane's Tracts included a portion of land on the Muskingum, whereon Zanes- 
ville was built ; another at the crossing of the Hocking, on which Lancaster is 
located ; and yet another on the left bank of the Scioto River, opposite Chilli- 
cothe. These grants were made to Ebenezer Zane, by Congress, in 1796, as a 
reward for opening a road from Wheeling, Va., to Maysville, Ky. In 1802, 
Mr. Zane received three additional tracts, one square mile each, in considera- 
tion of being captured and held a prisoner, during the Revolutionary war, 
when a boy, by thie Indians. He lived with these people most of his life, secur- 
ing many benefits for the Americans. These tracts are located in Champaign 
County. 

The Maumee Road Lands extend the length of the road, from the Maumee 
River, at Perrysburg, to the western limits of the Western Reserve, a distance 
of forty-six miles — in a strip two miles wide. This includes about 60,000 
acres. These lands were ceded by the Indians, at the treaty of Brownstown, in 
1808. The original intention of Congress was to mark a highway through this 
strip, but no definite action was taken until 1823, when the land was ceded to 
the State of Ohio, under an obligation that the State make and sustain the pro- 
jected road, within four years after the transfer. 

The Turnpike Lands extended over 31,360 acres along the western side of 
the Columbus & Sandusky Turnpike, in the eastern parts of Seneca, Craw- 
ford and Marion Counties. They were designed for the transportation of mail 
stages, troops and other United States property, free from toll. The grant was 
made in 1827. 

" The Ohio Canal Lands " comprise about 1,000,000 acres, set aside for the 
purpose of canal construction. 

When Ohio was admitted to the Union, a guarantee was given that the State 
should not tax Government lands until they should have been sold for five years. 
That the thirty-sixth part of all territory within the State limits should be de- 
voted to educational purposes, for the" general benefit of the population. In 



132 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

order to secure tracts which would prove available, and thus insure returns, 
they were selected in small lots. No. 16 was designated as the sectional portion, 
in each township of Congress lands, the Ohio Company's and Symmes Pur- 
chases, the United States Military Lands, the Connecticut Reserve, and a num- 
ber of quarter townships. These school lands were selected by the Secretary 
of the Treasury. 

The college townships are thirty-six miles square. A section, thirty-six 
miles square, in the center of Jackson County, in the vicinity and containing 
the Scioto Salt Licks, was also reserved by Congress, together with a quarter- 
mile township in Delaware County. This swept over 27,040 acres. In 1824, 
Congress authorized the State to sell these lands. The proceeds were to be 
devoted to literary requirements, such as might be specified by Congress. 

IMPROVEMENTS. 

We have heretofore briefly alluded to the canal system of Ohio, which in 
the beginning caused considerable anxiety to settlers directly in the course of 
its survey. The Legislature passed the " Internal Improvement by Navigable 
Canals " act, in 1825, and the work was immediately inaugurated and hastened. 
The " Ohio Canal " extends from the lake to the Ohio, and the " Miami " con- 
nects Cincinnati with Dayton. The latter was completed to Toledo in 1844, a 
length of 493 miles. Its total cost, including reservoir cutting and feeders, was 
$7,500,000. The Ohio Canal was finished in 1833. 

During the construction of these canals, the curiosities which have attracted 
antiquarians and scientists, in the State of Ohio, were found in various places. 
Relics were discovered that must have belonged to a giant race. Nearly 3,000 
graves were found, of the " mound type." 

A third canal was begun in 1836, reaching from Walhonding, in Coshocton 
County, to Roscoe, its length being twenty-five miles, involving an expense of 
$610,000. This was completed in 1842. The Hocking Canal, between Car- 
roll, in Fairfield County, and Athens, in Athens County, a distance of fifty- 
six miles, was also cut, about the same time, at a cost of nearly $1,000,000. 

The Muskingum improvements were also being carried forward. Locks and 
dams were requisite for the perfection of navigation in this water-course, from 
Dresden to Marietta, a distance of ninety-one miles. This added an expense 
of $1,630,000 to the call for improvement appropriations. To the Miami Canal 
was added a feeder, known as the Warren County Canal — extending from 
Franklin to Lebanon, which was not completed, although over $250,000 were 
expended in its construction as far as it went. 

Railway transportation was a subject which engrossed the attention of those in- 
terested in State perpetuity and general prosperity. About the year 1831, the Leg- 
islature received applications for railway charters. The first one granted was the 
" Cincinnati, Sandusky & Cleveland Railroad," on June 5, 1832. The " Sandusky, 
Mansfield & Newark Railroad " obtained a charter in 1836, March 11, followed. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 135 

three days thereafter, by the " Cleveland, Columbus & Cincinnati Railroad." 
The " Little Miami " was begun in 1837. Notwithstanding these chartered 
rights, but 129 miles were completed in 1847, and in operation. In 1878, 
the mileage had increased to 6,264. The valuation of the operating roads 
was estimated the same year, at $76,113,500. Their taxation summed up 
$1,128,116. 

No State in the Union has been more zealous in her educational interests than 
Ohio. Public lands were generously granted by Congress, and the State added 
her affirmation. However, no practical and effectual system was adopted until 
1825. 

An act was then passed to tax all real property one-half mill per dollar for 
the establishment of schools in each township, and the support of the same. 
An act of 1829, increased the tax to three-fourths of a mill. Trustees of 
townships were instructed to make divisions and locate convenient school dis- 
tricts. Householders were to elect three school directors, a clerk and treasurer 
annually. Privileges and restrictions were enjoined in all cases. The house- 
holders were allowed their discretion, governed accordingly, in imposing taxes 
for the erection of school buildings. The Courts of the Common Pleas 
appointed a committee to examine the qualifications of those individuals mak- 
ing application for the position of teachers. The school extended equal privi- 
leges to all white children. Those of colored parentage were excluded, and no 
tax was levied for school purposes upon colored parents. An amendment has 
admitted the children of colored parents. The system has continued the same. 
with a few amendments. A State Commissioner of Common Schools is elected 
every third year, who has general charge of the interests of public schools. A 
State Board of Examiners, composed of three persons, appointed by the State 
Commissioner, for two years' term, is authorized to issue life certificates of high 
qualifications, to such teachers as it may find to possess the requisite scholarship, 
character, experience and ability. These certificates, signed by the Commis- 
sioner, are valid throughout the State. A County Board of Examiners, of 
three members, is formed in each county. Boards of education, for cities, are 
made up of one or two members from each ward. City Boards of Examiners 
are also appointed. Section 4 of the law of 1873, was amended in 1877. which 
made the territory annexed to an incorporated village, at the option of the 
voters of the village and tributary section, whether it be included with the vil- 
lage as one school district, or left as two school districts. Section 56 of the law was 
amended, in its bearing upon cities of 30,000 to 75,000 inhabitants, by limiting 
to five mills on the dollar of taxable property, the levies in such cities for con- 
tinuing schools, for purchasing sites for schoolhouses, for Leasing, purchasing, 
erecting and furnishing school houses, and for all school expenses. The public 
funds are subject to the discretion of voters, and boards are authorized, under 
instructions, to make the best use of such funds. Taxation is subject to the 
discretion of the State, certain limits being prescribed. 



136 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

In 1878, the number of youth of the school age numbered 1,041,963. 
On the rolls, 740,194 names were recorded. In the year 1878, .23,391 teach- 
ers were employed, receiving $4,956,514.46 for their services. 

Ohio not only sustains her public schools on a broad, liberal basis, but she 
encourages educational pursuits in superior universities and colleges throughout 
the State. These institutions are not aided by State funds, but are sustained by 
society influence, added to their self-supporting resources. Ohio also possesses 
a large number of normal schools, academies, seminaries and business colleges. 
These are not entitled to the privileges of the school fund. Scientific, profes- 
sional, theological, legal and medical instructions are in no manner limited in 
their facilities. Industrial and reformatory schools are especially thorough. 
Institutions for the instruction of the deaf and dumb, and blind, and feeble- 
minded, are under the best discipline. 

We may add, many female seminaries have been established which are entirely 
sustained by other than State aid. Ohio has, from its inception, been solid and 
vigorous in whatever tended toward improvement and enlightenment. 

We have also referred to the banking system of this State, as being first 
established on a basis through a contest between the State and the General 
Government. Authorities differ regarding the exact date and location of the 
very first house established in the State for the purpose of transacting banking 
business. It is highly probable that Marietta is more directly associated with 
that event than any other town. There are at present over one hundred and 
sixty-seven national banks, with an aggregate capital of $27,794,468. It also 
has eighteen banks of deposit, incorporated under the State banking laws of 
1845, representing an aggregate capital of $539,904. Twenty-three savings 
banks, incorporated under the State act of 1875, with an aggregate capital of 
$1,277,500. Of private banks it has 192, with an aggregate capital of 
$5,663,898. The State represents in her banking capital over $36,275,770. 
The First National of Cincinnati has a capital stock of over $1,000,000. 
The others fall below that sum, their capital diminishing from 10,000 shares of 
$100 each. The valuation for taxation is $850,000 — Merchant's National of 
Cincinnati — to the valuation of a tax of $5,000 on the First National of 
Beverly. 

BOUNDARY LINES. 

We must not omit the subject of the State boundaries. Ohio was especially 
the field for most animated discussions, relative not only to State limits but 
county lines and township rights. In 1817, a severe controversy arose, which 
was settled only after violent demonstrations and Government interference. 

In primitive times, the geographical position, extent and surface diversities 
were but meagerly comprehended. In truth, it may be asserted they could not 
have been more at variance with actual facts had they been laid out " hap- 
hazard." The ordinance of 1787 represented Lake Michigan far north of its 
real position, and even as late as 1812, its size and location had not been 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 137 

definitely ascertained. During that year, Amos Spafford addressed a clear, com- 
prehensive letter to the Governor of Ohio, on this subject, relative to the 
boundary lines of Ohio. Several lines of survey were laid out as the first 
course, but either Michigan or Ohio expressed disapproval in every case. This 
culminated in 1835, when the party beginning a "permanent" survey began 
at the northwest corner of the State, and was attacked by a force of Michigan 
settlers who sent them away badly routed and beaten. No effort was made to 
return to the work until the State and various parties had weighed the subject, 
and finally the interposition of the Government became necessary. 

A settlement resulted in Ohio being bounded on the north by Lake Erie 
and the State of Michigan, on the east by Pennsylvania and West Virginia, on 
the south by the Ohio River, and on the west by Indiana. 

It is situated between the 38° 25' and 42° north latitude, and 84° 50' 
west longitude from Greenwich, or 3° 30' and 7° 50' west from Washington. 
From north to south, it extends over 210 miles, and. from east to west 220 
miles — comprising 39,964 square miles. 

The State is generally higher than the Ohio River. In the southern 
counties, the surface is greatly diversified by the inequalities produced by the 
excavating power of the Ohio River and its tributaries. The greater portion 
of the State was originally covered with timber, although in the central and 
northwestern sections some prairies were found. The crest or watershed 
between the waters of Lake Erie and those of the Ohio is less elevated than 
in New York or Pennsylvania. Sailing upon the Ohio the country appears 
to be mountainous, bluffs rising to the height of two hundred and fifty to six 
hundred feet above the valleys. Ascending the tributaries of the Ohio, these 
precipitous hills gradually lessen until they are resolved into gentle undulations, 
and toward the sources of the river the land is low and marshy. 

Although Ohio has no inland lakes of importance, she possesses a favorable 
river system, which, aided by her canals, gives her prestige of a convenient 
water transportation. The lake on her northern boundary, and the Ohio 
River on her southern limit, afford most convenient outlets by water to impor- 
tant points. Her means of communication and transportation are superior in 
every respect, and are constantly being increased. 

ORGANIZATION OF COUNTIES AND EARLY EVENTS. 

Adams County was named in honor of John Adams, second President of 
the United States. Gov. St. Clair proclaimed it a county on July 10, 1797. 
The Virginia Military Tract included this section, and the first settlement made 
within its boundaries was in this county in 1790-91, between the Scioto and Little 
Miami, at Manchester, by Gen. Nathaniel Massie. In this town was held the 
first court of the county. 

West Union, the present county seat, was laid out by the Hon. Thomas 
Kirker. It occupies the summit of a high ridge. The surface of this county is 



138 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

hilly and broken, and the eastern part is not fertile. It produces corn, wheat, oats 
and pork. Beds of iron are found in the eastern part. Its hills are composed of 
aluminous shale. The barren hills afford a range for cattle and hogs. A sort 
of vagrant class derive a support by collecting stones, hoop-poles and tanners' 
barks from these hills. 

Ashland County is one of the finest agricultural sections. It was formed 
February 26, 1846. Wheat comprises its principal crop, although large quan- 
tities of oats, corn, potatoes, grass and fruit are raised. Ashland is its county 
seat, and was laid out by William Montgomery in 1816. It was called Union- 
town for several years. Daniel Carter raised the first cabin within the county 
limits in 1811. 

Auglaize County was formed in February, 1848, from Allen and Mercer 
Counties. Wapakoneta is its county seat. 

Allen County was formed from the Indian Territory April 1, 1820. Lima 
is its county seat. 

Ashtabula County was formed June 7, 1807, and was organized January 
22, 1811. The surface is level near the lake, while the remainder is undulat- 
ing. The soil is mostly clay. Very little wheat is raised, but considerable 
corn and oats. Butter and cheese are the main marketable productions. This 
was the first county settled on the Western Reserve, and also the earliest in 
Northern Ohio. On the 4th of July, 1796, the first surveying party arrived 
at the mouth of Conneaut Creek. Judge James Kingsbury was the first who 
wintered there with his family. He was the first man to use a sickle in the 
first wheat-field in the Western Reserve. Their child was the first born on the 
Western Reserve, and was starved to death. The first regular settlement was 
at Harpersfield, in 1798. 

Jefferson is the county seat. Ashtabula is pleasantly situated on the river, 
with a fine harbor two and a half miles from the village. 

The first church on the Western Reserve was founded at Austinburg in 
1801. 

Athens County was formed from Washington March 1, 1805. It produces 
wheat, corn, oats and tobacco. The surface is hilly and broken, with rich bot- 
tom lands between. Coal, iron ore and salt add materially to its commercial 
value. It has the advantage of the canal, as well as other transportation. 
Athens, its county seat, is situated on the Hocking River. The Ohio Uni- 
versity, the first college founded in the State, is located here. We have 
mentioned the ancient mounds found in this county, heretofore. Yellow pine is 
abundant in the lower part of the Hocking Valley. 

Brown County was formed March 1, 1818, from Adams and Clermont. It 
produces wheat, corn, rye, oats and pork. The southern part is prolific in 
grain, while the northern is adapted to grazing purposes. The surface is undu- 
lating, with the exception of the Ohio River hills. Over this county Tecumseh 
once held sway. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 139 

Georgetown is the county seat, and was laid out in 1819. Ripley is the larg- 
est business town in the county. 

Belmont County was announced by Gov. St. Clair September 7, 1801. It 
produces large crops of wheat, oats, corn and tobacco, an annual crop of over 
2,000,000 pounds of the latter being the average. It also trades largely in 
wool and coal. It is a picturesque tract of country, and was one of the 
pioneers in the early settled portions. 

In 1790, Fort Dillie was erected on the west side of the Ohio. Baker's 
Fort was a mile below the mouth of the Captina. Many desperate Indian bat- 
tles were fought within the limits of this county, and the famous Indian scout, 
Lewis Wetzel, roamed over the region. 

St. Clairsville is the county seat, situated on the elevation of land, in a fer- 
tile district. Capt. Kirkwood and Elizabeth Zane, of historic fame, were early 
pioneers here. 

Butler County was formed in 1803, from Hamilton. It is within the blue 
limestone formation, and one of the most fertile sections of Ohio. It produces 
more corn than any other county in the State, besides fine crops of wheat, 
oats and large quantities of pork. Hamilton, the county seat, is situated on the 
Great Miami. Its hydraulic works furnish superior water-power. Rossville, 
on the opposite side of the Miami, is a large mercantile town. 

St. Clair passed through this county on his Indian campaigns in 1791, 
building Fort Hamilton on the Miami. 

Champaign County was formed March 1, 1805, from Greene and Franklin. 
It is drained by Mad River and its tributaries, which furnishes extensive mill 
privileges. Nearly a half is undulating, a quarter rolling, a fifth hilly, and 
5 per cent wet prairie. The soil is fertile, and produces wheat, corn, oats, 
barley, hay, while beef and wool add to the general wealth. Urbana, the 
county seat, was laid out in 1805, by Col. William Ward. He was chief owner 
of the land and donated many lots to the county, under condition that their 
proceeds be devoted to public improvements. Joseph Vance and George 
Fithian were the first settlers. The Methodists built the first church in 1807. 
The main army of Hull concentrated at this point before setting out for Detroit. 
Many Indian councils were called here, and Tecumseh was located for a time 
near Deer Creek. 

Carroll County was formed from Columbiana in 1832-33. It produces 
wheat, oats and corn, and valuable coal and iron. The surface is hilly. Car- 
rollton is its county seat. At Harlem is a celebrated chalybeate spring. 

Clark County was formed March 1, 1817, from Champaign, Madison and 
Greene. Its second settlement was at Kreb's Station, in 1796. It is highly culti- 
vated, well watered and very fertile. The Mad River, Buck and Beaver Creeks 
furnish abundant water-power. It produces principally wheat, corn and oats. 

Tecumseh, the old Indian warrior, was born at the ancient Indian vil- 
lage of Piqua, on the Mad River, on the site of New Boston. Piqua was 



140 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

destroyed by Gen. George Rogers Clarke. Skeletons, beads, gun barrels, 
tomahawks, kettles, etc., have been found in the vicinity. 

Springfield, the county seat, is situated on the National road. It has con- 
venient transportation facilities, is handsomely laid out, and is noted for its 
cultured citizens. It is near Mad River, and Buck Creek runs through it. 

Clinton County was formed in 1810. It produces chiefly wheat, oats, 
wool and pork. Its surface is undulating, in some parts hilly, and the soil fer- 
tile. Its streams furnish desirable water-power. The county was settled in 
1798-99. Wilmington is the county seat, and was laid out in 1810. The first 
log house was built by William Hobsin. 

Clermont County was the eighth formed in the Northwest Territory, by 
proclamation of Gov. St. Clair, December 9, 1800. The soil is exceedingly 
rich, and the surface is broken and, near the Ohio, hilly. Wheat, corn, oats, 
hay, potatoes, tobacco, barley, buckwheat and rye form the main crops, while 
beef, pork, flour, hay and whisky constitute its main exports. Its streams 
furnish good water-power. Batavia, its county seat, is situated on the Little 
Miami River, and was laid out in 1820, by George Ely. 

Columbiana County was formed March 25, 1803, from Jefferson and Wash- 
ington. Its soil is very fertile, producing wheat, corn, oats and potatoes. It 
is wealthy in mineral deposits, coal, iron ore, lime and freestone being abun- 
dant. Its water-lime stone is of superior quality. Salt water is found on Yel- 
low and Beaver Creeks. This is also the great wool-producing county of 
the State. It Avas settled in 1797. New Lisbon, its county seat, is well 
built. 

The first paper-mill in Ohio was erected in this county, on Little Beaver 
Creek, by John Coulter and John Bever. 

Coshocton County Avas organized April 1, 1811. Its principal products are 
wheat, corn, oats and wool. Hills and valleys alternate along the Muskingum 
River. Abrupt changes are strongly marked — a rich alluvum being overhung 
by a red-bush hill, while directly beside it may be seen the poplar and sugar 
tree. Coal and iron ore add to its general importance, while salt wells have 
proven remunerative. 

Coshocton, the county seat, is built on four wide, natural terraces, at the 
junction of the Tuscarawas with the Walhonding. 

Cuyahoga County was formed June 7, 1807, from Geauga. Near the lake, 
the soil is sandy, while a clayey loam may be found elsewhere. The valleys 
near the streams produce wheat, barley and hay. Fruit is successfully grown, 
and cheese, butter, beef and wool are largely exported. Bog iron is found in 
the western part, and fine grindstone quarries are in operation. The sandstone 
from these quarries is now an important article of commerce. As early as 
1775, there was a French settlement within the boundaries of Cuyahoga. In 
1786, a Moravian missionary came to the present site of Cleveland, and set- 
tled in an abandoned village of the Ottawas. Circumstances prevented a 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 141 

permanent settlement, and the British tacitly took possession, even remaining 
upon the lake shores after the Revolution. 

The first permanent settlement was made at Cleveland in 1796. Mr. Job 
V. Stiles and family and Edward Paine passed the first winter there, their log 
cabin standing where the Commercial Bank is now located. Rodolphus 
Edwards and Nathaniel Doane settled here. The town was, in 1813, a depot 
of supplies and a rendezvous for troops engaged in the war. 

Cleveland, the county seat, is situated at the northern termination of the 
Ohio Canal, on the lake shore. In 1814, it was incorporated as a village, and 
in 1836, as a city. Its elevation is about a hundred feet above the lake. It 
is a lovely city, and has one of the best harbors on Lake Erie. 

Ohio City is another important town, nearly opposite Cleveland, on the 
Cuyahoga. It was incorporated in 1836. 

Crawford County was formed April 1, 1820, from the old Indian territory. 
The entire county is adapted to grazing. The soil is generally composed of 
rich vegetable loam, and in some parts the subsoil is clay mixed with lime. 
Rich beds of shell marl have been discovered. It produces wheat, corn, oats, 
clover, timothy seed, wool and cattle. Fine limestone quarries are worked with 
success. 

Bucyrus is the county seat, and was laid out February 11, 1822, by Samuel 
Norton and James Kilbourn, original owners of the land. The first settler in 
the town proper was Samuel Norton. A gas well has been dug in Bucyrus, 
on the land of R. W. Musgrove, which burns in a brilliant light when con- 
ducted to the surface by means of pipes. Crawford's Sulphur Springs are 
located nine miles from Bucyrus. The water is impregnated with sulphuretted 
hydrogen. It deposits a reddish-purple sediment. In its nature the water is a 
cathartic, and is diuretic and diaphoretic in its effects. A few rods away is a 
burning spring. The Annapolis Sulphur Spring is clear and has gained consid- 
erable fame by its curative qualities. Opposite Bucyrus is a chalybeate spring 
of tonic qualities. 

There are some beds of peat in the county, the most extensive one being a 
wet prairie called Cranberry Marsh, containing nearly 2,000 acres. 

Darke County was organized in March, 1817, from Miami County. It is 
abundantly timbered with poplar, walnut, blue ash, hickory, beech and sugar 
maple. It yields superior wheat, and is well adapted to grazing. In this 
county occurred the lamentable defeat of St. Clair, and the treaty of Greenville. 

Greenville is the county seat, and was laid out August 10, 1808, by Robert 
Gray and John Dover. In December, 1793, Wayne built Fort Greenville on 
this spot, which covered about the same extent as the present town. 

Delaware County was formed February 10, 1808, from Franklin. It pro- 
duces mainly wheat, corn, oats, pork ami wool. 

Delaware is the county sear, and was laid out in the spring of 1808, by 
Moses Byxbe. The Delaware Spring in the village is of the white sulphur or 



142 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

cold hydro-sulphurous nature, valuable for medicinal qualities in cases of bilious 
derangements, dyspepsia, scrofulous affections, etc. 

Defiance County was inaugurated March 4, 1845, from Williams, Henry 
and Paulding. The Maumee, Tiffin and Auglaize flow through it. The Black 
Swamp covers much of its area. 

Defiance, the county seat, is situated on the Maumee. It was laid out in 
1822, by B. Level and H. Phillips. A large Indian settlement occupied its 
s ite in very early times. Wayne arrived here August 8, 1794, captured the 
place, finding about one thousand acres of corn, peach and apple orchards, and 
vegetables of all varieties. Here he built Fort Defiance. 

Erie County was formed in 1838, from Huron and Sandusky. The soil is 
alluvial, and yields large crops of wheat, corn, oats and potatoes. It possesses 
inexhaustable quarries of limestone and freestone. Immense quantities of bog 
iron are also found. The Erie tribe is said to have once occupied the land, and 
were extirpated by the Iroquois. As early as 1754, the French had built set- 
tlements. In 1764, the county was besieged. Pontiac came here with warlike 
demonstrations, but made peace with the whites. Erie was included in the 
"fire lands" of the Western Reserve. 

Sandusky City is the county seat, and was laid out in 1817, then termed 
Portland. At that time it contained two log huts. The town is finely situated, 
and is based upon an inexhaustible quarry of the finest limestone. In the 
"patriot war" with the Canadians, this city was the rendezvous for the 
"patriots." 

Franklin County was formed April 30, 1803, from Ross. It contains 
much low wet land, and is better adapted to grazing than agricultural purposes. 
It was in early times occupied by the Wyandot Indians. Its first white set- 
tlement was made in 1797, by Robert Armstrong and others. Franklinton 
was laid out in 1797, by Lucas Sullivan. Worthington was settled by the 
Scioto Company in 1801. Col. Kilbourn, who was interested in the work, 
constructed the first map of Ohio during his explorations, by uniting sectional 
diagrams. 

Columbus, the capital of the State of Ohio, is also the county seat of 
Franklin County. After the organization of a State government, the capital 
was "portable" until 1816. In 1810, the sessions were held at Chillicothe, 
in 1811 and 1812 at Zanesville, removing again to Chillicothe, and, in 1816, 
being located at Columbus. The town was laid out during the spring of 1812. 
A penitentiary was erected in 1813, and the State House was built in 1814. 
It was incorporated as "the borough of Columbus," February 10, 1816. The 
city charter was granted March 3, 1834. 

It is beautifully located on the east bank of the Scioto. The Columbus 
Institute is a classical institution. A female and a theological seminary also 
add to its educational advantages. The Ohio Lunatic Asylum is also located 
here — also the Ohio Institution for the Education of the Blind. East of the 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 143 

State House is the Ohio Institution for the Education of the Deaf and 
Dumb. 

Fairfield County was formed by proclamation of Gov. St. Clair, December 
9, 1800. 

The soil is varied, being in some parts exceedingly rich, and in others very 
sterile. It produces principally wheat, corn, rye, oats, buckwheat, barley, 
potatoes and tobacco. 

Lancaster is the county seat, laid out by Ebenezer Zane in 1800. In 1797, 
he opened the road known as "Zane's Trace," from Wheeling to Limestone — 
now Maysville. It passed through Lancaster, at a fording about three hundred 
yards below the present turnpike bridge. Near the turn stands an imposing 
eminance called ' ' Standing Stone. ' ' Parties of pleasure frequently visit this spot. 

Fayette County was formed from Ross and Highland in 1810. Wheat, 
corn, cattle, hogs, sheep and wool comprise its main productions. " The bar- 
rens" are situated in the northeastern part. This tract is covered by a growth 
of grass. 

Washington is its county seat, laid out in 1810. 

Col. Stewart was active in the interests of this section, and his memory is 
sacredly revered. Jesse Milliken was prominent in public affairs. 

Fulton County, bordering on Michigan, was organized in 1850. It is 
drained by Bean Creek and other small affluents of the Maumee River. The 
surface is nearly level, and a large part of it is covered with forests of ash, 
beech, elm, hickory, white oak, black walnut, etc., furnishing excellent timber. 
The soil is fertile. Wheat, corn, oats and hay are the staple products. Wau- 
seon is the county seat. 

Guernsey County was organized in March, 1810. Wool is a staple prod- 
uct, together with beef, horses and swine. It produces wheat, corn and oats. 

Cambridge is the county seat and was laid out in June, 1806. Mr. 
Graham was the first settler on the site of the town, and his was the only 
dwelling between Lancaster and Wheeling. 

The first cannel coal found in the county was discovered near Mill's Creek. 

Greene County was formed May 1, 1803, from Hamilton and Ross. It 
produces wheat, corn, rye, grass-seed, oats, barley, sheep and swine. The 
streams furnish good water-power. There are five limestone quarries, and a 
marble quarry of variegated colors. The Shawnee town was on the Little 
Miami, and was visited by Capt. Thomas Bullit in 1773. When Daniel Boone 
was captured in 1778, he was brought to this town, and escaped the following 
year. Gen. Clarke invaded this county and the Indians reduced the town to ashes 

Xenia, the county seat, was laid off in the forest in 1803, bv Joseph C. 
Vance. The first cabin was erected in April, 1804, by John Marshall. The 
Rev. James Fowler built the first hewed-log cabin. David A. Sanders built 
the first frame house. Nine miles north of the town, on the Little Miami 
River, are the Yellow Springs, which are impregnated with sulphur. 



144 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

Geauga County was formed in 1805 from Trumbull. It exports sheep, 
cattle, butter and cheese. It is situated at the head of Chargrine, Cuyahoga and 
a part of Grand Rivers, on high ground, and is subjected to snowstorms more 
frequently than any other part of the Reserve. Its first settlement was made 
in 1798, at Burton. Chardon is fourteen miles from Lake Erie, and is 600 
feet above it. It was laid out as the county seat in 1808. 

Gallia County was formed April 30, 1803, from Washington. Its princi- 
pal crops are wheat, corn, oats and beans. The surface is generally broken. 
Its first settlement was made in 1791, by a French colony, at Gallipolis. This 
colony was sent out under the auspices of the Scioto Company. This town is 
now the county seat. 

Hamilton County was the second established in the Northwestern Territory 
by proclamation of Gov. St. Clair, January 2, 1790. Its surface is gen- 
erally rolling. It produces the ordinary farm products, and a great variety 
of fruits and vegetables for the Cincinnati market. Vineyards thrive well 
within its limits, and the manufacture of wine is carried on to a considerable 
extent. 

This county was the second settled in Ohio, and the first within the Symmes 
purchase. Settlers arrived at the spot now occupied by Cincinnati, and three 
or four log cabins were erected. Gen. Arthur St. Clair arrived here in Janu- 
ary, 1790. The army of Wayne encamped here later, at Fort Washington. 
Mr. Maxwell established in 1793 the Sentinel of the Northwestern Territory, 
the first newspaper printed north of the Ohio River. In 1796, Edward Free- 
man became its proprietor, and changed the name to Freeman s Journal. 
January 11, 1794, two keel-boats sailed from Cincinnati to Pittsburgh, making 
regular trips every four weeks. In 1801, the first sea vessel built at Mari- 
etta came down the Ohio. 

Cincinnati, the county seat, was incorporated January 2, 1802. It was char- 
tered as a city in 1819. The city is beautifully laid out and delightfully situ- 
ated. Its public buildings are elegant and substantial, including the court 
house and many literary and charitable institutions. 

The Cincinnati College was founded in 1819. It stands in the center of 
the city. It is built in Grecian-Doric style, with pilaster fronts and facade of 
Dayton marble. Woodward College is also popular. 

The Catholics have founded the St. Xavier's College. Lane Seminary, a 
theological institution, is at Walnut Hills, two miles from the center of the city. 
It lias over 10,000 volumes in its libraries. No charge is made for tuition. 
Rooms are provided and furnished at $5 per year, and board ranges from 62J 
cents to 90 cents a week. The Cincinnati Law School is connected with Cin- 
cinnati College. The Mechanics' Institute was chartered in 1828, and is in all 
respects well supplied with apparatus. A college for teachers was established in 
1831, its object being to perfect those contemplating entering that profession in 
their studies and system. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 145 

The Cincinnati Orphan Asylum is an elegant building, and has a library 
and well-organized school attached. The Catholics of the city have one male 
and female orphan asylum. The Commercial Hospital and Lunatic Asylum of 
Ohio was incorporated in 1821. 

Cincinnati is a large manufacturing city, and possesses fine water-power 
facilities. It communicates with the world by means of its canal, river, turnpikes, 
and railways. North Bend is another prominent town in this county, having 
been the residence of Gen. William H. Harrison, and the site of his burial 
place. The town was of considerable importance in the early settlement of the 
State. About thirty yards from Harrison's tomb is the grave of Judge 
Symmes. 

Hancock County was formed April 1, 1820. It produces wheat, oats, corn, 
pork and maple sugar. The surface is level and its soil is fertile. Blanchard's 
Fork waters the central and southern part of the county. Findlay, the county 
seat, was laid out by ex-Gov. Joseph Vance and Elnathan Corry, in 1821. It 
was relaid in 1829. William Vance settled there in the fall of 1821. At the 
south end of the town, are two gas wells. In the eastern part, is a mineral 
spring, and west of the bridge, is a chalybeate spring. 

Hardin County was formed April 1, 1820, from the old Indian Territory. 
It produces, principally, wheat, corn and swine. A portion of the surface is 
level, and the remainder undulating. Fort McArthur was built on the Scioto 
River, but proved a weak stockade. Kenton is the county seat, situated on the 
Scioto River, 

Harrison County was formed from Jefferson and Tuscarawas January 1, 
1814. The surface is hilly, abounding in coal and limestone. Its soil is clayey. 
It is one of the important wool-growing counties in Ohio. It produces large 
quantities of wheat, corn, oats and hay, besides a considerable number of horses, 
cattle and swine. . 

In April, 1799, Alexander Henderson and family settled in this county, and 
at the same time, Daniel Peterson and his family resided at the forks of Short 
Creek. The early settlers were much annoyed by Indians and wild beasts. 
Cadiz is the county seat, and was laid out in 1803 and 1804, by Messrs. Briggs 
and Beatty. 

Henry County was formed from the old Indian Territory, April 1, 1820. 
Indian corn, oats, potatoes, and maple sugar constitute the main products. 
The county is well supplied with running streams, and the soil is unusually rich. 

The greater portion of this county is covered by the "Black Swamp." 
Throughout this swamp are ridges of limestone, covered with black walnut, red 
elm, butternut and maple. The soil is superior for grain. Fruit thrives and 
all varieties of vegetables are produced in large quantities. Simon Girty, noto- 
rious for his wicked career, resided in this county. Girty led the attack on 
Fort Henry, in September, 1777. He demanded the surrender of the fort, 
and menaced its inmates with an Indian massacre, in case of refusal. The 



146 BISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

action began, but the fort gained the victory. He led a ferocious band of Indi- 
ans, and committed the most fiendish atrocities. 

Napoleon, the county seat, is situated on the Maumee River. 

Highland County was formed in May, 1805, from Ross, Adams and Cler- 
mont. It is a wealthy, productive county. Its wheat commands a high mar- 
ket price. The crops consist of wheat, corn, oats, maple sugar, avooI, swine 
and cattle. Its first settlement began in 1801, at New Market, by Oliver Ross, 
Robert Keeston, George W. Barrere, Bernard Weyer and others. Simon Ken- 
ton made a trace through this county in early times. Hillsboro is the 
county seat, and was laid out in 1807, by David Hays, on the land of Benja- 
min Ellicott. It is situated on the dividing ridge, between the Miami and Sci- 
oto. The Hillsboro Academy was founded in 1827. 

Hocking County was formed March 1, 1818, from Ross, Athens and Fair- 
field. Its principal products are corn, wheat, tobacco and maple sugar. Its 
surface is broken and hilly, but is level and fertile beside the streams. 

The Wyandots once occupied this tract, and built a large town herein. In 
1798, a few white families ventured to settle. Logan is its county seat, and is 
situated on the Hocking River. 

Holmes County was formed from Coshocton, Tuscarawas and Wayne, Janu- 
ary 20, 1824. It produces wheat, corn, oats, potatoes, maple sugar, swine, 
sheep and cattle. The soutliAvestern portion is broken. Thomas Butler was 
the first settler, in 1810. Millersburg is the county seat, and was laid out in 
1830. 

Huron County was organized in 1815. It produces hay, wheat, corn, oats, 
barley, buckwheat, flaxseed, potatoes, butter, cheese, wool and swine. Nor- 
walk is the county seat. 

Jackson County was organized March, 1816. The country is rich in min- 
erals and abounds in coal and iron ore. The exports are cattle, wool, swine, 
horses, lumber, millstones, tobacco and iron. Jackson, the county seat, was 
laid out in 1817. The old Scioto salt-works were among the first worked in 
Ohio by the whites. Prior to this period, the Indians came some distance to 
this section to make salt. When Daniel Boone was a prisoner, he spent some 
time at these works. 

Jefferson County was proclaimed by Gov. St. Clair July 29, 1797, and 
was the fifth county established in Ohio. It is one of the most important 
manufacturing counties in the State. Its resources in coal are also extended. 
The surface is hilly and the soil fertile, producing wheat, corn and oats. The 
old "Mingo" town was on the present farms of Jeremiah Hallock and Mr- 
Daniel Potter. The troops of Col. Williamson rendezvoused at this point, 
when they set out in their cruel Moravian campaign, and also the troops of 
Col. Crawford, when they started on the campaign against the Sandusky 
Indians. Here Logan, the powerful and manly chief of the Mingo nation, 
once resided. He took no active part in the old French war, which closed in 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 147 

1760, except that of a peacemaker. He was a stanch friend of the whites 
until the abominable and unprovoked murder of his father, brother and sister, 
which occurred in 1774, near the Yellow Creek. He then raised the battle 
cry and sought revenge. 

However, Logan was remarkably magnanimous toward prisoners who fell 
into his hands. The year 1793 was the last spent in Indian warfare in Jeffer- 
son County. 

Fort Steuben was erected on the present site of Steuben ville, the county seat, 
in 1789. It was constructed of block-houses, with palisade fences, and was dis- 
mantled during Wayne's campaign. Bezaleel Wells and Hon. James Ross laid 
the town out in 1798. It was incorporated February 14, 1805. It is situated 
upon an elevated plain. In 1814, Messrs. Wells and Dickerson built a woolen 
manufactory, and introduced merino sheep to the county. 

Knox County was formed March 1, 1808, from Fairfield. It is drained by 
the Vernon River. It produces wheat, corn, oats, tobacco, maple sugar, pota- 
toes and wool. Mount Vernon was laid out in 1805. The early settlers found 
two wells on the Vernon River, built of hammered stone, neatly laid, and near 
by was a salt-lick. Their direct origin remains a mystery. Gilman Bryant, 
in 1807, opened the first store in Mount Vernon. The court house was built 
in 1810. The Indians came to Mount Vernon in large numbers for the pur- 
pose of trading in furs and cranberries. Each Saturday, the settlers worked 
on the streets, extracting stumps and improving the highway. The first settler 
north of the place was N. M. Young, who built his cabin in 1803. Mount 
Vernon is now the county seat, beautifully situated on Vernon River. Kenyon 
College is located at Grambier. It is richly endowed with 8,000 acres, and is 
valued at $100,000. This institution was established under the auspices of 
Bishop Chase, in July, 1826, in the center of a 4,000-acre tract belonging to 
Kenyon College. It was chartered as a theological seminary. 

Lucas County is of comparatively recent origin. A large portion is covered 
by the "Black Swamp." It produces corn, wheat, potatoes and oats. This 
county is situated in the Maumee Valley, which was the great arena of histori- 
cal events. The frightful battle of Wayne's campaign, where the Indians found 
the British to be traitors, was fought near Fort Miami, in this county. Maumee 
City, the county seat, was laid out in 1817, as Maumee, by Maj. William Oliver 
and others. It is situated on the Maumee, at the head of navigation. The 
surface is 100 feet above the water level. This town, with Perrysburg, its neighbor, 
is exceedingly picturesque, and was in early times frequented by the Indian-. 
The French had a trading station at this point, in 1680, and in 1794, the Brit- 
ish Fort — Miami — was built. Toledo is on the left bank of the Maumee, and 
covers the site of a stockade fort, known as Fort Industry, erected in 1800. 
An Indian treaty was held here July 4, 1805, by which the Indians relinquished 
all rights to the " fire lands." In 1832, Capt. Samuel Allen gave an impetus 
to the place, and Maj. Stickney also became interested in its advancement. 



148 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

Speculation in lots began in 1834. The Wabash & Erie Canal interest arose in 
1836. Mr. Mason and Edward Bissel added their energies to assist the growth 
of the town. It was incorporated as a city in 1836. It was the center of the 
military operations in the " Ohio and Michigan war," known as the "boundary 
conflict." 

The Ordinance of 1787 provided for the division of the Northwestern Terri- 
tory into three or five States. The three southern were to be divided from the 
two northern by a line drawn east and west through the southern point of Lake 
Michigan, extending eastward to the Territorial line in Lake Erie. The consti- 
tution of Ohio adds a provision that if the line should not go so far north as the 
north cape of Maumee Bay, then the northern boundary of Ohio should be a 
line drawn from the southerly part of Lake Michigan to the north cape of the 
Maumee Bay. 

The line of the ordinance was impossible, according to its instructions and 
the geography of the country. 

When Michigan became a Territory, the people living between the " Fulton " 
and '• Harris " lines found it more to their wishes to be attached to Michigan. 
They occupied disputed ground, and were thus beyond the limits of absolute 
law. In 1835, the subject was greatly agitated, and J. Q. Adams made a warm 
speech before Congress against the Ohio claim. The Legislature of Ohio dis- 
cussed the matter, and an act was passed to attach the disputed section to Ohio, 
according to the constitutional decree. An active campaign opened between 
Michigan and Ohio. Gov. Lucas came out with the Ohio troops, in the spring 
of 1835, and Gov. Mason, of Michigan, followed the example. He marched 
into Toledo, robbed melon-patches and chicken-houses, crushed in the front 
door of Maj. Stickney's house, and carried him away prisoner of war. Embas- 
sadors were sent from Washington to negotiate matters — Richard Rush, of Penn- 
sylvania and Col. Howard, of Maryland. At the next session of Congress, the 
matter was settled. Samuel Vinton argued for Ohio, in the House, and Thomas 
Ewing in the Senate. Michigan received an equivalent of the large peninsula 
between Lakes Huron, Michigan and Superior. Ohio received the disputed 
strip, averaging eight miles in width. Manhattan, Waterville and Providence 
are all flourishing towns. 

Lorain County was formed from Huron, Cuyahoga and Medina, on Decem- 
ber 26, 1822. The soil is generally fertile, and the surface level. Wheat, 
grass, oats, corn, rye and potatoes constitute the principal crops. Bog-iron ore 
is found in large quantities. A curious relic has been found in this county, bear- 
ing the date of 1533. Elyria is the county seat, and was laid out in 1817. 
The first settler was Mr. Heman Ely. Oberlin is situated about eight miles 
southwest of Elyria. The Oberlin Collegiate Institute has attained a wide 
celebrity. 

Logan County was formed March 1, 1817. The surface is broken and hilly 
near the Mad River, but is generally level. The soil is fertile, producing 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO 149 

wheat, corn, rye, oats, clover, flax and timothy seed. The Shawnee Indians 
were located here, and built several villages on the Mad River. These towns 
were destroyed in 1786, by a body of Kentuckians, under Gen. Benjamin 
Logan. The whites surprised the towns. However, they returned after 'the 
work of destruction had been completed, and for many years frequented the 
section. On the site of Zanes field was a Wyandot village. By the treaty of 
September 29, 1817, the Senecas and Shawnees held a reservation around 
Lewistown. April 6, 1832, they vacated this right and removed west. Isaac 
Zane was born about the year 1753, and was, while a boy, captured and after- 
ward adopted by the Wyandots. Attaining the age of manhood, he had no 
desire to return to his people. He married a Wyandot woman, who was half 
French. After the treaty of Greenville, he bought 1,800 acres on the site of 
Zanesville, where he lived until the year 1816, when he died, lamented by all 

his friends. 

Logan County was settled about the year 1806. During the war of 1812, 
it was a rendezvous for friendly Indians. Bellefontaine, the county seat, was 
laid out March 18, 1820, on land owned by John Tulles and William Powell. 
Joseph Gordon built a cabin, and Anthony Ballard erected the first frame 

dwelling. 

Gen. Simon Kenton is buried at the head of Mad River, five miles from 
Bellefontaine. He died April 29, 1836, aged eighty-one years and twenty-six 
days. This remarkable man came West, to Kentucky, in 1771. He probably 
encountered more thrilling escapes than any other man of his time. In 1778, 
he was captured and suffered extreme cruelties, and was ransomed by the British. 
He soon recovered his robust health, and escaped from Detroit the following 
spring. He settled in Urbana in 1802. He was elected Brigadier General of 
the militia, and in the war of 1812, joined Gen. Harrison's army. In the year 
1820, he removed to Mad River. Gen. Vance and Judge Burnet secured him 
a pension, of $20 per month 

Licking County was formed from Fairfield March 1, 1808. The surface is 
generally level, diversified by slight hills in the eastern portion. The soil is 
fertile, producing wheat, corn, oats and grass. Coal and iron ore of good 
quality add to the wealth of the county. Wool and dairy productions are also 
staples. Newark is the county seat, and is situated at the confluence of the 
three principal branches of the Licking. It was laid out by Gen. William C. 
Schenk, George W. Burnet and John M. Cummings, who owned this military 
section of 4,000 acres, in 1801. In 1802, Samuel Elliott and Samuel Parr 
built hewed-log houses. The picturesque "Narrows of the Licking" are in 
the eastern part of the county, which have elicited general praise from scenic 

hunters. 

Lawrence County was organized March 1, 1816. There are many high 
and abrupt hills in this section, which abound in sand or freestone. It is rich 
in minerals, and the most important section of Ohio for iron manufacture. 



150 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

Coal is abundant, and white clay exists in the western part suitable for pot- 
tery purposes. Agricultural productions are not extensive. 

The county was settled in 1797 by the Dutch and Irish. The iron region 
extends through the west part of this county. Lawrence County produces a 
superior quality of iron, highly esteemed for castings, and is equal to Scotch 
pig for furnace purposes. Burlington is the county seat. 

Lake County was formed from Geauga and Cuyahoga March 6, 1840. The 
soil is good and the surface rolling. It produces wheat, corn, oats, buckwheat, 
barley, hay and potatoes. Dairy products, cattle and wool are also staples. 
Its fruits — apples, peaches, pears, plums and grapes are highly prized. A* 
early as 1799, a settlement was formed at Mentor. Painesville, the county 
seat, is situated on Grand River, in a beautiful valley. The Painesville Acad- 
emy is a classical institution for the education of both sexes. Near the town 
is the Geauga furnace. Painesville was laid out by Henry Champion in 1805. 
At Fairport, the first warehouse in this section, and probably the first on the 
lake, was built by Abraham Skinner in 1803. This town has a fine harbor, 
and has a light-house and beacon. Kirtlancl, southwest from Painesville, was, 
in 1834, the headquarters of the Mormons. At that time, they numbered 
about three thousand. The old Mormon temple is of rough stone, plastered 
over, colored blue, and marked to imitate regular courses of masonry. As is 
well known, the Mormons derive their name from the book of Mormon, said to 
have been translated from gold plates found in a hill in Palmyra, N. Y. 

Madison County was organized in March, 1810. The surface is generally 
level. It produces grass, corn, oats and cattle — the latter forming a chief 
staple, while wool and pork add to the general wealth. 

Jonathan Alder was much interested in the settlement of the county. He, 
like some other whites, had lived with the Indians many years, and had formed 
a lasting affection for them, and had married a squaw, with whom he became 
dissatisfied, which caused him to desire finding his own family. He suc- 
ceeded in this through the assistance of John Moore. He left his wife and 
joined his people. 

This county was first settled in 1795. Benjamin Springer made a clearing 
and built a cabin. He settled near Alder, and taught him the English lan- 
guage. Mr. Joshua Ewing brought four sheep to this place, and the Indians 
exhibited great astonishment over these strange animals. When the hostilities 
of 1812 began, the British offered inducements to the Indians to join them, and 
they consulted Alder regarding the best policy to adopt. He advised them to 
preserve neutrality until a later period, which they did, and eventually became 
firm friends of the Americans. 

London is the county seat, and was laid out in 1810-11, by Patrick McLene. 

Marion County was organized March 1, 1824. The soil is fertile, and pro- 
duces extensive farm crops. The Delaware Indians once held a reservation 
here, and conceded their claims in 1829, August 3, and removed west of the 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 153 

Mississippi. Marion, the county seat> was laid out in 1821, by Eber Baker 
and Alexander Holmes. Gen. Harrison marched through this section during 
his campaign. 

Mahoning County was formed in 1846, from Trumbull and Columbiana. 
The surface is rolling and the soil generally fertile. The finer qualities of wood 
are produced here. Bituminous coal and iron are found in large quantities. 
Col. James Hillman came to the Western Reserve in 1786. The settlement 
of the county went forward. Canfield is the county seat. 

Medina County was formed from the Western Reserve February 12, 1812. 
The surface is rolling and the soil is fertile, producing fine agricultural prod- 
ucts. The first trail made through the county was made by George Poe, 
Joseph H. Larwell and Roswell M. Mason. The first settlement was made 
by Joseph Harris in 1811. He was soon joined by the Burr brothers. Me- 
dina is the county seat. 

Meigs County was formed from Gallia and Athens April 1, 1819. The 
general character of the soil is clayey, producing large quantities of wheat, oats, 
corn, hay and potatoes. Vast quantities of salt are made and exported. Pom- 
eroy, the county seat, is situated under a lofty hill, surrounded by picturesque 
scenery. Mr. Nathaniel Clark was the first settler of the county. He arrived in 
1816. The first coal mine opened in Pomeroy was in 1819, by David Bradshaw. 

Mercer County was formed from the Indian Territory in 1820. The sur- 
face is generally flat, and while covered with forests, inclined to be wet ; but, 
being cleared, it is very fertile, and adapted to producing farm crops. St. 
Clair's Battle was fought on the boundary line between this and Darke County. 
The Hon. Lewis Cass and Duncan McArthur made a treaty at St. Mary's with 
the Wyandots, Shawnees and Ottawas, in 1818. The odious Simon Girty lived 
at one time at St. Mary's. Wayne built St. Mary's Fort, on the west bank of 
the river. John Whistler was the last commander of the fort. The largest 
artificial lake in the world, so it is asserted, is formed by the reservoir sup- 
plying the St. Mary's feeder of the Miami Extension Canal. It is about nine 
miles long, and from two to four broad. Celina is the county seat. 

Miami County was formed January 16, 1807, from Montgomery. It abounds 
in excellent limestone, and possesses remarkable water-power facilities. Its agri- 
cultural products rank highly in quality and quantity. John Knoop came into this 
section about the year 1797, and its first settlement began about this time. Troy, 
the county seat, is situated upon the Great Miami. Piqua is another lovely 
town. The Miami River affords delightful scenery at this point. 

Monroe County was formed January 29, 1813, from Belmont, Washington, 
and Guernsey. A portion of its surface is abrupt and hilly. Large quantities 
of tobacco are raised, and much pork is exported. Wheat and corn grow well 
in the western portion. Iron ore and coal abound. The valleys of the streams 
are very narrow, bounded by rough hills. In some places are natural rock 
grottoes.. The first settlement was made in 1799, near the mouth of the Sunfish. 



154 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

At this time, wolves were numerous, and caused much alarm. Volney entered 
this county, but was not prepossessed in its favor. One township is settled by 
the Swiss, who are educated and refined. Woodsfield is the county seat. 

Montgomery County was formed from Ross and Hamilton May 1, 1803. 
The soil is fertile, and its agricultural products are most excellent. Quarries of 
grayish-white limestone are found east of the Miami. 

Dayton is the county seat, situated on the Great Miami, at the mouth of Mad 
River. A company was formed in 1788, but Indian wars prevented settlement. 
After Wayne's treaty, in 1795, a new company was formed. It advanced 
rapidly between the years 1812 and 1820. The beginning of the Miami Canal 
renewed its prosperity, in 1827. The first canal-boat from Cincinnati arrived 
at Dayton on the 25th of January, 1829. The first one arrived from Lake 
Erie in June, 1845. Col. Robert Patterson came to Dayton in 1804. At one 
time, he owned Lexington, Ky., and about one third of Cincinnati. 

Morgan County was organized in 1818, March 1. The surface is hilly and 
the soil strong and fertile, producing wheat, corn, oats and tobacco. Pork is a 
prolific product, and considerable salt is made. The first settlement was made 
in 1790, on the Muskingum. McConnelsville is the county seat. Mr. Ayres 
made the first attempt to produce salt, in 1817. This has developed into a 
large industry. 

Morrow County was organized in 1848. It is drained by the Vernon 
River, which rises in it, by the East Branch of the Olontangy or Whetstone 
River, and by Walnut Creek. The surface is undulating, the soil fertile. 
The staple products are corn, wheat, oats, hay, wool and butter. The sugar 
maple abounds in the forests, and sandstone or freestone in the quarries. 
Mount Gilead, the county seat, is situated on the East Branch of the Olen- 
tangy River. 

Muskingum County was formed from Washington and Fairfield. The sur- 
face is rolling or hilly. It produces wheat, corn, oats, potatoes, tobacco, wool 
and pork. Large quantities of bituminous coal are found. Pipe clay, buhr- 
stone or cellular quartz are also in some portions of the State. Salt is made in 
large quantities — the fine being obtained from a stratum of whitish sandstone. 
The Wyandots, Delawares, Senecas and Shawanoese Indians once inhabited this 
section. An Indian town occupied the site of Duncan's Falls. A large Shawan- 
oese town was located near Dresden. 

Zanesville is the county seat, situated opposite the mouth of the Licking. 
It was laid out in 1799, by Mr. Zane and Mr. Mclntire. This is one of the 
principal towns in the State, and is surrounded by charming scenery. 

Noble County, organized in 1851, is drained by Seneca, Duck and Wills 
Creeks. The surface is undulating, and a large part of it is covered with for- 
ests. The soil is fertile. Its staples are corn, tobacco, wheat, hay, oats and 
wool. Among its mineral resources are limestone, coal and petroleum. Near 
Caldwell, the county seat, are found iron ore, coal and salt. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 155 

Ottawa County was formed from Erie, Sandusky and Lucas, March 6, 1840, 
It is mostly within the Black Swamp, and considerable of its land is prairie and 
marsh. It was very thinly settled befere 1830. Extensive plaster beds exist 
on the peninsula, which extends into Lake Erie. It has also large limestone 
quarries, which are extensively worked. The very first trial at arms upon the 
soil of Ohio, during the war of 1812, occurred upon this peninsula. Port Clin- 
ton, the county seat, was laid out in 1827. 

Perry County was formed from Washington, Fairfield and Muskingum, 
March 1, 1817. Fine tobacco is raised in large quantities. Wheat, corn, oats, 
hay, cattle, pork and wool add to the general wealth. This county was first set- 
tled in 1801. First settler was Christian Binckley, who built the first cabin in 
the county, about five miles west of Somerset, near the present county line. 
New Lexington is now the county seat. 

Paulding County was formed from old Indian territory August 1, 1820. 
It produces corn, wheat and oats. Paulding is the county seat. 

Pickaway County was formed from Fairfield, Ross and Franklin, January 
12, 1810. The county has woodland, barren, plain and prairie. The barrens 
were covered by shrub oaks, and when cleared are adapted to the raising of corn 
and oats. The Pickaway plains are three and a half miles west of Circleville, 
and this tract is said to contain the richest land in Ohio. Here, in the olden 
times, burned the great council fires of the red man. Here the allied tribes met 
Gen. Lewis, who fought the battle of Point Pleasant. Dunmore's campaign 
was terminated on these plains. It was at the Chillicothe towns, after Dun- 
more's treaty, that Logan delivered his famous speech. Circleville, the county 
seat, is situated on the Scioto River and the Ohio Canal. It was laid out in 
1810, by Daniel Dresbach. It is situated on the site of ancient fortifications. 

Portage County was formed June 7, 1807, from Trumbull. It is a wealthy, 
thriving section. Over a thousand tons of cheese are annually produced. It 
also produces wheat, corn, oats, barley, buckwheat, rye, butter and wool. 
Ravenna is the county seat, and was originally settled by the Hon. Benjamin 
Tappen in June, 1799. In 1806, an unpleasant difficulty arose between the 
settlers and a camp of Indians in Deerfield, caused by a horse trade between a 
white man and an Indian. David Daniels settled on the site of Palmyra in 1799. 

Pike County was organized in 1815. The surface is generally hilly, which 
abound with freestone, which is exported in large quantities for building pur- 
poses. Rich bottom lands extend along the Scioto and its tributaries. John 
Noland and the three Chenoweth brothers settled on the Pee Pee prairie about 
1796. Piketown, the former county seat, was laid out about 1814. Waverly, 
the present county seat, is situated on the Scioto River. 

Preble County was formed March 1, 1808, from Montgomery and Butler. 
The soil is varied. Excellent water-power facilities are furnished. 

Eaton, the county seat, was laid out in 1806, by William Bruce, who owned 
the land. An overflowing well of strong sulphur water is near the town, while 
directly beside it is a limestone quarry. Holderman's quarry is about two 



156 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

miles distant, from which is obtained a beautifully clouded gray stone. Fort St. 
Clair was built near Eaton, in the winter of 1791-92. Gren. Harrison was an En- 
sign at the time, and commanded a guard every other night for three weeks, during 
the building. The severe battle of November 6, 1792, was fought under its very 
guns. Little Turtle, a distinguished chief of the Miamis, roamed over this county 
for a time. He was witty, brave and earnest, and, although engaged in several 
severe contests with the whites, he was inclined toward peace. But when his 
warriors cried for war he led them bravely. 

Putnam County was formed April 1, 1820, from old Indian territory. The 
soil is fertile, its principal productions being wheat, corn, potatoes and oats. 
Large quantities of pork are exported. Kalida, once the county seat, was laid 
out in 1834. Ottawa is the county seat. 

Ross County was formed August 20, 1798, by the proclamation of Gov. St. 
Clair, and was the sixth county formed in the Northwestern Territory. The 
Scioto River and Paint Creek run through it, bordered with fertile lands. 
Much water-power is obtained from the many streams watering it. The main 
crops are wheat, corn and oats. It exports cattle and hogs. 

The Rev. Robert W. Finley, in 1794, addressed a letter of inquiry to Col. 
Nathaniel Massie, as many of his associates had designed settling in the new 
State. This resulted in packing their several effects and setting out. A triv- 
ial Indian encounter was the only interruption they nv-t with on their way. 
After Wayne's treaty, Col. Massie and many of these curly explorers met 
again and formed a settlement — in 1796 — at the mouth of Paint Creek. In 
August of this year, Chillicothe was laid out by Col. Massie, in a dense forest. 
He donated lots to the early settlers. A ferry was established over the Scioto, 
and the opening of Zane's trace assisted the progress of settlement. 

Chillicothe, the county seat, is situated on the Scioto. Its site is thirty 
feet above the river. In 1800, it was the seat of the Northwestern Territorial 
Government. It was incorporated as a city in January, 1802. During the war 
of 1812, the city was a rendezvous for the United States troops. A large num- 
ber of British were at one time guarded here. Adena is a beautiful place, and 
the seat of Gov. Worthington's mansion, which was built in 1806. Near this 
is Fruit Hill, the residence of the late Gen. Mc Arthur, and latterly the home 
of his son-in-law, the Hon. William Allen. Eleven miles from Chillicothe, on 
the road to Portsmouth, is the home of the hermit of the Scioto. 

Richland was organized March 1, 1813. It produces wheat, corn, oats, hay, 
potatoes, rye, hemp and barley. It was settled about 1809, on branches of the 
Mohican. Two block-houses were built in 1812. Mansfield, the county seat, 
is charmingly situated, and was laid out in 1808, by Jacob Newman, James 
Hedges and Joseph II. Larwell. The county was at that period a vast wilder- 
ness, destitute of roads. From this year, the settlement progressed rapidly. 

Sandusky County was formed April 1, 1820, from the old Indian Territory. 
The soil is fertile, and country generally level. It mainly produces corn, wheat, 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 157 

oats, potatoes and pork. The Indians were especially delighted with this tract. 
Near Lower Sandusky lived a band of Wyandots, called the Neutral Nation. 
These two cities never failed to render refuge to any who sought their protec- 
tion. They preserved their peacemaking attributes through the Iroquois 
conflicts. Fremont, formerly called Lower Sandusky, the county seat, is 
situated at the head of navigation, on the Sandusky, on the site of the old 
reservation grant to the Indians, at the Greenville treaty council. Fort 
Stephenson was erected in August, 1813, and was gallantly defended by Col. 
Croghan. 

Summit County was formed March 3, 1840, from Medina, Portage and 
Stark. The soil is fertile and produces excellent fruit, besides large crops of 
corn, wheat, hay, oats and potatoes. Cheese and butter may be added as 
products. 

The first settlement made in the county was at Hudson, in 1800. The old 
Indian portage-path, extending through this county, between the Cuyahoga, and 
Tuscarawas Branch of the Muskingum. This was a part of the ancient boundary 
between the Six Nations and the Western Indians. Akron, the county seat, is 
situated on the portage summit. It was laid out in 1825. In 1811, Paul 
Williams and Amos and Minor Spicer settled in this vicinity. Middlebury was 
laid out in 1818, by Norton & Hart. 

Stark County was formed February 13, 1808. It is a rich agricultural 
county. It has large quantities of mineral coal, iron ore, flocks of the finest 
sheep and great water-power. Limestone and extensive beds of lime-marl exist. 
The manufacture of silk has been extensively carried on. Frederick Post, the 
first Moravian missionary in Ohio, settled here in 1761. 

Canton is the county seat, situated in the forks of the Nimishillen, a tribu- 
tary of the Muskingum. It was laid out in 1806, by Bezaleel Wells, who 
owned the land. Massillon was laid out in March, 1826, by John Duncan. 

Shelby County was formed in 1819, from Miami. The southern portion is 
undulating, arising in some places to hills. Through the north, it is a flat table- 
land. It produces wheat, corn, oats and grass. The first point of English set- 
tlement in Ohio was at the mouth of Laramie's Creek, in this county, as early 
as 1752. Fort Laramie was built in 1794, by Wayne. The first white family 
that settled in this county was that of James Thatcher, in 1804. Sidney, the 
county seat, was laid out in 1819, on the farm of Charles Starrett. 

Seneca County was formed April 1, 1820, from the old Indian territory. 
Its principal products are corn, wheat, grass, oats, potatoes and pork. 

Fort Seneca was built during the war of 1812. The Senecas owned 
40,000 acres of land on the Sandusky River, mostly in Seneca County. 
Thirty thousand acres of this land was granted to them in 1817, at the treaty 
held at the foot of the Maumee Rapids. The remaining 10,000 was granted 
the following year. These Indians ceded this tract, however, to the Govern- 
ment in 1831. It was asserted by an old chief, that this band was the remnant 



158 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

of Logan's tribe. Tiffin, the county seat, was laid out by Josiah Hedges in 
the year 1821. 

Scioto County was formed May 1, 1803. It is a good agricultural section, 
besides producing iron ore, coal and freestone. It is said that a French fort 
stood at the mouth of the old Scioto, as early as 1740. In 1785, four families 
settled where Portsmouth now stands. Thomas McDonald built the first cabin in 
the county. The ''French grant" was located in this section — a tract com- 
prising 24,000 acres. The grant was made in March, 1795. Portsmouth, the 
county seat, is located upon the Ohio. 

Trumbull County was formed in 1800. The original Connecticut Western 
Reserve was within its limits. The county is well cultivated and very wealthy. 
Coal is found in its northern portion. We have, in our previous outline, given 
a history of this section, and it is not, therefore, necessary to repeat its details. 
Warren, the county seat, is situated on the Mahoning River. It was laid out 
by Ephraim Quinby in 1801. Mr. Quinby owned the soil. His cabin was built 
here in 1799. In August, 1800, while Mr. McMahon was away from home, 
a party of drunken Indians called at the house, abused the family, struck a 
child a severe blow with a tomahawk and threatened to kill the family. Mrs. 
McMahon could not send tidings which could reach her husband before noon 
the following day. The following Sunday morning, fourteen men and two 
boys armed themselves and went to the Indian camp to settle the difficulty. 
Quinby advanced alone, leaving the remainder in concealment, as he was better 
acquainted with these people, to make inquiries and ascertain their intentions. 
He did not return at once, and the party set out, marched into camp, and found 
Quinby arguing with Capt. George, the chief. Capt. George snatched his 
tomahawk and declared war, rushing forward to kill McMahon. But a bullet 
from the frontierman's gun killed him instantly, while Storey shot " Spotted 
John" at the same time. The Indians then fled. They joined the council at 
Sandusky. Quinby garrisoned his house. Fourteen days thereafter, the 
Indians returned with overtures of peace, which were, that McMahon and 
Storey be taken to Sandusky, tried by Indian laws, and if found guilty, pun- 
ished by them. This could not be done. McMahon was tried by Gen. St. 
Clair, and the matter was settled. The first missionary on the Reserve was the 
Rev. Joseph Badger. 

Tuscarawas County was formed February 15, 1808, from Muskingum. It 
is well cultivated with abundant supplies of coal and iron. 

The first white settlers were Moravian missionaries, their first visits dating 
back to 1761. The first permanent settlement was made in 1798. Miss Mary 
Heckewelder, the daughter of a missionary, was born in this county April 16, 
1781. Fort Laurens was built during the Revolution. It was the scene of a 
fearful carnage. It was established in the fall of 1778, and placed under the 
command of Gen. Mcintosh. New Philadelphia is the county seat, situated on 
the Tuscarawas. It was laid out in 1804 by John Knisely. A German 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 159 

colony settled in this county in 1817, driven from their native land by religious 
dictation they could not espouse. They called themselves Separatists. They 
are a simple-minded people, strictly moral and honest. 

Union County was formed from Franklin, Delaware, Logan and Madison in 
1820. It produces corn, grass, wheat, oats, potatoes, butter and cheese. 
Extensive limestone quarries are also valuable. The Ewing brothers made the 
first white settlement in 1798. Col. James Curry, a member of the State Leg- 
islature, was the chief instigator in the progress of this section. He located 
within its limits and remained until his death, which occurred in 1834. Marys- 
ville is the county seat. 

Van Wert County was formed from the old Indian territory April 1, 1820. 
A great deal of timber is within the limits of this county, but the soil is so 
tenacious that water will not sink through it, and crops are poor during wet 
seasons. The main product is corn. Van Wert, the county seat, was founded 
by James W. Riley in 1837. An Indian town had formerly occupied its site. 
Capt. Riley was the first white man who settled in the county, arriving in 1821. 
He founded Willshire in 1822. 

Vinton County was organized in 1 850. It is drained by Raccoon and Salt 
Creeks. The surface is undulating or hilly, and is extensively covered with 
forests in which the oak, buckeye and sugar maple are found. Corn, hay, but- 
ter and wool are staple products. Bituminous coal and iron ore are found. 
McArthur is the county seat. 

Washington County was formed by proclamation of Gov. St. Clair July 27, 
1788, and was the first county founded within the limits of Ohio. The surface 
is broken with extensive tracts of level, fertile land. It was the first county 
settled in the State under the auspices of the Ohio Company. A detachment 
of United States troops, under command of Maj. John Doughty, built Fort 
Harmar in 1785, and it was the first military post established in Ohio by 
Americans, with the exception of Fort Laurens, which was erected in 1778. 
It was occupied by United States troops until 1790, when they were ordered 
to Connecticut. A company under Capt. Haskell remained. In 1785, the 
Directors of the Ohio Company began practical operations, and settlement 
went forward rapidly. Campus Martius, a stockade fort, was completed in 
1791. This formed a sturdy stronghold during the war. During the Indian 
war there was much suffering in the county. Many settlers were killed and 
captured. 

Marietta is the county seat, and the oldest town in Ohio. Marietta College 
was chartered in 1835. Herman Blannerhassett, whose unfortunate association 
with Aaron Burr proved fatal to himself, was a resident of Marietta in 1796. 
About the year 1798, he began to beautify and improve his island. 

Warren County was formed May 1, 1803, from Hamilton. The soil is 
very fertile, and considerable water-power is furnished by its streams. Mr. 
Bedell made the first settlement in 1795. Lebanon is the county seat. Henry 



160 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

Taylor settled in this vicinity in 1796. Union Village is a settlement of 
Shakers. They came here about 1805. 

Wayne County was proclaimed by Gov. St. Clair August 15, 1796, and 
was the third county in the Northwest Territory. The settlement of this sec- 
tion has already been briefly delineated. Wooster is the county seat. It was 
laid out during the fall of 1808, by John Beaver, William Henry and Joseph 
H. Larwell, owners of the land. Its site is 337 feet above Lake Erie. The 
first mill was built by Joseph Stibbs in 1809, on Apple Creek. In 1812, a 
block-house was erected in Wooster. 

Wood County was formed from the old Indian territory in 1820. The soil 
is rich, and large crops are produced. The county is situated within the Mau- 
mee Valley. It was the arena of brilliant military exploits during early times. 

BoAvling Green is the county seat. 

Williams County was formed April 1, 1820, from the old Indian territory. 
Bryan is the county seat. It was laid out in 1840. 

Wyandot County was formed February 3, 1845, from Marion, Harden, 
Hancock and Crawford. The surface is level and the soil is fertile. The 
Wyandot Indians frequented this section. It was the scene of Crawford's 
defeat, in June, 1782, and his fearful death. The treaty of 1817, Hon. Lewis- 
Cass and Hon. Duncan McArthur, United States Commissioners, granted to 
the Indians a reservation twelve miles square, the central point being Fort Ferree. 
The Delaware reserve was ceded to the United States in 1829. The Wyandots 
ceded theirs March 17, 1842. The United States Commissioner was Col. 
John Johnson, who thus made the last Indian treaty in Ohio. Every foot of 
this State was fairly purchased by treaties. The .Wyandots were exceedingly 
brave, and several of their chiefs were men of exalted moral principles. 

Upper Sandusky is the county seat, and was laid out in 1843. Gen. Har- 
rison had built Ferree on this spot during the war of 1812. Gov. Meigs, in 
1813, encamped near the river, with several thousand of the Ohio militia. 

The Indian village of Crane Town was originally called Upper Sandusky. 
The Indians transferred their town, after the death of Tarhe, to Uper Sandusky. 

GOVERNORS OF OHIO. 

The Territorial Governors we have already mentioned in the course of our 
brief review of the prominent events of the State of Ohio. After the Terri- 
tory was admitted as a State, in 1802, Edward Tiffin was elected to that position, 
and again received the same honor, in 1804 and 1806. In 1807, circumstances 
led him to resign, and Thomas Kirker, Speaker of the House, acted as Gover- 
nor, until the close of the term. 

Edward Tiffin was born in Carlisle, England, coming to this country in 
1784, at the age of eighteen. He entered the University of Pennsylvania, and 
applied himself to the study of medicine, graduating and beginning his practice 
at the age of twenty, in the State of Virginia. In 1789, he married Mary, 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 161 

daughter of Col. Worthington, and sister of Thomas Worthington, who subse- 
quently became Governor of Ohio. In his profession, Gov. Tiffin was highly- 
esteemed, and his public labors were carried forward with a zealous earnestness 
which marked his career as one of usefulness. He settled in Chillicothe, Ohio, 
in 1796, where he died, in 1829. 

Samuel Huntington, the recipient of the honor of second Governor, was 
inaugurated in 1808. He was an American by birth, Norwich, Conn, 
being his native place. He was a diligent student in Yale College, graduating 
in 1785. He removed to Cleveland, Ohio, in 1801. He attained a reputation 
for integrity, ability and rare discretion. As a scholar, he was eminently supe- 
rior. He resided in Cleveland at the time of his death, in 1817. 

Return Jonathan Meigs followed Gov. Huntington. He was born in Mid- 
dletown, Conn., in 1765. He was also a student in Yale College, graduating 
in 1785, with the highest honors. He immediately entered the study of law, 
and was admitted to practice in his twenty-third year. He married Miss Sophia 
Wright, and settled in Marietta, Ohio, in 1788. He took his seat as Gover- 
nor in 1810, and was re-elected in 1812. In 1813, President Madison appointed 
him to the position of Postmaster General, which occasioned his resignation as 
Governor. Othniel Looker, Speaker of the House, acted as Governor during 
the remainder of the term. Mr. Meigs died in 1825, leaving as a memento of 
his usefulness, a revered memory. 

Thomas Worthington, the fourth Governor, was born in Jefferson County, 
Va., in 1769. He gained an education in William and Mary's College. 
In 1788, he located at Chillicothe, and was the first Senator from the new 
State. He was also the first man to erect the first saw-mill in Ohio. He 
served two terms as Senator, from 1803 to 1815, resigning in 1814, to take his 
position as Governor. In 1816, he was re-elected. He was exceedingly active 
in paving the way for the future prosperity of Ohio. His measures were famous 
for practical worth and honesty. Chief Justice Chase designated him as " a 
gentleman of distinguished ability and great influence." He died in 1827. 

Ethan Allen Brown followed Mr. Worthington. His birthplace was on the 
shore of Long Island Sound, in Fairfield County, Conn., July 4, 1766. His 
education was derived under the most judicious instruction of a private tutor. 
In classics, he became proficient. Directly he had reached the required stand- 
ard in general education, he began the study of law, at home. After becoming 
conversant with preliminary requirements, he entered the law office of Alex- 
ander Hamilton, who at that time was a national pride, as a scholar, lawyer and 
statesman. Opportunities coming in his way, which promised a fortune, he 
abandoned the law, and achieved success and a fortune. He then decided to 
return to his study, and was admitted to practice in 1802. Thereafter, he was 
seized with an exploring enthusiasm, and with his cousin as a companion, set 
out upon a horseback tour, following the Indian trails from east to west, through 
Pennsylvania, until they reached Brownsville, on the Monongahela River. Here 



162 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

they purchased two flatboats, and fully stocking them with provisions and 
obtaining efficient crews, started for New Orleans. Reaching that city, they 
found they could not dispose of their cargoes to any advantage, and shipped the 
flour to Liverpool, England, taking passage in the same vessel. They succeeded 
in obtaining good prices for their stock, and set sail for America, arriving in Bal- 
timore nine months after first leaving " home," on this adventure. Mr. Brown's 
father decided to secure a large and valuable tract of Western land, as a per- 
manent home, and authorized his son to select and purchase the same for him. 
He found what he desired, near Rising Sun, Ind. After this, he settled in 
Cincinnati, and engaged in the practice of law, speedily achieving prominency 
and distinction. Financially, he was most fortunate. In 1810, he was elected 
Judge of the Supreme Court, which position he filled with honor, until he was 
chosen Governor, in 1818. He was re-elected in 1820. In 1821, he received 
the honor of Senator, and served one term, with the highest distinction, gain- 
ing emolument for himself and the State he represented. In 1830, he was 
appointed Minister to Brazil. He remained there four years, and returning, 
was appointed Commissioner of Public Lands, by President Jackson, holding 
this position two years. At this time, he decided to retire from public life. 
Since he never married, he was much with his relatives, at Rising Sun, Ind., 
during the latter part of his life. His death was sudden and unexpected, occur- 
ring in February, 1852, while attending a Democratic Convention, at Indianap- 
olis, Ind. He was interred near his father, at Rising Sun. 

Jeremiah Morrow, the sixth Governor of Ohio, was born at Gettysburg, 
Penn., in October, 1771. His people were of the " Scotch-Irish " class, and his 
early life .was one of manual labor upon his father's farm. During the winter, 
he had the privilege of a private school. With a view of establishing himself 
and securing a competency, he bade the old home farewell, in 1795, and set out 
for the " Far West." A flatboat carried him to a little cluster of cabins, known 
by the name of Columbia, six miles from Fort Washington — Cincinnati, He 
devoted himself to whatever came in his way, that seemed best and most worthy 
— teaching school, surveying and working on farms between times. Having 
accumulated a small capital, he ascended the Little Miami, as far as Warren 
County, and there purchased an extensive farm, and erected an excellent log 
house. In the spring of 1799, he married Miss Mary Packtrell, of Columbia. 
The young couple set out upon pioneer farming. Gaining popularity as well as 
a desirable property, he was deputized to the Territorial Legislature, which met 
at Chillicothe, at which time measures were inaugurated to call a Constitutional 
Convention, during . the following year, to organize the State of Ohio. Mr. 
Morrow was one of the Delegates to this convention, and steadfastly worked in the 
interests of those who sent him, until its close in 1802. The following year, 
he was elected to the Senate of Ohio, and in June of the same year, he was 
appointed the first Representative to the United States Congress from the new 
State. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 1,63 

Ohio was then entitled to but one Representative in Congress, and could not 
add to that number for ten years thereafter. During these years, Mr. Morrow 
represented the State. In 1813, he was sent to the United States Senate, and 
in 1822, was elected Governor of Ohio, almost unanimously, being re-elected in 
1824. It was during his administration that work was begun on the Ohio 
Canal. Mr. Morrow received the national guest, La Fayette, with an earnest 
and touching emotion, which affected the emotions of the generous Frenchman 
more profoundly than any of the elaborate receptions which paved his way 
through America. On the 4th of July, 1839, Gov. Morrow was appointed to 
lay the corner stone of the new State capitol, at Columbus, and to deliver the 
address on this occasion. Again, in 1840, he was in the House of Representa- 
tives, filling the vacancy caused by the resignation of Hon. Thomas Corwin. 
He was elected for the following term also. He died at his own homestead, in 
Warren County, March 22, 1853. 

Allen Trimble was a native of Augusta County, Va. The date of his birth 
was November 24, 1783. His ancestors were of Scotch-Irish origin, and were 
among the early settlers of Virginia. His father moved to Ohio in 1804, pur- 
chasing a tract of land in Highland County. His cabin was remarkably spa- 
cious, and elicited the admiration of his neighbors. He cleared six acres of 
land for an orchard, and brought the trees on horseback, from Kentucky. Be- 
fore this new home was completed, Allen, then a young man of twenty, took 
possession. This was in the year 1805. Four years thereafter, he occupied 
the position of Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas and Recorder of High- 
land County. He was serving in the latter capacity at the breaking out of the 
war of 1812. Naturally enthusiastic and patriotic, he engaged a competent 
person to perform his civil duties, while he went into active service as Colonel 
of a regiment he had summoned and enlisted. He was always eager to be in 
the front, and led his men with such valor that they were termed soldiers who 
did notTcnow the art of flinching. His commanding General lavished praises 
upon him. In 1816, he was in the State Senate, representing Highland 
County. He occupied the same position for four terms, two years each. In 
1818, he was Speaker of the Senate, over Gen. Robert Lucas. He remained 
in this office until elected to the United States Senate, to fill the vacancy caused 
by the death of his brother, Col. William A. Trimble. In October, 1826, he 
was elected the seventh Governor of Ohio, by an astonishing majority. The 
united vote of his three competitors was but one-sixth of the vote polled. Gov. 
Trimble was an earnest Henry Clay Whig. In 1828, he was re-elected, 
although Jackson carried the State the following November. Gov. Trimble 
was married in 1806, to Miss Margaret McDowell. Three years thereafter, 
she died, leaving two children. He was united in marriage to Miss Rachel 
Woodrow, and they lived together sixty years, when he died, at home, in Ilills- 
boro, Highland County, February 3, 1870. His wife survived him but a few 
months. 



164 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

Duncan Mc Arthur, the eighth Governor of Ohio, was born in Dutchess 
County, N. Y., in 1772. While yet a child, his parents removed to the west- 
ern part of Pennsylvania, where they entered upon the hard life of pioneers. 
While there, young Duncan had the meager advantages of a backwoods school. 
His life was a general routine until his eighteenth year, when he enlisted under 
Gen. Harmer for the Indian campaign. His conduct and bravery won worthy 
laurels, and upon the death of the commander of his company, he was elected 
to that position, although the youngest man in the company. When his days 
of service had expired, he found employment at salt-making in Maysville, Ky., 
until he was engaged as chain-bearer in Gen. Massie's survey of the Scioto 
Valley. At this time, Indian atrocities alarmed the settlers occasionally, and 
his reputation for bravery caused him to be appointed one of the three patrols 
of the Kentucky side of the Ohio, to give the alarm to scattered cabins in case 
of danger. This was during the summer of 1793. Gen. Massie again secured 
his services, this time as assistant surveyor. He was thus engaged for several 
years, during which time he assisted in platting Chillicothe. He purchased a 
large tract of land just north of town, and under his vigorous and practical 
management, it became one of the finest estates of Ohio, which reputation it 
sustains at the present time. He amassed wealth rapidly, his investments 
always being judicious. In 1805, he was elected to the State Legislature. 
He was a Colonel of an Ohio regiment, and accompanied Gen. Hull to Detroit 
in 1813. At Hull's surrender he was a prisoner, but released on parole, 
returned to Ohio in a state of indignation over his commander's stupidity. 
Soon thereafter he was sent to Congress on the Democratic ticket. Soon there- 
after he was released from parole by exchange, and, greatly rejoiced, he 
resigned his seat, entered the army as a Brigadier General under Gen. Harri- 
son, and the following year succeeded him as commander of the Northwestern 
forces. At the termination of the war, he was immediately returned to the 
State Legislature. He occupied State offices until 1822, when he was again 
sent to Congress. Serving one term, he declined re-election. In 1830, he 
was elected Governor of Ohio. When his term expired, he decided to enjoy 
life as a citizen on his farm, " Fruit Hill," and lived there in contentment until 
1840, when he died. 

Robert Lucas was another Virginian, having been born in 1781, in Jeffer- 
son County of that State. While a boy, his father liberated his slaves, moving 
to Chillicothe as one of the early settlers. He procured a proficient tutor for 
his children. Robert became an expert in mathematics and surveying. Before 
he reached his majority, he was employed as surve} r or, earning liberal compen- 
sation. At the age of twenty-three, he was appointed Surveyor of Scioto 
County. At twenty-five, he was Justice of the Peace for Union Township, 
Scioto County. He married Miss Elizabeth BroWn in 1810, who died two 
years thereafter, leaving a young daughter. In 1816, he married Miss Sum- 
ner, The same year he was elected a member of the Ohio Legislature. Tor 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 165 

nineteen consecutive years he served in the House or Senate. In 1820 and 
1828, he was chosen one of the Presidential electors of Ohio. In 1832, 
he was Chairman of the National Convention at Baltimore, which nom- 
inated Gen. Jackson as President of the United States. In 1832, he 
became Governor of Ohio, and was re-elected in 1834. He declined a third 
nomination, and was appointed by President Van Buren Territorial Governor 
of Iowa and Superintendent of Indian Affairs. On the 16th of August, 
1838, he reached Burlington, the seat of government. He remained in Iowa 
until his death, in 1853. 

Joseph Vance, the tenth Governor of Ohio, was born in Washington 
County, Penn., March 21, 1781. He was of Scotch-Irish descent, and his 
father emigrated to the new Territory when Joseph was two years of age. He 
located on the southern bank of the Ohio, building a solid block house. This 
formed a stronghold for his neighbors in case of danger. In 1801, this pioneer 
decided to remove north of the Ohio River, and eventually settled in Urbana. 
Joseph had the primitive advantages of the common schools, and became pro- 
ficient in handling those useful implements — the plow, ax and rifle. The first 
money he earned he invested in a yoke of oxen. He obtained several barrels 
of salt, and set out on a speculative tour through the settlements. He traveled 
through a wilderness, over swamps, and surmounted serious difficulties. At 
night he built a huge fire to terrify the wolves and panthers, and laid down to 
sleep beside his oxen, frequently being obliged to stand guard to protect 
them from these ferocious creatures. Occasionally he found a stream so swol- 
len that necessarily he waited hours and even days in the tangled forest, before 
he could cross. He often suffered from hunger, yet he sturdily persevered and 
sold his salt, though a lad of only fifteen years. When he attained his major- 
ity, he married Miss Mary Lemen, of Urbana. At twenty-three, he was 
elected Captain of a rifle company, and frequently led his men to the front to 
fight the Indians prior to the war of 1812. During that year, he and his 
brother piloted Hull's army through the dense forests to Fort Meigs. In 1817, 
with Samuel McCullough and Henry Van Meter, he made a contract to supply 
the Northwestern army with provisions. They drove their cattle and hogs 
many miles, dead weight being transported on sleds and in wagons. He 
engaged in mercantile business at Urbana and Fort Meigs — now Perrysburg. 

While thus employed, he was elected to the Legislature, and there remained 
four years. He then purchased a large tract of land on Blanchard's Fork, 
and laid out the town of Findlay. He was sent to Congress in 1821, and was 
a member of that body for fifteen years. In 1836, he was chosen Governor of 
Ohio. Again he was sent to Congress in 1842. While attending the Consti- 
tutional Convention in 1850, he was stricken with paralysis, and suffered 
extremely until 1852, when he died at his home in Urbana. 

Wilson Shannon was a native of Belmont County, Ohio. He was born 
during 1803. At the age of fifteen, he was sent to the university at Athens, 



166 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

where he remained a year,- and then changed to the Transylvania University, 
at Lexington, Ky. He continued his studies two years, then returning home 
and entering upon reading law. lie completed his course at St. Clairsville, 
Belmont County, and was admitted to practice. He was engaged in the courts 
of the county for eight years. In 1832, the Democrats nominated him to Con- 
gress, but he was not elected. He received the position of Prosecuting Attor- 
ney in 1834, in which position his abilities were so marked and brilliant that 
he was elected Governor by a majority of 3,600. He was re-nominated in 
1840, but Tom Corwin won the ticket. Two years thereafter, he was again 
nominated and elected. In 1843, he was appointed Minister to Mexico, by 
President Tyler, and resigned the office of Governor. When Texas was 
admitted as a State, Mexico renounced all diplomatic relations with the United 
States. Mr. Shannon returned home, and resumed the practice of law. He 
was sent to Congress in 1852. President Pierce conferred upon him the posi- 
tion of Territorial Governor of Kansas, which duty he did not perform satis- 
factorily, and was superseded after fourteen months of service. He settled in 
Lecompton, Kan., and there practiced law until his death, which occurred in 
1877. 

Thomas Corwin, the twelfth Governor of Ohio, was born in Bourbon 
County, Ky., July 29, 1794. His father settled at Lebanon in 1798. The 
country was crude, and advantages meager. When Thomas was seventeen 
years of age, the war of 1812 was inaugurated, and this young man was 
engaged to drive a wagon through the wilderness, loaded with provisions, to 
Gen. Harrison's headquarters. In 1816, he began the study of law, and 
achieved knowledge so rapidly that in 1817 he passed examination and was 
admitted to practice. He was elected Prosecuting Attorney of his county, in 
1818, which position he held until 1830. He was elected to the Legislature of 
Ohio in 1822. Again, in 1829, he was a member of the same body. He was 
sent to Congress in 1830, and continued to be re-elected for the space of ten 
years. He became Governor of Ohio in 1840. In 1845, he was elected to 
the United States Senate, where he remained until called to the cabinet of Mr. 
Fillmore, as Secretary of the Treasury. He was again sent to Congress in 
1858, and re-elected in 1860. He was appointed Minister to Mexico, by Pres- 
ident Lincoln. After his return, he practiced law in Washington, D. C , 
where he died in 1866. 

Mordecai Bartley was born in 1783, in Fayette County, Penn. There he 
remained, on his father's farm, until he was twenty-one years of age. He mar- 
ried Miss Wells in 1804, and removed to Jefferson County, Ohio, where he 
purchased a farm, near Cross Creek. At the opening of the war of 1812, he 
enlisted in a company, and was elected its Captain. He entered the field under 
Harrison. At the close of the war, he removed to Richland County, and opened 
a clearing and set up a cabin, a short distance from Mansfield. He remained 
on his farm twenty years, then removing to Mansfield, entered the mercantile 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 167 

business. In 1817, he was elected to the State Senate. He was sent to Con- 
gress in 1823, and served four terms. In 1844, he became Governor of Ohio, 
on the Whig ticket. He declined a re-nomination, preferring to retire to his 
home in Mansfield, where he died in 1870. 

William Bebb, the fourteenth Governor, was from Hamilton County, Ohio. 
He was born in 1804. His early instructions were limited, but thorough. He 
opened a school himself, when he was twenty years of age, at North Bend, 
residing in the house of Gen. Harrison. He remained thus employed a year, 
during which time he married Shuck. He very soon began the study of law, 
continuing his school. He was successful in his undertakings, and many pupils 
were sent him from the best families in Cincinnati. In 1831, he was admitted 
to practice, and opened an office in Hamilton, Butler County, remaining thus 
engaged for fourteen years. In 1845, he was elected Governor of Ohio. In 
1847, he purchased 5,000 acres of land in the Rock River country, 111., and 
removed there three years later. On the inauguration of President Lincoln, he 
was appointed Pension Examiner, at Washington, and remained in that position 
until 1866, when he returned to his Illinois farm. He died at Rockford, 111., 
in 1873. 

Seabury Ford, the fifteenth Governor of Ohio, was born in the year 1802, 
at Cheshire, Conn. His parents settled in Burton Township. He attended 
the common schools, prepared for college at an academy in Burton, and entered 
Yale College, in 1821, graduating in 1825. He then began the study of law, 
in the law office of Samuel W. Phelps, of Painesville, completing his course 
with Judge Hitchcock. He began practice in 1827, in Burton. He married 
Miss Harriet E. Cook, of Burton, in 1828. He was elected by the Whigs to 
the Legislature, in 1835, and served six sessions, during one of which he was 
Speaker of the House. He entered the State Senate in 1841, and there 
remained until 1844, when he was again elected Representative. In 1846, he 
was appointed to the Senate, and in 1848, he became Governor of Ohio. On 
the first Sunday after his retirement, he was stricken with paralysis, from which 
he never recovered. He died at his home in Burton in 1855. 

Reuben Wood, the sixteenth Governor, was a Vermonter. Born in 1792, 
in Middleton, Rutland County, he was a sturdy son of the Green Mountain 
State. He was a thorough scholar, and obtained a classical education in L T pper 
Canada. In 1812, he was drafted by the Canadian authorities to serve against 
the Americans, but being determined not to oppose his own land, he escaped 
one stormy night, accompanied by Bill Johnson, who was afterward an Ameri- 
can spy. In a birchbark canoe they attempted to cross Lake Ontario. A 
heavy storm of wind and rain set in. The night was intensely dark, and they 
were in great danger. They fortunately found refuge on a small island, where 
they were storm-bound three days, suffering from hunger and exposure. They 
reached Sacket's Harbor at last, in a deplorable condition. Here they were 
arrested as spies by the patrol boats of the American fleet. They were prisoners 



168 HISTORY' OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

four .days, when an uncle of Mr. Wood's, residing not far distant, came to 
their rescue, vouched for their loyalty, and they were released. Mr. Wood 
then went to Woodville, N. Y., where he raised a company, of which he was 
elected Captain. They marched to the northern frontier. The battles of 
Plattsburg and Lake Champlain were fought, the enemy defeated, and the com- 
pany returned to Woodville and was disbanded. 

Young Wood then entered the law office of Gen. Jonas Clark, at Middle- 
bury, Vt. He Avas married in 1816, and two years later, settled in Cleveland, 
Ohio. When he first established himself in the village, he possessed his wife, 
infant daughter and a silver quarter of a dollar. He was elected to the State 
Senate in 1825, and filled the office three consecutive terms. He was appointed 
Judge of the Court of Common Pleas. He was promoted to the Bench of the 
Supreme Court, serving there fourteen years, the latter portion of the term a.s 
Chief Justice. He was termed the "Cayuga Chief," from his tall form and 
courtly bearing. He was elected Governor in 1850, by a majority of 11,000. 
The new constitution, which went into effect in March, 1851, vacated the office 
of Governor, and he was re-elected by a majority of 26,000. The Democrats 
holding a national convention in Baltimore in 1852, party division caused fifty 
unavailing votes. The Virginia delegation offered the entire vote to Gov. 
Wood, if Ohio would bring him forward. The opposition of one man pre- 
vented this. The offer was accepted by New Hampshire, and Frank Pierce 
became President. Mr. Wood was appointed Consul to Valparaiso, South 
America, and resigned his office of Governor. He resigned his consulship and 
returned to his fine farm near Cleveland, called "Evergreen Place." He 
expected to address a Union meeting on the 5th of October, 1864, but on the 
1st he died, mourned by all who knew him. 

William Medill, the seventeenth Governor, was born in New Castle County, 
Del., in 1801. He was a graduate of Delaware College in 1825. He began 
the study of law under Judge Black, of New Castle, and was admitted to the 
bar in 1832. He removed to Lancaster, Ohio, in 1830. He was elected Rep- 
resentative from Fairfield County in 1835. He was elected to Congress in 
1838, and was re-elected in 1840. He was appointed Assistant Postmaster 
General by President Polk. During the same year, he was appointed Com- 
missioner of Indian Affairs. In 1851, he was elected Lieutenant Governor, and, 
in 1853, he became Governor. He occupied the position of First Comptroller 
of the United States Treasury in 1857, under President Buchanan, retaining the 
office until 1861, when he retired from public life. His death occurred in 
1865. 

Salmon P. Chase was a native of Cornish, N. H. He was born in 1803. 
He entered Dartmouth College in 1822, graduating in 1826. He was there- 
after successful in establishing a classical school in Washington, but finan- 
cially it did not succeed. He continued to teach the sons of Henry Clay, 
William Wirt and S. L. Southard, at the same time reading law 'when not busy 








-£ ^2^^£- 




HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 171 

as tutor. He was admitted to practice in 1829, and opened a law office in Cin- 
cinnati. He succeeded but moderately, and during his leisure hours prepared 
a new edition of the "Statutes of Ohio." He added annotations and a well- 
written sketch of the early history of the State. This was a thorough success, 
and gave the earnest worker popularity and a stepping-stone for the future. 
He was solicitor for the banks of the United States in 1884, and soon there- 
after, for the city banks. He achieved considerable distinction in 1837, in the 
case of a colored woman brought into the State by her master, and escaping 
his possession. He was thus brought out as an Abolitionist, which was further 
sustained by his defense of James G. Birney, who had suffered indictment for 
harboring a fugitive slave. In 1846, associated with William H. Seward, he 
defended Van Zandt before the Supreme Court of the United States. His 
thrilling denunciations and startling conjectures alarmed the slaveholding 
States, and subsequently led to the enactment of the fugitive-slave law of 1850. 
Mr. Chase was a member of the United States Senate in 1849, through the 
coalition of the Democrats and Free-Soilers. In 1855, he was elected Gover- 
nor of Ohio by the opponents of Pierce's administration. He was re-elected 
in 1859. President Lincoln, in 1861, tendered him the position of Secretary 
of the Treasury. To his ability and official management we are indebted for 
the present national bank system. In 1864, he was appointed Chief Justice of 
the United States. He died in the city of New York in 1873, after a useful 
career. 

William Dennison was born in Cincinnati in 1815. He gained an educa- 
tion at Miami University, graduating in 1835. He began the study of law in 
the office of the father of George H. Pendleton, and was qualified and admitted 
to the bar in 1840. The same year, he married a daughter of William Neil, 
of Columbus. The Whigs of the Franklin and Delaware District sent him to 
the State Senate, in 1848. He was President of the Exchange Bank in Cin- 
cinnati, in 1852, and was also President of Columbus & Xenia Railway. He was 
elected the nineteenth Governor of Ohio in 1859. By his promptness and 
activity at the beginning of the rebellion, Ohio was placed in the front rank of 
loyalty. At the beginning of Lincoln's second term, he was appointed Post- 
master General, retiring upon the accession of Johnson. He then made his 
home at Columbus. 

David Tod, the twentieth Governor of Ohio, was born at Youngstown, Ohio, 
in 1805. His education was principally obtained through his own exertions. 
He set about the study of law most vigorously, and was admitted to practice in 
1827. He soon acquired popularity through his ability, and consequently was 
financially successful. He purchased the Briar Hill homestead. Under Jack- 
son's administration, he was Postmaster at Warren, and held the position until 
1838, when he was elected State Senator by the Whigs of Trumbull District, by 
the Democrats. In 1844, he retired to Briar Hill, and opened the Briar Hill 
Coal Mines. He was a pioneer in the coal business of Ohio. In the Cleveland 



172 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

& Mahoning Railroad, he was largely interested, and was its President, after the 
death of Mr. Perkins. He was nominated, in 1844, for Governor, by the Dem- 
ocrats, but was defeated. In 1847, he went to Brazil as Minister, where he 
resided for four and a half years. The Emperor presented him with a special 
commendation to the President, as a testimonial of his esteem. He was also the 
recipient of an elegant silver tray, as a memorial from the resident citizens of 
Rio Janeiro. He was a delegate to the Democratic National Convention, which 
met at Charleston in 1860. He was Vice President of this Convention. He 
was an earnest advocate for Stephen A. Douglas. When the Southern members 
withdrew, the President, Caleb Cushing, going with them, the convention 
adjourned to Baltimore, when Mr. Tod assumed the chair and Douglas was nom- 
inated. He was an earnest worker in the cause, but not disheartened by its 
defeat. When Fort Sumter was fired upon, he was one of the most vigorous 
prosecutors of the war, not relaxing his active earnestness until its close. He 
donated full uniforms to Company B, of the Nineteenth Regiment, and contrib- 
uted largely to the war fund of his township. Fifty-five thousand majority 
elected him Governor in 1861. His term was burdened with war duties, 
and he carried them so bravely as Governor that the President said of him : 
" Governor Tod of Ohio aids me more and troubles me less than any other Gov- 
ernor." His death occurred at Briar Hill during the year 1868. 

John Brough was a native of Marietta, Ohio. He was born in 1811. The death 
of his father left him in precarious circumstances, which may have been a discipline 
for future usefulness. He entered a printing office, at the age of fourteen, in 
Marietta, and after serving a few months, began his studies in the Ohio Uni- 
versity, setting type mornings and evenings, to earn sufficient for support. He 
occupied the leading position in classes, and at the same time excelled as a 
type-setter. He was also admired for his athletic feats in field amusements. 
He completed his studies and began reading law, which pursuit was interrupted 
by an opportunity to edit a paper in Petersburg, Va. He returned to Marietta 
in 1831, and became editor and proprietor of a leading Democratic newspaper 
— the Washington County Republican. He achieved distinction rapidly, 
and in 1833, sold his interest, for the purpose of entering a more extended field 
of journalism. He purchased the Ohio Eagle, at Lancaster, and as its editor, 
held a deep influence over local and State politics. He occupied the position 
of Clerk of the Ohio Senate, between the years 1835 and 1838, and relinquished his 
paper. He then represented the counties of Fairfield and Hocking in the Leg- 
islature. He was then appointed Auditor of State by the General Assembly, 
in which position he served six years. He then purchased the Phcenix news- 
paper in Cincinnati, changed its name to the Enquirer, placing it in the care 
of his brother, Charles, while he opened a law office in the city. His editorials 
in the Enquirer, and his activity in political affairs, were brilliant and strong. 
He retired from politics in 1848, sold a half-interest in the Enquirer and carried 
on a prosperous business, but was brought forward again by leaders of both 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 173 

political parties in 1863, through the Vallandigham contest, and was elected 
Governor the same year, by a majority of 101,099 votes in a total of 471,643. 
He was three times married. His death occurred in 1865 — Charles Anderson 
serving; out his term. 

Jacob Dolson Cox, the twenty-second Governor, was born in 1828, in Mon- 
treal, Canada, where his parents were temporarily. He became a student of 
Oberlin College, Ohio, in 1846, graduating in 1851, and beginning the practice 
of law in Warren in 1852. He was a member of the State Senate in 1859, 
from the Trumbull and Mahoning Districts. He was termed a radical. He 
was a commissioned Brigadier General of Ohio in 1861, and, in 1862, was pro- 
moted to Major General for gallantry in battle. While in the service he was 
nominated for Governor, and took that position in 1865. He was a member of 
Grant's Cabinet as Secretary of the Interior, but resigned. He went to Con- 
gress in 1875, from the Toledo District. His home is in Cincinnati. 

Rutherford B. Hayes, was the nineteenth President of the United States, 
the twenty-third Governor of Ohio, was born at Delaware, Ohio, in 1822. He 
was a graduate of Kenyon College in 1842. He began the study of law, and, 
in 1843, pursued that course in the Cambridge University, graduating in 1845. 
He began his practice at Fremont. He was married to Miss Lucy Webb in 
1852, in Cincinnati. He was Major of the Twenty-third Ohio Volunteer 
Infantry in 1861, and in 1862, was promoted to Colonel on account of bravery 
in the field, and eventually became Major General. In 1864, he was elected to 
Congress, and retired from the service. He remained in Congress two terms, 
and was Governor of Ohio in 1867, being re-elected in 1869. He filled this 
office a third term, being re-elected in 1875. 

Edward F. Noyes was born in Haverhill, Mass., in 1832. While a lad of 
fourteen, he entered the office of the Morning Star, published at Dover, N. H., 
in order to learn the business of printing. At the age of eighteen, he entered 
the academy at Kingston, N. H. He prepared for college, and entered 
Dartmouth in 1853, graduating with high honors in 1857. He had begun the 
study of law, and continued the course in the Cincinnati Law School, and beo-an 
to practice in 1858. He was an enthusiast at the opening of the rebellion and 
was interested in raising the Twentieth Regiment, of which he was made Major. 
He was promoted to Colonel in 1862. At the conflict at Ruff's Mills, in 
Georgia, in 1864, he was so unfortunate as to lose a leg. At the time, amputa- 
tion was necessary, but was unskillfully performed. He was brought to Cincin- 
nati, and the operation was repeated, which nearly cost him his life. He reported 
three months later, to Gen. Hooker for duty, on crutches. He was assigned to 
command of Camp Dennison. He was promoted to the full rank of Brigadier 
General, and while in discharge of his duty at that place, he was elected City 
Solicitor of Cincinnati. He occupied the position until 1871, when he was 
elected Governor, by a majority of 20,000. He went to France in 1877, as 
Minister, appointed by President Hayes. 



174 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

William Allen, the twenty-fifth Governor of Ohio, was born in 1807, in 
Chowan County, N. C. While an infant, he was left an orphan, and his sister 
superintended his education. He was placed in a private school in Lynchburg, 
Va., at the age of fourteen. Two years later, he joined his sister and family, 
in Chillicothe, and attended the academy a year, when he entered the law office 
of Edward King, and began a course of study. In his seventeenth year, he 
began practice, and through his talent speedily acquired fame and popu- 
larity. Before he was twenty-five, he was sent to Congress by a strong Whig 
district. He was elected United States Senator in 1837, there remaining 
until 1849. In 1845, he married Effie McArthur, who died soon after the 
birth of their daughter. In 1873, he was elected Governor. His adminis- 
tration gave general satisfaction. He died, at his home at " Fruit Hill," in 
1879. 

R. M. Bishop, the twenty-sixth Governor of Ohio, was born Novem- 
ber 4, 1812, in Fleming County, Ky. He began the vocation of mer- 
chant, and for several years devoted himself to that business in his native 
State. In 1818, he engaged in the wholesale grocery business, in Cincinnati. 
His three sons became partners, under the firm name of R. M. Bishop & Sons. 
The sales of this house frequently exceeded $5,000,000 per annum. Mr. 
Bishop was a member of the Council of Cincinnati, and in 1859 was its Mayor, 
holding that office until 1861. In 1860, the Legislatures of Indiana and Ten- 
nessee visited Ohio, to counsel each other to stand by the Constitution and the 
flag. At the reception given at Pike's Opera House, Mayor Bishop delivered 
an eloquent address, which elicited admiration and praises. During the same 
year, as Mayor, he received the Prince of Wales in the most cordial manner, a 
national credit as a mark of respect to a distinguished foreign guest. In 1877, 
he was elected Governor of Ohio, by a large majority. 

Charles Foster, the present and twenty-seventh Governor of Ohio, was born 
in Seneca County, Ohio, April 12, 1828. He was educated at the common 
schools and the academy at Norwalk, Ohio. Engaged in mercantile and bank- 
ing business, and never held any public office until he was elected to the Forty- 
second Congress ; was re-elected to the Forty-third Congress, and again to the 
Forty-fourth Congress, as a Republican. In 1879, he was nominated by the 
Republicans and elected Governor of the State; was re-elected in 1881. 

In reviewing these slight sketches of the Governors of this grand Western 
State, one is impressed with the active relationship they have all sustained, with 
credit, with national measures. Their services have been efficient, earnest and 
patriotic, like the State they have represented and led. 

ANCIENT WORKS. 

Ohio has furnished a prolific field for antiquarians and those interested in 
scientific explorations, either for their own amusement and knowledge, or for 
the records of " facts and formations."' 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 175 

It is well known that the " Mound Builders " had a wide sweep through this 
continent, but absolute facts regarding their era have been most difficult to 
obtain. Numerous theories and suppositions have been advanced, yet they are 
emphatic evidences that they have traced the origin and time of this primeval race. 

However, they have left their works behind them, and no exercise of faith 
is necessary to have confidence in that part of the story. That these works are 
of human origin is self-evident. Temples and military works have been found 
which required a considerable degree of scientific skill on the part of those early 
architects and builders. 

Evidently the Indians had no knowledge of these works of predecessors, 
which differed in all respects from those of the red men. An ancient cemetery 
has been found, covering an area of four acres, which had evidently been laid 
out into lots, from north to south. Nearly 3,000 graves have been discovered, 
containing bones which at some time must have constituted the framework of 
veritable giants, while others are of no unusual size. In 1815, a jaw-bone was 
exhumed, containing an artificial tooth of silver. 

Mounds and fortifications are plentiful in Athens County, some of them 
being of solid stone. One, differing in the quality of stone from the others, is 
supposed to be a dam across the Hocking. Over a thousand pieces of stone 
were used in its construction. Copper rings, bracelets and ornaments are 
numerous. It is also evident that these people possessed the knowledge of 
hardening copper and giving it an edge equal to our steel of to-day. 

In the branch formed by a branch of the Licking River and Raccoon Creek, 
in Licking County, ancient works extend over an area of several miles. Again, 
three miles northwest of this locality, near the road between Newark and Gran- 
ville, another field of these relics may be found. On the summit of a high hill 
is a fortification, formed to represent an alligator. The head and neck includes 
32 feet ; the length of the body is 73 feet ; the tail was 105 feet ; from the termini of 
the fore feet, over the shoulders, the width is 100 feet ; from the termini of 
the hind feet, over the hips, is 92 feet ; its highest point is 7 feet. It is composed 
of clay, which must have been conveyed hither, as it is not similar to the clay 
found in the vicinity. 

Near Miamisburg, Montgomery County, are other specimens. Near the 
village is a mound, equaled in size by very few of these antiquities. It meas- 
ures 800 feet around the base, and rises to a height of sixty-seven feet. Others 
are found in Miami County, while at Circleville, Pickaway County, no traces 
remain. 

Two forts have been discovered, one forming an exact square, and the other 
describing a circle. The square is flanked by two walls, on all sides, these 
being divided by a deep ditch. The circle has one wall and no ditch. This is 
sixty-nine rods in diameter, its walls being twenty feet high. The square fort 
measures fifty-five rods across, with walls twelve feet high. Twelve gateways 
lead into the square fort, while the circle has but one, which led to the other, at 



176 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

the point where the walls of the two came together. Before each of these 
entrances -were mounds of earth, from four to five feet high and nearly forty 
feet in diameter. Evidently these were designed for defenses for the openings, 
in cases of emergency. 

A short distance from Piketon, the turnpike runs, for several hundred feet, 
between two parallel artificial walls of earth, fifteen feet high, and six rods 
apart. In Scioto County, on both sides of the Ohio, are extensive ancient 
works. 

" Fort Ancient " is near Lebanon in Warren County. Its direct measure- 
ment is a mile, but in tracing its angles, retreating and salient, its length would 
be nearly six miles. Its site is a level plain, 240 feet above the level of the 
river. The interior wall varies in height to conform with the nature of the 
ground without — ranging from 8 to 10 feet. On the plain it reaches 100 feet. 
This fort has 58 gateways, through one of which the State road runs, passing 
between two mounds 12 feet high. Northeast from these mounds, situated on 
the plain, are two roads, about a rod wide each, made upon an elevation about 
three feet high. They run parallel to each other about a quarter of a mile, 
when they each form a semicircle around a mound, joining in the circle. It is 
probable this was at some time a military defense, or, on the contrary, it may 
have been a general rendezvous for games and high holiday festivities. 

Near Marietta, are the celebrated Muskingum River works, being a half- 
mile from its juncture with the Ohio. They consist of mounds and walls of 
earth in circular and square forms, also tracing direct lines. 

The largest square fort covers an area of 40 acres, and is inclosed by a wall 
of earth, 6 to 10 feet in height, and from 25 to 30 feet at its base. On each 
side are three gateways. The center gateways exceed the others in size, more 
especially on the side toward the Muskingum. From this outlet runs a covered 
means of egress, between two parallel walls of earth, 231 feet distant from each 
other, measuring from the centers. The walls in the interior are 21 feet high 
at the most elevated points, measuring 42 feet at the base, grading on the exte- 
rior to about five feet in heigth. This passage-way is 360 feet in length, lead- 
ing to the low grounds, which, at the period of its construction, probably reached 
the river. 

At the northwest corner, within the inclosure, is a plateau 188 feet long, 
132 feet broad and 9 feet high. Its sides are perpendicular and its surface 
level. At the center of each side is a graded pathway leading to the top, six 
feet wide. Another elevated square is near the south wall, 150x120 feet square, 
and 8 feet high, similar to the other, with the exception of the graded walk. 
Outside and next the wall to ascend to the top, it has central hollow ways, 10 
feet wide, leading 20 feet toward the center, then arising with a gradual slope to 
the top. A third elevated square is situated at the southeast corner, 108x54 
feet square, with ascents at the ends. This is neither as high or as perfect as 
the others. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 177 

Another ancient work is found to the southeast, covering an area of 20 acres 
with a gateway in the center of each side, and others at the corners — each of 
these having the mound defense. 

On the outside of the smaller fort, a mound resembling a sugar loaf was 
formed in the shape of a circle 115 feet in diameter, its height being 30 feet. 
A ditch surrounds it, 15 feet wide and 4 feet deep. These earthworks have 
contributed greatly to the satisfactory results of scientific researches. Their 
builders were evidently composed of large bands that have succumbed to the 
advance of enlightened humanity. The relics found consists of ornaments, 
utensils and implements of war. The bones left in the numerous graves convey 
an idea of a stalwart, vigorous people, and the conquests which swept them away 
from the face of the country must have been fierce and cruel. 

Other mounds and fortifications are found in different parts of the State, of 
which our limited space will not permit a description. 

Many sculptured rocks are found, and others with plainly discernible 
tracery in emblematical designs upon their surface. The rock on which the 
inscriptions occur is the grindstone grit of the Ohio exports — a stratum found 
in Northern Ohio, Arrow-points of flint or chert have been frequently found. 
From all investigations, it is evident that an extensive flint bed existed in Lick- 
ing County, near Newark. The old pits can now be recognized. They 
extended over a hundred acres. They are partially filled with water, and sur- 
rounded by piles of broken and rejected fragments. The flint is a grayish- 
white, with cavities of a brilliant quartz crystal. Evidently these stones were 
chipped into shape and the material sorted on the ground. Only clear, homo- 
genous pieces can be wrought into arrow-heads and spear-points. Flint chips 
extend over many acres of ground in this vicinity. Flint beds are also found 
in Stark and Tuscarawas Counties. In color it varies, being red, white, black 
and mottled. The black is found in Coshocton County. 

SOME GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS. 

Ohio, as a State, is renowned as an agricultural section. Its variety, quality 
and quantity of productions cannot be surpassed by any State in the Union. Its 
commercial importance ranks proudly in the galaxy of opulent and industrious 
States composing this Union. Her natural resources are prolific, and all improve- 
ments which could be instituted by the ingenuity of mankind have been added. 

From a quarter to a third of its area is hilly and broken. About the head- 
waters of the Muskingum and Scioto, and between the Scioto and the two 
Miami Rivers, are wide prairies ; some of them are elevated and dry, with fertile 
soil, although they are frequently termed "barrens." In other parts, they are 
low and marshy, producing coarse, rank grass, which grows to a height of five 
feet in some places. 

The State is most fortunate in timber wealth, having large quantities of 
black walnut, oak of different varieties, maple, hickory, birch, several kinds of 



178 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

beech, poplar, sycamore, papaw, several kinds of ash, cherry, whitewood and 
buckeye. 

The summers are usually warm, and the winters are mild, considering the 
latitude of the State. Near Lake Erie, the winters are severe, corresponding 
with sections in a line with that locality. Snow falls in sufficient quantities 
in the northern part to afford several weeks of fine sleighing. In the southern 
portion, the snowstorms are not frequent, and the fall rarely remains long on 
the ground. 

The climate is generally healthy, with the exception of small tracts lying 
near the marshes and stagnant waters. 

The Ohio River washes the southern border of the State, and is navigable 
for steamboats of a large size, the entire length of its course. From Pitts- 
burgh to its mouth, measuring it meanderings, it is 908 miles long. Its current 
is gentle, having no falls except at Louisville, Ky., where the descent is twenty- 
two and a half feet in two miles. A canal obviates this obstruction. 

The Muskingum is the largest river that flows entirely within the State. It 
is formed by the junction of the Tuscarawas and Walhonding Rivers, and enters 
the Ohio at Marietta One hundred miles of its length is navigable. 

The Scioto is the second river in magnitude, is about 200 miles long, and 
flows into the Ohio at Portsmouth. It affords navigation 130 miles of its length. 
The Great Miami is a rapid river, in the western part of the State, and is 100 
miles long. The Little Miami is seventy miles in length, and enters the Ohio 
seven miles from Cincinnati. 

The Maumee rises in Indiana, flows through the northwestern part of the 
State, and enters Lake Erie at Maumee Bay. It affords navigation as far as 
Perrysburg, eighteen miles from the lake, and above the rapids, it is again nav- 
igable. 

The Sandusky rises in the northern part of the State, is eighty miles long, 
and flows into Lake Erie, via Sandusky Bay. 

Lake Erie washes 150 miles of the northern boundary. The State has sev- 
eral fine harbors, the Maumee and Sandusky Bays being the largest. 

We have, in tracing the record of the earlier counties, given the educational inter- 
ests as exemplified by different institutions. We have also given the canal system 
of the State, in previous pages. The Governor is elected every two years, by 
the people. The Senators are chosen biennially, and are apportioned according 
to the male population over twenty-one years of age. The Judges of the 
Supreme and other courts are elected by the joint ballot of the Legislature, for 
the term of seven years. 

During the early settlement of Ohio, perfect social equality existed among the 
settlers. The line of demarkation that was drawn was a separation of the good 
from the bad. Log-rollings and cabin-raisings were mutual affairs. Their 
sport usually consisted of shooting, rowing and hunting. Hunting shirts and 
buckskin pants were in the fashion, while the women dressed in coarse material, 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 179 

woven by their own hands. A common American cotton check was con- 
sidered a magnificent addition to one's toilet. In those times, however, the 
material was $1 per yard, instead of the shilling of to-day. But five yards 
was then a large "pattern," instead of the twenty-five of 1880. In cooking 
utensils, the pot, pan and frying-pan constituted an elegant outfit. A few plain 
dishes were added for table use. Stools and benches were the rule, although a 
few wealthy families indulged in splint-bottom chairs. The cabin floors were 
rough, and in many cases the green sward formed the carpet. Goods were very 
expensive, and flour was considered a great luxury. Goods were brought by 
horses and mules from Detroit, or by wagon from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh, 
and then down the Ohio. Coarse calicoes were $1 per yard ; tea $2 to $3 per 
pound ; coffee 75 cents ; whisky, from $1 to $2 per gallon, and salt, $5 to $6 
per barrel. In those towns where Indian trade constituted a desirable interest, 
a bottle was set at each end of the counter — a gratuitous offering to their red 
friends. 

OUTLINE GEOLOGY OF OHIO. 

Should we group the rocks of Ohio, according to their lithological characters, 
we should give five distinct divisions. They are marked by difference in appear- 
ance, hardness, color and composition : 

1 — Limestone. 

2 — Black shale. 

3 — Fine-grained sandstone. 

4 — Conglomerate. 

5 — Coal series. 

They are all stratified and sedimentary. They are nearly horizontal. The 
lowest one visible, in a physical as well as a geological sense, is " blue lime- 
stone." 

The bed of the Ohio River near Cincinnati is 133 feet below the level of 
Lake Erie. The strata incline in all directions from the southwestern angle of 
the State. In Scioto County may be seen the outcropping edges of all these 
rocks. They sink at this point in the direction south 80 J° east ; easterly at the 
rate of 37^ feet per mile. The cliff limestone, the upper stratum of the lime- 
stone deposit, is 600 feet above the river at Cincinnati ; at West Union, in 
Adams County, it is only 350 feet above the same level. 

The finely grained sandstone found on the summit of the hills east of Brush 
Creek and west of the Scioto sinks to the base of the hills, and appears beneath 
the conglomerate, near the Little Scioto. Although the rock formations are the 
same in all parts of the State, in the same order, their thickness, mass and dip, 
are quite different. 

Chillicothe, Reynoldsburg, Mansfield, Newburg, Waverly and Rockville, are 
situated near the western border of the " fine-grained limestone." Its outcrop 
forms a continuous and crooked line from the Ohio River to Lake Erie. In the 
southwest portion of the State is the "blue limestone," occupying a circular 



180 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

space from West Union via Dayton, to the State line. The conglomerate is to 
the east of the given towns, bending around from Cuyahoga Falls to Burton, in 
Geauga County, and then eastward into Pennsylvania. Near this outcrop are 
the coal-bearing rocks which occupy the east and southeastern portions of Ohio. 
From Rockville to Chillicothe, the course is north, about 10° east, and nearly 
corresponds with the line of outcrop of the fine-grained sandstone for an equal 
distance. The dip at Rockville, given by Charles Whittlesey, is 80J°, almost 
at a right angle, and at the rate of 37 feet per mile. 

At Chillicothe, the other end of the line, the general dip is south 70° east, 
30 feet to the mile, the line curving eastward and the dip line to the southward. 
This is the universal law. 

The northern boundary of the great coal fields passes through Meadville, in 
Pennsylvania, and turning south arrives at Portage Summit, on the summit of 
the Alleghanies, 2,500 feet above the ocean level. It then plunges rapidly to 
the westward. From the Alleghanies to the southwest, through Pennsylvania, 
Virginia and Tennessee, sweeps this great coal basin. 

Much of the county of Medina is conglomerate upon the surface, but the 
streams, especially the South Branch of the Rocky River, set through this sur- 
face stratum, and reach the fine-grained sandstone. This is the case with 
Rocky, Chagrin, Cuyahoga and Grand Rivers — also Conneaut and Ashtabula 
Creeks. This sandstone and the shale extend up the narrow valleys of these 
streams and their tributaries. Between these strata is a mass of coarse-grained 
sandstone, without pebbles, which furnishes the grindstones for which Ohio is 
noted. In Lorain County, the coarse sandstone grit nearly displaces the fine- 
grained sandstone and red shale, thickening at Elyria to the black shale. South 
of this point, the grindstone grit, red shale and ash-colored shale vary in thick- 
ness. The town of Chillicothe, the village of Newburg, and a point in the west 
line of Crawford County, are all situated on the "black shale." 

Dr. Locke gives the dip, at Montgomery and Miami Counties, at north 14°, 
east, six feet to the mile; at Columbus, Whitelesey gives it, 81° 52' east, 221^ 
feet to the mile. The fine-grained sandstone at Newburg is not over eighty 
feet in thickness ; at Jacktown and Reynoldsburg, 500 ; at Waverly 250 to 
300 feet, and at Brush Creek, Adams County, 343 feet. The black shale is 
251 feet thick at Brush Creek ; at Alum Creek, 250 to 300 feet thick ; in Craw- 
ford County, about 250 feet thick. The conglomerate in Jackson County is 
200 feet thick ; at Cuyahoga Falls, 100 to 120 feet ; at Burton, Geauga County, 
300 feet. The great limestone formation is divided into several numbers. At 
Cincinnati, at the bed of the river, there is : 

1 — A blue limestone and slaty marlite. 

2 — Dun-colored marl and layers of lime rock. 

3 — Blue marl and layers of blue limestone. 

4 — Marl and bands of limestone, with immense numbers of shells at the 
surface. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 181 

In Adams County, the detailed section is thus : 

1 — Blue limestone and marl. 

2 — Blue marl. 

3 — Flinty limestone. 

4 — Blue marl. 

5 — Cliff limestone. 

The coal-fields of Ohio are composed of alternate beds of coarse-grained 
sandstone, clay shales, layers of ironstone, thin beds of limestone and numer- 
ous strata of coal. The coal region abounds in iron. From Jacktown to Con- 
cord, in Muskingum County, there are eight beds of coal, and seven strata of 
limestone. The distance between these two points is forty-two miles. From 
Freedom, in Portage County, to Poland, in Trumbull County, a distance of 
thirty-five miles, there are five distinct strata. Among them are distributed 
thin beds of limestone, and many beds of iron ore. The greater mass of coal 
and iron measures is composed of sandstone and shale. The beds of sandstone 
are from ten to twenty or eighty feet thick. Of shale, five to fifty feet thick. 
The strata of coal and iron are comparatively thin. A stratum of coal three 
feet thick can be worked to advantage. One four feet thick is called a good 
mine, few of them averaging five. Coal strata are found from six to ten and 
eleven feet. There are four beds of coal, and three of limestone, in Lawrence 
and Scioto Counties. There are also eight beds of ore, and new ones are con- 
stantly being discovered. The ore is from four to twelve inches thick, occasion- 
ally being two feet. The calcareous ore rests upon the second bed of limestone, 
from the bottom, and is very rich. 

The most prominent fossils are trees, plants and stems of the coal-bearing 
rocks, shells and corals and crustacere of the limestone, and the timber, leaves 
and dirt-beds of the "drift" — the earthy covering of the rocks, which varies 
from nothing to 200 feet. Bowlders, or " lost rocks," are strewn over the State. 
They are evidently transported from some remote section, being fragments of 
primitive rock, granite, gneiss and hornblende rock, which do not exist in 
Ohio, nor within 400 miles of the State, in any direction. In the Lake Supe- 
rior region we find similar specimens. 

The superficial deposits of Ohio are arranged into four geological formations : 

1 — The ancient drift, resting upon the rocks of the State. 

2 — The Lake Erie marl and sand deposits. 

3 — The drift occupying the valleys of large streams, such as the Great Miami, 
the Ohio and Scioto. 

4 — The bowlders. 

The ancient drift of Ohio is meager in shell deposits. It is not, therefore, 
decided whether it be of salt-water origin or fresh water. 

It has, at the bottom, blue clay, with gravel-stones of primitive or sedimen- 
tary rocks, containing carbonate of lime. The yellow clay is found second. 
Above that, sand and gravel, less stratified, containing more pebbles of the 



182 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

sedimentary rocks, such as limestone and stone, iron ore, coal and shale. The 
lower layer contains logs, trees, leaves, sticks and vines. 

The Lake Erie section, or "Lake Erie deposits," may be classed in the 
following order : 

1 — From the lake level upward, fine, blue, marly sand — forty-five to sixty 
feet. 

2 — Coarse, gray, water-washed sand — ten to twenty feet. 

3 — Coarse sand and gravel, not well stratified, to surface — twenty to fifty feet. 

Stratum first dissolves in water. It contains carbonate of lime, magnesia, 
iron, alumina, silex, sulphur, and some decomposed leaves, plants and sticks. 
Some pebbles are found. In contact with the water, quicksand is formed. 

The Hickory Plains, at the forks of the Great Miami and White Water, and 
also between Kilgore's Mill and New Richmond, are the results of heavy dilu- 
vial currents. 

In presenting these formations of the State, we have quoted from the experi- 
ence and conclusions of Charles Whittlesey, eminent as a geologist, and who 
was a member of the Ohio Geological Corps. 

Ohio's rank during the war. 

The patriotism of this State has been stanch, unswerving and bold, ever 
since a first settlement laid its corner-stone in the great Western wilder- 
ness. Its decisive measures, its earnest action, its noble constancy, have earned 
the laurels that designate it "a watchword for the nation." In the year 1860, 
Ohio had a population of 2,343,739. Its contribution of soldiers to the great 
conflict that was soon to surge over the land in scarlet terror, was apportioned 
310,000 men. In less than twenty-four hours after the President's proclama- 
tion and call for troops, the Senate had matured and carried a bill through, 
appropriating $1,000,000 for the purpose of placing the State on a war footing. 
The influences of party sentiments were forgotten, and united, the State 
unfurled the flag of patriotism. Before the bombardment of old Fort Sumter 
has fairly ceased its echoes, twenty companies were offered the Governor for 
immediate service. When the surrender was verified, the excitement was 
tumultuous. Militia officers telegraphed their willingness to receive prompt 
orders, all over the State. The President of Kenyon College — President 
Andrews — tendered his services by enlisting in the ranks. Indeed, three 
months before the outbreak of the war, he had expressed his readiness to the 
Governor to engage in service should there be occasion. He was the first citi- 
zen to make this offer. 

The Cleveland Grays, the Rover Guards, the State Fencibles, the Dayton 
Light Guards, the Governor's Guards, the Columbus Videttes and the Guthrie 
Grays — the best drilled and celebrated militia in the State — telegraphed to 
Columbus for orders. Chillicothe, Portsmouth and Circleville offered money 
and troops. Canton, Xenia, Lebanon, Lancaster, Springfield, Cincinnati, 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 183 

Dayton, Cleveland, Toledo and other towns urged their assistance upon the State. 
Columbus began to look like a great army field. The troops were stationed 
wherever they could find quarters, and food in sufficient quantities was hard to 
procure. The Governor soon established a camp at Miamiville, convenient to 
Cincinnati. He intended to appoint Irvin McDowell, of the staff of Lieut. 
Gen. Scott, to the leading command, but the friends of Capt. McClellan became 
enthusiastic and appealed to the Governor, who decided to investigate his case. 
Being satisfied, he desired Capt. McClellan to come up to Columbus. But that 
officer was busy and sent Capt. Pope, of the regular army, in his stead. This 
gentleman did not suit Gov. Dennison. The friends of McClellan again set 
forth the high qualities of this officer, and Gov. Dennison sent an earnest 
request for an interview, which was granted, and resulted in the appointment 
of the officer as Major General of the Ohio militia. Directly thereafter, he 
received an invitation to take command of the Pennsylvania troops, but Ohio 
could not spare so valuable a leader. 

For three-years troops were soon called out, and their Generals were to be 
appointed by the President. Gov. Dennison advised at once with the War 
Department at Washington, and McClellan received his appointment as Major 
General in the regular army. 

Cincinnati and Louisville became alarmed lest Kentucky should espouse the 
Confederate cause, and those cities thus be left insecure against the inroads of a 
cruel foe. Four hundred and thirty-six miles of Ohio bordered Slave States. 
Kentucky and West Virginia were to be kept in check, but the Governor pro- 
claimed that not only should the border of Ohio be protected, but even beyond 
that would the State press the enemy. Marietta was garrisoned, and other river 
points rendered impregnable. On the 20th of May, 1861, official dispatches 
affirmed that troops were approaching Wheeling under the proclamation of 
Letcher. Their intention was to route the convention at Wheeling. 

Military orders were instantly given. Col. Steedman and his troops crossed 
at Marietta and crushed the disturbance at Parkersburg — swept into the country 
along the railroad, built bridges, etc. Col. Irvine crossed at Wheeling and 
united with a regiment of loyal Virginians. At the juncture of the two tracks 
at Grafton, the columns met, but the rebels had retreated in mad haste. The 
loyal troops followed, and, at Philippi, fought the first little skirmish of the war. 
The great railway lines were secured, and the Wheeling convention protected, 
and West Virginia partially secured for the Union. 

After preliminary arrangements, McClellan's forces moved in two columns 
upon the enemy at Laurel Hill. One remained in front, under Gen. Morris, 
while the other, under his own command, pushed around to Huttonsville, in 
their rear. Gen. Morris carried his orders through promptly, but McClellan 
was late. Rosecrans was left with McClellan's advance to fight the battle of 
Rich Mountain, unaided. Garnett being alarmed at the defeat of his outpost, 
retreated. McClellan was not in time to intercept him, but Morris continued 



184 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

the chase. Steedman overtook the rear-guard of Garnett's army at Carrick's 
Ford, Avhere a sharp skirmish ensued, Garnett himself falling. The scattered 
portions of the rebel army escaped, and West Virginia was again free from 
armed rebels — and was the gift of Ohio through her State militia to the nation 
at the beginning of the war. 

At this period, Gen. McClellan was called to Washington. Gen. Rose- 
crans succeeded him, and the three-years troops left in the field after the dis- 
banding of the three-months men, barely sufficed to hold the country. He 
telegraphed Gov. Dennison to supply him immediately with re-enforcements, the 
request being made on the 8th of August. Already had the Confederate lead- 
ers realized the loss they had sustained in Western Virginia, and had dispatched 
their most valued General, Robert E. Lee, to regain the territory. Rosecrans 
again wrote: "If you, Governor of Indiana and Governor of Michigan, will 
lend your efforts to get me quickly 50,000 men, in addition to my present 
force, I think a blow can be struck which will save fighting the rifled-cannon 
batteries at Manassas. Lee is certainly at Cheat Mountain. Send all troops 
you can to Grafton." Five days thereafter, all the available troops in the 
West were dispatched to Fremont, Mo., and the plans of Rosecrans were 
foiled. 

Heavy re-enforcements had been sent to the column in Kanawha Valley 
under Gen. Cox. . He became alarmed, and telegraphed to Gov. Dennison. 
Rosecrans again appealed to Gov. Dennison, that he might be aided in march- 
ing across the country against Floyd and Wise to Cox's relief, "I want to 
catch Floyd while Cox holds him in front." 

The response was immediate and effective. He was enabled to employ 
twenty-three Ohio regiments in clearing his department from rebels, securing 
the country and guarding the exposed railroads. With this achievement, the 
direct relation of the State administrations with the conduct and methods of 
campaigns terminated. The General Government had settled down to a sys- 
tem. Ohio was busy organizing and equipping regiments, caring for the sick 
and wounded, and sustaining her home strength. 

Gov. Detmison's staff officers were tendered better positions in the national 
service. Camps Dennison and Chase, one at Cincinnati and the other at 
Columbus, were controlled by the United States authorities. A laboratory was 
established at Columbus for the supply of ammunition. During the fall and 
early winter, the Ohio troops suffered in Western Virginia. The people of 
their native State responded with blankets, clothing and other supplies. 

In January, 1862, David A. Tod entered upon the duties of Governor. 
The first feature of his administration was to care for the wounded at home, 
sent from Pittsburg Landing. A regular system was inaugurated to supply 
simes and clothing to the suffering at home and in the field. Agencies were 
established, and the great and good work was found to be most efficacious in 
alleviating the wretchedness consequent upon fearful battles. A. B. Lyman 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 185 

had charge of affairs in Cincinnati, and Royal Taylor held the same position 
in Louisville. J. C. Wetmore was stationed at Washington, F. W. Bingham 
at Memphis, Weston Flint at Cairo and St. Louis. Thus the care which Ohio 
extended over her troops at home and in the battle-field, furnished a practical 
example to other States, and was the foundation of that commendable system 
all over the Union. Stonewall Jackson's sudden advent in the valley created 
the greatest consternation lest the safety of the capital be jeopardized, and the 
War Department called for more troops. Gov. Tod immediately issued a 
proclamation, and the people, never shrinking, responded heartily. At Cleve- 
land a large meeting was held, and 250 men enlisted, including 27 out of 32 
students attending the law school. Fire bells rang out the alarm at Zanesville, 
a meeting was convened at 10 in the morning, and by 3 in the afternoon, 300 
men had enlisted. Court was adjourned sine die, and the Judge announced 
that he and the lawyers were about to enter into military ranks. Only three 
unmarried men between the ages of eighteen and twenty-three were left in the 
town of Putnam. Five thousand volunteers reported at Camp Chase within 
two days after the proclamation. 

Again in June, the President called for troops, followed by yet another call. 
Under these calls, Ohio was to raise 74,000 men. The draft system was 
advised to hasten and facilitate filling regiments. It has always been a repul- 
sive measure. To save sections from this proceeding, enormous sums were 
offered to induce men to volunteer, and thus fill the quota. 

Counties, townships, towns and individuals, all made bids and urged the 
rapid enlistment of troops. The result was, that the regiments were filled rap- 
idly, but not in sufficient numbers to prevent the draft. Twenty thousand four 
hundred and twenty-seven men were yet lacking, and the draft was ordered, 
September 15. At the close of the year, Ohio was ahead of her calls. Late 
in the fall, the prospect was disheartening. The peninsula campaign had failed. 
The Army of Northern Virginia had been hurled back nearly to Washington. 
The rebels had invaded Maryland ; Cincinnati and Louisville were threatened, 
and the President had declared his intention to abolish slavery, as a war meas- 
ure. During the first part of 1862, artillery, stores and supplies were carried 
away mysteriously, from the Ohio border ; then little squads ventured over the 
river to plunder more openly, or to burn a bridge or two. The rebel bands 
came swooping down upon isolated supply trains, sending insolent roundabout 
messages regarding their next day's intentions. Then came invasions of our 
lines near Nashville, capture of squads of guards within sight of camp, the seizure 
of Gallatin. After Mitchell had entered Northern Alabama, all manner of depre- 
dations were committed before his very eyes. These were attributed to John 
Morgan's Kentucky cavalry. He and his men, by the middle of 1862, were 
as active and dangerous as Lee or Beauregard and their troops. Morgan was a 
native of Alabama, but had lived in Kentucky since boyhood. His father was 
large slave-owner, who lived in the center of the "Blue Grass Country." His 



186 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

life had been one of wild dissipation, adventure and recklessness, although in 
his own family he had the name of being most considerate. The men who fol- 
lowed him were accustomed to a dare-devil life. They formed and independent 
band, and dashed madly into the conflict, wherever and whenever inclination 
prompted. Ohio had just raised troops to send East, to assist in the overthrow 
of Stonewell Jackson. She .had overcome her discouragements over failures, 
for the prospects were brightening. Beauregard had evacuated Corinth ; Mem- 
phis had fallen ; Buell was moving toward Chattanooga ; Mitchell's troops held 
Northern Tennessee and Northern Alabama ; Kentucky was virtually in the 
keeping of the home guards and State military board. And now, here was 
Morgan, creating confusion in Kentucky by his furious raids ! On the 11th of 
July, the little post of Tompkinsville fell. He issued a call for the Kentuckians 
to rise in a body. He marched toward Lexington, and the southern border of 
Ohio was again in danger. Cincinnati was greatly excited. Aid was sent to 
Lexington and home guards were ready for duty. Morgan was not prominent 
for a day or so, but he was not idle. By the 9th of July, he held possession of 
Tompkinsville and Glasgow ; by the 11th, of Lebanon. On the 13th, he 
entered Harraldsburg ; Monday morning he was within fifteen miles of Frank- 
fort. He had marched nearly 400 miles in eight days. Going on, toward 
Lexington, he captured the telegraph operator at Midway, and his messages 
also ! He was now aware of the plans of the Union armies at Lexington, 
Louisville, Cincinnati and Frankfort. In the name of the operator, he sent 
word that Morgan was driving in the pickets at Frankfort ! Now that he 
had thrown his foes off guard, he rested his men a couple of days. He 
decided to let Lexington alone, and swept down on Cynthiana, routing a few 
hundred loyal Kentucky cavalrymen, capturing the gun and 420 prisoners, and 
nearly 300 horses. Then he was off to Paris ; he marched through Winchester, 
Richmond, Crab Orchard and Somerset, and again crossed the Cumberland River. 
He started with 900 men and returned with 1,200, having captured and paroled 
nearly as many, besides destroying all the Government arms and stores in seven- 
teen towns. The excitement continued in Cincinnati. Two regiments were 
hastily formed, for emergencies,- known as Cincinnati Reserves. Morgan's raid 
did not reach the city, but it demonstrated to the rebel forces what might be 
accomplished in the " Blue Grass " region. July and August were passed in 
gloom. Bragg and Buell were both watchful, and Chattanooga had not been 
taken. Lexington was again menaced, a battle fought, and was finally deserted 
because it could not be held. 

Louisville was now in danger. The banks sent their specie away. Railroad 
companies added new guards. 

September 1, Gen. Kirby Smith entered Lexington, and dispatched Heath 
with about six thousand men against Cincinnati and Covington. John Morgan 
joined him. The rebels rushed upon the borders of Ohio. The failure at Rich- 
mond only idded deeper apprehension. Soon Kirby Smith and his regiments 



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2/W iyfuy/fi^f^-mi 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 189 

occupied a position where only a few unmanned siege guns and the Ohio 
prevented his entrance through Covington into the Queen City. The city was 
fully armed, and Lew. Wallace's arrival to take command inspired all with 
fresh courage. And before the people were hardly aware that danger was so 
near, the city was proclaimed under strict martial law. " Citizens for labor, 
soldiers for battle." 

There was no panic, because the leaders were confident. Back of Newport 
and Covington breastworks, riflepits and redoubts had been hastily thrown up, 
and pickets were thrown out. From Cincinnati to Covington extended a pon- 
ton bridge. Volunteers marched into the city and those already in service 
were sent to the rescue. Strict military law was now modified, and the city 
being secured, some inconsiderate ones expressed themselves as being outraged 
with " much ado about nothing." But Gen. Wallace did not cease his vigilance. 
And Smith's force began to move up. One or two skirmishes ensued. The 
city was again excited. September 11 was one of intense suspense. But 
Smith did not attack in force. He was ordered to join Bragg. On the Mon- 
day following, the citizens of Cincinnati returned to their avocations. In the 
spring of 1863, the State was a trifle discouraged. Her burdens had been 
heavy, and she was weary. Vicksburg was yet in the hands of the enemy. 
Rosecrans had not moved since his victory at Stone River. There had been 
fearful slaughter about Fredericksburg. 

But during July, 1863, Ohio was aroused again by Bragg's command to 
Morgan, to raid Kentucky and capture Louisville. On the 3d of July, he was 
in a position to invade Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky. He continued his depre- 
dations, bewildering the militia with his movements. His avowed intention 
was to burn Indianapolis and " take Cincinnati alive." Morgan's purposes 
were never clear. It was his audacious and sudden dashes, here and there, 
which gave him success. Before Cincinnati was aware, he was at Harrison — 
13th of July. He expected to meet the forces of Burnside and Judah, and to 
cut his way through. His plans here, as everywhere, were indefinable, and he 
succeeded in deceiving everybody. While printers in Cincinnati were settinor 
up " reports " as to his whereabouts, he was actually marching through the sub- 
urbs, near troops enough to devour them, and yet not encountered by a single 
picket ! They fed their horses within sight of Camp Dennison. At 4 
o'clock that day, they were within twenty-eight miles of Cincinnati — having 
marched more than ninety miles in thirty-five hours. 

The greatest chagrin was expressed, that Morgan had so easily eluded the 
great military forces. A sudden dash was made to follow him. There was a 
universal bolting of doors, burying of valuables, hiding of horses, etc., all along 
the route of the mad cavalryman and his 2,000 mounted men. They plundered 
beyond all comparison. They made a principle of it. On the 14th of July, 
he was feeding his horses near Dennison ; he reached the ford at Buffington 
Island on the evening of the 18th ; he had encountered several little skirmishes, 



190 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

but he had marched through at his own will, mostly ; all the troops of Kentucky 
had been outwitted. The Indiana forces had been laughed to scorn. The 
50,000 Ohio militia had been as straws in his way. The intrepid band would 
soon be upon friendly soil, leaving a blackened trail behind. But Judah was 
up and marching after him, Hobson followed and Col. Runkle was north of 
him. The local militia in his advance began to impede the way. Near Pome- 
roy, a stand was made. Morgan found militia posted everywhere, but he suc- 
ceeded in running the gantlet, so far as to reach Chester. He should have 
hastened to cross the ford. Fortunately, he paused to breathe his horses and 
secure a guide. The hour and a half thus lost was the first mistake Morgan is 
known to have made in his military career. They reached Portland, and only 
a little earthwork, guarded by about 300 men, stood between him and safety. 
His men were exhausted, and he feared to lead them to a night attack upon a 
position not understood perfectly ; he would not abandon his wagon train, nor 
his wounded ; he would save or lose all. As Morgan was preparing next 
morning, having found the earthworks deserted through the night, Judah came 
up. He repulsed the attack at first, capturing Judah's Adjutant General, and 
ordering him to hold the force on his front in check. He was not able to join 
his own company, until it was in full retreat. Here Lieut. O'Neil, of the Fifth 
Indiana, made an impulsive charge, the lines were reformed, and up the Chester 
road were Hobson's gallant cavalrymen, who had been galloping over three 
States to capture this very Morgan ! And now the tin-clad gunboats steamed 
up and opened fire. The route was complete, but Morgan escaped with 1,200 
men ! Seven hundred men were taken prisoners, among them Morgan's brother, 
Cols. Ward, Duke and Huffman. The prisoners were brought to Cincinnati, 
while the troops went after the fugitive. He was surrounded by dangers ; his 
men were exhausted, hunted down ; skirmishes and thrilling escapes marked a 
series of methods to escape — his wonderful sagacity absolutely brilliant to the 
very last — which was his capture, on the 26th, with 346 prisoners and 
400 horses and arms. It may be added, that after several months of con- 
finement, Morgan and six prisoners escaped, on the 27th of November. Again 
was he free to raid in the " Blue Grass " country. 

John Brough succeeded Gov. Tod January 11, 1864. His first prominent 
work was with the Sanitary Commission. In February, of the same year, the 
President called for more troops. The quota of Ohio was 51,465 men. The 
call of March added 20,995. And in July was a third demand for 50,792. In 
December, the State was ordered to raise 26,027. The critical period of the 
war was evidently approaching. Gov. Brough instituted a reformation in the 
"promotion system " of the Ohio troops. He was, in many cases, severe in his 
measures. He ignored " local great men " and refused distinction as a bribe. 
The consequence was that he had many friends and some enemies. The acute- 
ness of his policy was so strong, and his policy so just, that, after all his severe 
administration, he was second to no statesman in the nation during the struggle. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 191 

Ohio during the war was most active in her relief and aid societies. The most 
noted and extensive organization was the Cincinnati Branch of the United 
States Sanitary Commission. The most efficient organization was the Soldiers' 
Aid Society of Northern Ohio. 

When the happy tidings swept over the land that peace was proclaimed, an 
echo of thanksgiving followed the proclamation. The brave sons of Ohio 
returned to their own soil — those who escaped the carnage. But 'mid the 
rejoicing there was deepest sadness, for a fragment only remained of that brave 
army which had set out sturdily inspired with patriotism. 

A BRIEF MENTION OF PROMINENT OHIO GENERALS. 

George Briton McClellan, the first General appointed in Ohio, was born 
December 3, 1826, in Philadelphia. His father was a physician of high stand- 
ing and Scottish descent. Young George was in school in Philadelphia, and 
entered West Point at the age of sixteen. At the age of twenty, he was a bre- 
vet Second Lieutenant, tracing lines of investment before Vera Cruz, under the 
supervision of Capt. R. E. Lee, First Lieut. P. G. T. Beauregard, Second Lieut. 
G. W. Smith. At the close of the Mexican war, old Col. Totten reported in 
favor of them all to Winfield Scott. He had charge of an exploring expedition 
to the mountains of Oregon and Washington, beginning with the Cascade Range. 
This was one of a series of Pacific Railway explorations. Returning to Wash- 
ington, he was detailed to visit the West Indies and secretly select a coaling sta- 
tion for the LTnited States Navy. He was dispatched by Jefferson Davis, 
Secretary of War, to Europe, with instructions to take full reports of the organ- 
ization of military forces connected with the Crimean war. This work elicited 
entire satisfaction. He returned in January, 1857, resigned as regular army 
officer, and was soon installed as engineer of Illinois Central Railroad. In 1860, 
he was President of the Ohio & Mississippi. He removed to Cincinnati, where 
he was at the opening of the war. 

William Starke Rosecrans was born September 6, 1819, in Delaware County, 
Ohio. His people were from Amsterdam. He was educated at West Point. 
When the war opened, he espoused the cause of the Union with enthusiastic 
zeal, and was appointed by McClellan on his staff as Engineer. June 9, he 
was Chief Engineer of the State under special law. Soon thereafter, he was 
Colonel of the Twenty-third Ohio, and assigned to the command of Camp 
Chase, Columbus. On May 16, his commission was out as Brigadier General 
in the United States Army. This reached him and he was speedily sum- 
moned to active service, under Gen. McClellan. After the battle of Rich Moun- 
tain, he was promoted to the head of the department. 

In April, 1862, he was succeeded by Fremont, and ordered to Wash- 
ington to engage in immediate service for the Secretary of War. About the 
15th of May, he was ordered to Gen. Halleck, before Corinth. He was 
relieved from his command December 9, 1864. 



192 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

Ulysses S. Grant, whose history we cannot attempt to give in these pages, 
was born on the banks of the Ohio, at Point Pleasant, Clermont Co., Ohio, 
April 27, 1822. He entered West Point in 1839. 

" That the son of a tanner, poor and unpretending, without influential friends 
until his performance had won them, ill-used to the world and its ways, should 
rise — not suddenly, in the first blind worship of helpless ignorance which made 
any one who understood regimental tactics illustrious in advance for what he 
was going to do, not at all for what he had done — but slowly, grade by grade, 
through all the vicissitudes of constant service and mingled blunders and suc- 
cess, till, at the end of four years' war he stood at the head of our armies, 
crowned by popular acclaim our greatest soldier, is a satisfactory answer to 
criticism and a sufficient vindication of greatness. Success succeeds." 

" We may reason on the man's career ; we may prove that at few stages has 
he shown personal evidence of marked ability ; we may demonstrate his mis- 
takes ; we may swell the praises of his subordinates. But after all, the career 
stands wonderful, unique, worthy of study so long as the nation honors her 
benefactors, or the State cherishes the good fame of the sons who contributed 
most to her honor." 

Lieut. Gen. William Tecumseh Sherman was another Ohio contribution to 
the great Union war. He was born at Lancaster February 8, 1820. He 
entered West Point in June, 1836. His " march to the sea " has fully brought 
out the details of his life, since they were rendered interesting to all, and we 
refrain from repeating the well-known story. 

Philip H. Sheridan was born on the 6th of March, 1831, in Somerset, 
Perry Co., Ohio. He entered West Point in 1848. During the war, his 
career was brilliant. His presence meant victory. Troops fighting under his 
command were inspired. Gen. Rosecrans said of him, "He fights, he fights." 
A staff officer once said, "He is an emphatic human syllable." 

Maj. Gen. James B. McPherson was born in Sandusky County, town of 
Clyde, November 14, 1828. 

Maj. Gen. Q. A. Gillmore was born February 28, 1825, at Black River, 
Lorain Co., Ohio. 

Maj. Gen. Irvin McDowell was born at Franklinton, Ohio, October 15, 
1818. 

Maj. Gen. Don Carlos Buell was born near Marietta on the 23d of March, 
1818. His grandfather on the maternal side was one of the first settlers of 
Cincinnati. 

Maj. Gen. 0. M. Mitchell was a native of Kentucky, but a resident of 
Ohio from the age of four years. 

Maj. Gen. Robert C. Schenck was born October 4, 1809, in Franklin, 
Warren Co., Ohio. 

Maj. Gen. James A. Garfield, was born in Orange, Cuyahoga Co., Ohio, 
November 19, 1831. 



ISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 193 

Maj. Gen. Jacob D. Cox was born in Canada in 1828, and removed to 
Ohio in 1846. 

Maj. Gen. James B. Steedman was born in Pennsylvania July 30, 1818, 
and removed to Toledo in 1861. 

Maj. Gen. David S. Stanley was born in Wayne County, Ohio, June 1, 
1828. 

Maj. Gen. George Crook was born in Montgomery County, Ohio, Septem- 
ber 8, 1828. 

Maj. Gen. Mortimer D. Leggett was born in New York April 19, 1831, 
and emigrated to Ohio, in 1847. 

Brevet Maj. Gen. John C. Tidball was born in Virginia, but removed while 
a mere lad to Ohio with his parents. 

Brevet Maj. Gen. John W. Fuller was born in England in 1827. He 
removed to Toledo in 1858. 

Brevet Maj. Gen. Manning F. Force was born in Washington, D. C, on 
the 17th of December, 1824. He became a citizen of Cincinnati. 

Brevet Maj. Gen. Henry B. Banning was born in Knox County, Ohio, 
November 10, 1834. 

We add the names of Brevet Maj. Gens. Erastus B. Tyler, Thomas H. 
Ewing, Charles R. Woods, August V. Kautz, Rutherford B. Hayes, Charles 
C. Walcutt, Kenner Garrard, Hugh Ewing, Samuel Beatty, James S. Robinson, 
Joseph W. Keifer, Eli Long, William B. Woods, John W. Sprague, Benjamin 
P. Runkle, August Willich, Charles Griffin, Henry J. Hunt, B. W. Brice. 

Brig. Gens. Robert L. McCook, William H. Lytle, William Leroy 
Smith, C. P. Buckingham, Ferdinand Van Derveer, George P. Este, Joel A. 
Dewey, Benjamin F. Potts, Jacob Ammen, Daniel McCook, J. W. Forsyth, 
Ralph P. Buckland, William H. Powell, John G. Mitchell, Eliakim P. Scam- 
mon, Charles G Harker, J. W. Reilly, Joshua W. Sill, N. C. McLean, Will- 
iam T. H. Brooks, George W. Morgan, John Beatty, William W. Burns, John 
S. Mason, S. S. Carroll, Henry B. Carrington, M. S. Wade, John P. Slough, 
T. K. Smith. 

Brevet Brig. Gens. C. B. Ludlow, Andrew Hickenlooper, B. D. 
Fearing, Henry F. Devol, Israel Garrard, Daniel McCoy, W. P. Richardson, 
G. F. Wiles, Thomas M. Vincent, J. S. Jones, Stephen B. Yeoman, F. W. 
Moore, Thomas F. Wilder, Isaac Sherwood, C. H. Grosvenor, Moses E. 
Walker, R. N. Adams, E. B. Eggleston, I. M. Kirby. 

We find numerous other names of Brevet Brigadier Generals, mostly of late 
appointments, and not exercising commands in accordance with their brevet 
rank, which we omit quoting through lack of space. They are the names of 
men of rare abilities, and in many cases of brilliant achievements. 

In looking over the "War Record of Ohio," we find the State a great 
leader in men of valor and heroic deeds. It was the prolific field of military 
geniuses. 



194 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

Ohio was draped with the garb of mourning at the close of the war. Her 
human sacrifice in behalf of the nation had been bitter. There were tears and 
heart-aches all over the land. Her ranks were swept by a murderous fire, from 
which they never flinched, and many officers fell. 

Col. John II. Patrick will be remembered as opening the battle of Lookout 
Mountain. He fell mortally Avounded, during the Atlanta campaign, May 
15, 1862, while actively engaged. He was struck by a canister shot, and 
expired half a hour thereafter. 

Col. John T. Toland, in July, 1863, was placed in command of a mounted 
brigade, including his regiment, and was instructed to destroy the Virginia & 
Tennessee Railroad. He reached Wytheville, Va., on the afternoon of the 
18th of July. The rebels were safely intrenched in the house, and poured a 
galling fire into the national troops. Col. Toland was on horseback, at the 
head of his command. A sharpshooter sent a bullet with fatal certainty, and 
he fell on the neck of his horse, but was instantly caught by his Orderly 
Sergeant, who heard the fervent words : " My horse and my sword to my 
mother." 

Lieut. Col. Barton S. Kyle accompanied his regiment to the battle of Pitts- 
burg Landing. The regiment was forced back, though resisting bravely. 
Lieut. Col. Kyle was at his post of duty, encouraging his men, when he received 
a bullet in his right breast. He survived five hours. 

Col. William G. Jones was engaged in the battle of Chickamauga, June, 
1863. His regiment, the Thirty-sixth Ohio, was included in Turchin's Brigade 
of the Fourteenth Corps. He wrote in his pocket memoranda : " Off to the 
left ; merciful Father, have mercy on me and my regiment, and protect us from 
injury and death " — at 12 o'clock. At 5 that afternoon, he was fatally wounded 
and expired at 7 that same evening, on the battle-field His remains were 
taken by the rebels, but in December, 1863, they were exhumed and interred 
in Spring Grove Cemetery, Cincinnati. 

Col. Fred. C. Jones held command of the Tenth Brigade, in October, 1862, 
marching from Wild Cat, Ky., to Nashville, through a perpetual skirmish, 
During the battle of Stone River, Col. Jones' regiment, the Twenty-fourth, was 
on the front and left of the line. During the afternoon, when the rebel assault 
upon the left became furious, Col. Jones ordered his men to lie down and hold 
fire, which was obeyed. They rose to pour a deadly volley into the rebel ranks, 
and rush forward in a fierce charge. The capture of an entire rebel regiment was 
thus effected, but Col. Jones was shot in the right side. He was carried to the 
rear. " I know it ; I am dying now ; pay no attention to me, but look after 
my wounded men." He survived about ten hours. His remains are buried in 
Spring Grove, Cincinnati. 

Col. Lorin Andrews went with his command to Western Virginia, where 
he succumbed to exposure and severe duty. He was removed to his home, 
Gambier, Ohio, where he died surrounded by friends September 18, 1861. 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 195 

Col. Minor Milliken was sent to repel the attacks of the rebels at the rear. 
He led a superb cavalry charge against the enemy, vastly superior in numbers, 
and was cut off with a small portion of his regiment. He disdained to sur- 
render, and ordered his men to cut their way out. A hand-to-hand conflict 
ensued. Col. Milliken, being an expert swordsman, was able to protect himself 
with his saber. While parrying the strokes of his assailant, another shot him. 
The regiment, again charging, recovered his body, stripped of sword, purse and 
watch. 

Col. George P. Webster, with his regiment, the Ninety-eighth, left Steu- 
benville for Covington, Ky., August 23, 1862, marching from that point to Lex- 
ington and Louisville. He was placed at the command of the Thirty-fourth 
Brigade, Jackson's division, Cooke's corps. He fell in the battle of Perryville, 
and died on the field of battle. 

Col. Leander Stem was appointed Colonel of the One Hundred and First 
Ohio Infantry August 30, 1862. His premonitions that he should fall during 
his first regular engagement proved too true. As the army was advancing on 
Murfreesboro, the engagement of Knob Gap occurred, when Col. Stem's regi- 
ment charged and took a rebel battery, with several prisoners. The army 
closed around Murfreesboro, and on the evening of the 30th, the One Hun- 
dred and First was engaged in demonstrations against the enemy. Next 
morning, the battle of Stone River began in earnest. When Col. Stem's regi- 
ment began to waver, he called out: " Stand by the flag now, for the good 
old State of Ohio ! " and instantly fell, fatally wounded. 

Lieut. Col. Jonas D. Elliott held his position in May, 1863. During the 
summer of 1864, he commanded the left wing of the regiment at Dodsonville, 
Ala.; in September, he was sent after Wheeler, and was ordered into camp at 
Decatur. On the 23d, he was dispatched to Athens, to participate in the attack 
of Gen. Forrest, of the rebels. Col. Elliott was sent out, with 300 men, and 
being surrounded by Gen. Forrest, with vastly superior numbers, a forced resist- 
ance enabled them to sustain their own ground, until a fresh brigade of rebels 
arrived, under Gen. Warren. This officer instructed one of his men to shoot 
Lieut. Col. Elliott, and a moment later he fell. He lingered nineteen days. 

Col. Joseph L. Kirby Smith took command of the Forty-third Ohio Regi- 
ment. He fell at the battle of Corinth, under Rosecrans. 

Lieut. Col. James W. Shane fell, June 27, 1864, in an assault upon the 
enemy's works at Kenesaw. He survived but forty minutes. 

Col. Augustus H. Coleman displayed the abilities of a successful commander. 
He was in the first charge on the bridge across Antietam Creek. He was 
fatally wounded. His last words were inquiries regarding his men. 

Col. J. W. Lowe commanded the Twelfth Ohio, and was ordered to assist 
the Tenth in the battle of Carnifex Ferry. Cheering his men, in the thickest 
of the fight, a rifle ball pierced his forehead, and he foil dead — the first field 
officer from Ohio killed in battle in the war for the Union. 



196 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

Lieut. Col. Moses F. Wooster was engaged with his regiment, the One Hun- 
dred and First Ohio, at Perryville. He was mortally wounded on the 31st 
of December, 1862, in the grand effort to stem the tide of defeat at Stone 
River. 

The list of staff officers we refrain from giving, through lack of space. 

At the opening of the war, William Dennison was Governor of Ohio. David 
Tod succeeded him. John Brough was the third War Governor. 

Secretary Edwin M. Stanton was one of the most popular war Ministers. 
He was born in Steubenville, Ohio, in 1815 ; he was engaged in the United 
States Circuit Court, in 1860, in a leading law suit, at Cincinnati, known as the 
Manny and McCormick reaper trial ; on the 20th of January, 1862, he was 
appointed Secretary of War by Mr. Lincoln. 

Ex-Secretary Salmon P. Chase's public services in Ohio have already been 
mentioned in these pages. In 1861, he was appointed Secretary of the Treas- 
ury, in Mr. Lincoln's cabinet. 

United States Senator B. F. Wade made his reputation in Ohio. This 
Senator of the State stood at the head of the Committee on the Conduct of the 
War throughout its duration. 

United States Senator John Sherman was a leading member of the Finance 
Committee, during the war. For some time he was its Chairman. 

Jay Cooke was the financial agent of the Government, furnishing money for 
the payment of the troops. He was born in Portland, Huron Co., Ohio. 

In our brief review of the war record of Ohio, we have omitted a vast 
amount of detail information that would prove interesting to our readers. We 
believe we have been accurate in whatever we have given, taking as our authority, 
that accepted "encyclopedia" of Ohio war facts — Whitelaw Reid, who has pub- 
lished a valuable volume on the subject. 

SOME DISCUSSED SUBJECTS. 

It may be well in glancing over the achievements of Ohio, her momentous 
labors and grand successes, to refer to the Ordinance of 1787, more minutely 
than we have done, in relation to many events, since its inherent principles are 
not only perpetuated in the laws of the entire Northwest, but have since been 
woven into the general Constitution of the United States. It made permanent 
the standard and character of immigration, social culture and political and edu- 
cational institutions. It was thoroughly antislavery and denounced involuntary 
servitude, which was sanctioned in every other State at that time, with the 
exception of Massachusetts. It protected religion and property. As late as 
1862, Gen. William Henry Harrison, Governor of Indiana, called a convention 
for the purpose of considering the slavery question, and the feasibility of intro- 
ducing the system in the new States and Territories being formed. There 
was at this time a spirited contest, and Illinois, Indiana and possibly Ohio, 
barely escaped a decision that a full support should be given its introduction 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 197 

into these States. Its adoption was based upon certain specifications and 
limits of time, which upon a deeper consideration was deemed perplexing and 
impractical. 

An animated discussion arose not long since, regarding the correct author, 
ship of this important ordinance, and its chief worker in gaining its sanction 
by Congress. 

Mr. Webster ascribed its authorship to Mathew Dane, of Massachusetts, 
which statement was immediately refuted by Mr. Benton, of Mississippi, who 
laid claim to it as the birthright of Thomas Jefferson, of Virginia. 

It has been almost impossible to obtain accurate reports of the actions of the 
old Continental Congress, from the fact that its meetings were held in secret, 
and any reports either narrated or shown in schedules or lists, were deemed a 
striking lack of trust on the part of the person who furnished the information. 
It was sufficient that its acts and conclusions be proclaimed without any prelude 
or reasoning process. Hence it has been difficult to obtain early Congressional 
documents. But it has been conclusively proven that the great motive power 
in gaining the approbation of the Ordinance of 1787, was neither Dane nor 
Jefferson, but Dr. Cutler. 

He arrived at New York, July 5 of that year, after a journey from Ipswich, 
Mass., in his sulky. He obtained lodgings at the "Plow and Harrow," and 
saw that his good horse was properly cared for and fed at the same place. 
Congress was then in session, and he had come on a mission for the Ohio Com- 
pany, to negotiate their grant and its privileges in the new Territory of Ohio. 
He remained in New York three weeks, constantly engaged in the work vital to 
the interests of the future great State. But he secured the installment of the 
principles deemed the corner-stone of a future powerful State constitution. Mr. 
Poole, Librarian of the Chicago Public Library, searched assiduously for con- 
clusive proof of Dr. Cutler's right to this honor, and in the North American 
Review, Vol. 122, this is emphatically set forth with substantiating proof under 
his signature. 

Other facts have been discussed and proven at a very recent date, relative 
to the State of Ohio, which heretofore have been omitted, and nearly lost from 
the historic thread which unites the present with the past. 

The first settlement of the lands of the Northwest is necessarily surrounded 
with interest. But those were exciting, troublesome times, and a few links 
were passed over lightly. However, the years are not so far removed in the 
past but the line may be traced. 

Mr. Francis W. Miller, of Cincinnati, has supplied some missing chapters. 
The earliest documentary trace extant, regarding the southern settlement at 
Cincinnati, is an agreement of partnership between Denman, Filson and Pat- 
terson, in the fractional section of land to which the city of Cincinnati was 
originally limited. It bears the date August 25, 1788. This was entered on 
the records of Hamilton County, Ohio, October 6, 1803. 



198 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

A letter from Jonathan Dayton to the Hon. Judge Syinmes, dated Septem- 
ber 26, 1789, says: "You have been selling your lands, I am told, for two 
shillings specie, the acre. The price at this moment is, and seems to be, and 
undoubtedly is, a good one ; but as much cannot be said of it when you find 
hereafter that in consequence of the rise of certificates, another acre, in another 
payment, may cost you in specie two shillings and sixpence." 

A letter from John C. Symmes to Capt. Dayton, dated April 30, 1790, 
says: "The land in the reserved township is held at much too high a price. 
Not a foot of land beyond the five-acre lots will sell. Five shillings, specie, 
or two dollars in certificates, is the utmost they will bring, and they will rarely 
sell at that." 

This state of affairs was in a large degree brought about by the breaking-up 
of North Bend and a removal of the town to Fort Washington, or Cincinnati, 
later. A search through the old letters and other preserved documents prove 
that North Bend was at one time the beginning of the great city on the Ohio, 
rather than Cincinnati. Judge Symmes wrote, May 18, 1789 : " I have not as 
yet been able to make a decisive choice of a plat for the city, though I have 
found two pieces of ground, both eligible, but not upon the present plan of a 
regular square. It is a question of no little moment and difficulty to deter- 
mine which of these spots is preferable, in point of local situation. I know 
that at first thought men will decide in favor of that on the Ohio, from the 
supposition that the Ohio will command more trade and business than the 
Miami. * * * But if it were built on the Miami, the settlers 
throughout the purchase would find it very convenient." 

Another of the earliest selections of town sites was adjacent to the most 
southerly point of what is now Delhi Township. To this the name of South 
Bend was given. Judge Symmes reports November 4, 1790, of this place, 
over forty framed and hewed-log two-story houses, since the preceding spring. 
Ensign Luce is said to have taken his troops to North Bend, but decided to 
remove to Cincinnati, on account of the object of his affections having settled 
there — the wife of a settler. But this story is refuted by contradictory evi- 
dence from Judge Symmes' letters, which illustrate the fact that the post of 
North Bend was abandoned by Ensign Luce and his men in consequence of a 
panic, caused by Indian attacks. The removal of the troops caused a general 
decline of the town. Again, history and letters from the same eminent Judge, 
assert that Fort Washington was completed and garrisoned by Maj. Doughty 
before the close of that same year, and was begun by him during the summer, 
that Ensign Luce must have still been at his post at the bend at that time. It 
has been, therefore, recently accepted that the traditional "black eyes" and 
the "Indian panic," had nothing to do with the founding of Cincinnati, and 
that the advantages of the position gained the victory. 

Cincinnati has advanced, not only in prosperity and culture, but in national 
signifi ante. Our readers must have observed, in perusing these pages, that 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 199 

from this city and the State which it represents, have emanated some of the 
superior intellects which have used their wise faculties and talents, tempered by 
a wise judgment, in behalf of the American Union. 

The originality of the Senecas and Wyandots have been debated at some 
length, while others have called the tribes the same, having two branches. We 
have searched the earlier records and have found an authenticated account of 
these two tribes. 

The Indian tribes of Ohio were originally bold, fierce and stalwart. The 
country watered by the Sandusky and its tributaries was frequented by the 
Wyandot tribe, who came from the north side of the St. Lawrence River. The 
Senecas were blood relatives of this tribe. Both tribes were numbered by the 
thousands. A war originated between them, in this manner: A Wyandot 
chief desired to wed the object of his aifections, who laughed him to scorn, 
because he had taken no scalps, and was no warrior " to speak of." To change 
her opinion, he led out a party, and falling upon a number of Senecas, slaugh- 
tered them mercilessly, that he might hasten to the side of his dusky belle, with 
his trophies. This act inaugurated hostilities, which extended through a century. 
The Wyandots began to fear extermination, and, gathering their entire effects 
the natives escaped to Green Bay, and settled in several villages. But the Sen- 
ecas made up a war party and followed them, killing many Wyandots and burn- 
ing some of their villages. They then returned to Canada. Soon thereafter, 
they secured fire-arms from the French. Again they followed the Wyandots, 
firing their guns into their huts, and frightening them severely. They did not 
succeed as well as they expected. But the third party nearly exterminated the 
villages, because the young warriors were nearly all gone to war with the Foxes. 
The few at home escaping, promised to return with the Senecas, but desired 
two days for preparation. The Wyandots sent word to the two villages left 
undisturbed, and held a consultation. They decided to go as near the Senecas 
as possible, unobserved, and discover their real motive. They found them feast- 
ing on two roasted Wyandots, shouting over their victory. They danced nearly 
all night, and then fell asleep. A little before daylight, the Wyandots fell on 
them, leaving not one to carry back the news. 

The Wyandots then procured guns, and began to grow formidable. They 
set out to return to their own country, and proceeded on their way as far as 
Detroit, where they met a party of Senecas, on the lake. A fierce conflict 
ensued, and the Wyandots beheld the Senecas fall, to the last man, suffering 
fearful carnage themselves. They soon settled in this part of the world, their 
principal village being on the Sandusky. Northwestern Ohio was particularly 
dangerous with new Indian tribes, and the Wyandots were cruelly aggressive. 
The death of their chief, and their total defeat by Harrison, destroyed their 
power forever. 

On the 29th of September, 1817, a treaty was held, at the foot of the rapids 
of the Miami of Lake Erie, between Lewis Cass and Duncan MeArthur, 



200 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO 

Commissioners of the United States, and the sachems, chiefs and warriors of the 
"Wyandot, Seneca, Delaware, Shawnee, Potawattomie, Ottawa and Chippewa 
nations. All their lands in Ohio ivere ceded to the United States forever. 

There was really not a Seneca in the Seneca nation. They were chiefly 
Cayugas, Mohawks, Onondagas, Tuscarawas, Wyandots and Oneidas. But the 
Mingoes were originally Cayugas, and their chief was the celebrated Logan. 
After the murder of his family by the whites, the Mingoes were scattered over 
the territory northwest of the Ohio. 

The notorious Simon Girty was adopted by the Senecas. Girty's name was 
a terror and fiendish horror for many years. He not only led the Indians in 
their atrocities, but he added barbarism to their native wickedness. 

CONCLUSION. 

When peace was proclaimed, after the surrender of Gen. Robert E. Lee to 
Gen. U. S. Grant, the volunteer troops disbanded, and a return to home indus- 
tries instituted, Ohio, like many other States, gave direct attention to the inter- 
ests of returned soldiers. The thrift of the State was augmented by a spasmodic, 
and thereafter recognized as a fictitious, demand for products, commercial and 
industrial pursuits redoubled their forces. But the great wave of stagnation 
swept over this fair land — the re-action of a war excitement. Laborers were 
many, but wages were inadequate. Deeper and deeper settled this lethargy — 
called by many " hard times" — until the wheels of commercial life revolved 
slowly, and from the workshops and the factories went up the echoes of priva- 
tion and distress. There was no famine, no fever, no epidemic, it was simply 
exhaustion. In the larger cities there was much suffering. . Idle people loitered 
about, barely seeking employment, the task seeming worse than hopeless. 

During the years 1870, 1871 and 1872, the stringent measures brought 
about by the depressed state of business retarded any material advancement in 
general matters. The years 1873-74 were marked by a preceptible improve- 
ment, and a few factories were established, while larger numbers were employed 
in those already founded. The year 1875 was under the direction of a Demo- 
cratic Legislature. It was marked in many respects by a " reverse motion " in 
many laws and regulations. 

The Legislature which convened in 1876, January 3, was Republican in the 
main. It repealed the " Geghan Law" passed by the preceding body. At 
the time of its adoption, there was the most intense feeling throughout the State, 
the charge being made that it was in the interests of the Catholics. Among 
the general enactments were laws re-organizing the government of the State insti- 
tutions, which the previous Legislature had ordered according to their own belief 
to follow new doctrines. The office of Comptroller of the Treasury was abolished. 
The powers of municipal corporations to levy taxes was limited, and their 
authority to incur debts was limited. Furthermore, this body prohibited any 
municipal appropriations, unless the actual money was in the Treasury to meet 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 201 

the same in full. A law was passed for the protection of children under fourteen 
years of age, exhibited in public shows. 

The temperance cause received more vigorous and solid support than was 
ever rendered by the State previously. A common-sense, highly moral and 
exalted platform was formed and supported by many leading men. 

This year witnessed the serious "strikes" among the miners in Stark and 
Wayne Counties. The consequences were painful — distress, riots and distruc- 
tion of property. 

The State Mine Inspector reported 300 coal mines in the State, with only 
twenty-five in operation. Not over 3,000,000 tons of coal were raised during 
the year, owing to the dullness of the times. 

The State charities reported the aggregate number under public care to be 
29,508. The taxation for the maintenance of these classes was one and one 
six-hundredth of a mill on each dollar of taxable property. 

The reports given of the year 1877 indicated a revival of business interests 
and prosperity. The State produced of wheat, 27,306,566 bushels ; rye, 
914,106 bushels; buckwheat, 225,822 bushels; oats, 29,325,611; barley, 
1,629,817 bushels ; corn, 101,884,305 bushels ; timothy, tons of hay, 2,160,334 ; 
clover, tons of hay, 286,265; flax, pounds of fiber, 7,343,294; potatoes, 
10,504,278 bushels; sweet potatoes, 126,354| bushels; tobacco, 24,214,950 
pounds; sorghum, sugar, 7,507^ pounds; syrup, 1,180,255 gallons; maple 
sugar, 1,625,215 pounds; maple syrup, 324,036 gallons; honey, 1,534,902 
pounds. 

The year 1878 was marked by a more vigorous and combined effort of the 
people to entirely overcome the stagnation of business, the influence of the 
lethargy yet combating the awakened interest. This energy was amply rewarded 
in 1879, by a general dawning of the "good times " so ardently desired. New 
enterprises were instituted, manufactories erected, improvements carried on, and 
agriculture was successful. Before the year closed, the State was basking in 
the light of prosperity, and the year 1880 was ushered in when the confidence 
of the people was again a permanent incentive — confidence in the nation, 
their State, each in the other and themselves. The old-time crown of power, 
influence and integrity, which Ohio has earned, is conspicuous in this year of 
1881. The jewels have been reset, and we confidently doubt not that their 
luster will remain undimmed intrusted to so faithful and so earnest a people. 



^j^M^^' ., 




202 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 



POPULATION OF OHIO BY COUNTIES. 





COUNTIES 






1820 


1830 


1840 


1850 


1860 


1870 


1880 






581434 


937903 


1519467 


1980329 


2339511 


2665260 


31980C2 






10106 


12281 
578 


13183 
9079 


18883 
12109 
23813 
28767 
18215 
11338 
34600 
27332 
30789 
17685 
19782 
22178 
30455 
18838 
33621 
25674 
18177 
48099 
20276 

6966 
21817 
18568 
30264 
12726 
42909 

7781 
17063 
17827 
21946 
30438 
156844 
16751 

8251 
20157 

3434 
25781 
14119 
20452 
26203 
12719 
29133 
28872 
14654 
15246 
38846 
19162 
26086 
12363 
10015 
23735 
12618 
24441 
17971 

7712 
24999 
28351 
38218 
28585 
20280 
45049 


20309 
19185 
22951 
31814 
21364 
17187 
36398 
29958 
35840 
15738 
22698 
25300 
33ik; ( 
21461 
32836 
25032 
23881 
78033 
26009 
11886 
23902 
24474 
30538 
15935 
50361 
14043 
22043 
15817 
26197 
24474 
216410 
22886 
13570 
19110 
8901 
27773 
17057 
20589 
26616 
17941 
26115 
27735 
15576 
23249 
37011 
20996 
29744 
25831 
13015 
25894 
15490 
22517 
26534 
14104 
29959 
25741 
52230 
22119 
20445 
44416 
20751 
7016 
4945 
19678 
23469 
13643 
24208 
21820 
12808 
31158 
&5071 
21429 
24297 
30868 
17493 
42978 
27344 
30656 
32463 
16507 
10238 
13631 
26902 
36268 
82483 
16638 
17886 
15596 


20750 
23623 
21933 
32517 
23768 
20041 
39714 
30802 
39912 
14491 
24188 
32070 
34268 
21914 
38299 
23600 
25556 

132010 
32278 
15719 
25175 
28188 
31138 
17170 
63019 
17789 
25545 
14190 
28038 
23838 

260370 
23847 
18714 
18682 
14028 
29133 
17925 
18177 
28532 
21759 
29188 
26333 
15935 
31380 
35756 
23028 
30308 
46722 
15633 
31001 
16184 
20092 
31465 
17254 
32740 
25779 
64006 
20363 
18583 
44886 
19949 
13364 
8544 
18453 
24875 
15447 
24584 
21809 
17081 
32516 
37097 
25503 
29302 
30827 
20748 
52508 
34674 
38659 
33840 
18730 
15823 
15027 
26689 
40609 
35116 
20991 
24596 
18553 


24005 
31314 
23883 
37139 
28411 
25444 
49688 
32911 
42579 
16416 
27817 
41948 
36713 
24756 
48602 
26642 
30583 

196943 
40496 
22515 
27381 
32640 
34284 
20364 
86797 
21053 
28124 
14251 
31349 
27197 

313374 
27784 
27023 
20456 
20585 
30281 
21126 
20776 
31609 
23686 
33018 
27431 
16326 
39068 
40450 
26267 
35526 
67377 
















7382 
6338 


14584 
9787 


23724 
19109 


5 
6 






20329 
13356 
21746 


28827 
17867 
27142 


30901 
22715 
28173 
18108 
16721 
16882 
23106 
15719 
40378 
21590 
13152 
26506 
13282 








Butler 


in 
M 
12 
13 
11 
15 
16 
17 
18 
19 
'.." i 
21 
22 
23 

•J! 

26 

26 

27 

"S 






8479 
9533 

15820 
8085 

22033 
7086 


12131 
13114 
20466 
11436 
35592 
11161 

4791 
10373 

6204 


Clark 














6328 
3717 








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HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 
POPULATION OF THE UNITED STATES. 



203 



STATES AND 
TERRITORIES. 



STATES. 

Alabama 

Arkansas 

California 

Colorado 

Connecticut 

Delaware 

Florida 

Georgia 

Illinois 

Indiana 

Iowa 

Kansas 

Kentucky 

Louisiana 

Maine 

Maryland 

Massachusetts .... 

Michigan 

Minnesota 

Mississippi 

Missouri 

Nebraska 

Nevada 

New Hampshire. 

New Jersey 

New York 

North Carolina... 
Ohio 



AREA IN 
SQUARE 
MILES. 



POPULATION. 



1870. 



996,992 
484,471 
560,247 



537,454 

125,015 

187,748 

1,184,109 

2,539,891 

1,680,637 

1,191,792 

364,399 

1,321,011 

726,915 

626,915 

7o0,894 

1,457,351 

1,184,059 

439,706 

827,922 

1,721,295 

123,993 

42,491 

318,300 

906,096 

4,382,759 

1,071,361 

2,665,260 



1880. 



1,262,505 1,802 
8u2,o2d l,u*l 



MIL'S 
R. R. 

1882. 



864,694 
194,327 
622,700 
146,608 

269,493 



,266 
2,274 
95S 
278 
793 



1,542,180 2,581 



3,077,S71 
1,978,301 
1,624,615 

996,096 
1,6*8,690 

939,9*6 

648,936 

934,943 
1,783,085 
l,6o6,93/ 

780,773 
1,131,597 
2,168,380 

452,402 
62,266 

346,991 
1,131,116 
5,082,871 
1,399,750 
3,198,062 



8,325 
4,764 
6,112 
3,718 
1,714 

999 
1,021 
1,047 
1,934 
4,2b3 
3,390 
1,231 
4,211 
2,310 

890 
1,025 
1,753 
6,278 
1,619 
6,663 



STATES AND 
TERRITORIES. 



STATES. 

Oregon 

Pennsylvania .... 

Rhode Island 

South Carolina- 
Tennessee 

Texas 

Vermont 

Virginia 

West Virginia.... 
Wisconsin 

Total States .. 

TERRITORIES. 

Arizona , 

Colorada , 

Dakota '. 

District of Columbia 

Idaho 

Montana 

New Mexico . 

Utah 

Washington 

Wyoming 

Total Territories. 



Aggregate of U. S... 2,915,203 



AREA IN 
SQUARE 
MILES. 



95,244 

46,000 
1,306 
29,385 
45,600 
237,504 
10,212 
40,904 
23,000 
53,924 



1,950,171 



113,916 
104,500 
147,490 
60 
90,93^ 
143,776 
121,201 
80,056 
69,944 
93,107 



965,032 



POPULATION. 



1870. 



1880. 



MIL'S 
R. R. 

1882. 



90,923 

3,521,791 
217,353 
705,606 

1,258,520 
818,579 
330,551 

1,225,163 
442,014 

1,054,670 



38,113,253 



9,658 
39,864 
14,181 
131,700 
14,999 
20,595 
91,874 
86,786 
23,955 

9,118 



442,730 



38,555,983 



174,768 
4,282,891 

276,531 

995,577' 
1,542,359 
1,591,749 

332,286 
1,512,565 

618,457 
1,315,497 



40,440 



135,177 

177,624 

32,610 

39,159 

119,565 

143,963 

75,116 

20,789 



50,155,783 



689 
6,690 

211 
1,483 
1,973 
5,344 

915 
2,193 

711 
3,441 



1,638 



265 
231 
975 
908 
479 
533 



PRINCIPAL COUNTRIES OF THE WORLD. 

POPULATION AND AREA. 



COUNTRIES. 



China 

British India 

Russia 

United States — with Alaska 

German Empire 

Turkey 

Austria and Hungary , 

France 

Japan 

Great Britain and Ireland... 
Italy 

Egypt 

Spain 

Mexico 

Brazil 

Persia 

Sweden and Norway 

Belgium 

Roumania 

Portugal 

Dominion of Canada 

Netherlands 

Switzerland 

Peru 

Bolivia 

Chili 

Venezuela 

Greece 

Denmark 

Argentine Confederation.... 

Servia 

Guatemala. 

Ecuador 

Liberia 

Hayti 

San Salvador 

Uruguay 

Nicaragua 

Honduras 

San Domingo 

Costa Rica 



POPULATION 



380,627,183 

254,899,516 

98,297,407 

50,442,066 

45,234,061 

42,213,400 

37,786,246 

37,405,240 

35,925,313 

35,262,762 

28,452,639 

16,952,000 

16,625,860 

10,025,649 

9,883,622 

7,653,600 

6,497,245 

5,519,844 

5,290,000 

4,348,551 

4,324,810 

4,114,077 

2,846,102 

2,699,945 

2,300,000 

2,223,434 

2,075,245 

1,979,305 

1,969,039 

1,859,685 

1,700,211 

1,252,497 

1,066,137 

1,050,000 

800,000 

554,785 

438,245 

350,000 

350,000 

300,000 

180,000 



1881 
1881 
1879 
1880 
1880 
1881 
1880 
1881 
1879 
1881 
1881 
1875 
1877 
1881 
1872 
1881 
1881 
1880 
1878 
1878 
1881 
1881 
1880 
1876 



1881 
1881 
1880 
1869 
1880 
1881 
1875 



1878 

1880 



AREA OF 
SQUARE 
MILES. 



4,413,788 

1,425,723 

8,387,816 

3,602,990 

212,091 

2,396,692 

240,942 

204,092 

148,700 

120,879 

114,296 

1,406,250 

182,750 

743,948 

3,287,963 

610,000 

293,848 

11,373 

48,307 

36,510 

3,470,392 

12,648 

15.992 

503,718 



207,350 

439,120 

25.1141 

13,784 

1,204,486 

20,850 

41,830 

248,372 

14,300 

10,204 

7,225 

73,538 

49,500 

39,600 

18,045 

26,040 



CAPITALS. 



Pekin 

Calcutta 

St. Petersburg (1881) 

Washington 

Berlin 

Constantinople 

Vienna 

Paris 

Yeddo 

London 

Florence 

Cairo 

Madrid 

Mexico 

Rio de Janiero 

Teheran 

Stockholm 

Brussels 

Bucharest 

Lisbon 

Ottawa 

Amsterdam 

Geneva 

Lima 

La Paz 

Santiago 

Caraccas 

Athens 

Copenhagen 

Buenos Ayres (1S81) 

Belgrade 

Santiago de Guatemala. 

Quito 

Monrovia 

Port au Prince 

San Salvador 

Montevideo 

Managua 

Tegucigalpa 

San i loniingo 

San Jose , 



POPU- 
LATION. 



2,000,000 
500,000 
876,575 
147,293 

1,122,360 
800,000 

1,103,857 

2,269,023 
200,000 

4,764,312 
169,000 
250,000 
397,690 
315,996 
274,972 
200,000 
168,775 
350,000 
221,805 
246,343 
27,412 
328,047 
68,320 
101,488 



387,081 

60,000 

63,374 

234,850 

289,925 

27,000 

55,728 

70,000 

13,000 

22,000 

18,500 

73,353 

8,000 

12,000 

10,000 

2,500 



'204 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 



COMMENTS UPON THE ORDINANCE OF 1787, FROM THE STATUTES 
OF OHIO, EDITED BY SALMON P. CHASE, AND PUB- 
LISHED IN THE YEAR 1833. 

[It would be difficult to find a more comprehensive review of the founda- 
tions of our system of laws than is given in the " Preliminary Sketch of the 
History of Ohio," by this distinguished representative of the bench and the 
bar of America. The work is now out of print, and is not easily obtained; 
besides, its great author has passed away; so these extracts are made more 
with a view of preserving old historical literature, than of introducing new; 
furthermore, the masses of the people have never had convenient access to the 
volumes, which, for the most part, have been in the hands of professional men 
only. The publication of the work first brought its compiler before the public, 
and marked the beginning of that career which, during its course, shaped the 
financial system of our country, and ended upon the Supreme Bench of the 
nation.] 

By the ordinance of 1785, Congress had executed in part the great national 
trust confided to it, by providing for the disposal of the public lands for the 
common good, and by prescribing the manner and terms of sale. By that of 
1787, provision was made for successive forms of Territorial government, 
adapted to successive steps of advancement in the settlement of the Western 
country. It comprehended an intelligible system of law on the descent and 
conveyance of real property, and the transfer of personal goods. It also con- 
tained five articles of compact between the original States, and the people and 
States of the Territory, establishing certain great fundamental principles of 
governmental duty and private right, as the basis of all future constitutions and 
legislation, unalterable and indestructible, except by that final and common 
ruin, which, as it has overtaken all former systems of human polity, may yet 
overwhelm our American union. Never, probably, in the history of the world, 
did a measure of legislation so accurately fulfill, and yet so mightily exceed 
the anticipations of the legislators. The ordinance has been well described, as 
having been a pillar of cloud by day and of fire by night, in the settlement and 
government of the Northwestern States. When the settlers went into the 
wilderness, they found the law already there. It was impressed upon the soil 
itself, while it yet bore up nothing but the forest. The purchaser of land 
became, by that act, a party to the compact, and bound by its perpetual cove- 
nants, so far as its conditions did not conflict with the terms of the cessions of 

the States. 

********* 

This remarkable instrument was the last gift of the Congress of the old 
confederation to the country, and it was a fit consummation of their glorious 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 207 

labors. At the time of its promulgation, the Federal Constitution was under 
discussion in the convention ; and in a few months, upon the organization of 
the new national government, that Congress was dissolved, never again to re-as- 
semble. Some, and indeed most of the principles established by the articles of 
compact are to be found in the plan of 1784, and in the various English and 
American bills of rights. Others, however, and these not the least important, 
are original. Of this number are the clauses in relation to contracts, to slavery 
and to Indians. On the whole, these articles contain what they profess to con- 
tain, the true theory of American liberty. The great principles promulgated 
by it are wholly and purely American. They are indeed the genuine princi- 
ples of freedom, unadulterated by that compromise with circumstances, the 
effects of which are visible in the constitution and history of the Union. 
********* 

The first form of civil government, provided by the ordinance, was now 
formally established within the Territory. Under this form, the people had no 
concern in the business of government. The Governor and Judges derived 
their appointments at first from Congress, and after the adoption of the Fed- 
eral Constitution, from the President. The commission of the former officer 
was for the term of three years, unless sooner revoked ; those of the latter 
were during good behavior. It was required that the Governor should reside 
within the Territory, and possess a freehold estate there, in one thousand acres 
of land. He had authority to appoint all officers of militia, below the rank of 
Generals, and all magistrates and civil officers, except the Judges and the 
Secretary of the Territory ; to establish convenient divisions of the whole dis- 
trict for the execution of progress, to lay out those parts to which the Indian 
titles might be extinguished into counties and townships. The Judges, or any 
two of them, constituted a court with common law jurisdiction. It was neces- 
sary that each Judge should possess a freehold estate in the territory of five 
hundred acres. The whole legislative power which, however, extended only to 
the adoption of such laws of the original States as might be suited to the cir- 
cumstances of the country, was vested in the Governor and Judges. The laws 
adopted were to continue in force, unless disapproved by Congress, until re- 
pealed by the Legislature, which was afterward to be organized. It was the 
duty of the Secretary to preserve all acts and laws, public records and executive 
proceedings, and to transmit authentic copies to the Secretary of Congress 
every six months. 

Such was the first government devised for the Northwestern Territory. It 
is obvious that its character, as beneficent or oppressive, depended entirely upon 
the temper and disposition of those who administrated it. All power, legisla- 
tive, judicial and executive, was concentrated in the Governor and Judges, and 
in its exercise they were responsible only to the distant Federal head. The 
expenses of the Government were defrayed in part by the United States, but 
were principally drawn from the pockets of the people in the shape of fees. 



208 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

This temporary system, however unfriendly as it seems to liberty, was,, 
perhaps, so established upon sufficient reasons. The Federal Constitution had 
not then been adopted, and there were strong apprehensions that the people of 
the Territory might not be disposed to organize States and apply for admission 
into the Union. It was, therefore, a matter of policy so to frame the Territorial 
system as to create some strong motives to draw them into the Union, as States, 
in due time. 

The first acts of Territorial legislation were passed at Marietta, then the 
only American settlement northwest of the Ohio. The Governor and Judges 
did not strictly confine themselves within the limits of their legislative author- 
ity, as prescribed by the ordinance. When they could not find laws of the 
original States suited to the condition of the country, they supplied the want 
by enactments of their own. The earliest laws, from 1788 to 1795, were all 
thus enacted. The laws of 1788 provided for the organization of the militia; 
for the establishment of inferior courts ; for the punishment of crimes, and for 
the limitations of actions ; prescribed the duties of ministerial officers ; regu- 
lated marriages, and appointed oaths of office. That the Governor and Judges 
in the enactment of these laws, exceeded their authority, without the slightest 
disposition to abuse it, may be inferred from the fact that except two, which 
had been previously repealed, they were all confirmed by the first Territorial 
Legislature. 



At this period there was no seat of government, properly called. The 
Governor resided at Cincinnati, but laws were passed whenever they seemed to 
be needed, and promulgated at any place where the Territorial legislators hap- 
pened to be assembled. Before the year of 1795, no laws were, strictly speak- 
ing, adopted. Most of them were framed by the Governor and Judges to 
answer particular public ends; while in the enactmant of others, including all 
the laws of 1792, the Secretary of the Territory discharged, under the author- 
ity of an act of Congress, the functions of the Governor. The earliest laws, 
as has been already stated, were published at Marietta. Of the remainder, a 
few were published at Vincennes, and the rest at Cincinnati. 

In the year 1789, the first Congress passed an act recognizing the binding 
force of the ordinance of 1787, and adapting its provisions to the Federal Con- 
stitution. This act provided that the communications directed in the ordinance 
to be made to Congress or its officers, by the Governor, should thenceforth be 
made to the President, and that the authority to appoint with the consent of 
the Senate, and commission officers, before that time appointed and commis- 
sioned by Congress, should likewise be vested in that officer. It also gave the 
Territorial Secretary the power already mentioned, of acting in certain cases, 
in the place of the Governor. In 1792, Congress passed another act giving to 
the Governor and Judges authority to repeal, at their discretion, the laws by 



HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 209 

them made; and enabling a single Judge of the general court, in the absence 
of his brethren, to hold the terms. 

At this time the Judges appointed by the national Executive constituted the 
Supreme Court of the Territory. They were commissioned during good 
behavior; and their judicial jurisdiction extended over the whole region north- 
west of the Ohio. The court, thus constituted, was fixed at no certain place, 
and its process, civil and criminal, was returnable wheresoever it might be in 
the Territory. Inferior to this court were the County Courts of Common Pleas, 
and the General Quarter Sessions of the Peace. The former consisted of any 
number of Judges, not less than three nor more than seven, and had a general 
common-law jurisdiction, concurrent, in the respective counties, with that of 
the Supreme Court; the latter consisted of a number of Justices for each 
county, to be determined by the Governor, who were required to hold three 
terms in every year, and had a limited criminal jurisdiction. Single Judges of. 
the Common Pleas, and single Justices of the Quarter Sessions, were also 
clothed with certain civil and criminal powers to be exercised out of court. 
Besides these courts, each county had a Judge of Probate, clothed with the 
ordinary jurisdiction of a Probate Court. 

Such was the original constitution of courts and distribution of judicial 
power in the Northwestern Territory. The expenses of the system were de- 
frayed in part by the National Government, and in part by assessments upon 
the counties, but principally by fees, which were payable to every officer con- 
cerned in the administration of justice, from the Judges of the General Court 
downward. 

In 1795, the Governor and Judges undertook to revise the Territorial lawe, 
and to establish a complete system of statutory jurisprudence, by adoptions 
from the laws of the original States, in strict conformity to the provisions of 
the ordinance. For this purpose they assembled at Cincinnati, in June, and 
continued in session until the latter part of August. The judiciary system un- 
derwent some changes. The General Court was fixed at Cincinnati and Marietta, 
and a Cirfcuit Court was established with power to try, in the several counties, 
issues in fact depending before the superior tribunal, where alone causes could 
be finally decided. Orphans' Courts, too, were established, with jurisdiction 
analogous to but more extensive than that of a Judge of Probate. Laws were 
also adopted to regulate judgments and executions, for limitation of actions, 
for the distribution of intestate estates, and for many other general purposes. 
Finally, as if with a view to create some great reservoir, from which, whatever 
principles and powers had been omitted in the particular acts, might be drawn 
according to the exigency of circumstances, the Governor and Judges adopted 
a law, providing that the common law of England and all general statutes in 
aid of the common law, prior to the fourth year of James I, should be in full 
force within the Territory. The law thus adopted was an act of the Virginia 
Legislature, passed before the Declaration of Independence, when Virginia was 



210 HISTORY OF THE STATE OF OHIO. 

yet a British colony, and at the time of its adoption had been repealed so far 
as it related to the English statutes. 

The other laws of 1795 were principally derived from the statute book of 
Pennsylvania. The system thus adopted, was not without many imperfections 
and blemishes, but it may be doubted whether any colony, at so early a period 
after its first establishment, ever had one so good. 

********* 

And how gratifying is the retrospect, how cheering the prospect which even 
this sketch, brief and partial as it is, presents! On a surface, covered less 
than half a century ago by the trees of the primeval forest, a State has grown 
up from colonial infancy to freedom, independence and strength. But thirty 
years have elapsed since that State, with hardly sixty thousand inhabitants, was 
admitted into the American Union. Of the twenty-four States which form 
that Union, she is now the fourth in respect to population. In other respects, 
her rank is even higher. Already her resources have been adequate, not only 
to the expense of government and instruction, but to the construction of long 
lines of canals. Her enterprise has realized the startling prediction of the 
poet, who, in 1787, when Ohio was yet a wilderness, foretold the future con- 
nection of the Hudson with the Ohio. 

And these results are attributable mainly to her institutions. The spirit of 
the ordinance of 1787 prevades them all. Who can estimate the benefits 
which have flowed from the interdiction by that instrument of slavery and of 
legislative interference with private contracts ? One consequence is, that the 
soil of Ohio bears up none but freemen ; another, that a stern and honorable 
regard to private rights and public morals characterizes her legislation. There 
is hardly a page in the statute book of which her sons need be ashamed. The 
great doctrine of equal rights is everywhere recognized in her constitution and 
her laws. Almost every father of a family in this State has a freehold interest 
in the soil, but this interest is not necessary to entitle him to a voice in the 
concerns of government. Every man may vote; every man is eligible to any 
office. And this unlimited extension of the elective franchise, so far from pro- 
ducing any evil, has ever constituted a safe and sufficient check upon injurious 
legislation. Other causes of her prosperity may be found in her fertile soil, in 
her felicitous position, and especially in her connection with the union of the 
States. All these springs of growth and advancement are permanent, and 
upon a most gratifying prospect of the future. They promise an advance in 
population, wealth, intelligence and moral worth as permanent as the existence 
of the State itself. They promise to the future citizens of Ohio the blessings 
of good government, wise legislation and universal instruction. More than all, 
they are pledges that in all future, as in all past circumstances, Ohio will cleave 
fast to the national constitution and the national Union, and that her growing 
energies will on no occasion, be more willingly or powerfully put forth, than in 
the support and maintenance of both in unimpaired vigor and strength. 




&/i^ 0fa^^ 



FOUNDER OF MARION 




PART III. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 



CHAPTER I. 
GEOLOGY, ZOOLOGY, METEOROLOGY. 

GEOLOGY SITUATION AND AREA. 

MARION COUNTY lies on the broad watershed between the Ohio 
River and Lake Erie, about fifty miles south of the west end of that 
lake. It comprises fifteen townships, of a total of about four hundred 
square miles. The Scioto is the only river in the county, which, of course, 
is comparatively small in this region. It enters the county about the mid- 
dle of the west side, running southeasterly and then southerly, leaving the 
county near the center of the southern border. The Little Scioto enters 
near the middle of the north boundary, and runs southerly to Green Camp, 
where it empties into the Scioto. The Whetstone runs from northeast to 
southwest throughout the eastern border of the county. The waters of the 
Tymochtee and Little Sandusky take thcdr rise in the northwestern portion 
of the county, and find their way to Lake Erie. 

SURFACE FEATURES AND SOIL. 

Much of the county is flat, and has a black, prairie soil, especially in 
the townships of Bowling Green, Big Island, Salt Rock, Grand Prairie, 
Scott, Claridon and the western part of Marion. The streams that cross 
these prairie-like tracts are but four to six feet below adjoining level of 
land, and in time of freshet inundate considerable areas. There are, how- 
ever, sudden changes in the character of the surface, even in the midst of 
the prairies. Mounds of the unmodified hard-pan still project above the 
general surface. These have a rolling contour and an ashen, clayey soil. 
They were generally covered with forest, while the prairies are treeless. 
The remaining portions of the county, namely, the townships of Grand, the 
northern portion of Montgomery, Green Camp, Pleasant, Richland, Tully 
and the eastern part of Marion, are on the old drift surface, and have, with 
an undulating or rolling outline, a soil of 'brown or ashen clay, containing 
pebbles and bowlders. 

GEOLOGICAL STRUCTURE.* 

The geological range of Marion County is from the Niagara to the 
Waverly, being greater than that of any other county in the State, except 
one, as to time. Thus, this county contains, approximately: 

* From the report of N. H. Winchell. 



21G HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

FEET. 

Waverly sandstone 140 

Huron shale (black slate) 250 

Hamilton limestone 20 

Upper Cornif erous 50 

Lower Corniferous 150 

Oriskany sandstone 20 

Water limestone 100 

Niagara limestone ■ 40 

770 

The Niagara limestone, the lowest in the scale, is found in the north- 
western part of the county, and is followed, toward the east, by the higher 
members in the order above given, the general dip of the whole being in 
that direction. The water lime occupies the most of the townships of Salt 
Rock, Big Island, Green Camp, Montgomery and Prospect, and all of 
Bowling Green. The Lower Corniferous strikes across the western side of 
Grand Prairie and Marion Townships, touching Pleasant and Prospect 
Townships, east of the Scioto River. The Upper Corniferous underlies the 
remainder of Grand Prairie, Marion, Pleasant and Prospect Townships, and 
the western portions of Scott, Claridon, Richland and Waldo. The Hamil- 
ton occupies a narrow belt just on the east of the Upper Corniferous. The 
black slate underlies the eastern portions of Waldo, Richland, Claridon 
and most of Tully Townships. The Waverly is found only in the eastern 
part of Tully. Of these, the Oriskany and the Lower Corniferous have 
not been seen in outcrop in the county, owing to the unbroken mass of 
the drift deposits; and the other formations offer very meager opportuni- 
ties for learning their characters. It is only by tracing their lines of out- 
crop from other counties, where they afford better facilities for observation, 
that their presence and their contents in Marion County can be asserted by 
the geologist. 

The Niagara was examined in the following places in Grand Township, 
southeast quarter of Section 19, where Jeremiah Winslow has burned a 
little quicklime: dip southeast. On the northeast half of Section 19 
a small creek, which flows northeasterly across this section into the Lit- 
tle Tymochtee Creek, lies immediately on the hard, gray Niagara, for the 
distance of over half a mile, on land belonging mostly to S. Hartle (1873). 
Formerly, a great deal of lime was burned from the rock along this creek. 
The dip is to the northeast, but toward the most westerly point of expos- 
ure the surface of the rock presents sudden changes of dip, disappearing 
with a dip west. 

The water lime is seen only in the bed of the Scioto at Prospect. 
At that place, and about two miles farther south, in Delaware County; also 
in the bed of the Scioto, it appears as an even-bedded drab rock, bluish on 
the laminations and blotched throughout with blue and drab. The beds are 
two to four inches thick, but sometimes not more than an inch, and some 
blocks are ten inches thick. The blue and drab colors vary and interchange 
in all shapes and directions, without reference to the bedding, except that 
it is not uncommon to see a drab surface to the depth of one-half inch to 
an inch and a half, with a blue strip through the middle. The surfaces of 
the beds are diversified with mud cracks, and separated by bituminous films. 
The stone is slightly vesiculai', with small cavities, yet, for the most part, 
firm and apparently compact. It is a handsome and useful building ma- 
terial, comparing favorably with the Upper Corniferous for all uses. 

The Upper Corniferous, in Grand Prairie Township, is worked quite 
extensively on the northwest quarter of Section 26, by James Dawson. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 217 

Here the beds dip slightly toward the east; perpendicular exposure, about 
twelve feet, facing the west. In this immediate neighborhood are the fol- 
lowing quarries, also in the Upper Corniferous: Southwest quarter of Sec- 
tion 23, by Adam Coonrod; southwest quarter of Section 23, by Philip 
Khetter; northwest quarter of Section 26, by heirs of Landy Shoots, and 
northeast quarter of Section 27, by Eli Powell. 

At Marion, the Upper Corniferous is extensively wrought by Seas & 
Huberman and by Franklin Swaigler (1873), who have, in adjoining quar- 
ries, an exposure of about twelve feet of perpendicular bedding, dip east. 
Similar beds are also wrought by John Ballantine, Joshua Finch and Na- 
than Powers. On the southwest quarter of Section 10, Marion Township, 
lime is burnt from the Upper Corniferous. On the southeast quarter 
of Section 9, Leonard Reiver has taken out some stone from the Upper 
Corniferous. Four and a half miles south of Marion, in Pleasant Town- 
ship, John Owen burns and ships at Marion considerable quantities of quick- 
lime, and sells building stone on the ground at 50 cents per ton; dip east. 

In Richland Township, the Upper Corniferous appears in the Whet- 
stone, on Sections 30 and 19, and is quarried on the land of Daniel Oborn; 
also on the land of George King, northeast quarter of Section 20. 

In the Hamilton group, in the bed of the Whetstone, about a mile be- 
low the village of Waldo, may be seen a very hard, blue, pyritiferous lime- 
stone, in beds of eight to twelve inches, which is believed to belong to the 
Hamilton, although there is not sufficient exposure within the county to 
determine its horizon. This would furnish a fine building stone, were it 
not for the abundance of pyritic crystals contained in the rock. After a 
few months' exposure to the weather, these will inevitably change to the 
yellow peroxide of iron, the rusty drippings of which present an offense to 
the eye and soil the beauty of any wall. 

The Huron shale is popularly known as the " black slate." At various 
places in the bed and banks of the Whetstone Creek, in the townships of 
Richland, Claridon and Tully, it finds characteristic exposure. It may be 
seen on the northeast quarter of Section 16, Richland Township, where it 
is in thin, brittle sheets, and rises several feet along the bank of the stream. 
It holds large, concretionary masses of a coarse, black limestone. These 
are very hard, and appear arenaceous at the center, with a band of more 
calcareous and crystalline material around the outside. They sometimes ex- 
ceed four feet in diameter. Globular masses of crystalline pyrites are also 
common, often several inches in diameter. The black slate may also be 
seen in Sections 3 and 26 of the same township, and Section 31 of Tully 
Township, on the land of James Brown Lee. In the absence of other stone, 
this slate has been somewhat used for walling wells in the eastern part of 
the county. 

The Waverly sandstone is quarried to a limited extent on the land of J. 
B. Lee, just referred to. It here has a position to the west of observed ex- 
posures of the underlying black slate, and must be an outlier from the more 
extensive beds of the same stone which lie farther east. Other openings 
are met with on Section 36 of the same township, and at Iberia in Morrow 
County. 

The drift shows no apparent diminution in Marion County. Since its 
general character differs in no respect from that already described, but few 
points of observation will be noted. At Prospect, the contents of a gravel 
bank were noticed to contain a great many largH fragmnnts from the water 
limestone, so arranged as to indicate not only the agency of water in rapid 



218 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

currents, but the direction of its flow. Some of these pieces of limestone 
were as much as two feet across, bat usually not over two inches in thick- 
ness, and but slightly water worn. They lay in the midst of gravel which 
had a stratification dipping rapidly toward the south. The limestone 
fragments also lay with their sides almost invariably upward, but sloping 
with less inclination in the same direction, similar to the arrangement of 
flat stone or other obstructions often seen in the bottom of streams. It 
would seem as if the water, ^precipitated in cascades down the southern 
slope of the glacier, bringing such dislodged portions of the drift as fell 
into the current, sought to arrange the obstructions to its flow so as to offer 
the least resistance. 

On the southwest quarter of Section 36, Salt Rock Township, a well 
seventy feet in depth, through a drift deposits, on the premises of R. W. 
Messenger, furnished no water. About Green Camp, and a mile or two 
we«t, there are unusual numbers of bowlders, some as large as six feet in 
diameter. The country about is rolling, and they seem to have been em- 
braced within the drift. In the southern part of Pleasant and Green 
Camp Townships, especially in the vicinity of Prospect, the upper por- 
tions of the drift are very apt to contain deposits of gravel and sand, with 
frequent bowlders. 

At Waldo, the drift is seen to consist, along the river bank, of twenty- 
five feet hard-pan. Brown color prevails downward about fifteen feet, blue 
below that depth, soon becoming sandy, furnishing water. In other places, 
within half a mile, the top of the drift is gravel and sand, with only a thin 
covering of hard-pan. 

MATERIAL RESOURCES. 

Gravel is found in the southern part of the county, and is extensively 
employed in road-making. Clay, for red pottery and brick, is abundant 
throughout the county. Stone taken from the various quarries in the Up- 
per Corniferous formation, serves for all purposes of building. It may be 
employed in the most massive as well as in all ordinary structures, having 
resistance sufficient to withstand any pressure needed. It is of a light blue 
or gray color, and when arranged properly in a building, with a stone of 
lighter shade, it produces a fine architectural effect. In the city of Marion, 
it is employed in the county jail and numerous stores. Its dark shade pro- 
duces in a building the aesthetic effect of strength, age and solidity, mak- 
ing it specially adapted to Gothic structures. 

The black slate has heretofore been esteemed of little or no economical 
value. It is due, however, to the enterprise of E. H. Gleason, of Defiance, that 
we have the practical demonstration of the eminent hydraulic qualities of 
the black slate in Ohio. Owing to the inflammable, bituminous matter it 
contains, the slate is easily and cheaply burned, to a certain extent supply- 
ing its own fuel. Six to eight hours of red heat expels all volatile matter, 
leaving a lime which is easily reduced to powder. The stone is not selected 
altogether promiscuously from the quarry. It is thought the most compact 
and calcareous courses, which, when burned, are of a grayish or ashy pur- 
ple, afford the best hydraulic cement. The more slaty and highly bitumin- 
ous beds, after burning, are of a light cream color, or white with yellowish 
streaks and spots; yet more than half of the stone burned by Mr. Gleason 
is of the latter quality. The cement has been put to practical test in a 
number of ways at Defiance, and is now being employed in the abutments 
of an iron bridge at that place over the Wabash & Erie Canal, in connec- 
tion with the Oriskany sandstone, quarried in Lucas County. Mr. Gleason 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 219 

employs two constant draw-kilns and grinds the lime by steam power. It 
is only necessary to add that in Mario u County the base of the black slate 
strikes across the townships of Scott, Claridon and Richland, and that its 
exposure along the Whetstone affords ample facilities for a similar enter- 
prise. 

ZOOLOGY. 

Although no large body of water exists within or near the borders of 
Marion County, it has formerly had a respectable share of this world's 
goods in respect to the number of species and individuals in the animal 
kingdom. It afforded the Indian and the pioneer an abundance of whole- 
some wild meats, and in great variety, as well as an interesting variety of 
useless or mischievous animals. According to the rule the world over, the 
larger animals disappeared first before the advancing tread of human occu- 
pation, and then the next in size, and so on down to the raccoon, opofesum, 
etc., which still exist though in diminishing numbers. The buffalo and 
elk were the largest, and they disappeared on the very first approach of the 
white man, with his deadly rifle and indefatigable hound. 



The common deer, which was abundant in pioneer times, is now very 
scarce in Ohio, being occasionally seen in some of the wildest portions of 
the State. The last one known to be in Marion County was killed as much 
as twenty years ago. 

The panther {Felts concolor) and two species of wild cat (Lynx Cana- 
densis and rufus) used to infest the woods, and render traveling somewhat 
dangerous to the early settler, but the last seen in the county was about 
a third of a century ago. 

The black bear, porcupine and beaver have not been seen here for a still 
longer period. 

Minks, weasels and skunks, once common, are diminishing. Twenty 
to thirty years ago there was a brisk trade here in their furs and other 
peltry, the principal dealers being T. J. Anderson and Michael Dutt, both 
now deceased. This trade thinned out the fur-bearing animals percep- 
tibly. 

Fox and gray squirrels keep up their proportion with the diminishing 
forest. The gray species is the most numerous, among which a black speci- 
men is occasionally met with. Flying squirrels are still here, but as they 
are entirely nocturnal in their travels, they are seldom seen. There are also a 
few ground squirrels. 

Moles, rabbits and bats are, of course, still common. 

No otters have been seen for many years, though they were frequent in 
early days. There are still a good manv muskrats. 

Occasionally there is a gray fox met with, but no red foxes have been 
seen for a long time. 

Wolves, of the large gray or " timber" species, were plentiful in early 
times, and more annoying and mischievous than all other animals together; 
but the last individual of this hateful tribe in Marion County was killed 
about thirty years ago by John D. Guthery. 

Ground hogs, or " woodchucks," were never plentiful, and probably 
so scarce now that seldom one can be found. 

" Wild hogs," or domestic hogs, escaped and running wild, were abun- 
dant in pioneer times. In a few generations these animals became as furi- 



220 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

one and dangerous as wolves. They were all killed out by about the year 
1850. 

BIRDS. 

Of the 250 species of birds found in Marion County, either constantly 
or occasionally in emigration, the group of singers exceeds in number all 
others, though the really superior musicians among them number but fif- 
teen or twenty. The most numerously represented division, the wood war- 
blers (Tanagridce) are not tine singers. The best songsters of the forest 
belong to the thrush and mocking-bird family. For the sake of conven- 
ience let us take a glance at the feathered creation in Marion County by 
families. 

Thrush Family. — The superior singing bird of Marion County is the 
superior singer of all the world, namely, the wood-thrush. It is really more 
entertaining than the famous nightingale of Europe. Its melodious, flute- 
like tones are altogether " too sweet " for description. They are grouped 
into short tunes of eight, ten or twelve notes each, and there are six or 
eight tunes sung by this bird, with intervals of five to six or seven seconds 
between them. Next to this prima donna of the forest are the olive-backed 
(or Swainson's) thrush, Wilson's thrush, the northern mocking-bird (or cat- 
bird), the brown thrush and the robin. These are all migratory birds, 
spending the summer here but the winter in the South. The robin some- 
times remains all winter. The hermit and the olive-backed thrushes are 
more common in the spring and fall. The robin and the cat-bird frequent 
the orchards and gardens, nesting about the door-yards, and prefer these 
places to the woods, probably because of greater security from birds or 
other animals of prey. The brown thrush is found in thickets of hazel- 
brush, briers, etc., which skirt old fences and the edge of woods, and gen- 
erally nests in brush heaps. The remainder of this family is confined to 
the woodland. Their food consists of beetles, grasshoppers, snails, spiders, 
caterpillars, etc., together with small fruits and berries. 

Bluebird Family. — The bluebird is the only representative of this 
family in the county. It is common from spring to fall, nesting in bird- 
houses, fence-posts, decayed trees, and feeds on winged insects, worms, 
grasshoppers, spiders and a scant proportion of berries. 

Kinglets. — The ruby-crowned and the golden- crowned kinglets and the 
blue-gray gnat-catcher are all common during the spring and fall. The 
first- mentioned is frequently found in winter, and the gnat-catcher is abun- 
dant during the summer. These are confined to the woods. The kinglets 
nest in the lake region, but the gnat-catcher nests here, building a wonder- 
ful structure high up on the oaks. It is somewhat purse-shaped, and often 
at the extremity of a bough, so as to sway with the wind, secure from 
enemies. It is placed in a concealed situation, and artistically as well as 
substantially finished. 

Chickadee. — The titmouse, or black-capped chickadee, the only member 
of this family here, feeds upon insects, seeds, berries, crumbs, meat, etc., 
and generally nests in the woods, where it makes its home most of the year, 
but during the winter it is seen near the house, feeding upon sweepings 
from the table. 

Nuthatches. — The white-bellied and the red-bellied nuthatch are com- 
mon, especially the former. These birds are found in woodlands and or- 
chards. Their nests are built in holes in trees. Food — ants, eggs of insects, 
and seeds. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 221 

Brown Creeper. — A common spring, fall and winter resident, and a 
woodland bird, is to be mentioned in this connection. 

Wren Family. — The Carolina wren is a very rare straggler from the 
South. The house wren is common locally. The winter wren is a common 
spring and fall visitor, often remaining during the open winters. The 
long-billed marsh wren is a common summer resident of the marshes, build- 
ing a large, globular nest of coarse sand-grass, suspended to reeds or flag 
stems. The short-billed marsh wren is a common summer resident, gen- 
erally found on low meadow lands. The wrens feed on insects only. 

Lark Family. — The horned lark is a winter resident, but sometimes 
breeds here. It frequents barren and gravelly fields, feeding on seeds and 
insects. When the ground is covered with snow, they may be seen feeding 
upon the droppings of stock about the farm. 

The Titlark is an abundant migrant in late fall and early spring, fre- 
quenting the same localities and subsisting on the same food as the pre- 
ceding. There are sometimes large flocks of this species of bird. 

Warblers. — These are numerous. The black and white creeper is a com- 
mon summer resident, nesting on the ground, generally beside a fallen log. 
The blue yellow-backed warbler, a rare migratory bird, is sometimes found 
in the tree-tops of the wild forest. The blue-winged yellow warbler is rare. 
The blue golden- winged warbler is common in spring and fall. The Nash- 
ville and Tennessee warblers are very common. The orange-crowned war- 
bler is rare. The yellow, the black-throated green, the black-throated blue, 
the blue, the yellow-rumped, the Blackburnian, the black poll, the yellow red 
poll, and the chestnut-sided warblers are all common —some of them abundant; 
all migrants. The bay-breasted, the Cape May, the prairie, the yellow- 
throated and Kirtland's warblers are rare. The golden- crowned thrush 
(Sciurus aiiricapillus) is a common summer resident, frequenting low, open 
woods. The water thrush (S. ncevius) is rare, but breeds here. The large 
billed water thrush is common in swampy timber lands. The Connecticut 
warbler is rare, but may become common. It is a fine songster. The Mary- 
land yellow-throat is found occasionally. The black capped fly-catching 
warbler is common during the spring and autumn. Canada fly-catching 
warbler, common. Red start, very common. 

Tanagers. — The scarlet tanager is common, and the summer red bird 
(sometimes kept in cages) rare, accidentally straying from the South. 

Swallow Family. — The barn, cliff or eave, white-bellied, and the bank or 
sand swallows are common. The purple martin, formerly common, is being 
driven out by the English sparrow. The swallows feed exclusively upon 
winged insects. 

Wax-wings. — The Carolina wax-wing or cherry bird is a common resi- 
dent, breeding in August and September, and feeding on the cultivated 
fruits. 

Vireos. — There are a half-dozen species of these in this section of the 
country, inhabiting woodlands, some of them common, some of them rare. 

Shrikes or Butcher Birds. — The great Northern shrike is rare; the logger- 
head shrike, two varieties, is common. These form a small but interesting 
family of bold and spirited birds, quarrelsome among themselves. They 
form a kind of connecting link between insect-eating birds and birds of 
prey. Their food consists of large insects, mice and small birds and 
snakes. They are noted for impaling their prey on thorns or sharp twigs 
and leaving it there — for what purpose is not yet known. 



222 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Finch and Sparrow Family. — Numerous. Pine grosbeak, an occasional 
winter visitor. Purple finch, a common migrant. White- winged and red 
crossbills, rare winter visitors. Red-poll linnet, an irregular winter visitor. 
Pine linnet, a rare winter visitor from the North. Goldfinch, or yellow 
bird, common and well-known; has the appearance of a canary. Snow 
bunting, a common but irregular winter visitor. Lapland long-spur, a com- 
mon winter visitor. Savannah sparrow, a common migrant. Bay- winged 
bunting, very common from spring to fall. Yellow- winged, Henslow's and 
Lincoln's sparrows, rare summer residents. Swamp and song sparrows, 
common, the latter abundant all the warm season. Snow-bird, common in 
winter. Mountain sparrow, common in winter. Chipping and field spar- 
rows, common in summer. White-throated and white-crowned sparrows, 
common migrants. English sparrow, abundant in the towns, driving out 
our native snng-birds; another imported nuisance from Europe, as bad as 
the Canada thistle and about as easy to get rid of as house-flies! Fox 
sparrow, a very common spring and fall visitor. Black-throated bunting, 
growing common. Rose-breasted grosbeak, a common summer resident; 
breeds along the water-courses in low trees and shrubs. Indigo bird, abun- 
dant in summer, frequenting low woodlands overrun with briers. Towhee 
bunting or chewink, abundant. 

Birds of this family feed entirely upon seeds, except during the breed- 
ing season. Those which are residents all the year and those which are 
summer residents only, subsist during the breeding season and feed their 
young almost exclusively upon insects. At other times, their food consists 
of the seeds of grass and weeds. The rose-breasted grosbeak is the only 
bird known to feed on the potato bug, and the white-crowned sparrow feeds 
on the grape-vine flea-beetle. The common yellow bird, or goldfinch, pre- 
fers the seeds of the thistle and lettuce. The fox sparrow and chewink 
scratch the ground for hibernating insect and snails. The crossbills feed 
on the seeds in pine cones, and the English sparrow feeds on the seeds con- 
tained in the droppings of animals. 

Blackbird Family. — Bobolink, common and well-known; a fine and 
cheerful songster. Cow-bird, or cow blackbird, a summer visitor, fre- 
quenting old pasture land and the edge of woods. Like the European 
cuckoo, it builds no nest, but lays its eggs in the nests of smaller birds, 
such as warblers, vireos and sparrows. Red-winged blackbird, abundant 
in summer. Meadow lark, well-known. Orchard and Baltimore orioles 
are very common. Rusty blackbird, or grackle, is common for a week or 
two in the spring. Crow blackbird, common and well-known. 

With, the exception of one or two species, this family is decidedly gre- 
garious. Insects and the grains constitute their food. The cow-bird de- 
stroys the eggs and young of other birds. The orioles feed largely on hairy 
caterpillars and also on some of the small fruits, green peas, etc. 

Crow Family. — Raven, was common, but now rare. Common crow, 
well-known, emigrate southward during the coldest weather. Blue jay, 
the gayest plumaged and harshest voiced bird of the American forests. 
Birds of this family are omnivorous. 

Fly-catcher Family. — The king-bird is abundant in summer, frequent- 
ing orchards and the edge of the woods. Great crested fly-catcher, abun- 
dant in the forest; uses snake skins as a part of its nest material. Pewee, 
or Phoebe bird, common. "Wood pewee, a common bird of the orchard and 
woodland. Least fly-catcher, common, summer. Yellow-bellied fly-catcher, 
a common migrant, but rare summer resident. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 223 

The king-bird and pewee frequent open places; the others of this fam- 
ily dwell in the forest. They all subsist upon winged insects. 

Goatsucker Family. — "Whippoorwill and night-hawk, well-known and 
common. These birds are nocturnal in their habits and feed upon 
insects. 

The Chimney Swallow is the only member of the family Cypselidce that is 
found in this latitude. It is sometimes seen in large flocks, roosting in un- 
used chimneys, barns and hollow trees. 

Humming-bird Family. — The ruby-throated is the only species found 
here. It feeds upon insects, which it captures within flowers. 

King-fisher Family. — The belted king fisher is a common summer resi- 
dent in suitable localities. It feeds upon small fish. 

Cuckoo Family.— The black-billed species is common; has been called 
"rain crow." The yellow-billed cuckoo is not common. Omnivorous. 

Woodpecker Family. — There are half a dozen species of woodpecker 
found in this locality, all common, viz., the hairy, downy, yellow-bellied, 
red-bellied, red-headed and golden- winged. Omnivorous. 

Owl Family. — The great horned, the mottled, the screech, the long- 
eared and the short- eared are abundant. The barn owl is a rare straggler 
from the South. Possibly one or two other species may occasionally be 
found here. 

Hau-k Family. — The marsh hawk, the sharp-shinned, Cooper's, the spar- 
row, the red-tailed, the red -shouldered, the broad-winged, the rough-legged 
or black, and the fish hawks are all common. The white-tailed kite, the 
goshawk, the pigeon hawk, Swainson's hawk and the bald eagle are more 
rare. 

The Turkey Buzzard, belonging to a distinct family, is rare. 

Pigeon Family. — The wild pigeon, an abundant migrant, sometimes 
breeds here. The Carolina dove, a common resident here most of the year, 
is common. 

The Wild Turkey, once abundant, but now rare, is the only member of 
its family native to this region. 

Grouse Family. — Prairie chicken, once occasional, none now. Ruffed 
grouse, or partridge, occasional. Quail, common. 

Plover Family. — The golden plover, the killdeer and the semi-palmated 
are common about unfrequented ponds. The black-bellied plover is rare, 
if ever seen at all. 

Sandpiper Family. — The most common species of this family are the 
semi-palmated, least, pectoral, red-breasted, Willst, solitary, spotted and 
upland sandpipers, the snipe and the woodcock. Less common are the 
buff-breasted and red-backed sandpipers, long-billed curlew and perhaps 
occasionally two or three other unimportant species. 

Heron Family. — The green and night herons, the bittern and the least 
bittern are common residents. The great blue heron is a common migrant 
and the great white heron a rare summer visitor. 

Cranes. — The whooping and sand-hill cranes are sometimes seen in mi- 
gration. 

Rail Family. — The Virginia and Carolina rails and the coot are often 
seen in the vicinity of the streams and in the margin of ponds; the clapper, 
king, yellow and black rails, very rarely; the Florida gallinule, occasional. 

Duck Family. — The common species are the mallard, black, big black- 
head, little black-head, ring-necked, red-head (or pochard), golden-eye, 
butter-ball, ruddy and fish (goosander) ducks, the brant and Canada geese, 



224 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

widgeon, golden-winged and blue-winged teal and the hooded merganser. 
Rarely are seen the pintail, gadwall, shoveler, wood duck, canvas-back 
duck, long-tailed duck and red-breasted merganser. All the duck family 
are migratory. 

Gull Family.— About ten species may rarely be seen in passing. 

Loon. — One species sometimes strays into this locality from the North. 

Grebes. — The horned and the pied-billed grebes are occasional. One 
or two other species very rare. 

FISHES. 

As there are no lakes or large streams in Marion County, the number 
and variety of fishes are limited, especially in these days of mill-dams and 
city sewage. There are nine mill-dams on the Scioto above Columbus, 
and two below. 

Stickleback Family. — This furnishes the chief game fish, as bass and 
sun-fish. The local names of these fish are so various that we scarcely know 
how to refer tu them; but we may venture to name the black bass, the green 
or Oswego bass, the big black sun-fish or rock bass, goggle-eye, and the two 
common sun-fish, all of which have materially diminished within the last 
five years. 

Perch Family. — There are no perch, or "jack salmon," in the county. 
They were once common throughout the State, but now are only to be found 
occasionally in some of the most favored places. They are among the fin- 
est fishes, and ought to be cultivated. The salmon sometimes attains a 
weight oE forty pounds. 

Pike Family. — The larger pike, sometimes called "grass pike," used 
to be met with, especially in draining off the marshes. The pickerel was 
also native here, but none are to be found at the present day. Nor have 
gar pike ("gars") existed here since the age of mill-dams came in. 

Sucker Family. — To this family belong the buffalo (rare), red horse 
(occasional) and the white sucker (also occasional). Black suckers and 
mullets still thrive in some parts of Ohio, but not here. 

Catfish Family. — Fish of this family are still common, but are small, 
weighing only a pound or two. We can scarcely name the species in En- 
glish. Perhaps we may say the channel, or mud cattish, the blue and the 
yellow, the bull-head and one or two other small species are found in Mar- 
ion County. The yellow are the most common. 

Minor Sorts. — Besides the above, there are several varieties of chubs, 
silver-sides, and large numbers of other species, denominated minnows, 
which are found in the smallest spring branches as well as the larger 
streams. 

Fish planting has not yet been introduced into this county. 

REPTILES. 

Ohio is notable for the number of species of Tortoises found within its 
limits. In this respect it exceeds the number in Europe several times. 
The snapping and soft-shelled turtles are at home here, and the box or land 
tortoise, or terrapin, is now very rare. Nearly all the species are esteemed 
as food, and the snapper is sold in the city markets. Not so large speci- 
mens are found now as formerly. 

Of the twenty-three species of Snakes that have existed in this State, 
and probably in this county, several of the largest have been about exter- 
minated. Only two of them are venomous, namely, the copperhead, and 




c/> 



~~i^lsi£iAV 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 227 

the niassasauger. Very few of these are to be found at the present day. 
The smaller species are useful animals, like toads, in destroying mice, moles 
and other vermin, and are preserved by intelligent farmers on this ac- 
count 

Of Lizards there are very few in this section. Those creatures which 
resemble them are innocent salamanders, and are really as useful as toads 
in the destruction of flies and other insects. There are eighteen species of 
these animals in Ohio. The largest attains a length of eight inches, and 
is black, with large, irregular yellow spots. Another large species is en- 
tirely yellow; another, of a brilliant Vermillion, haunts cold springs. The 
second in size is the "mud alligator," or "water dog," a frequent annoy- 
ance to fishermen. Still another Species has external gills, for respiration 
in water, thus resembling pollywogs. 

Of Frogs there are five species, and of toads five. Four are tree toads. 
One species of frog is subterranean, excavating its burrows backward with 
its hind feet, which are shovel- formed. It comes to the surface to breed, 
after thunder-showers in April, in the evening, when it is easily recognized 
by its loud, discordant notes. 

ANECDOTAL. 

A Wolf Story — John R. Knapp relates the following, as having oc- 
curred in Big Island Township in early day: 

Sam Britton, an eccentric young man, who was not afraid of anything 
or anybody, used to lend a hand in the sugar-making season and make 
himself generally useful, and sometimes, when he took it into his head, ob- 
noxious. On one occasion, a dark and rainy night, he became irritated by 
something that occurred and bade the boys good-bye, saying that he was 
going home, when, in fact, his intention was to visit a neighboring sugar 
•camp. He had not trudged his way through the darkness long, before a 
pack of wolves took after him, and he was obliged to drop in at an old, de- 
serted cabin, at onu end of which was a shelf about thirty inches wide, and 
some eight or ten feet from the ground. Sam lost no time in securing this 
place of refuge, for he had hardly got into his quarters before the whole 
cabin floor was crowded with wolves, some howling, some snapping their 
teeth and others jumping up for their prey. When Sam looked down on 
those " varmints, " he saw their eyes glistening in the darkness like balls of 
lire, and had serious fears of becoming food for the beasts; but as he had 
about eight inches to " count on," he hugged the cabin wall so close as to 
make him sweat. 

All night long the wolves kept up their revelry, seemingly taking their 
turns in jumping at him. It was fortunate for him that the shelf was so 
high from the floor, or he would have been a " gone Sammy, sure !" As 
daylight approached, his tormentors left him — greatly to his relief. On 
examining the front part of the shelf, it was found that at least two inches 
of it had been torn off in pieces by the wolves, in their desperate efforts to 
capture their prey. 

Sam returned to the camp he had left in such high dudgeon the previous 
night, a wiser boy, and relished a square meal of fat pork and corn bread. 

As late as May, 1861, $72.25 was offered for each wolf killed in Grand 
Prairie Township, and $15 for each whelp. 

An Escaped Leopard. — During the year 1875, there appeared in the 
woods of Grand Township, this county, and Marseilles Township, Wyandot 
County, a furious animal, taken to be a panther or huge Canada lynx. The 

B 



228 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

citizens were frightened, and some depredations upon domestic animals in 
the vicinity were attributed to this ferocious beast. Ominous accounts were 
given of it from time to time, by those who professed to have obtained 
more or less clear sights of the creature until November, 1877, when it at- 
tacked a number of men in Union County and wounded' them severely. 
Several contests were had with him from time to time, and yet it was not 
settled by the public what the animal was. Some thought it was a lioness. 
Tho people were greatly alarmed, while they knew the " critter" was still 
alive and roaming at large. 

On Saturday, December 1, 1877, a man named Burnison, an engineer 
of the Chicago, Cincinnati, Columbus & Indianapolis Railroad, was out 
hunting birds about two miles from New* Bloomington, this county, when 
he came across the beast beside a log. He was in a position ready for a 
spring, and waving his tail from side to side preparatory to the leap. Mr. 
Burnison, knowing that his shot-gun was no defense against the monster, 
raised it toward Lim and walked backward, facing him; but the leopard 
did not follow. Mr. B. hastened back to New Bloomington, and raised the 
alarm for assistance. At once Ed Kessler and Samuel Johnson ai'med them- 
selves, went out and found the animal. Kessler tired first, with his heavy 
rifle, but did not wound him severely. Johnson then fired, with but little 
better effect. The beast then attacked Johnson, striking him down and 
tearing the side of his face and neck pretty badly. Kessler then struck 
the animal across the back with his gun, crippling the animal and breaking 
the stook from the barrel of his gun. He seized the barrel, and a man 
named Moore attacked the leopard with an ax, pounding it upon the head, 
and the two together, after a desperate fight, succeeded in killing the 
animal. 

The dead leopard, a beautiful animal, was then brought to Marion, and 
exhibited in the city hall at 10 cents a head, and hundreds went to see it. 
It was found to measure seven feet in length and weigh 128 pounds. It 
was a male, and doubtless had escaped from a traveling menagerie. 

Before the close of the month (December, 1877), a tiger or similar ani- 
mal was observed in the woods near New Bloomington. 

METEOROLOGY. 

In respect to the climate, Marion County is situated near the northern 
side of what might be termed the " mud belt," the central part being the 
Ohio River; that is, the winters seldom keep the ground constantly frozen, 
and from November to April there is a continual strife between the cold 
zone of the north and the warm zone of the south, as to which shall have the 
mastery. From May to October the average temperature of the atmos- 
phere is delightful. 

From 1865 to 1871, a period of nearly 3even years, the average spring 
temperature, as observed by Harry True, was 48.4°; summer, 71.1°; au- 
tumn, 53.5°; winter, 27.2°; the year, 50.1°. This is about two degrees 
warmer than at Cleveland, and two to five degrees cooler than at Cincin- 
nati. 

The principal storms and frosts that have done damage to property and 
life in this county are as follows: In 1825 occurred the famous hurricanes 
in Bowling Green and Scott Townships, sweeping the ground in places so 
that it could b« immediately cultivated. A full account is given in the his- 
tory of those townships. In June, 1835, a severe frost killed the growing 
wheat and even the young leaves on the oaks of the forest, making them 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 229 

appear as if lire had gone through thera. Also, this year a heavy wind did 
considerable damage. In 1842, a wind carried light timbers through the 
air, and overthrew many light structures. In 1847, a damaging frost oc- 
curred out of season. About 1848, a high wind did some damage at Mar- 
ion, blowing down the gable of the Presbyterian Cburch, carrying the roof 
away, etc., and doing other mischief in the vicinity. In 1855, there was 
frost every' month in the year. August 18, this year, it injured the corn 
and killed the buckwheat. Sunday morning, June 4, 1859, a frost occurred 
which considerably damaged all the crops, though utterly destroying none 
except the tender garden vegetables and fruits. 

The wettest seasons have been 1844, 1855 and 1S83. Several other sea- 
sons, it has been too wet in May and June to permit the crops to have a 
good start. 

The prevailing wind, or upper current of the atmosphere, in this part of 
Ohio, is from the southwest, which comes circling round from the Gulf of 
Mexico, loaded with moisture. In the summer time, when a cold body of 
air sets in from the northern section of the Rocky Mountains, this moisture 
is condensed at the point of contact, and rain results. This is the cause of 
all the rain we have here. This same body of cooler air continues to move 
along until its front portion has passed along to the east or southeast, and 
thus we always have our clearing oft with a western or northwestern cooler 
breeze. In winter, the process is precisely the same, only the product is 
snow instead of rain. In the nature of the case, the ground current has 
more or less to take an opposite direction, as all wind is really a rolling or 
whirling motion of the air, and we see the rain or snow precipitated upon 
the ground and objects thereon with a western movement, striking the east 
side of houses, etc. 

Hail storms and hurricanes seldom occur in Marion County. 

From 1864 to 1871, the depth of rain, including the snow as melted, 
was an average, for the spring months, of 10.5 inches; summer, 11.2 inches; 
autumn, 8.8; winter, 8.2 inches; for the year, 38.7 inches. At the village 
of Marion, it was 40 inches; at Cincinnati, 46, and along the shore of 
Lake Erie, 32 to 34 inches. 




230 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 



CHAPTER II. 



INDIANS AND EARLY SETTLEMENT. 

PRE-HISTORIC. 

" The mighty oak, proud monarch of the wood, 
Upon this land in stately grandeur stood: 
Throughout the wilds did mortal panthers prowl, 
And oft was heard the wolf's terrific howl. 
But all these savage beasts have passed away, 
And the wild Indians, too, where are they? 
They 've disappeared, or to the West have gone, 
Like night's dark shades before the rising dawn. 
Can we forget that brave and hardy band, 
Who made their homes first in this Western land? 
Their names should be enrolled on history's page, 
To be preserved by each succeeding age. 
They were the fathers of the mighty West, 
Whose victory of labor stands confessed; 
Before them fell the forest of the plain, 
And peace and plenty followed in the train." 

EVIDENCE of the occupation of this region before the appearance of 
the red man and the white race is to be found in almost every part 
of the county, as well as throughout the northwest generally. In remov- 
ing the gravel bluffs, which are numerous and deep, for the construction 
and repair of roads, and in excavating cellars, hundreds of human skele- 
tons, some of them of giant form, with fine specimens of ancient pottery 
and other curious relics, have been found. A citizen of Marion estimates 
that there were about as many human skeletons in the knolls of Marion 
County as there are white inhabitants at present! These sand and gravel 
bluffs appear in almost every part of the county, resembling small islands, 
and covered by timber — mostly young oak. Many stone axes, fleshers, spear 
heads and arrow points of flint, stone beads and pick-shaped implements, 
including perforated tubes and flat, neatly polished plates of a greenish- 
gray species of slate, have been plowed up by farmers along the Olentangy 
(Whetstone) and the Scioto. The earthworks, such as intrenchments and 
mounds, probably owing to the level nature of the surface and the fact that 
the gravel knolls were utilized by the early occupants as burial sites and 
places of observation, are not numerous. It seems quite clear that the first 
race must have been somewhat advanced in the art of self-defense and ag- 
riculture, and resided in villages, as is attested by the relics still found in 
their original position. 

Prof. Alexander Winchell, of the Michigan State University, however, 
holds the opinion that all the works of the so-called "Mound-Builders" and 
racfis superior to the present red man were done by the ancestors of the 
present Indians, who were more inventive and enterprising than their de- 
scendants are, like the peoples around the Mediterranean. "While the stone 
axes hammers, mortars and finer relics, made of the beautiful grayish var- 
iegated slate found scattered all over Northern Ohio, have been attributed 
to the mechanism and genius of the "Mound-Builders," there is a suspi- 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 231 

cion that they were really the work of the Eries, for the modern Sioux, the 
Chippewa and some of the Hudson Bay tribes make stone axes, pipes and 
ornamental implements fully a* beautiful and as highly finished as those 
found in Ohio. 

On pages 174 to 177 of this volume, reference is made to the works of 
"Indians," " Mound-Builders," etc., which can be traced in great numbers 
throughout the State of Ohio, and in Marion County a respectable share of 
these mounds and relics of antiquity are found. Thousands of these relics 
have been collected by resident parties, some of the principal of which de- 
serve particular mention. 

f. c. kuehrmund's collection. 

Probably the best collection of American antiquities in Marion County 
is made by the industrious hands of Mr. Ferdinand C. Buehrmund, of the 
village of Marion. His specimens are all numbered and catalogued, and 
indeed, scientifically arranged, and he can give the friendly visitor consid- 
erable information concerning them — probably all that is known — besides 
many of the theories of antiquarians. 

Nos. 1 to 35. — Arrowheads found in the different parts of Marion Coun- 
ty, most of them about the junction of the east and west forks of the Whet- 
stone Biver, near some ancient mounds east of the village of Caledonia. 

Nos. 36 to 43. — Spear heads found mostly in the same locality as the arrow- 
heads above spoken of. 

These articles are generally made from flint or flint-like stone, in size 
from a half inch in length to five or six inches. But some of them are 
made even from quartzose rock, sandstone, etc. It is yet a mystery how 
these little implements were manufactured. They appear as if they were 
formed by the chipping off of pieces — an accomplishment unattainable by 
the white man of the present day. 

No. 44. — A remarkable spear head found in Schuylkill County, Penn., by 
Jack Kade. 

No. 45. — Amulet or charm, from a garden near Upper Sandusky, Ohio. 

No 46. — Spoon-like chisel or scraper, found near the ancient earth- 
works east of Caledonia. 

No. 47. — Pipe bowl, said to be found seventy feet below the surface in 
a mound in AVood County, Ohio. 

Nos. 48 to 51. — Implements and ornaments found east of Caledonia. One 
of these was probably used for rubbing or dressing hides, and seems to be 
the product of more modern times. 

Nos. 52 and 53. — Implements found near the Whetstone Biver in the 
neighborhood of Caledonia. From the peculiar manner in which they are 
pierced, one might suppose that they were used for tools for some mechan- 
ical operation, as smoothing a surface, etc. ; or they may have been worn 
around the neck or otherwise as ornaments. How strikingly is this an il- 
lustration of the Spencerian law of differentiation of function! At first, sim- 
ple and homogeneous in structure, and multifarious and indefinite in use, 
and afterward more and more heterogeneous in structure, specialized in 
function and limited and definite in use. 

No. 54. — Bing and wampum bead found in a grave in Ontario County, 
N. Y., a hieroglyphic on the ring. 

No. 55. — Ball of war club, found about four miles from Marion, near 
the Scioto Biver, by Squire Freeman. It has been suggested that the In- 
dians used this article as a weight or sinker for their Ashing nets, but this 



232 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

is improbable. More likely it was used for striking or pounding, as we do 
with a maul or beetle, a handle being secured to it around the groove by 
means of thongs. 

Nos. 56 to 00. — Stone wedges, or possibly battle axes, mostly from near 
Caledonia. These may have been used for domestic or mechanical pur- 
poses; but from the fact that they are mostly found in localities where ar- 
row heads, spear heads and battle-axes are abundant, and which localities 
may therefore be considered as ancient battle-fields, it may be inferred 
that they are primitive and very ancient battle-axes — that they were per- 
haps the first effort of a people to produce such a weapon; and that, in the 
course of time, as the arts of these ancient people advanced, they produced 
a more ax- like weapon. 

No. 61. — Same as the preceding, but found near Marion. It has lain in 
the ground so long that a calcareous incrustation has formed upon its sur- 
face. 

No. 62. — Fragment similar to the foregoing. It is doubtful whether 
the hand of man or the action of water has produced its peculiar shape. 

No. 63. — Miniature battle-ax, probably, and found in the garden of S. 
Devore, Caledonia, Ohio. 

No. 64. — Battle-ax found east of Caledonia. 

No. 65. — Fragment of a battle-ax of a very fine finish, found on the 
farm of John Fields, between Caledonia and Claridon. The material is 
similar to the celebrated Minnesota pipe stone. 

No. 66. — A small battle-ax from near Caledonia; has been much or 
badly used. 

No. 67. — A splendid specimen of battle-ax, weighing seven pounds 
two ounces, from the farm of Jonathan Miles, about two miles in a south- 
westerly direction from the ancient mound east of Caledonia. From the 
vast number of war implements in that locality, it is inferable that a bat- 
tle was once fought there by the "Mound-Builders," where one party was de- 
feated and precipitately put to flight. These implements are so heavy that 
not many of them could be carried away in haste. 

No. 68. — Spear head, a fine specimen, from the vicinity of Ostrander, Del- 
aware County, Ohio. 

No. 69.— A fine battle- ax, discovered in 1845, one and one-half miles 
northeast of Caledonia, by Noah Lee. 

No. 70. — Stone tube, found by Noah Lee at the above place. Suppose d 
to have been used by the American ancients as a spyglass. 

No. 71. — Stone hammer from Montgomery Township. 

No. 72. — Celt, from Big Island Township, near the Little Scioto. 

No. 73. — Fragment. 

Nos. 74 to 78. — Arrow-heads from last named locality. 

No. 79. — Celt, or incipient battle ax. 

No. 80. — Fragment of battle- ax from near Cardington, Ohio. 

Nos. 81 and 82. — Celts from the vicinity of La Rue. 

Nos. 84 to 97. — Arrow-heads from various parts of the county. 

No. 98. — A fine celt from Pleasant Township. 

No. 99. — Stone auger or gimlet from two miles south of Marion; rare 
and valuable. 

No. 100. — Flint hachet from Pleasant Township; rare and valuable. 

No. 101. — Specimen of ancient pottery from a gravel bank southwest of 
Marion. This is a fragment of a large pot which when found contained a 
human skull. It was accidentally broken by the digger's pick. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 233 

No. 102. — Stone hammer and pestle. 

Nos. 103 to 109. — Arrow-beads; one very petite. 

No. 110. — Celt, flat, or slightly concave on one side, a rare feature, as 
all others found are wodge-sbaped, both faces being convex. 

No. 111. — Indian tomahawk, modern. 

No. 112. — Iron arrow- head, modern. 

No. 113. — Arrows, modern, from the Indians in the West. 

No. 114. — Spear-head, found in the village of Marion. 

No. 115. — Celt, from near Cardington, 

Nos. 116 to 119. — Fragments of ornaments or emblems, from near Car- 
dington. 

Nos. 120 to 167. — Arrow-heads, celts, fragments, etc., from various 
parts of Marion County. 

No. 168. — Stone tube with a flat exterior. 

No. 169. — Limestone arrowhead. 

No. 170.— Flint knife. 

Nos. 171 to 174. — Fragments. 

Mr. Ruehrmund has also interesting geological and numismatic collec- 
tions. Many of the fossils are from various portions of Marion County. 

i 

OTHER COLLECTIONS. 

Dr. J. W. Devore, near Claridon, has an interesting cabinet of Indian 
curiosities and relics, among them a large Indian skeleton. 

Dr. H. A. True (deceased), of Marion, formerly had a large and fine 
•collection in this line, but it was destroyed by the tire which consumed the 
Masonic Block in 1877. Among his specimens was a magnificent earthen 
bowl, holding about a quart, found upon the farm of Dr. Bowdish, five 
miles west of town. In form it was between a pitcher and a rude jug, and 
it had a round bottom. Upon it were engraved rude characters, which some 
have thought were hieroglyphics, but were probably only decorative. 

Harry True, son of the preceding, has commenced another collection of 
archaeological specimens, as well as geological and numismatic. 

On the farm of J. J. Myers, two miles south of Marion, there were 
found, in digging a cellar, bears' teeth and claws and skulls, and bones of 
large size, but no implements. 

In some parts of the county, many arrow-heads, javelins and axes have 
been found, and some badges of a semi-lunar form, with a hole drilled 
through the middle, which were probably carried around on a pole. 

About 1846, a stone hatchet was dug up in a well at a depth of twenty- 
six feet on the premises of James Hipsher, in the northeastern part of this 
county, and was, at least until recently, in the possession of Hunter & Hip- 
sher, dry goods merchants, Caledonia. This, and similar discoveries else- 
where in the country, constitute an unsolved puzzle among the antiquarians. 

HISTORIC, OR MODERN INDIANS. 

It is a matter of speculation whether the ancient Eries first succeeded 
the so-called Mound Builders. The Indian tradition is that the Eries were 
a very numerous and powerful people, and according to the Jesuit fathers, 
resided in intrenched or stockaded villages called "castles." They were 
evidently far in advance of the modern red man in the art of self-defense 
and in the cultivation of the soil. They inhabited a large part of Northern 
Pennsylvania and Ohio, and gave name to the beautiful lake on the north 
of the State. They must have been numerous along the great streams, es- 



234 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

pecially upon the rich alluvial bottoms and valleys, as the sites of their 
ancient villages and remnants of stockaded intrenchments fully attest. 
They finally fell before the powerful confederacy of the Five Nations or 
Iroquois, about the year 1C55. The whole nation seems to have been ex- 
terminated or incorporated with their conquerors. 

THE TRIBES OF THIS VICINITY. 

The date of the arrival of the Wyandots and Ottawas in Ohio cannot be 
fixed with entire certainty, but is supposed to have been some time between 
1700 and 1725. After the fall of the Eries in 1655, the Iroquois made a 
raid upon those nations then residing in the vicinity of Lake Huron. 
After a severe struggle, the Iroquois compelled tbe Wyandots and Ottawas 
to seek an asylum among the friendly nations of the upper lakes, where 
they are supposed to have remained about seventy or eighty years, and then 
gradually returned to the vicinity of what is now Detroit, Mich., and subse- 
quently passed around the head of Lake Erie and took possession of the 
greater part of Northern and Central Ohio. During the colonial period, 
they often came in contact with the border settlers of Pennsylvania and 
Virginia. The seat of the Hurons or Wyandots was upon the Sandusky 
Plains and along that stream. They sold their reservation adjoining Mar- 
ion County and were removed to the Indian Territory, southwest of Mis- 
souri, in 1842-43. From 1820 to the time of their removal, Marion was 
visited thousands of times by the chiefs and leading hunters of the Wyan- 
dot nation for the purpose of disposing of peltry and furs in exchange for 
tobacco, ammunition, clothing, and other articles of prime necessity. The 
pioneers of Marion County speak very kindly of the Wyandots as a people, 
and give them a high character for integrity, fidelity and intelligence. 
Among them are favorably remembered Crane, Sunimundewat, Roanyennes, 
the Walkers, Garretts, Armstrongs, the chief and others. 

A remnant of the Delawares, or Lenni Lenapes, had a reservation on 
the north side of Marion, three miles square. The Lenapes or Delawares 
immigrated from the region of Philadelphia, Penn.,to the Wyoming Valley, 
and thence to the Tuscarawas, Ohio, some time before the Revolutionary 
war. In 1781, the Moravian converts, including Heckawelda and other 
missionary teachers, were forcibly compelled by the elder Capt. Pipe and 
Half-King to abandon their homes on the Tuscarawas and remove to the 
Sandusky region, soon after which a large number returned together and 
removed their corn crops, when they were surprised by Williamson and his 
rangers, captured and murdered in cold blood. 

THE BURNING OF COL. WILLIAM CRAWFORD. 

The Wyandot tribes of Indians have marked the early history of Ohio 
with many bloody pages. More brave than many of their kindred, vindic- 
tive and revengeful, the mighty Huron waged war upon the early whites 
and carried to captivity so many persons that special expeditions were nec- 
essary for their recovery. Novel, story and song have all united in em- 
balming the Huron in the pages of history, legend and vei>e. To them, 
with the Delawares, we are indebted for that awful scene of savage barbar- 
ity enacted upon the border lines of our own county, and the events in part 
embracing our territorial area, that after the lapse of a hundred years yet 
brings to the eye of the reader a tear and makes the blood recede and chill — 
the burning and torture of Col. William Crawford in the campaign 
against Sandusky. Col. Crawford was a relative of George Crawford, of the 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 235 

Independent; he was a brave officer of the Revolutionary war, and an es- 
pecial favorite and friend of Washington, whose companion and associate 
he had been in the pursuits both of war and of peace. Equal in age and 
of similar tastes, both had served under Braddock, the ill-fated commander 
of 1755. They were in company at Fort Duquesne and were heroes of the 
Revolutionary war. Crawford was the trusted agent of AVashington, and 
served him in that capacity. In the spring of 1782, the Indians and the 
whites adjacent to the frontier settlements of the Ohio Valley were mu- 
tually exasperated by the series of massacres and reprisals that had charac- 
terized the preceding years. It was therefore considered to be essential to 
the safety of the settlements that the spirit of the Ohio Indian should be 
broken, and especially the Wyaudots of the Sandusky plains. In May, 1782, 
an expeditionary force for the purpose of destroying the Wyandot villages was 
called together near the present site of Steubenville, and 500 men — volun- 
teers — formed a mounted battalion, eager to meet the Huron in his 
home, and satisfy a love of adventure that at the time was prevalent. Col. 
Crawford, noted for his knowledge of Indian warfare, was by a narrow ma- 
jority vote selected as the leader of the expedition. The force rapidly 
moved west on the trails, and early in June arrived near the Wyandot 
villages. On the fourth of that month, at a place three miles north of the 
present site of Tipper Sandusky, called to this day " battle island," the In- 
dians in force attacked and defeated the troops under Crawford. By acci- 
dent, the leader was captured, and with Dr. Knight, his companion, con- 
ducted to the Indian villages. Capt. Pipe, chief of the Delawares, and 
his tribe received Crawford as their prize. He was doomed to die, and at 
a point on the Tymochtee Creek, the site of a Delaware town, this brave 
spirit suffered death in the most terrible form. He was tortured to death 
at the stake. The history of the burning is told by Dr. Knight in a few 
words that depict the horror of the martyrdom in all its terrible details. 
Crawford was taken to the stake, a post fifteen feet high, stripped naked, 
and by thongs around the wrists, he was fastened to the post in such a 
manner as to permit freedom of movement in a circle about the post to the 
extent of the length of the thong until it wrapped about it a few times. 
His hands were behind his back. He was beaten with sticks and fists; 
blank charges of powder were fired into every portion of his body; embers 
were thrown over him. He walked, half roasted, on a bed of coals that 
cooled under his tread; he was made blind; a squaw tore off the scalp lock 
from his head, and upon the bare and bloody spot live embers were placed. 
For hours this victim of savage hate suffered, and when death came, a 
happy release, thu body was thrown upon the fire and consumed ! Thus 
miserably perished one of the bravest men that the border warfare of our 
early history produced. The Delawares executed Crawford by right of 
capture, a Delaware having had that no mean honor, as it was considered 
among the tribes. 

THE WYANDOTS AND DELAWARES. 

Adam Poe, Simon Kenton and others of the border heroes considered 
the Wyandot tribe to be the most brave, warlike and intelligent of the In- 
dians of the Ohio region. Marion County pioneers formed many lasting 
friendships with the Indians of both the Wyandots and Delawares, who 
continued to reside upon their reservation many years after the peace of 
1814. As late as 1817, by a treaty concluded by Lewis Cass and Duncan 
McArthur, the Wyandots were granted a reservation twelve miles square, 
the southern border being but four miles north of Marion Countv. The 



236 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Delawares received at the same time a tract ten miles square adjoining and 
south of the Wyandot reserve. The Delawares in 1829, and the Wyandots 
in 1842, ceded their lands and reluctantly removed to the West. Marion 
was a favorite trading point with the descendants of this warlike race, and 
the stores of the town in the days of 1824 to 1840 were frequented by 
" braves," in whose veins ran the blood of Cooper's heroic Huron, now en- 
gaged in practicing the arts of peace, beating down prices of sugar and 
whisky and endeavoring to raise the standard value of skins or a deer sad- 
dle. Many anecdotes of interest relative to the Indians of this tribe, in 
their association with our pioneers, are related in these pages under appro- 
priate chapters. 

The Wyandots formerly occupied the region of the Scioto and were al- 
ways attached to the country. They gave the name of the river, calling it 
in their native tongue " Sci-ou-to." In all the treaty negotiations for the 
cession of the lands on the Scioto and including Marion County, these In- 
dians were treated with. The various expeditions against the Indians 
of the Northwest Territory under Wilkinson, Harmar, St. Clair, Crawford and 
others— seemed fruitless of results, save loss of life and immense expendi- 
tures. 

THE GREENVILLE TREATY. 

It was not until Gen. Wayne, known as "Mad Anthony," of Stony Point 
fame, defeated the confederated tribes under the lead of Blue Jacket, at the 
battle of "Fallen Timbers," on the Maumee,in 1794, that peace was assured 
the settlements. The power of the tribes was broken at Greenville. On 
the 3d of August, 1795, twelve chiefs signed the famous treaty that es- 
tablished the line on the southern boundary of a portion of Marion County 
and known as the "Greenville Treaty Line." The Wyandot, Delaware 
and Shawnee chiefs signed this treaty. By thn operation of this agree- 
ment, the entire country south of the treaty line was ceded to the Govern- 
ment, and all the tribes of Ohio passed into the confines north of the line, 
while to the operations of Wayne the settlers are indebted for the peace 
that followed. The region north of the line was, to some extent, retarded 
in its development. Subsequent treaties were necessary, and a long series 
of negotiations were requisite to secure the extinguishment of the title to our 
lands, that the terms of this treaty firmly established with the Indians, as 
firm as it protected the residents south of its limitations. As this famous 
document was of so much moment in the early settlement of Marion County 
in its influence and relation to the history of its settlement, we append the 
article thereof that formed the boundary rights and the restrictive clauses. 
It reads as follows: " The general boundary line between the lands of 
the United States and the lands of the said Indian tribes shall begin at the 
mouth of the Cuyahoga River and run thence up the same to the Portage 
between that and the Tuscarawas branch of the Muskingum; thence down 
the branch to the crossing place above Fort Laurens ; thence westerly to a fork 
of that branch of the Great Miami River running into the Ohio, at or near 
which fork stood Loromie's store, and where commenced the portage between 
the Miami of the Ohio and St. Marys River, which is a branch of the Miami 
which runs into Lake Erie; thence, a westerly course to Fort Recovery, 
which stands on the branch of the Wabash; thence southerly in a direct line 
to the Ohio, so as to intersect that river opposite the mouth of the Kentucky 
or Cuttawa River." 

Ind.ians were yet quite numerous in this locality when the early settlers 
first came. Capt. Hiram Knowles says that he has frequently seen more 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 237 

than 100 of these dusky inhabitants of the forest camped on the place now 
owned by Mrs. Kennedy, near what is called the " Willow Swamp." He 
also remembers distinctly of seeing the noted Indian, Tom Lyons. Often 
Lyons had been at the house of Mr. Knowles' father and there partaken of 
the hospitality of the kind old gentleman. Tom Lyons for a time lived in 
the eastern portion of Claridon Township, and it is said he had arrived at 
the advanced age of one hundred and thirty years. 

His squaw is reputed to have been one of the finest looking squaws of 
the great Wyandot tribe, being, in fact, a queen of beauty among them. 
Lyons was very proud of her, and kept her dressed in the height of Indian 
fashion, and did not compel her to perform menial labor, as is the custom 
among the Indians. Lyons was a strong, powerful man, and had boasted 
of having killed ninety-nine white men, and desired to take the life of 
another to make the even 100 before he was called thither to the happy 
hunting grounds. But Samuel Spurgeon, who, in common with many 
other white men of his acquaintance, did not enjoy such boasting, met him 
alone one day in the woods and offered Lyons an opportunity to make him 
the hundredth victim, bat Lyons failing in his aim, Spurgeon shot light 
ning through him and left his body lying in the forest to be devoured by 
the wild animals. 

CAPT. BECKLEY'S REMINISCENCES OF INDIAN LIFE. 

Capt. George Beckley used to say that his father's family arrived in 
November, 1821, and having located in the vicinity of the ancient trail, 
leading from Sandusky to Owl Creek, was visited by hundreds of Wyandots 
.and Delawares annually during tho hunting season. His father having re- 
sided in Dauphin County, Penn. , and being able to converse fluently in the Ger- 
man language, was soon visited by Tom Lyons, the old Delaware, and a warm 
friendship sprang up between them. Tom spoke German, and was pleased 
to meet another Dutchman. The interview is thus related by Capt. Beck- 
ley: 

" Early on the morning, after our arrival at our new home, I took my 
rifle and started to view the surroundings along the Indian trail. I had 
gone but a short way (where Uriah Hipsher's field now is) until 1 found 
plenty of shell-bark hickory trees, and the ground under them well be- 
strewed with nuts. I sat my gun against a tree and commenced gathering 
the nuts. Just imagine my surprise when the first object I beheld on look- 
ing up was an Indian standing between myself and my gun; and I had 
heard and read so many terrible narratives of savage atrocities, that it made 
my blood curdle. But to my great joy he extended to me his hand, which 
I grasped with the usual salutations. He spoke good English, wore a pair 
of blue broadcloth leggins with red listing about an inch wide on the out- 
side of each, and tied with garters; a neat blanket wrapped around him, 
secured with a belt, and his head dress was a small red shawl folded and 
tied around his head with the corners hanging down his back, leaving the 
crown of his head uncovered, and a neat pair of buckskin moccasins on his 
feet. I afterward learned that his name was Ditta Wawney. I shouldered 
my gun and returned with him to the cabin, he continuing on his way 
toward Owl Creek. 

" But a day or two after that we espied another, an old Indian, riding 
around a large oak tree near the cabin, who was very attentively looking at 
the top of this tree, saying there had been honey bees in that tree. He 
came to the house, dismounted, took his saddle, blankets, and other lading 



238 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

off, and hobbled his pony by tying his fore legs together so near that he 
could not step more than a few inches at a step. We invited him into the 
new cabin, but I suppose he would have walked right in if he had not been 
invited. He was a great talker; could speak English or German. He said 
he was a hundred and sixty-five years old. Be that as it may, he was an 
old man and had seen sights. He soon discovered that my father was a 
German. He accordingly asked where he hailed from. My father said 
from Pennsylvania. ' Oh, me all over Pennsylvania, Susquehanna, La- 
vatarra, Schuylkill, Lehigh and Delaware Rivers.' Then my father told 
him he was from Lebanon, formerly Lancaster County. Then our guest men- 
tioned the names of several of the small villages, as Reading, Cootstown, Harris- 
burg, and even the names of several of the early settlers of that locality 
with whom my father was well acquainted. He had much to say about 
"Wyoming. He said, ' Me fought hard at Wyomee.' He had much tojsay 
about Gen. Wayne. He said his father was* a chief of the Delaware na- 
tion; that his father, the chief, sent him with some other Indians to Gen. 
Wayne's headquarters: ' Gen. Wayne asked what my name is; me say me 
got no white man name; then Gen. Wayne says I give you a name; I call 
you Thomas Lyons; and that is the way I got my name. Gen. Wayne 
give a coat — a nice coat; a General's coat — Oh, very good man, Gen. 
Wayne, very good man! very good man! ' He afterward often visited the 
old Dutchman, as he called him. 

" A few anecdotes about our venerable hero. Tom Lyons, might be in- 
teresting to some of your young readers. He was a notable personage all 
over this part of the State at that time, both among the palefaces and In- 
dians. He had his friends and his enemies, and the way he made many 
enemies was in relating incidents of the wars through which he had passed. He 
once told Joseph Riley of his valor in some of the massacres on the Del- 
aware River. Then said Mr. Riley to him, ' Did you know Tom Quick on 
the Delaware River?' Evidently the old Indian was offended when he 
was asked that question, as he sat mute and motionless as a statue, and 
there the conversation ended. 

" This Tom Quick had several relatives killed by the Indians, for which 
his vengeance never slumbered, and when he had grown up to manhood he 
took the warpath after them, and woe be to the Indian when Tom was 
fairly on his track. He was about an equal to the Wetsels and Poes on 
the Ohio River. 

" At other times when he related his war stories, as old heroes are apt 
to do, he would bring down upon himself the ire and indignation of those 
who heard him. They would in return mete out to him rough words. 
Then he would tell them how the women and children would cry (mimick- 
ing them) when they were in the act of slaughtering them. These were 
current reports about him, and were generally believed to be true, but he 
never talked in that way at our house; perhaps because we never gave him 
any offense. He, with his son George Lyons and Jerry Killback, was en- 
camped one winter for a few weeks east of Whetstone, on the land now 
owned by Jacob Slagle. The old man was very sick. After he was able to 
walk over to Mr. Parcel's, he went there occasionally. He told them he 
had been very sick, very sick — no devil come yet.' 

" The question has often been asked, 'What became of old Tom Lyons?' 
It has been asserted that he died a natural death at Pipestown, on the 
Delaware reservation. Again it has been stated that he was shot by some 
white hunter because he exhibited a string containing ninety-nine human 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 239 

tongues! The better belief is that old Tom was shot in his wigwam, near 
Fort Ball, by two hunters from Delaware County, whose nam^s were well 
known to old citizens of Marion. He is believed to have been over one 
hundred years old at his death, which occurred about 1824. Poor old Tom 
left many friends in Ashland County. 

"Capt. Pipe, Jr.. formerly lived at Greentown, and is believed to have 
been the son of old Capt. Pipe, who burned poor Col. William Crawford in 
1782 on the Tymochtee. He was not so well known to the people of Mar- 
ion. He occasionally called w T ith his people to trade with the early mer- 
chants. He was a small, rather spare man, and taciturn in disposition. 
Upon the authority of William Walker, we are enabled to state that he 
never married. He removed West with his people and died on their reser- 
vation in 1839 or 1840. Among his own people he was reputed to be a great 
'medicineman.' Keuben Drake, who lived in Grand Prairie Township, 
had two children bitten by a rattlesnake, one of whom died. Having heard 
of Capt. Pipe's' reputation as a 'medicine man,' he sent for him to come 
and cure the other child. Pipe is said to have been somewhat under the 
influence of bad whisky at the time, and refused at first to go; but being 
strongly urged, finally visited the cabin of Mr. Drake. Upon his arrival 
he looked at the child, which was in great pain, exclaiming, ' great pain, 
very sick. ' He then stated he could not do nothing for half an hour, and laid 
down by the cradle and snored soundly for some time, then arose and called 
for milk, which was furnished, when he pounded some roots, which he had 
brought with him, and poured the milk over them and gave the child a 
portion to drink, and applied a lot more in the nature of a poultice, to the 
place bitten, and rocked the child some time in its cradle, when it fell into 
a slumber and soon began to sweat freely; and upon seeing this effect of 
his remedy, the Captain said, 'It get well;' and the child was out of danger 
in a short space of time! " 

Capt. Beckley continues: " We were visited by quite a number of Del- 
awares and Wyandots. from Pipetown and Upper Sandusky. They usually 
passed by this place going from their towns on their reservations to Kill- 
buck Creek in Wayne County, and other parts of their old hunting grounds. 
A few of their name3 were: Jonacake. Standstone, Dowdee, Moonice. 
White Eyes, etc. When they came to a white man's cabin, they expected 
to receive the hospitality of its inmates; if they did not, they were 
much offended. They would say, ' Very bad man, very bad man.' They 
would never accept a bed to sleep upon; all we had to do was to have a 
good back stick on and a few extra pieces of wood, especially in cold weather, 
for them to put on the tire when needed. They usually carry their blank- 
ets, and would spread them on the floor before the fire and give us no 
further trouble; and they would often leave us a saddle of venison or some 
other commodity that they had to spare. We have seen as many as twenty 
or thirty in a caravan pass by here, with their hunting material and equi- 
page packed on their ponies, all in single tile, on their old Sandusky and 
Pipetown trail 

"At one timpi a party of them were encamped over on Shaw Creek, 
where one of their squaws died; her friends, wishing to take her home for 
burial, took the corpse, laid it on a gentle pony, with her head hanging 
down on one side and her feet on the other, tied her securely to the pack 
saddle, and in that way carried her to the place of burial. 

" If we would meet a half-dozen or more of them together, it was seldom 
that we could induce more than one of them to sav one word in English. 



240 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

One of them would do all the talking or interpret for the others. Why 
they did so I could not say. Tommy Vanhorn once related an amusing in- 
cident. He had been imbibing a little, and on his way home met one of 
those Indians who could not utter one word of English, but used the pan- 
tomimic language instead — that of gestures or motions. But it so happened 
that, while they were thus conveying their thoughts to each other, Tommy 
stepped around to windward of the red man or the red man got to lee- 
ward of Tommy, and his olfactories not being at fault, inhaled the odor of 
Tommy's breath. He straightened up, looked Tommy square in the face, 
and lo! Mr. Indian's colloquial powers were now complete, saying in as 
good English as Lord Mansheld ever could have uttered: ' Where you get 
whisky ? ' " 

In point of notoriety, Billy Dowdee was nearly equal to Tom Lyons. 
Capt. Beckley relates the following occurrence as given by Benjamin Shar- 
rock, now well advanced in years, and formerly a citizen of Marion 
County: 

"About the year 1821 or 1822, there were several Indians who fre- 
quently camped and hunted on the waters of the West and Middle Forks of 
the Whetstone, to wit: Capt. Dowdee, his son Tom, and Capt. Dowdee' s 
son-in-law, Nickels (the bad Indian), the subject of this narrative. He was 
regarded as a dangerous man among his own companions. He had become 
embittered against Benjamin Sharrock, his brother, Everard Sharrock, and 
Jacob Statelei*, who, with his three sons, Andrew, James and John (the 
two latter were twin brothers), lived in a cabin on or near the land now 
owned by George Diegle, Esq., in Tully Township. The Dowdees had fre- 
quently shared the hospitalities of our cabin and we regarded them as peace- 
able and well disposed citizens. 

"Mr. Sharrock, in relating his difficulty with this bad Indian, says: 
' This Indian, Nickels, had been skulking around and watching my house, 
trying to get a chance to shoot me. I have seeci him dodge from tree to 
tree when trying to get a shot at me. He also made threats of killing my 
stock. About this time, he and the two Dowdees were encamped on the 
boundary north of where Iberia now is. Mr. Catrell, my brother and my- 
self held a consultation, whereupon we resolved that this state of things 
should no longer be tolerated, and the next morning was the time agreed 
upon to bring this matter to the test. They were to be at my house fully 
armed for any emergency. They Avere promptly on time, and as Catrell 
had llo gun, he took my tomahawk, sheath knife, etc. 

' In this plight, we went directly to their camp, called Tom Dowdee out 
and ordered him to take those coon skins out of ' them ' frames. (They 
are stretched in frames to dry and keep tbem in shape.) We next went to 
the tent of Tom's father, old Capt. Dowdee, told him how Nickels had 
been watching my house, and that he threatened to kill me and my stock. 
I told him to call Nickels out, but he would not leave his hut. We told 
them we would not endure such treatment any longer, and that we had 
come to settle it right then and there, and were ready to fight it out. Tbe 
Dowdees seemed to be peaceably inclined, and as Nickels did not show 
himself, the matter was dropped for a short time. Some time after this, 
as 1 was returning from Wooster, where I had been to enter a piece of land, 
I saw quite a number of moccasin tracks in the snow near Hosford's. I 
thought there would be trouble, as it appeared from the tracks that there 
were about thirty persons, and by the way they had tumbled about, con- 
cluded that thev were on a big drunk. I followed their tracks from Hosford's 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 241 

down the road leading to our cabin. They had not proceeded far before 
they left their tracks in the snow somewhat besprinkled with blood. I 
afterward learned that Tom Dowdee had stabbed another Indian, indicting 
two dangerous wounds. They were camped north of my house on the laud 
now owned by James Dunlap. The excitement among the settlers now 
became intense, and soon a number of us repaired to their camp, but we had 
not been there long before Tom Dowdee rushed upon me and grasped me 
by the collar, perhaps intending to retaliate for the visit we had made to 
their camp a few days before. I was not slow in returning the compliment 
by taking him by the throat; and my arms being the longest, I could easily 
hold him at bay. At this moment we saw an Indian boy loading a gun. I 
told Dowdee several times to let me alone, but he still persisted in lighting 
me. I then attempted to give him a severe thrust with my gun barrel; he 
sprang and grasped the gun which the boy had just loaded, when several of 
the quaws also grasped it to prevent him from shooting me. All this 
time I kept my rifle up with a steady aim upon the Indian, ready to tire 
before he should be able to tire at me. At this crisis Joel Loverick inter- 
fered and the Indians allowed him to take possession of the gun, so the 
quarrel was then settled without bloodshed. But what grieves me to this 
day is that Bashford and Loverick both knew that my rifle was not primed 
all the time I was aiming it at the Indian, and they did not tell me. The 
next day I was out in the woods with my gun, and came upon Dowdee be- 
fore he discovered me. He had no gun with him, and he begged and im- 
plored me not to kill him, promising over and over that if I would not he 
would never molest me, but would be my fast friend as long as he lived. 
I gladly agreed to his proposal, and to his credit be it said, I never saw 
him after that time but that he met me with the kindest greetings. 

"About the same time some of the Indians told Stateler, ' Nickels, bad 
Indian, by and by he go to Stony Creek, before he go he say he kill State- 
ler and two Sharrocks, and we 'fraid that big tight. We want white man 
to kill Nickels, then Indians say Nickels gone to Stony Creek.' 

" We never saw Nickels after about that time, but did not know at what 
moment he would come down upon us. I often asked the Indians whether 
they knew where Nickels was, and they usually replied that he had gone 
to Stony Creek. We had often seen a gun in the settlement, first owned by 
one, then by another, that I believed was Nickels' gun. Jake Stateler 
often stayed with us several weeks at a time, and many times when we 
spoke about those Indians, Jake would say, ' Nickels will never do you any 
hann,' but made no further disclosures until a long while after; when the 
subject again came up, he said: 

' Ben, Nickels will never hurt you nor your brother.' 

' How do you know, Uncle Jake ? ' 

' I know very well how I know, IT nc le Ben.' 

" ' Did you never know what became of Nickels ? ' 
' No, Jake, I never knew what became of him any more than what the 
Indians told me, that he had gone to Stony Creek.' 

" 'I thought my boys had told you long ago, as they always thought so 
much of you. I will then tell you how I know what became of Nickels. After 
he was about ready to start for Stony Creek he had only one more job to 
do before he could leave Pipetown, and that was to kill Stateler and you 
and your brother, if possible. No sooner had Nickels left Pipetown than 
the Indians sent another Indian by a different roitte to give us notice of his 
coming, and of his intentions, desiring us to kill him and they would say 



242 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

he bad gone to Stony Creek. The messenger arrived in time and departed. 
I loaded my rifle, put it in good order and went up to Coss' cabin to watch 
tbe Pipetown trail, on which I expected him to come. I did not wait long 
before I saw him coming, and stepping behind a tree, closely watched his 
movements. After he had come within easy range of my rifle, he stopped 
and commenced looking all around, which enabled me to take a steady aim 
at him; I fired, he sprang several! feet from the ground with a terrific 
scream and fell dead, and that was the last of "Bad Indian." We took his 
gun, shot-pouch, tomahawk, butcher-knife, etc., and laid them by a log, 
and buried him under the roots of a large tree that had been blown down 
near the foot of the bluff bank of the "Whetstone, nearly opposite the old 
Coss cabin. Now, Uncle Ben, that is the reason why I know Nickels will 
never do you or me or your brother any harm. ' " 

Capt. Pipe, Jr., had a squaw called his daughter, perhaps adopted. 
He and Silas Armstrong were half-chiefs, in lieu of the chief of Greentown, 
Thomas Armstrong, then dead. These Indians were generally harmless, 
and ranged over the south part of the county in pursuit of deer and other 
game. 

Solomon Jonacake, the husband of Sally Williams, was well known to 
the pioneers of Marion. He lived at Pipetown, and had formerly resided 
at Greentown, Ashland County. He was a well developed, good natured, 
friendly hunter, and often visited the settlers in Marion, Bichland and 
Ashland Counties, while encamped in those regions. It was customary for 
Sally and the children to accompany him on his hunting excursions. He 
usually constructed a neat bark wigwam to protect his squaw and children 
from the storms and exposures of the forest, while he ranged the woods in 
search of game. He sometimes exchanged venison for side pork with the 
pioneers, and frequently met parties who had a curiosity to see Sally, who 
was a quarter-blood, and his children. Sally was regarded as a very apt 
housekeeper, and preferred, as far as possible, to imitate the whites. Her 
mother was a Castleman, captured in girlhood, upon the banks of the Ohio, 
in the eastern part of the State, some time after the close of the Bevolution. 
Jonacake went West with his people, where his family grew up, and three 
of his grandsons volunteered and served in the company of Capt. Duff, in 
an Indian company enlisted near Wyandotte, Kan., during the war of 
the rebellion. 

By a treaty concluded at Little Sandusky, August 3, 1829, John Mc- 
Elvain being United States Commissioner, the Dfilawares ceded their reser- 
vation in Marion, Crawford and Wyandot Counties to the United States for 
§3,000, and were conducted, as is believed, by Joseph Chaffee, to a new 
reservation in what is now the State of Kansas. Their journey was across 
Indiana, Illinois, Iowa and Missouri to their new home, where most of the 
old people have since gone to the happy land of the Great Spirit. 

Holmes' Meadow, near Marion, constituted the dancing hall of the Wy- 
audots. In 1830, the tribe came down, men and women, all dressed in 
native costume, on ponies, and rode up to the door of every house and re- 
ceived a donation. They then repaired to the meadow and held high car- 
nival until next day, much to the consternation of the white residents, es- 
pecially to one or two doctors, who had obtained a dead Indian for dissec- 
tion arid hid him in the brush, where he was " dissected " by the hogs! 

LAST EXODUS OF THE INDIANS. 

It was a sad and mournful spectacle to witness these children of the 
forest slowly retiring from the home of their childhood, that contained not 




^ACL^T 




Q</-p^-^ 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 245 

only the graves of their revered ancestors, but also many endearing scenes, 
to which their memories would ever recur as sunny spots along their 
pathway through the wilderness. They felt that they were bidding fare- 
well to the hills, valleys and streams of their infancy, the more excitiDg 
hunting grounds of their advanced youth, as well as the stern and bloody 
battle-fields where they had contended in riper manhood, on which they 
had received wounds and where many of their friends and loved relatives 
had fallen, covered with gore and glory. All these they were leaving be- 
hind them to be desecrated by the plowshare of the white man. As they 
cast mournful glances back toward these loved scenes that were rapidly 
fading in the distance, tears fell from the cheeks of the downcast warrior, 
old men trembled, matrons wept, the swarthy maiden's cheek turned pale, 
and sighs and half-suppressed sobs escaped from the motlev groups as they 
passed along the road, some on foot, some on horseback, and others in 
wagons, sad as a funeral procession. Several of the aged warriors were 
seen to cast glances toward the sky, as if imploring aid from the spirits of 
their departed heroes, who were looking down upon them from the clouds, 
or from the Great Spirit, who would ultimately redress the wrongs of the 
red man, whose broken bow had fallen from his hand and whose sad heart 
was bleeding within him. Ever and anon one of the party would start out 
into the brush and break back to their old encampments, to linger in loneli- 
ness, and therefore still greater sadness, around the scenes of former days. 

THE WYANDOT'S FAREWELL SONG. 

Adieu to the graves where my fathers now rest! 
For I must be going afar to the West. 
I've sold my possessions; my heart's filled with woe 
To think I must lose them. Alas! I must go. 

Adieu, ye tall oaks, in whose pleasant green shade 
In childhood I rambled, in innocence played! 
My dog and my hatchet, my arrows and bow, 
Are still in remembrance. Alas! I must go. 

Adieu, ye loved scenes, which bind me like chains! 
While on my gay pony, I chased o'er the plains 
The deer and the turkey I'd tracked in the snow. 
But now I must leave them. Alas! I must go. 

Adieu to the trails, which for many a year 
I have traveled to spy out the turkey and deer! 
The hills, trees and flowers, that pleased me so, 
I must leave now forever. Alas! I must go. 

Sandusky, Tymochtee and Broken Sword streams, 
Never more shall I see you, except in my dreams. 
Adieu to the marshes, where the cranberries grow; 
O'er the great Mississippi, alas! I must go. 

Adieu! dear white friends, who first taught me to pray, 
And worship my Maker and Savior each day. 
Pray for the poor native, whose eyes overflow 
With tears at our parting. Alas! I must go. 

EARLY WHITE OCCUPANTS OF OHIO. 

As the Indians of whom we have 1 been J speaking roamed all 'over this 
part of the country, it is necessary to give here a passing notice concern- 
ing the pioneer white settlers of Ohio, as a kind of connecting link between 

c 



246 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Indian history and that of the settlement of Marion County by the whites. 
Years before a white settler had located in Ohio, the French traders and 
travelers had a route across the State which passed up the Sandusky River 
from Lake Erie to the mouth of the Little Sandusky; thence a short dis- 
tance up that stream to a portage to the upper waters of the Little Scioto 
— the portage being about four miles long — and after reaching the latter 
stream, canoes could easily float down it. The French used the route in 
traveling from Canada to the Mississippi. Even before La Salle saw this 
region, the Northern Indians used this same water route when proceeding 
on their war incursions into the territory of the Southern tribes. 

In correspondence between W. Jackson, Assistant Secretary of War, and 
Gen. William Irvine in the fall of 1783, mention is made of settlements 
which had been made and were making between the Muskingum and Wa- 
bash, and Irvine was apprehensive of the renewal of war between those set- 
tlers and the Indians. Congress obtained knowledge of the condition of 
affairs, and issued the following proclamation: 

By the United States in Congress Assembled. A Proclamation: 

Whereas, By the ninth of the articles of confederation, it is among other things 
declared that "the United States in Congress assembled have the sole and exclusive 
right and power of regulating the trade, and managing all affairs with the Indians not 
members of any of the States; provided, that the legislative right of any State within 
its own limits be not infringed or violated." And Whereas, It is essential to the wel- 
fare and interest of the United States, as well as necessary for the maintenance of har- 
mony and friendship with the Indians, not members of any of the States, that all cause 
of quarrel and complaint between them and the United States, or any of them, should 
be removed and prevented; therefore, the United States, in Congress assembled, have 
thought proper to issue their proclamation, and they do hereby prohibit and forbid all 
persons from making settlements on lands inhabited or. claimed by Indians without the 
limits or jurisdiction of any particular State, and from purchasing or receiving any gift 
or cession of such lands or claims, without the express authority and directions of the 
United States in Congress assembled; and it is moreover declared that every such pur- 
chase or settlement, gift or cession, not having the authority aforesaid, is null and void, 
and that no right or title will accrue in Congress. 

Done in Congress, at Princeton, this twenty-second day of September, in the year 
of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty-three, and of our sovereignty and 
independence the eighth. 

Elias Boudinot, President. 
Charles Thomson, Secretary. 

No attention was paid to this proclamation, and settlers poured into the 
forbidden country so rapidly that the Government found it necessary to 
drive them out. On the 24th of January, 1785, the Commissioners of In- 
dian affairs instructed Lieut. Col. Josiah Harmar, of the First American 
Regiment, to employ sru;h force as he might deem necessary " in driving off 
persons attempting to settle on the lands of the United States." Ensign 
John Armstrong was detailed with a force of twenty men and lifteen days' 
provisions to perform the task of driving off all within 150 miles of Fort 
Mcintosh, located at the mouth of the Beaver River, in Pennsylvania. 
Armstrong dispossessed settlers at points on the Ohio as far down as Wheel- 
ing, or a point opposite that place, and in his report to Col. Harmar ap- 
pears the following: 

"As the following information through you to the honorable the Con- 
gress may be of some service, I trust you will not be displeased therewith. 
It is the opinion of many sensible men (with whom I conversed on my re- 
turn from Wheeling) that if the honorable the Congress do not fall on 
some speedy method to prevent people from settling on the lands of the 
United States west of the Ohio, that country will sown be inhabited by a 
banditti, whose factions are a disgrace to human nature. You will in a 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 247 

few days receive an address from the magistracy of Ohio County, through 
which most of those people pass, many of whom are flying from justice. 
I have, sir, taken some pains to distribute copies of your instructions with 
those from the honorable the Commissioners for Indian Affairs, into almost 
every settlement west of the Ohio, and had them posted up at most public 
places on the east side of the river, in the neighborhood through which 
those people pass. Notwithstanding they have seen and read those in- 
structions, they are moving to the unsettled countries by forties and fifties. 
From the best information I could receive, there are at the falls of Hock- 
hocking upward of 800 families; at the Muskingum a number equal. At 
Moravian Town there are several families, and more than 1,500 on the 
Rivers Miami and Scioto. From Wheeling to that place, there is scarcely 
one bottom on the river but has one or more families living thereon. In 
consequence of the advertisement by John Emerson, I am assured meetings 
will be held at the times thereiu mentioned. That at Merlons' or Hag- 
lin's town, mentioned in my report of yesterday, the inhabitants had come 
to a resolution to comply with the requisition of the advertisement." 

This advertisement was as follows, as given in Mr. Butterheld's work, 
Washington Irving correspondence, in the shape of a foot-note: 

March 12, 1785. 

Notice is hereby given to the inhabitants of the west side of the Ohio River, that 
there is to be an election for the choosing of members of the convention for framing a 
constitution for the governing of the inhabitants, the election to be held on the 10th 
day of April next ensuing, viz.: One election to be held at the mouth of the Miami 
River, and one; to be held at the mouth of the Scioto River, and one on the Muskingum 
River, and one at the dwelling house of Jonas Menzons, the members to be chosen to 
meet at the mouth of the Scioto on the 20th day of the same month. 

I do certify, that all mankind, agreeable to every constitution formed in America, 
have an undoubted right to pass into every vacant country, and there to form their con- 
stitution, and that from the confederation of the whole United States Congress is not 
empowered to forbid them, neither is Congress empowered from that confederation to 
make any sale of the uninhabited lands to pay the public debts, which is to be by a tax 
levied and lifted [collected] by authority of the Legislature of each State. 

John Emerson. 

Various orders were issued by Col. Harrnar, and a Congressional Com- 
mittee approved his conduct; also authorizing him to remove his troops 
from Fort Mcintosh and post them at some point at or near the Ohio, be- 
tween the Muskingum and the Great Miami, " which he shall conceive 
most advisable for further carrying into effect the before-mentioned orders, " 
and appropriating $600 for the purpose of transporting the troops and 
their baggage. Under this order Fort Harrnar was constructed at the 
mouth of the Muski ngum. 

Gen. Richard Butler, in passing down the river, at the commencement 
of October, to hold a treaty with the Indians at the mouth of the Miami 
River, found settlements at intervals from the mouth of Yellow Creek 
nearly to the mouth of the Great Kanawha, and did what he could to warn 
the settlers off, even giving orders to one of the officers of the army who 
was to descend to the Muskingum, " to pull down every house on his way," 
some of which had been recently torn down, having been rebuilt by the 
determined men of the border. Whether all of the settlers were driven 
out or not is not known, but it is certain that no constitution for governing 
the inhabitants was framed at that day, and the scheme for a new State on 
the northwest side of the Ohio was not carried out until seventeen years 
later. 



248 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

EARLY SETTLEMENT OF MARION COUNTY. 

Tbe first settlers of Marion County upon the territory as at present de- 
fined were those located south of the treaty line in portions of Waldo and 
Prospect Townships. The Brudiges, the Drakes, the Wyatts, of Waldo 
Township, aad Ephraim Markley, Evan Evans, and others, of Prospect 
Township, as will be noted by reference to the township histories in these 
pages, located at dates from 1805 to 1814, near by, and, in some instances, 
in contact with the treaty line. 

The early settlement of Delaware County was secured by the work of 
1792, and a wave of immigration flowed into the county, beating strong 
against the imaginary line that seemed as a Chinese wall, impregnable to 
assault, for more than fifteen years. Noting the long period of time from 
1804, when many locations had been made in Delaware, to 1819, the year 
that the Government offered for sale the lands north of the line, Marion 
County was retarded in settlement for a period of at least ten years by the 
operations of tbe treaty indicated; but of course, in common with all, ben- 
efited ultimately by Wayne's victory, as war brought peace. Up to 1812, 
but few attempts were made to invade the country thus still reserved, ex- 
cept as the restless hunters and traders sought the fine game reserves of 
the plains for " meat" or peltries. The bee hunters, a venturesome, vaga- 
bondish set, who preferred to " line " a " bee-tree " to any other pursuit, 
brought back rich treasures of sweets that the wild bees had stored in the 
woods along the border of the plains beyond the line of settlement. Their 
trail came in from the eastward from Knox, or up the valley of the Scioto 
from Delaware. 

The war of 1812 led to a large acquaintance with our county. Several 
trails or " war roads," so called, led directly through Marion County — 
military roads for the transportation of supplies to the armies of the North- 
west, operating along the lakes, and to the chain of forts and block-houses 
that protected this base of supplies. The most clearly defined war road led 
up through the valley of the Scioto, to a point in Pleasant Township, to 
lands entered by G. H. Griswold in a fractional section called Rocky Point. 
From thence the road bore away from the river and crossed the Little 
Scioto at or near what is now known as the Rayl Bridge in the Congress 
land district of Green Camp; thence the route was northward toward Little 
Sandusky. This road, worn deep by the heavy trains and wash of rain- 
falls, remains to-day in many places, distinctly defined in the remaining 
wooded districts through which it passes. A common camping or halting 
point was formed at Rocky Point, where during low water a fine spring 
gushed forth, affording pure water, while game was very plentiful in the 
magnificent forests, the vestiges of which are to this day a source of 
admiration to all who study forestry and who can realize the immensity of 
the wood product of this section of Ohio. 

Teaming over the war road in the Government employ was a source of 
revenue readily taken advantage of by the settlers of the lower counties. 
Hence it was that many residents of Fairfield, Franklin, Delaware, and 
other more southern districts became accpiainted with the resources of this 
region. Among these teamsters were G. H. Griswold, of Worthington, 
Benjamin Morris and others. Mr. Griswold was a man of sagacity, and he 
became captivated by the beauty of the valley and " second bottom " lands 
near Rocky Point. The river, sweeping in. comes through arches of over- 
hanging maples; the immense walnuts, cherry, oak, and other hard woods 
that attained here their finest development, the plentiful game supplies, the 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 249 

springs and "rims" all seemed to bim to make up an ideal tract. As a re- 
sult of his inspection, be secured the first tract of land entered in Delaware 
District and Entry No. 1 within the confines of Marion County north of 
the treaty line was this fractional section at Rocky Point. 

During this period, detachments of troops frequently passed through 
these borders; and larger bodies after the fashion of the times, considered 
and styled " armies," left the impress of their campaign marches and biv- 
ouacs upon the early traditions. An encampment of troops under Gen. Green, 
at Rocky Point, gave rise to the name of " Green's Camp, " now become 
Green Camp Township. That Gen. Harrison marched northward, halting 
on the hill south of Marion, is a well-known fact, made historical by the 
episode so frequently called up, known as " .Jacob's Well. " 

Nathaniel Wyatt and Nathaniel Brundige were probably the first set- 
ters of what is now Waldo Township, Marion County, though at the time 
their settlement was in Franklin County, afterward Delaware. It was in 
Marlborough Township, which mostly was thrown into Marion County on 
the formation of Morrow County in 1848. They felled the first tree and built 
the first log cabin in the spring of 1806.1 Ruth Wyatt, born in 1807, was 
the first white child born here, and William Brundige, born in 1808, was 
the first white male born in the county. It is, however, not determinable 
who was the first white child born within the first limits of Marion County 
after its organization. The first pioneer in what was at first Marion Coun- 
ty was probably Ebenuzer Roseberry. from New Orleans, who settled in 
Grand Prairie Township in- 1812. 

Among the first settlers of Marion County may be mentioned John Will- 
iamson, Jotham Clark and William Irwin, At what was called " Clyde," 
were the Packarts and Plotners, all in Tully Township. In Scott were the 
Hipshers, Lees. Larabees, Millers, Latimbres, Hills. Johnsons and Kerrs. 
In Grand Prairie were the Caldwells, Swinertons, John Claggett, and John 
Page. Salt Rock had Enoch Clark, Richard Hopkins, Hugh V. Smith, 
Col. W. W. Concklin, John Green, the Martins, the Thomsons, the 
Rhoadses, McElvoys and Gillespies. Grand had Seaburn. the Stevensons. 
Neal Sworden, Merriman and the Terrys. In Montgomery Township were 
William LaRue, McMurray, Johnsons, Carters, Virdens, Cranmers and Al- 
bert Bryant. In Big Island Township were the Joneses, Norton s, Brittons, 
Bradys, Alcotts, Messengers, Robert Hopkins, Woods and Smith Frame. 
In Marion Township were the Bakers. Berrys, Holmes, Tiptons, Fickles, 
Hillman, Barks, Hinton, Busby, Fish, Bennett and Bar tram. In Claridon 
were Clarks, Douces, Hinds. Gloyds, Hornbys, Wildbahms, Thews and 
Miles. In Richland Township were Jacobys, Osborns, Warlines, Emerys, 
Waddels and Kings. In Pleasant were the Idlemans, Boyds, Wyatts, 
Joneses, Drakes, WilHamses, Davids. Goodings, Farnam. Freeman and 
Courts. In Green Camp were the Markleys, Jenkins, Walkers, Sullivans. 
Essex, Porters, Johnsons, Logues and Shaws. 

At tbis time there were no townships named Bowling Green, Prospect 
or Waldo in this county. 

Capt. William S. Drake settled in Franklin County (now Marion) on 
what was known as the " Daniel Stockman farm," a half mile south of Waldo. 
In 1813. the family moved upon the farm a mile north of Waldo. His 
military experience in the war of 1812 is alluded to in the war chapter, 
and a further sketch of him is given in the history of Waldo Township. 

Eber and George Baker. Benjamin Davis, Alexander Berry, James 
Bower and others settled at Marion, 1820 to 1823. (See history of Marion 
village.) (For a sketch of Eber Baker, see political chapter.) 



-50 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Rev. George W. Baker was the eldest son of Eber Baker, the founder 
of Marion, and was born in Litchtield, Me., October 22, 1803. He was 
married to Louisa D. Davis January 6, 1825. Soon after his marriage, he 
and wife professed religion and joined the Free-Will Baptist Church". In 
about five years, he entered upon the ministry. His opportunities for ac- 
quiring an education were limited, notwithstanding which, he was remark- 
ably successful. He was a successful pastor of churches, and not less so as 
an evangelist, 3,000 or more having professed religion under his labors. 
He was noted for his honesty, his simplicity of manners and for his ardent 
faith and devotion to the good of his fellow-men. He died in Marion Oc- 
tober 11, 1881. He had six children, Rev. Oscar E. Baker, of Marion; 
Allen D. and Eber S., of Lincoln, Neb.; Mrs. J. C. Johnston, of Marion; 
Mrs. O. C. Smith, of Toledo; and Mrs. William Clark, of Van Wert, who 
died several years ago. 

Rev. Oscar E. Baker, son of Rev. George W. Baker, was born in Mar- 
ion, Ohio, January 9, 1826. He entered the ministry of the Free-Will 
Baptist Church at the age of eighteen years. He was married to Miss Jane, 
daughter of Esquire Samuel Powell, of Marion, in the year 1850, and to 
Mrs. Augusta Wilson in the year 1870. He has labored chiefly as pastor 
of churches and mostly in Ohio. Lived in Iowa some fifteen years; devoted 
there a part of the time to the building of an institution of learning. He 
returned to Marion, his nativo place, in April, 1881, to care for his aged 
parents, and in answer to h call to the pastorate of the Free-Will Baptist 
Church of this city. 

" Deacon " John Ballantine was born in Rensselaer County, N. Y. , and 
came to Columbus, Ohio, in 1818, and to Marion in the fall of 1820, set- 
tling two aud a half miles north of what is now Marion, on Limestone 
Ridge, where he continued to reside about thirty-eight years. He then 
purchased another farm, two miles east of the former one, where he re- 
mained until 1864, when he located in his last residence in the northeast 
part of the city, on what is known as the old Copeland place. For awhile 
he kept a store about a mile north of town in company with his brother 
Ebenezer. He and his brother Ebenezer came down the Allegheny and 
Ohio Rivers to Wheeling, Va. , in a skiff from Olean, and thence in one of 
Richard M. Johnston's old coaches from Wheeling to Lancaster, Ohio, and 
footed it to Columbus. His father had been a Revolutionary soldier and 
owned 300 acres of beech land in the county of Delaware, which he and 
his brother expected to improve; but when they reflected upon the labor, 
concluded to try the plains of Marion instead. He was one of the first 
members of the Presbyterian Church of Marion, and most of the time was 
a Ruling Elder. He was quiet and unobtrusive, but did much to improve 
the town. Was three times married. January 15, 1879, he died of apo- 
plexy occasioned by climbing over a fence at the stockyards of the Alton 
& Great Western Railroad, at Marion. He was in his eighty-first year. 

Calvin Barnett came to Marion in the spring of 1820, resided here all 
his life and died a few years ago, very poor. 

Nathan Peters, who was born at Manchester, Baltimore Co., Md. , June 
20, 1799, came to Lancaster, Fairfield County, Ohio, in 1812, and to Marion 
in April, 1826, and died September 22, 1881. He married Miss Alice Wil- 
son in January, L825, near Lancaster. She was born in December, 1798, 
and died October 14, 1838. Their children were Harvey, deceased; Char- 
lotte, wife of Alonzo Baker; Pauline, wife of S. A. Hummer; and Jane, 
deceased. For his second wife he married Mrs. Mary C. Russell, and 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 251 

their children were Mary E., wife of William M. Camp; Irene, wife of S. 
T. Boerbower; aud Alice L., wife of James Williams. Mr. Peters himself 
belonged to a family of great longevity. His brothers and sisters, eleven 
in number, were living last year, aged from sixty-three to eighty-five years. 
Mr. Peters was a cabinet-maker by trade, following that trade until 1838. 
For two terms he was County Commissioner. His late residence he built 
in 1856. He was known to almost every resident of Marion; was a quiet, 
unobtrusive man, but one of very decided opinions, thinking for himself 
and acting upon his own convictions of right; was a charitable man, and 
yet his charity was bestowed quietly, as such acts should be; was an indus- 
trious, economical man, accumulating by his own exertions a large property, 
so that he was abundantly able to spend his last days in the quiet of his 
home, free from care for his earthly comfort. In his early life he was a 
friend of the oppressed and down-trodden slave, and adhered to his opin- 
ions, and for years he had the gi-atification of seeing the slaves free and the 
reproach of slavery removed from our nation. 

Capt. Elisha Hardy was born in Essex County, N. J. , July 4, 1795, and 
died May 13, 1877. He was a prominent citizen of Marion from the time 
of his arrival here in 1828. He followed mercantile business and accumu- 
lated considerable wealth, but he lost the most of this through the weak- 
ness of " friends. " At his death he left a widow, but no children. 

John Clark came from the State of Delaware to Ohio about 1803, and to 
Marion County in 1831, settling upon a farm west of Marion. He died 
about 18G2, a wealthy man. His sons are W. E. Clark, now a Constable in 
Marion; R. M. , in Indiana; Riley P., in Iowa; and John, who died about 
six years ago. 

Elijah Bowdish, a resident of Marion County for forty-five years, died 
November 28, 1873, in the eighty-fifth year of his age. 

Dr. Alson Norton was a pioneer of Big Island and died an aged man. 

Maj. William La Rue, one of the most prominent pioneers and enterpris- 
ing citizens of Marion County, is noticed more at length in the history of 
Montgomery Township. 

For sketches of Messrs. Eber Baker, George H. Busby, Hezekiah Gor- 
ton, etc., see close of political chapter. 

William Garberson, who settled on what is now known as 1 the Ludwig 
farm near Caledonia, in 1823, was born in Westmoreland County, Penn., 
December 20, 1797, and died June 25, 1880. He was an exemplary mem- 
ber of the Methodist Episcopal Church for nearly sixty years, industrious, 
honest and social, and a man of good taste, keeping his residence and farm 
in line trim. He was an admirer and keeper of very fine stock, especially 
in the lines of horses and poultry. Of novel and rare breeds he had many, 
and took great pleasure in exhibiting them. During his life, he met with 
several accidents with a team of spirited horses, crippling him somewhat 
aod causing much suffering. 

Newton Messenger was born in Litchfield County, Conn. , December 7, 
1804; came to Washington County, Ohio, in 1812, and thence to Marion 
County in 1831. December 11, 1831, he married Patience Bigford, and 
of their eleven children, ten survived him, and of forty-two grandchildren, 
thirty-seven survived. He resided upon the same farm fifty years and 
three months. He died March IS, 1S82, a member of the Christian 
Church. He had also been County Commissioner, Land Appraiser and 
Justice of the Peace for thirty-six years. 

Col. Everett Messenger was born iu Connecticut August 1, 1811, came 



252 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

with his parents to Marietta, Ohio, and from there to Marion County in 
L825 or 1826, where his pai'ents settled, in Big Island Township. Here 
he lived the rest of his life. He dealt largely in live stock, and became 
one of its most honored and wealthy citizens. He represented this county 
in the Legislature from 1864 to 1806, rendering good service. He was 
prominent in agricultural matters and was President of the Marion County 
Agricultural Society for several terms. He died in January, 1880. 

William Thew, one of the most prominent pioneers of Claridon Town- 
ship, was born in Lincolnshire, England, April 1, 1791, and immigrated to 
America in 1823, coming to Claridon with a number of other English fam- 
ilies, all of whom became industrious and thrifty farmers and useful citi- 
zens. Mr. Thew, in particular, was a model farmer, a discreet counselor 
and a charitable Christian philanthropist. He and his estimable lady for 
years kept an asylum for the helpless and needy, and sometimes their 
house seemed more like a hospital than a private farmer's dwelling. Mrs. 
Thew died some fifteen years ago, or more, and Mr. Thew died in July, 
1883, in his ninety-third year. 

Robert Kerr was also among the early settlers, and although of very 
limited education, became the largest landholder and wealthiest citizen of 
the county. A very complete sketch of Mr. Kerr will be found among the 
biographies of Scott Township. 

The first church organized within what was the limits of Marion County 
from the time it was named to 1848, was the Methodist Episcopal so- 
ciety at Judge Jacob Idleman's, about April 20, 1820, with the following 
members: Jacob Idleman and wife and Christian Staley and family — 
eight in all. The minister was a local preacher named Stewart, residing 
at Radnor. In 1822, Rev. Bacon became the preacher in charge, then 
Revs. Roe, Erastus Felton, etc. 

The next church was the Free-Wiil Baptist, in 1821. Elder Dudley 
settled in what was known as Southwick's neighborhood, Big Island Town- 
ship, and in the winter of 1821-22, organized a church there, with the fol- 
lowing members: Elder Dudley and wife, L. Southwick and wife, Mrs. A. 
Wheeler, F. Wheeler and wife, P. Wheeler and wife, John Bates, Sr., and 
wife, John Bates, Jr., and wife, Dexter Bates, Mrs. J. E. James, Robert 
Hopkins and wife, Col. H. Gorton and wife, Asa Davis and wife, and prob- 
ably a few others. 

The first church edifice in Marion Village was erected by the Method- 
ists. These people increased so rapidly in numerical strength that they 
soon had to erect another building for a house of worship. They accord- 
ingly put up another building, which they have also outgrown. That 
building is now a part of the Huber machine works. Both these churches 
were built of stone. 

The next church building was of brick and was erected by the Presby- 
terians, where their present church stands, in 1828. It was very plain, but 
the seats had backs, an advantage which the first Methodist Church did not 
have. It was subsequently partially blown down by a hurricane. The 
first Presbyterian Church in the county was organized at Marion in 
1827, by Revs. A. Jenks and H. Van Deman, one of whom preached every 
four weeks alternately, until some time in 1828, when Rev. Barbour, a 
missionary, became pastor. Among the first members were Adam Unca- 
pher and wife, William Bain and wife. John Ballantine and wife, Mrs. 
Samuel Bowdish, Joseph Boyd and wife, Samuel AYaddel and wife, D. 
Oborn and wife, Joseph Oborn and wife, Mrs. Gruber, Mrs. J. P. Smith, 
Mrs. Edward Kennedy and Mrs. Crosby. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 253 

FIRST MARRIAGES. 

Licenses for marriage were issued by the Clerk of the Court of Common 
Pleas from the organization of the county until after the adoption of the 
constitution of 1851, when this duty was transferred to the office of the 
Judge of Probate. The first Clerk commenced to number the licenses on 
the record, but on reaching No. 106, September 7, 1826, he dropped the 
practice. The numbering was not again resumed until May 1, 1855, when 
it was commenced with 1, by George Snyder, Probate Judge. A new vol- 
ume was then opened, containing forms of affidavit of applicant for license 
and of certificate of return. The numbering then ran until it reached 
1,238, December 17, 1S67, at the close of the sixth volume of the records. 
Volume VII commences with No. 1 again, and closes with 1,008, in October, 
1873, since which time until ,tho present year, the numbering was omitted. 
The number of licenses issued from December 6. 1873, to December 6, 
1882, a period of nine years, was 1,750, being an average of about 193 per 
year. 

1824. 

May 7. — Seldon Field and Lydia Kethum (Ketchum?) 

May 15. — Joshua Bearss and Susannah Wade. 

May 16. — David Allen and Polly Hazelet. 

May 22. — Seth Allen aud Eve Cline. 

June 5. — James Ford and Elizabeth McElvane. 

June 5. — Sylvester Gooding and Eliza Love. 

June 12.— Barnett. Falttery and Nancy Aye. 

June 29. — William Penny and Elizabeth Salmon. 

June 13. — James Stewart and Elizabeth Steen. 

June 7. — Alanson Packard and Nancy Fickle. 

July 7. — John Parcle (Parcel?) and Mercy Manly. 

July 21. — John McGown and Susannah Showers-. 

September 4 — George M. Fickell and Margaret Beckloy. 

September — . — Peter Long and Hiley Darland. 

September 7. — Joseph Stewart and Jane Steen. 

October 18.— John Sidner and Polly Delly. 

October 30. — David Baughman and Elizabeth Neal. 

November 8. — Luke A. Hamman and Mary Ann Jones. 

November 18. — Henry Milizer and Elizabeth Berry. 

December 3. — Henry Hinkle and Susannah Wine. 

December 16. — Henry Miller and Magdalena Wolf. 

December 22. — Martin Dickens and Elizabeth Stealy. 

December 22. — John Jones and Rhoda Barr. 

December 28.— Isaac Longwell and Sarah Winslow. 

December 28. — Zachariah Barrett and Hannah Darling. 

December 29. — Kobert Rice and Eliza Ann Caldwell. 

December 29. — Joseph Leonard and Nancy Longwell. 

1825. 
January 5. — George W. Baker and Louisa Davis. 
January 10. — Charles Merriman and Susan Carey. 
January 10. — Joseph Peirce and Mary Carey. 
January 16. — Andrew Ridgley and Rebecca Hattan. 
January 19. — Simeon Smith and Louisa Gleason. 
January 22.— Jesse Foust and Mary Lowder. 
January 30. — Benjamin Meeker and Susan Smith. 



254 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

February 5. — Israel Clark, Jr., and Laurie Bearss. 

February 10. — Isaac Wood and Hannah Baker. 

February 15. — Henry Barns and Abigail Felly. 

February 19. — Conrad Deel and Elizabeth llawles. 

February 24. — Andrew Stroub and Priseilla Crawford. 

February 26. — Jacob Butt and Mary Mutchler. 

February 26. — George Garret and Nancy Walker. 

March 9. — Antony Comines and Rachel Rodgers. 

March 10. — Asa Howard and Polly Garver. 

March 11. — Abraham Brown and Fronica Coon. 

March 11. — John Croy and Peggy Mclntyre. 

March 25. — Isaac Fickle and Eliza Tipton. 

March 26. — Joseph Winslow and Phebe Smith. 

March 29. — Joseph Harper and Mary Copperstone. 

April 5. — Hugh McCrackin and Martha Moore. 

April 5. — Joseph McCamb and Rebecca Kimble. 

April 5. — Joseph Whiterd and Clarinda Beedle. 

April 9. — Jacob Shafer and Mary Ann Smith. 

April 9. — Dexter Baker and Sarah Kimble. 

April 12. — James Ranney and Sally Vesey. 

April 28. — Eli Odell and Asenath Parcher. 

A.pril 29. — Phineas Packard and Elizabeth Fickle. 

April — . — Joel Lee and Jane Parker. 

May 3. — William D. Parcel and Harriet Humphrey. 

May 16. — John Kline and Sally Thorn. 

May 20. — Jonathan James and Elizabeth Lust. 

June 7. — George Tiper and Laura Gleason. 

June 8. — Jonathan Soult and Eve Tockhover. (These were married as 
John Stull and Eve James!) 

June 22. — James Hughey and Ann Maria Brake. 

July 16. — John Winslow and Elizabeth Long. 

July 16. — Moses E. Messenger and Rachel Jury. 

August 8. — Elihu Baud and Polly Ketchum. 

September 3. — Dawd Kellogg and Amelia Eaton. 

September 12. — William M. Baker and Elizabeth B. Tompkins. 

September 14. — Horace Pratt and Esther Bucklin. 

September 21. — Samuel C. Straw and Catharine Stealy. 

September 29. — Thomas Bounds and Sophia Berry. 

September 29. — George Lock and Anna Morland. 

October 15. — Samuel Wilkins and Mclntyre. 

October 24. — Samuel Holmes and Eliza W. Concklin. 

November 1. — Samuel Hazlett and Zila Spurgeon. 

November 5. — E. H. Crosby and Elizabeth Washburn. 

November 20.— Abraham Sims and Susan Bain. 

November 24. — Michael Alspach and Molly Heimote. 

November 28. — Isaac H. Fickle and Nancy Young. 

November 29. —David Tipton and Sally Kent. 

November 29. — Jesse Foos and Rachel Blackman. 

December 9. — John Depue and Eliza Court. 

December 19. — John Walters and Lilian Ridgley. 

December 29. — James Darland and Eunice Daud. 

Alanson Packard, a Justice of the Peace, was on one occasion somewhat 
poetical, as he entered upon the record the following: " Marriage license 
was granted to Norton B. Royce and Eunice M. Dexter, March 14, 1832. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 255 

"I certify — that is to say, 
This present March, the 18th day, 
Eunice Dexter, Norton Royce, 
As did your license authorize — 
An awkward, ungainly, long-legged pair- 
By me in marriage joined were. 
By sages wise, it has heen said 
That matches all ahove are made. 
If so. these oues in heaven have been: 
God knows they'll never go again." 

THE FIEST DEED. 

The first deed recorded in this county conveys land. March 9, 1821, in 
Township 5, Range 14 (Big Island), from Samuel and Lydia Jones, "of the 
county of Marion," to William Foster. 

THE FIRST WILL. 

The first will on record in the Recorder's office of Marion County is 
dated and worded as follows, which, for comparison with modern phraseology, 
is given here: 

I, Samuel Ferrel (in the name of God, amen!), being of sound mind and memory, 
and calling to mind the certainty of death and the uncertainty of life, do, constitute 
and appoint this my last will and testament, revoking all other wills, deeds or testa- 
ments made by me. 

And in the first place, I do will and bequeath my soul to God, who gave it, and 
my body to dust, from whence it came, in hope of a glorious resurrection. 

And in the second place, I do will and bequeath unto my beloved mother, Martha 
Ferrel, all my money and goods, to be at her disposal as the said Martha may think 
proper, excepting so much\is will defray all my funeral expenses; also contracts and 
agreements, as it relates to the real estate, to stand firm and sure as they have hereto- 
fore been made and mutually agreed to by her, the said Martha Ferrel, and myself. 

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal this nineteenth day of 
August, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty-five. 

Samuel Ferrel. [l. s.] 
In presence of us: 

Benjamin Jeffrey. 

Jonathan Smith. 

It appears on record that Mr. Ferrel died shortly afterward and that 
his widow had the above will admitted to Probate May 29, 1826. There 
being no executor named in the will, she was appointed administratrix, 
James Nail and William Moore being accepted as her securities. The re- 
corded wills following the above are signed by Abraham Berry, Simon A. 
Couch, Israel Clark, etc. 

For comparison with the quaint introduction to the wills of olden time 
notice the following language as used at the present day: "In the name of 
the benevolent Father of All. 

" I, W H , of lawful age and sound mind, do make and 

declare the following to be my last will and testament: 

" First, that at my death I be buried in a Christian-like manner and that 
all my just debts be fully paid, etc." 



256 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY 



CHAPTER III. 



PIONEER LIFE. 

SCARCELY any but poor people take to the frontier, going thither, gen- 
erally, with the hope of having a home of their own, and ultimately a 
competence for themselves and their families They are, therefore, a hard- 
working people, and their mode of life being actually more healthful than in 
the subsequent age of effeminating luxury, they were a sturdy people. The 
white settlers in this part of Ohio were mainly from Pennsylvania, Virgin- 
ia, New York, Kentucky, etc. , in the order here named as to numbers, and 
each class, of course, brought along with them something of the manners 
and customs of the State whence they emigrated. But, mingling together, 
they became more homogeneous, like America herself as compared with the 
rest of the world. They came hither in wagons, drawn by horses, mules 
or oxen, bringing their families, and often all their possessions with them. 
Sometimes, however, the head of the family would come first and select his 
land, and return for his family, and in a number of cases they became 
homesick after a year or two of residence in the wilds of the (then) West, 
and would go hack to their old homes in the East, or endeavor to do so; 
but in a year or two more, their old homes became less attractive than ever r 
and they would try the West the second time, then to remain. 

An observing person would have noticed great difference in the manners 
of the settlers from different regions of country. The New Englander had 
his peculiarities, but they were not in the least like those of the Pennsyl- 
vanian, and either was unlike the Virginian, the Carolinian or the Kentuck- 
ian. An occasional New Yorker found a home in this county, and he, too, 
possessed the traits of the State from which he had emigrated. The cus- 
toms of the fathers were handed down to their sons, and it is quite easy, 
even at the present time, if possessed of a thorough knowledge of the man- 
ners of the people of the various States here represented, to determine 
whence the inhabitants derive their lineage. The county of Marion, how- 
ever, is more cosmopolitan than most of its southern neighbors, and the 
blending of the different classes has resulted in a general community of 
which any State might be proud. Here is a thrifty and enterprising popu- 
lation, inhabiting a region rapidly developing into one of the best in the 
great State of Ohio. 

In some of the surrounding counties, it was customary among the pio- 
neers, upon their arrival, to construct three-sided, sloping-roofed shanties, 
which they called " camps." In front of the fourth side, which was open 
to the weather, a huge fire of logs was kept burning, and these primitive 
structures were occupied until the regularly built log cabin was ready for 
occupancy. In Marion County, however, it is stated that very few of these 
" camps " were ever built, the settlers preparing the log houses for perma- 
nent occupation at the very start, and thus saving considerable labor. If 
help was plenty, it was easy to build a cabin in a day. The shingles, or 
"clapboards," four fe«t long, were split out on the ground, and the roof, 
held firmly in place by weight poles, could, without much extra labor, be 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 257 

put on the same day. It sometimes occurred that a family moved into its 
cabin before the puncheon floor was laid, or the door hung, but this was 
in case of extreme weather, when some place of shelter was indispensable. 

A person writing, about 1846-47, of early days in Delaware County, re- 
corded the following items, which are as applicable to pioneer times in 
Marion County: 

" I learn from the old pioneers, that during the early period of the 
county the people were in a condition of complete social equality; no aris- 
tocratic distinctions were thought of in society, and the first line of de- 
markation drawn was to separate the very bad from the general mass. 
Their parties were for raisings and log-rollings, and, the labor being fin- 
ished, their sports usually were shooting and gymnastic exercises with the 
men, and convivial amusements among the women; no punctilious formality 
nor ignoble aping the fashions of licentious Paris marred their assemblies, 
but all were happy and enjoyed themselves in seeing others do so. The rich 
and the poor dressed alike — thw men generally wearing hunting shirts and 
buckskin paats, and the women attired in coarse fabrics produced by their 
own hands. Such was their common and holiday dress, and if a fair dam- 
sel wished a superb dress for her bridal day, her highest aspiration was to 
obtain a common American cotton check. The latter, which now sells for 
a shilling a yard, then cost $1, and five yards was deemed an ample pat- 
tern; silks, satins and fancy goods, that now inflate oar vanity and deplete 
our purses, were not then even dreamed of. The cabins were furnished in 
the same style of simplicity; the bedstead was home-made, and often con- 
sisted of forked sticks driven into the ground, with cross poles to support 
the clapboards or the cord. One pot, kettle and frying-pan were the only 
articles considered indispensable, though some included the tea-kettle; a 
few plates and dishes upon a shelf in one corner was as satisfactory as is 
now a cupboard fall of china, and their food relished well from a puncheon 
table. Some of the wealthiest families had a few split bottom chairs, but 
as a general thing stools and benches answered the place of lounges and 
sofas; and at first the green sward or smoothly leveled earth served the 
double purpose of floor and carpet. Whisky toddy was considered luxury 
enough for any party. The woods furnished an abundance of fancy meats, 
and corn pone supplied the place of every variety of pastry. 

THE LOG CABIN. 

After arriving and selecting a suitable location, the first thing to do 
was to build a log cabin, a description of which should be embalmed in 
print, as it will prove interesting to future generations as well as the pres- 
ent: 

Trees of uniform size were chosen and cut into logs of the desired 
length, generally fourteen to sixteen feet, and hauled to the spot selected 
for the future dwelling. If a h«wed-log house was desired, as was occa- 
sionally the case with those who were a little "fore-handed, " the logs would 
be hewed on two opposite sides, either boforo or after hauling. On an ap- 
pointed day, the few neighbors who were available would assemble, and 
have a "house-raising." Each end of every log was "saddled," and 
notched so that they would lie as close down as possible. The nest day, 
the proprietor would proceed to " chink and daub " the cabin, to keep out 
the rain, wind and cold. To chink it was to drive small blocks of wood 
into the crevices or openings between the logs, and to daub it was to fill 
in clay mortar on both sides, making the walls airtight. The house had 



258 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

to be re-daubed every fall, as the rains of the intervening time would wash 
out a great part of the mortar. The usual height of the house, from floor 
to loft, was six to seven feet, The gables were formed by shortening the 
logs gradually at each end of the building. On the topmost of these was 
laid the ridge-pole, the other logs for the roof having been laid parallel 
with the sides of the house and two and a half feet apart as the gables 
were raised. On those logs or poles were laid the clapboards, " rived" for 
the purpose with a " f row. " The f row was simply an iron blade fixed to 
its handle at a right angle, and this was driven into bolts of nicely split- 
ting oak with a raallet. These clapboards were laid on shingling style, 
two and a half feet to the weather, and held to their place by weight poles 
instead of nails, the poles being laid opposite and above the supporting 
poles, and kept in their places by sticks of wood called " knees." There 
would not be a nail, or a screw, or any other thing metallic, in the whole 
building. 

The chimney to the Western pioneer's cabin was made by leaving in 
the original building a large open place in one wall, or by cutting one after 
the wall was up, and by building on the outside, from the ground up, a 
stone or "raud and stick " chimney. For the first few feet, it was usual to 
lay up some irregular stones, held to their place by a slab wall locked 
around them and covered interiorly with mud. The remainder of the 
chimney was made with sticks laid up cob-house or rail-pen fashion, and 
these filled and plastered inside and outside with clay mortar. The fire- 
place thus made was often large enough to receive firewood six or eight feet 
long. Sometimes this wood, especially the "back log," would be nearly 
as large as a saw log, and a horse would be employed to "snake" or "tow" 
it into the house. The more rapidly the pioneer could burn up the wood 
in his vicinity, the sooner he had his little farm cleared and ready for cul- 
tivation. 

For a window, a section about two feet long was cut out of one of the 
wall logs and the aperture closed sometimes with glass, but generally with 
greased paper, or even, in rare instances, with thin deer skin greased. A 
doorway was cut through one of the walls, if a saw was to be had; other- 
wise, the door would be left by using shortened logs in raising the building. 
The door was made by fastening clapboards to cross-pieces with wooden 
pins, and was hung upon wooden hinges. A. wooden latch then finished 
the door. To this a leather string was attached, and ran through a hole 
above, one end hanging down on the outside. For security at night, the 
latch- string was drawn in. but during the day, the "latch-string was always 
hanging out," for the convenience of callers and as a sign of welcome. 

Sometimes the bare ground was used for a floor, but generally a floor was 
made of puncheons or slabs, laid upon sleepers. Puncheons were what 
might be termed rude plank, such as could be made with the maul and 
wedge, ax and broad-ax. There was no occasion for having the floor tight- 
ly laid, as the walls rested solidly on the ground and kept the interior warm 
during cold weather. Small articles, however, would sometimes drop 
through, and a puncheon would have to be raised in order to recover 
them. 

The " loft," or garret, was sometimes wanting: but when a few boards 
could be obtained, they were laid upon joists overhead, and thus a sort of 
storage and sleeping room formed next the roof, where one could lie and 
hear the rain patter upon the clapboard roof close to his ears. 

In the interior, over the fire-place, would be a shelf, called the " mantel 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 259 

shelf," on which stood the candlestick or lamp, some cooking utensils or 
table ware, the old clock and some miscellaneous articles. In the fire-place 
would be the crane, sometimes of iron, sometimes of wood. On it the pots 
were hung, for cooking. Over the door, in forked cleats or rude brackets, 
hung the rifle and powder-horn. In one corner stood the beds, the larger 
one for the parents and baby, and under it the trundle bed for the rest of 
the children. In another stood the old-fashioned spinning-wheel, with a 
smaller one by its side, that is, the " jenny," for spinning flax. In another 
corner stood the only table, a heavy one. In the remaining corner was a 
rude cupboard, containing the table ware, which consisted of a few cups 
and saucers and blue-edged plates, standing singly on their edges against 
the back, to make the display of table furniture more conspicuous; while 
around the room were scattered a few splint-bottomed or Windsor chairs, 
and two or three stools. 

These simple cabins were inhabited by a kind and true-hearted people. 
They were strangers to mock- modesty, and the traveler, seeking accommo- 
dations for the night, or desirous of spending a few days in the community, 
if willing to accept the rude offering, was always welcome, although how 
they were disposed of the reader might not easily imagine, , for, as de- 
scribed, a single room, about fifteen feet square, was made to answer for 
kitchen, dining-room, sitting-room, bedroom and parlor, and many fami- 
lies consisted of six or eight members. 

SLEEPING ACCOMMODATIONS. 

The bed was very often made by fixing a post in the floor about six feet 
from one wall and four feet from the adjoining wall, to serve as a bed-post, 
while rails extended from it to the walls. Stiff clapboards formed the bed 
bottom, on which was placed a large feather tick and the other bedding. 
Guests were given this bed, while the family disposed of themselves in an- 
other corner of the room, or in the " loft." 

COOKING. 

To witness the processes of cookery in those days would alike surprise 
and amuse those who have grown up since cooking-stoves and ranges came 
into use. Kettles and pots were hung over the large fire, suspended with 
pot-hooks, iron or wooden, on the crane, or on poles, one end of which 
would rest upon a chair. The long-handled frying-pan was used for cook- 
ing meat and baking pancakes, called also "flapjacks" and "batter cakes." 
It was either held over the fire by hand or set down on coals drawn out 
upon the hearth. For baking bread, the best article was a cast-iron spider 
or Dutch skillet. The "bake kettle," or Dutch oven, was like it, but 
deeper, in which were baked those large corn " pones" made light with 
buttermilk and saleratus. These skillets and ovens had covers, and both 
over and underneath was placed a bed of live coals, which was renewed oc- 
casionally. Bread, however, was sometimes baked in the hot ashes under- 
neath the fire, and sometimes upon a board tipped up in front of the fire. 
Corn bread, baked in the last mentioned manner, was the true "hoe-cake," 
this name being derived from the primary negro method of using a hoe for 
the purpose. " Johnny cake," corrupted from " journey cake," is the name 
of any simply prepared corn bread. 

Potatoes, both Irish and sweet, and even squashes and pumpkins, were 
also often baked in the ashes. This methed of baking, indeed, although 
somewhat troublesome, produced a more palatable and apparantly more 



260 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

wholesome ai'ticle than any other method, either ancient or modern. Tur- 
keys and spare-ribs were sometimes roasted before the fire, suspended by a 
string, a dish being placed underneath to catch the drippings, which would 
make a nice gravy. 

Hominy and samp were very much used. These dishes were prepared 
from pounded corn; but the so-called " hominy" was generally hulled corn. 
This was boiled corn from which the hull or bran had been eaten off by 
boiling lye; hence sometimes called " lye hominy." A popular method of 
making hominy and samp, and sometimes corn-meal itself, was to cut out 
or burn a large hole in the top of a huge stump, in the shape of a mortar, 
and pound the corn in this with a maul or beetle suspended on the end of 
a spring pole, like a well-sweep or a modern apparatus for boring artesian 
wells by nand. When the samp was sufficiently pounded, it was taklh out, 
the bran floated off and the delicious grain boiled like rice. 

The chief articles of diet were corn bread, hominy, venison and other 
wild game, pork, honey, beans, potatoes, pumpkin (dried pumpkin for more 
than half the year), and some garden " truck." a portion of the year. 
Wheat bread, tea, coffee and preserves were luxuries not to be indulged in 
except on special occasions, as when visitors were present. 

Well water was generally drawn up with what in called a " sweep," 
which was a long, heavy pole, hinged in a fork at the top of a tall post, and a 
rope or chain attached at the end over the well, with the bucket. Water 
could be drawn more rapidly with this simple apparatus than with the 
windlass or any modern pump. 

women's wokk. 

Besides cooking, in the manner just described, the women had many 
other arduous duties to perform, one of the chief of which was spinning, 
and often weaving also. The " big wheel " was used for spinning yarn, 
and the " little wheel " for spinning flax. These stringed instruments fur- 
nished the principal music of the family, and remarkable was the skill with 
which our mothers and grandmothers manipulated them. In spite of 
wolves, the settlers succeeded in raising some sheep, and often made all 
the cloth used in the family, except a little cotton goods for sheets and un- 
derclothing, and occasionally a little calico for a fancy dress. Wool was 
carded and made into rolls by hand cards, and the rolls were spun on the 
"big wheel." We still occasionally find, in the houses of old settlers, a 
wheel of the kind, sometimes used for spinning or twisting cotlon yarn. 
A common article woven on the pioneer loom was linsey, or linsey-woolsey, 
the " chain " or " warp " being linen, and " filling " or " woof " woolen. 
This cloth was used for dresses for the women and girls. " Jeans " were 
woven for men's clothing. Straw hats for the men and straw bonnets for 
the women were plaited and sewed by hand. In a very few years, how- 
ever, " store clothes " began to be purchased, very rarely at first, on account 
of their relative expensiveness. 

These home fabrics were dyed with walnut bark, indigo, copperas, etc., 
and striped or checkered work was produced by first dying portions of the 
yarn their respective colors before it was put into the loom. 

RELIGIOUS WORSHIP. 

The Methodists were generally first on the ground in pioneer settle- 
ments, and at that early day were more demonstrative in their devotions 
than at the present time. Pulpit oratory was also more full of action, and 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 263 

fraught with soaring flights, while the grammatical dress was thought of 
but little. Family worship, especially among the pioneer Methodists and 
"United Brethren, partook of the zealous fervency of their more public de- 
votions. We had then a most emphatic American edition of that pious old 
Scotch practice so eloquently described in Burns' " Cotter's Saturday 
Night:" 

"The cheerfu' supper done, wi' serious face 
They round the ingle formed a circle wide; 
The sire turns o'er wi' patriarchal grace, 

The big ha' Bible, once his father's pride. 
His bonnet rev'rently is laid aside, 

His lyart hafferts wearing thin and bare, 
Those strains that ance did sweet in Zion glide, 
He wales a portion wi' judicious care, 
And 'Let us worship God,' he says, wi' solemn air. 

"They chant their artless notes in simple guise; 

They tune their hearts— by far the noblest aim; 
Perhaps 'Dundee's' wild warbling measures rise, 

Or plaintive 'Martyrs,' worthy of the name; 
Or noble 'Elgin' beats the heavenward flame, 

The sweetest far of Scotia's hallowed lays. 
Compared wi' these, Italian trills are. tame; 

The tickled ear no heartfelt raptures raise; 

Nae unison hae they wi' our Creator's praise. 

"The priest-like father reads the sacred page — 

How Abraham was the friend of God on high, etc. 

"Then kneeling down, to Heaven's Eternal King 
The saint, the father and the husband prays; 

Hope 'springs exulting on triumphant wing,' 
That thus they a' shall meet in future days; 

There ever bask in uncreated rays, 

No more to sigh or shed the bitter tear, 

Together hymning their Creator's praise, 
In such society, yet still more dear. 
While circling time moves round in an eternal sphere." 

The familiar tunes of pioneer worship were mostly in the minor key, and 
very pensive and solemnly inspiring, in striking contrast with the worldly 
sound of nearly all modern church music. As they are named in tho old 
" Missouri Harmony " (who has seenthis music book within the last thirty 
years?), the characteristic standard tunes were such as Bourbon, Consola- 
tion, China, Canaan, Conquering Soldier, Condescension, Devotion, Davis, 
Fiducia, Funeral Thought, Florida, Golden Hill, Ganges, Greenfields, 
Greenville, Idumea, Imandra, Kentucky, Lenox, Leander, Mear. New Or- 
leans, Northfield, New Salem, New Durham, Olney, Primrose, Pisgah, 
Pleyel's Hymn, Rockbridge, Rockingham, Reflection, Supplication, Salva- 
tion, St. Thomas, Salem, Tender Thought, Windham, etc., besides a great 
number known only by the first lines of the words, as " O, how happy are 
they," " Come, thou fount of every blessing," " O, for a glance of heavenly 
day," " Jesus, my all, to heaven is gone," etc. 

Once or twice a day — in the morning, just before or after breakfast, and 
in the evening just before retiring to rest — the head of the family would 
call to order, read a chapter in the Bible, announce the hymn and time by 
commencing to sing, when others would join, then he would deliver a most 
fervent prayer. If a pious guest was present, he would be called upon to 
take the lead in the religious exercises; and if, in thobe days, a person who 
prayed either in the family or in public, did not pray as if it were his very 
last on earth, his piety was thought to be defective. 



264 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Members of other orthodox denominations also had their family prayers,, 
in which, however, the phraseology was somewhat different from that of the 
Methodists, and the voice kept low and calm. 

HOSPITALITY. 

The traveler always found a welcome at the pioneer's cabin. It was 
never " full. " Although there might be already a guest for every punch- 
eon, still there was " room for one more." If the stranger was in search of 
land, he was doubly welcome, and bis host would volunteer to sbow him all 
the first-rate claims in " this 'ere neck of the woods," going with him for 
days, showing the corners and advantages of every " Congress tract " or 
unclaimed section within a dozen miles. To his neighbors, the pioneer 
was equally liberal. If a deer was killed, the choicest bits were sent to 
them — a half-dozen miles away, perhaps. When a "shoat" was butchered, 
the neighbors were also kindly remembered. If a new-comer came in too 
late for "cropping," the neighbors would supply his table with the same 
luxuries they themselves enjoyed, and in as liberal quantity, until a new 
crop could be raised. Often the neighbors would also cut and hew logs, 
and haul them to the place of the new-comer's future residence, concluding 
the jubilee task with a grand house-raising. The first night after com- 
pleting the cabin, they would have a " house warming " and a dance, as a 
sort of dedication. The very next day, the new-comer was about as wealthy 
as the oldest settlers. 

An instance of primitive hospitality will be in place here. A traveling 
Methodist preacher arrived in a distant neighborhood to fill an appoint- 
ment. The house where services were to be held did not belong to a church 
member — but no matter for that. Boards were raked up from all quarters, 
with which to make temporary seats, one of the neighbors volunteering to 
lead off in the work, while the man of the bouse, with the faithful rifle on 
his shoulder, sallied forth to the woods in quest of meat; for this was truly a 
" ground-hog case " —the preacher coming and no meat in the house. He 
did not rest until he found his game, which this time was a deer. Return- 
ing, he sent a boy out after it, with directions on what " pint " to find it. 
After services, which had been listened to with rapt attention, the host said 
to his wife, " Old woman, I reckon this 'ere preacher is poorty hungry, 
an' you must git 'im a bite to eat." "What shall I git 'm?" asked the 
wife, who had not seen the deer; " thar's nothin' in the house to eat." 
" Why, look thar," said he, "thar's a deer, and thar's plenty o' corn in the 
field. You git some corn an' grate it, while I skin the deer an' we'll have 
a good supper for him." And they well succeeded. Good bread, from 
new corn, grated, and venison steak are as palatable as any entree in the 
world. 

TRADE AND MONEY. 

Commercial transactions were generally carried on without money, that 
is, by exchanges of commodities, called " barter " in the books. In this 
system, sometimes, considerable ingenuity was displayed. When commod- 
ities were not even in value, credit was given. But for taxes and postage 
neither the barter nor the credit dodge would answer, and often letters were 
suffered to remain a long time in the post office for want of the 25 cents in 
money demanded by the Government. With all this high price on postage, 
by the way, the letter had not been brought several hundred miles in a day 
or two, as now-a-days, and delivered within a mile or two of the person ad- 
dressed; but it had been weeks on the route, and delivered, probably, at a 
post office five, ten or twenty miles distant. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 265 

Peltries came nearer being money than anything else, as it came, in 
some sections, to be the custom to estimate values in peltries; such an arti- 
cle was worth so many peltries. Even some tax collectors and postmasters 
were known to take peltries and exchange them for the money required by 
the Government. Now and then, a farmer would load a flat-boat with pel- 
tries, tallow, honey, beeswax and perhaps a little grain and a few hundred 
clapboards, and float down the rivers into the Ohio and thence to New Or- 
leans, where he would exchange his produce for staple groceries and cash. 
This was, in some places, the principal means of bringing money into the 
country. Betimes, there appeared at the steamboat landings " commission 
and forwarding merchants," as "middle men," to carry on the business 
through steam navigation, and thus money became more plentiful and in- 
deed more needed. The Winter's accumulations would be shipped in large 
quantities in the Spring, and manufactured goods would come back in re- 
turn. Orders on the store were abundant, and served as a kind of local 
money. When a day's work was done by a working man, his employer 
would ask, " Well, what store do you want your order on?" The answer 
being given, the order was drawn, which was nearly always honored. 

When the first settlers came into the wilderness, they generally 
supposed that their hard struggle would be principally over after the first 
year; but, alas! they often looked for "easier times next year" for many 
years before realizing them; and then they came in so gradually and ob- 
scurely as to be almost imperceptible. The sturdy frontiersmen thus 
learned to bear hardships like soldiers on duty. The less heroic would sell 
out cheap, return to their old homes East and spread reports of the hard- 
ships and privations on the frontier, while the sterner class would remain 
and also take advantage of these partially improved lands thus abandoned, 
and in time become wealthy. 

At one time, tea retailed at $2 to $3 a pound; coffee, 75 cents; salt, 
from $5 to $6 a bushel of fifty pounds; the coarsest calico. $1 a yard, and 
whisky, $1 to $2 a gallon, and all this at a time, too, when the poor pio- 
neers had no money to buy with, except the little they sometimes obtained 
for peltries. 

About 1837, a farmer would haul his wheat to Sandusky City, over 
swampy roads, requiring six to eight days to make the trip, and sell his 
grain for 60 cents a bushel. On returning, they brought out merchandise, 
at the rate of 50 cents a hundred weight. 

Flour, for some time, could not be obtained nearer than Zanesville or 
Chillicothe. Store goods were very high, and none but the most common 
kinds were brought here, and had to be packed on horses or mules from 
Detroit, or wagoned from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh, thence floated down 
the Ohio River to the mouth of the Scioto, and then packed or hauled up. 
The freight was enormous, often costing $4 a ton. 



Bread, the " staff of life," was the most difficult of all to procure, as 
there were no mills in the country to grind the grain. The use of stump 
mortars and graters already referred to, were tedious and tiresome proc- 
esses. A grater was a semi-cylindrical piece of thickly perforated tin, 
fastened upon a board, and operated upon as is a nutmeg grater. The corn 
was taken in the ear, and grated before it got dry and hard. By and by a 
horse grist mill was put up here and there, and then water grist mills along 
the principal streams; but all these together could not keep pace with the 



266 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

demands of the l-apidly growing settlements. When there was water 
enough to run the mills, the roads were too muddy and small streams too 
high for teaming and taking the grain to the mills. Horse mills were too 
slow, and thus the community had to plod their weary way along until 
steam flouring mills were introduced. 

AGRICULTURAL IMPLEMENTS. 

The implements used by the first farmers in this State would, in this 
age of improvement, be great curiosities. The plow was of the wooden 
mold-board, bar-share pattern, difficult to describe. The reapers were the 
sickle and the cradle. Harrows with wooden teeth, were simply brush 
heaps dragged over the ground. Hoes were almost as heavy as grubbing 
hoes. Threshing machines were flails, or the grain was trodden out by 
horses or oxen. A sheet or quilt, with a stout person at each end to swing 
it simultaneously, sometimes constituted the fanning mill; or sometimes 
the grain and chaff would be dipped up with a pail, held aloft and slowly 
poured out, while the wind was blowing. Handbreaks were used for break- 
ing flax and hemp. 

HOG KILLING. 

Hogs were always dressed before they were taken to market. Some 
bright winter morning the farmer would call in his " neighbors to help 
" kill hogs;" large kettles of water were heated; a sled or two, covered 
with boards, was the platform on which the hogs were cleaned. Against it 
was leaned up the hogshead or barrel in which the scalding was done; a 
quilt being thrown over the top, to retain the heat. From the crotch of a 
tree near by, a projecting pole was rigged, ■ to hold the animals for devis- 
ceration, trimming and thorough cleaning. When everything was ar- 
ranged, the best shot of the company loaded his rifle, and the work of kill- 
ing commenced. It was considered a disgrace to make a hog squeal by bad 
shooting or butchering. A "shoulder stick," which was to be avoided, was 
the running of the point of the butcher knife into the shoulder instead of 
the gullet. As each hog fell, the " sticker " mounted him, and plunged 
the knife into his throat. After bleeding a few minutes, and all signs of 
motion ceased, two men would catch him by the hind legs, draw him up to 
the scalding tub, which had just been tilled with boiling-hot water, with a 
shovelful of good greenwood ashes thrown in. In this the carcass was 
plunged and moved around a minute or two, or until the hair would slip 
off easily, then placed ontbe platform, where the cleaners would pitch upon 
it with all their might, with knives or any other sharp-edged article, until 
all the hair was cleaned off. Then it was hung up, by a " gambrell, " upon 
the pole above described, where the work of cleaning would be finished. 

The next day, those hogs which were selected for domestic use were 
cut up, the lard " tried " out by the women, and the surplus hogs were 
taken to market while the weather was cold, if possible. The merchant at 
the steamboat landing had a pork house, in which he stored his stock until 
it was shipped in the spring. In this, the pork-packing was done, giving 
employment to a number of hands during the winter. Allowing for +he 
difference of currency and manner of marketing, the price of pork in those 
days was not so high as at present. Now, while calico and muslin are 8 
and 10 cents a yard, and pork 2 to 4 cents a pound, and wheat $1 a bushel, 
then the cottons were 25 cents a yard, while pork was only 1 to 2 cents a 
pound and wheat 25 cents a bushel. In other words, a bushel of wheat, 
now-a-days, buys as much cotton goods as ten bushels would then. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 2b7 

WILD HOGS. 

When the earliest pioneer reached this Western wilderness, game was 
his principal meat, until he had conquered a farm from the forest or prairie. 
As the country filled up with inhabitants, game grew correspondingly 
scarce, and by 1840-50, he who would live by his rifle would have had but 
a precarious subsistence had it not been for " wild hogs." These animals 
— the descendants of those left by home-sick emigrants who had returned 
East — multiplied and thrived in a wild state, their subsistence being chiefly 
acorns, nuts, sedge stalks and flesh of carcasses ^and small vermin. The 
second and third immigration to the country found these wild hogs an un- 
failing source of meat supply for a number of years. In some sections of 
the West, they became altogether too numerous for comfort, and the citi- 
zens met, organized and adopted measures for their extermination. 

i 

BEE HUNTING. 

This wild recreation was a peculiar one, and many a backwoodsman 
gloried in excelling in this art. He would carefully watch a bee as it filled 
itself with the sweet product of some flower or leaf -bud, and notice particu- 
larly the direction taken by it as it struck a " bee line " for its home, which, 
when found, would be generally bigh up in the hollow of a tree. The tree 
would be marked, and in September a party would go and cut down the 
tree and capture the honey as quickly as they could before it wasted away. 
Several gallons would thus be often taken from a single tree, and, by a very 
little work, and pleasant at that, the early settlers could keep themselves 
in honey the year round. When the honey was a year old or less, it would 
turn white and granulate, yet be as good and healthful as when fresh. This 
was by some called " candied " honey. In some districts, the resorts of 
bees would be so plentiful that all the available hollow trees would be oc- 
cupied, and many colonies of bees would be found at work in crevices in 
the rock and holes in the ground, and some honey has been taken from 
such places. 

THE SHAKES. 

One of the greatest obstacles to the early settlement and prosperity of 
the West was the ague, " fever and ague," or "chills and fever," as it was 
variously termed. In the fall, almost everybody was afflicted with it. It 
was no respecter of persons. Everybody looked pale and sallow, as though 
he were frost-bitten. It was not contagious, but derived from impure water 
and malaria, such as is abundant in a new, timbered country. The impuri- 
ties from them, combined with those which came from bad dietetics, 
engorged the liver and deranged the wbole vital machinery. By and by 
the shock would come, and come in the form of a shake, followed by a 
fever. These would be regular, on certain hours every alternate day — 
sometimes every day or every third day. When you had the chill, you 
couldn't get warm, and when you had the fever you couldn't get cool. It 
was exceedingly awkward in this respect, indeed it was! Nor would it stop 
for any sort of contingency; not even a wedding in the family would stop 
it. It was tyrannical. When the appointed time came around, everything 
else had to be stopped to attend to its demands. It didn't have even any 
Sundays or holidays. 

After the fever went down, you still didn't feel much better. You felt 
as though you had gone through some sort of collision, or threshing ma- 
chine, or jarring machine and came out, not killed, but you sometimes wish 



268 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

you bad been. You feit weak, as though you bad run too far after some- 
thing and tben didn't catch it. You felt languid, stupid and sore, and was 
down in the mouth and heel, and partially raveled out. Your back was out 
of fix, your bead ached and your appetite was crazy. Your eyes had too 
much white in them; your ears, especially after taking quinine, had too 
much roar in them, and your whole body and soul were entirely woe-be- 
gone, disconsolate, sad, poor and good-for-nothing. You didn't think 
much of yourself, and didn't believe that other people did either; and you 
didn't care. You didn't make up your mind to commit suicide, but some- 
times wished some accident would happen to knock either the malady or 
yourself out of existence. You imagined that even the dogs looked at you 
with a kind of self-complacency. You felt that even the sun had a sickly 
shine about it. 

About this time, you came to the conclusion that you would not accept 
the whole State of Ohio as a gift; and if you had the strength and means, 
you picked up Hannah and the baby and your traps and went back " yan- 
der to Ole Virginny," " Pennsylvany," "Maryland," or the " Jarseys." 
You didn't sing, but you felt, the following: 

"And to-day the swallows flitting 
Round my cabin see me sitting 
Moodily within the sunshine, 
Just inside my silent door. 

Waiting for the 'ager,' seeming 
Like a man forever dreaming; 
And the sunlight on me streaming 
Throws no shadow on the floor; 
For I'm too thin and sallow 
To make shadows on the floor — 
Nary shadow any more!" 

The above is not a mere picture of the imagination. It is simply re- 
counting, in quaint phrase, what actually occurred in thousands of cases. 
Whole families would sometimes be sick at one time, and not one member 
scarcely able to wait upon another. Labor or exercise always aggravated 
the malady, and it took Gen. Laziness a long time to thrash the enemy out. 
And those were the days for swallowing all sorts of " roots and yarbs," 
and whisky, etc., with a faint hope of relief. And finally, when the case 
wore out, the last remedy taken got the credit of the cure. 

EDUCATION. 

The primitive \r>g schoolhouse was erected in every neighborhood as 
soon as there were a dozen children to attend school. The general archi- 
tecture of this original academy of the wilderness was the same as that, 
already described for the cabin; the difference being that the furniture of 
the schoolhouse coDsisted exclusively of benches for seats and a desk fas- 
tened to the wall on two sides of the room, behind the principal row of 
benches, on which the pupils did their writing and laid articles not used 
for the time being. These writing desks were simply rough slabs, resting 
upon pins driven inclined into the wall, and they extended nearly the 
whole length and width of the building. The fire-place averaged larger 
than those in dwellings. 

Imagine such a house, with the children seated around, the teacher on 
one end of a bench or in a chair, with no desk, and you have a view of 
the whole scene. The "schoolmaster" has just called "Books! books!" 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 269 

at the door, and the scholars have just run in, almost out of breath from 
vigorous play, taken their seats and are, for the moment, hurriedly " saying 
over their lessons " in a loud whisper, preparatory to recitation. While 
they are thus engaged, the teacher is, perhaps, sharpening a few quill pens 
for the pupils, for no other kind of writing pen had been thought of as yet. 
In a few minutes, he calls up an urchin to say his A B C's. The little boy 
stands beside the teacher, perhaps leaning against him. The teacher, with 
his pen-knife (urchin wishes he owned such a knife), points to the first 
letter, and asks what it is. The little fellow remains silent, for he does not 
know what to say. "A," says the teacher; "A," echoes the urchin. Teacher 
then points to the next, when the same programme is carried out, and so 
on, with three or four letters a day, and day after day until the " boy has 
got all his A B C's by heart." At the conclusion of these exercises, the 
teacher bids the " Major " to go to his seat and study his letters, and when 
he comes to a letter he doesn't know to come to him and he will tell him. 
Accordingly, ho returns to his sp>at, looks on his book a little while, and 
then goes trudging across the floor to the master, pointing to a letter out- 
side of his lesson, and holds it up awkwardy in front of the teacher's face. 
He is told that that letter is not in his lesson, and he needn't study it now, 
and he trudges, smilingly as he catches the eye of some one, back to his seat 
again; but why he smiled he has no definite idea. 

To present wearing the books out at the lower corner, every pupil was 
expected to keep a " thumb -paper " under his thumb as he held the book 
in his hand, which was then the custom, there being no desks in front of 
the scholars. Even then the books were soiled and worn through at this 
place in a few weeks, so that a part of many lessons were gone. Conse- 
quently, the request was often made, ''Master, may I borrow Jimmy's book, 
to git my lesson in? Mine hain't in my book; it's tore out." It was also 
customary to use book pointers, to point out the letters or words in study 
as well as in recitation. The black stem of the maiden-hair fern was a fav- 
orite material from which pointers were made. 

The a-b, ab, scholars through with, perhaps the second or third reader 
class would be called up, who would stand in a row in front of the teacher, 
"toeing the mark," which was actually a chalk or charcoal mark, or a crack, 
and, commencing at one end of the class, one would read the first "verse," 
the next the second, and so on round and round, Sunday school fashion, 
taking the paragraphs in the order they occur. Whenever a pupil hesi- 
tated at a word, the teacher would pronounce it for him. And this was all 
there was of the reading exercise. 

Those studying arithmetic were but little classified, and they were, 
therefore, generally called forward singly and interviewed, or the teacher 
would visit them at their seats. A lesson, comprising several " sums," 
would be given for the next day to those in classes, while others would 
press forward without any regard to quantity. Whenever the learner came 
to a " sum he couldn't do," he would go to the teacher with it — unless he 
was a drone — and the teacher would do it for him. 

In geography, no wall maps were used, no drawing required, and the 
studying and recitation comprised only the " getting-by- heart" names and 
places. The recitation proceeded iike this: " Where is Norfolk?" "In 
the southeastern part of Virginia." " What bay between Maryland and Vir- 
ginia?" "Chesapeake." "What is the capital of Pennsylvania?" Har- 
risburg." " Where does the Susquehannah River rise?" " In New York." 

When the hour for writing arrived, the time was announced by the mas- 



270 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

ter, and every pupil learning the art would throw his feet over and around 
under the writing desk, facing the greased paper or glass window, and pro- 
ceed to "follow copy," which was invariably set by the teacher at his lei- 
sure moments, not by rule, but by as nice a stroke of the pen as he could 
make. Blue ink and blue paper were both common, and a "blue time" the 
learner often had of it. 

About half past 10 o'clock, the master would announce, " School may 
go out," which meant "little play-time," in the children's parlance, called 
in modern times "recess " or "intermission." Sometimes the boys and 
girls were allowed to have this intermission separately. Between play 
times, the request, " Master, may I go out?" was often iterated, to the an- 
noyance of the teacher and the disturbance of the school. 

At about half-past 11 o'clock, or a little later, the teacher would an- 
nounce, " Scholars may now get their spelling lessons," and then, in pros- 
pect of " big play time " being near at hand, they would, with the charac- 
teristic loud whisper, " say over" to themselves the lesson a given number 
of times. " Master, I've said my lesson over four times," would sometimes 
be heard. A few minutes before 12, the " little spelling class " would re- 
cite, aud then the " big spelling class." The latter would comprise the 
larger scholars and the greater part of the school. They would stand in a 
row, toeing the mark in the midst of the floor, or standing with their backs 
against an unoccupied portion of the wall. One end of the class was the 
"head," the other the " foot," and when the pupil spelled a missed word 
correctly he would " go up," " turning down" all those who had missed it. 
The recitation done, the class would number, the head pupil numbering as 
at the foot, where he or she would take station next time, to have another op- 
portunity of turning them all down. Before taking their seats, the teacher 
would say, " School's dismissed," which was the signal for every child 
rushing for his dinner, and enjoying the " big play-time." The same pro- 
gramme would also be followed on closing school in the afternoon. 

"Past the Pictures." This phrase had its origin in the practice of pio- 
neer schools which used Webster's Elementary Spelling Book, toward the 
back part of which were a few reading lessons illustrated with pictures — 
as the mastiff, the stag, the squirrel, the boy stealing apples, the partial 
lawyers, the milk-maid's daydream, and poor Tray. Succeeding this illus- 
trated portion of the book were a few more spelling exercises, of a peculiar 
kind; and when a scholar succeeded in reaching these he was said to be 
"past the pictures," and was looked up to as being smarter and more 
learned than most other youths expected to be. Hence the application of 
this phrase came to be extended to other affairs in life, especially where 
scholarship was involved. 

SPELLING AND SINGING SCHOOLS. 

These were held at night, at the schoolhouse, when a general frolic was 
had, and sometimes mischief was done by the "rowdies." On assembling 
for the spelling match, two youths would volunteer as "captains," to 
" choose sides " and have a contest. Various methods Avere adopted, even 
in the same neighborhood, for conducting this exciting exercise. Some- 
times " tally " would be kept; at other times a system of cross-spelling 
would be followed, commencing at the head or at the foot, or they would 
spell straight round, or have a " word-catcher" appointed for each side, or 
would "turndown," etc. After an hour's contest, an intermission was 
had, which was indeed a lively time for conversation. After recess, the 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. ' 271 

practice was to have a regular spelling down, sometimes the sides chosen at 
the first taking their places so as to carry on a sort of double contest, and 
sometimes taking all the assembly promiscuously. The audience dismissed, 
the next thing was to "go home," very often by a round-about way, 
"a-sleighing with the girls," which, with many, was the most interesting part 
of the evening's performance. 

The singing school was of later introduction, but afforded equal advan- 
tage for a jubilee. These occasions were looked forward to with great an- 
ticipation, even by the older folks. 

GUARDING AGAINST INDIANS. 

In pioneer times, when Indian alarms were frequent, it was customary 
for the frontiersman to take his rifle to the field with him and keep it near 
by. Often they would also carry a butcher knife, tomahawk and pistol 
about their persons. A stick would be set up near the gun, so that it could 
readily be found in case of emergency. It must bave been painful to work 
in such suspense, taking some noise to be an Indian alarm several times 
every day, in one instance for two long years without interruption. Many 
an exciting experience is related by old settlers in connection with this 
tedious, cumbersome process of opening up and cultivating their farms. 



Not honey bees, but quilting bees, husking bees, apple parings, log 
rollings and house raisings, etc., were jolly occasions, when a great deal of 
work was done, and often a deal of whisky drank, too. In cornhuskings, 
the women often took part. In the evening of such days, a grand supper 
would be served, and after the older and more sedate had left, the remain- 
der would indulge in an old-fashioned dance. 

Saturday afternoons were generally holidays for those who lived at or 
near villages, the most public cross-roads, etc., when they would assemble 
to witness the militia drill, drink whisky, do mischief, and have a general 
jollification. 

A RETROSPECT. 

Ohio is a grand State; taking it all in all, it is one of the two or three 
greatest in the Union. Beneath her fertile soil is coal enough to sup- 
ply the State for many generations; her harvests are bountiful; she has 
a medium climate; is conveniently situated in the nation and with refer- 
ence to the large markets. But for her present standing, she owes much to 
the sturdy pioneers whose unremitting toil is referred to in these pages. 
How great the transformation they have wrought, and amid what troubles! 

And now, how natural to turn our mental vision back to the log-cabin 
days of half a century ago, and contrast those rude dwellings with the ele- 
gant mansion of to-day. Before us stands the old log cabin. Let us enter. 
Instinctively the head is uncovered, in token of reverence to this relic of 
ancestral beginnings and early struggles. To the left is the deep, wide 
fire-place, in whose commodious space a group of children may sit by the 
fire, and up through the chimney count the stars, while ghostly stories of 
witches and giants, and still more thrilling stories of Indians and wild 
beasts, are whisperingly told and shudderingly heard. On the great crane 
hang the old lea-kettle and the great iron pot. The huge shovel and tongs 
stand sentinel in either corner, while the great andirons patiently wait for 
the huge back-log. Over the fire-place hangs the trusty rifle. At the right 



272 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

stands the spinning wheel, while in the further end of the room the loom 
looms up with a dignity peculiarly its own. Strings of drying apple and 
poles of (hying pumpkin are overhead. Opposite the door stands the great 
walnut table; by its sido the dresser, whose pewter plates and shining delf 
catch and reflect the fire's flame as shields of armies do the sunshine. From 
the corner of its shelves coyly peep out the relics of former china. In a 
curtained corner of the room is "mother's bed," aud under it the trundle 
bed, while near them a ladder indicates the loft where the older children 
sleep. Toward another corner is "mother's workstand," upon which lies 
the Bible, evidently much used, and its family record, telling of parents 
and friends a long way off; and telling, too, of children 

"Scattered like roses in bloom, 
Some at the bridal and some at the tomb." 

Hur spectacles, as if but just used, are inserted between the leaves of the 
Bible, and tell of her purpose to return to its comforts when cares permit 
and duty is done. A stool, a bench well notched and whirled and carved, 
and a few old chairs complete the furniture of the room; and all stand on 
a coarse but well- scoured floor. 

Let us, for a moment, watch the city visitors to this humble cabin. 
The city bride, innocent but thoughtless and ignorant of labor and care, 
asks her city-bred husband, "Pray, what savages set this up?" Honestly 
confessing his ignorance, he replies that he does not know. But see the 
pair on whom age sits " frosty but kindly." First, as they enter, they 
give a rapid glance about the cabin home, and then a mutual glance of eye 
to eye. Why do tears start and fill their eyes? Why do their lips quiver? 
There are many who know why; but who. that has not learned in'the school 
of experience the full meaning of all these symbols of trials and privation, 
of loneliness and danger, can comprehend the story that they tell to the 
pioneer? Within tbis chinked and mud- daubed cabin we read the first 
pagres of our history; and as we retire through its low doorway and note 
the heavy, battened door, its wooden hinges and its welcoming latch-string, 
is it strange that the scenes without should seem but a a Arabian Night's 
dream ? But the cabin and the palace, standing side by side in vivid con- 
trast, tell the story of this people's progress. They are a history and a 
prophecy in one. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 273 



CHAPTER IV. 



REMINISCENCES OF THE EARLY SETTLEMENT OF THE WHETSTONE VALLEY. 
BY CAPT. GEORGE BECKLEY. 

ON the 12th day of October, 1821, my father, John Beckley, with my 
mother and eight children, of whom I was the eldest (not yet seven- 
teen years old), after a weary drive of twenty-five days, via Circleville, from 
Northumberland County, Penn., arrived at Wyatt's Tavern, the last brick 
house on .that road in Northwestern Ohio, a half-mile above Norton and 
about two miles south of the Greenville treaty line. Here had been Fort 
Morrow, of the war of 1812. Mr. Wyatt very kindly tendered us the use 
of one of the block-houses of the fort as a shelter until we could select a 
lot of land and build a cabin. The next morning found us in our tempo- 
rary home, without a bedstead, table, chair or any furniture; but in contrast 
with these privations, we were visited by many kind neighbors, who bade 
us welcome to our new home that was to be. Mr. Wyatt advised my father 
to go up the Whetstone, where his son Daniel lived (the town of Caledo- 
nia is on part of the land he owned), and where Thomas Van Horn, his son-in- 
law, had a cabin, about where Mr. Koch's barn now stands. Accordingly, 
he mounted his horse and wended his way through an almost trackless wil- 
derness to Wyatt's, and then and there he made his first meal on corn bread; 
but it was not the last one, I assure you. 

Meanwhile, we discovered what kind of society we were to have " up 
Whetstone." Here came a half-dozen or more Wyandot Indians, going 
into the white settlements on a trading expedition. They had their ponies 
loaded with divers articles of merchandise, suchas cranberries, honey, splint 
baskets, wooden butter ladles, moccasins, etc., for which they took in ex- 
change sickataw (salt), koosh-koosh (pork), na-hah (meal), Hour, or almost 
anything in the shape of clothing or implements. They were very curious 
arid friendly, shaking hands with every one, and saying, " How-a-muttera." 
We took it for granted that these were no bad or profane words, as they 
seemed to feel pleasant and happy. 

After enjoying the hospitality of Messrs. Wyatt and Van Horn, they 
settled the point that my father should enter the lot now owned by T. A. 
Anderson, where Philip Huff now lives. Jeremiah Coldern and Isaiah 
Mattix were employed to build a cabin, which was soon completed accord- 
ing to agreement. Then came Wyatt and Van Horn with another team, 
and assisted us to our new home. There being no roads then, we came on 
the old Sandusky road five miles, to where the old Rupp farm now is; then 
we did not see another house until we came to Tommy Van Horn's. We 
crossed Grave Creek near the old Kinnear farm; crossed Grape Run near 
where Mr. Fetter now lives; thence came direct for T. Van Horn's; thence 
we had the Upper Sandusky and Owl Creek Endian trail direct for our 
cabin — for it stood en the trail. 

Now for a description of that memorable pioneer cabin. It was com- 
posed of round logs, eighteen feet long, slightly scutched down on the in- 



274 HISTORY OF MARIOS' COUNTY. 

side; a door and two six-pane windows cnt ont and checked up; the floors 
were made of puncheons, split out of lugs, the lower one roughly hewn, 
the upper one not hewn; an outside chimney, without a stone or brick in 
it, all made of mud and wood. We brought sash and glass from Delaware 
for the windows, and two ash boards from Norton, of which we made a door 
and table. Then we cut down a walnut tree, and cut and split out timber 
for bedsteads, chairs, frames and any other furniture we might choose to 
make. Now came to tug of war — a well to dig, and wall, without stone or 
brick. So we had to dig it square and wall it with timber, and that spoils 
the water terribly; but it must be endured for the present. 

In less than a month after our arrival, there were seven more families 
on Section 36 — three of the Parcell and four of the Packard families. 

About that time, Daniel Worline had settled at the mouth of Grave 
Creek; Amasa Gleason where George Retlerer now lives; Mr. Herrington 
on the Plotner farm, below the Claridon Township line; old Mr. Stuart, 
with several of his sons' families, a mile below Claridon; James Lambert near 
Claridon; Messrs. Dickson, Joseph Hornby and Robert Boulton above Clari- 
don; Jacob and Henry Aye where Mrs. James Douce now lives; Mr. Gloyd and 
Mi*. Gaylord on Muskrat Run, near ihe Nesbit Schoolhouse; Joseph Riley and 
John Roberts on the lauds now owned by T. W. Roberts. The next were old 
Mr. Allen, and Seth, John and Hiram on the John Thew lot, and Henry Parcell 
near where the Thew bridge is now. Mr. Parcell was a representative man in 
our settlement, and will have to bear a conspicuous part in our narrative. He 
soon after removed up near the mouth of Muddy Run. He had already 
built several cabins in the settlement. He had a widespread notoriety for 
bis frequent removals. He once removed to Knox County, and in a year or 
two came back to the old farm again. He would not remove his well, but 
he knew a better way. and that was to dig and wall up another one. An- 
other good trait he had was never to do things by halves, but always to 
make finished jobs. At one time, when he had removed his habitation to 
another part of the farm, he had a young orchard, which was beginning to 
bear, and, not being willing to leave it behind, he dug the trees up, cut the 
tops off and gave them a new location. His boys said that the old gentle- 
man sometimes had in call in the aid of his inventive genius as a substitute 
for a removal, and that was to change the beds, and make all other alter- 
ations'he could in the cabin "to make things look new." 

Reader, you will please pardon us for allowing our boat to be driven so 
far to leeward by this little side-wind, but here we again resume our course 
up the Olentangy. The next house up was that of Nathan Clark, another 
conspicuous man in our settlement, and next, Daniel Wyatt and Tommie 
Van Horn, before alluded to. We also had a few settlei's on the Middle 
Fork of Whetstone, as Jacob Rice, who yet resides where he first pitched 
his tent, without e'er a removal excepting from the old houses into the new 
ones, ever and anon drinking water from that clear and beautiful spring fhat 
still flows as freely as ever. A little below him lived Messrs. Arnold and 
Gordon, on the lot now owned by John A. Weber, and next above him 
lived Comfort Olds, where Harvey Coen now lives. He subsequently built 
a treadmill and still-house, made two removals, built a horse-mill each time 
and a still-house at one time, and lastly went to Pulaski County, Ind., built 
a water mill on the Tippecanoe River, and from thence "passed over to the 
other side." The next, last and uppermost man on that branch, that I know 
of. was old Benjamin Sharrock, where he yet lives, a mile above where Iberia 
is now. This about ends the' catalogue of settlers living on these waters 
(that we now call to mind) who were here in the autumn of 1821. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 275 

Our localities were not then described by political geography, with 
towns and villages, as they now are. They were then called "settlements." 
Ours was usually known as " Muddy Run settlement;" then "Beadle's set- 
ment," named after old David Beadle, where Bucyrus is now; then 
" Hosford's " or " Loverick's settlement," where Galion now is; "Sharrock's 
settlement," where old Benjamin Sharrock yet lives, about a mile above 
Iberia; " Harding's settlement," near Blooming Grove; " Mosier's," or 
the "Quaker settlement," above Cardington; "Norton settlement," at 
Norton, which was our nearest post office, and that or Mansfield was the 
nearest post office to Beadle's settlement; the next in order was the " Rad- 
nor settlement," below Middletown, and lastly " Kirby's " or " Welsh's set- 
tlement," in Grand Prairie Township, on the Indian trail from Owl Creek 
to Upper Sandusky, through where Caledonia now is. This Indian trail 
was all the road we had anywhere through this region, yet all through the 
winter and early spring emigrants were alighting down for settlement like 
Colorados on a potato patch. We must have roads from one settlement 
to the other, and more especially east and south to the old settlements, for 
flour and corn-meal. As for meat, milk, butter and vegetables, our settle- 
ments were soon self-sustaining. The modus operandi we will endeavor to 
give further on. 

Our method of locating and opening roads was very simple. No peti- 
tions, no County Commissioners, no Viewers, no Surveyor and no thirty 
days' notice. But one or two professional hunters, who had chased the deer, 
the turkey and the raccoon all over and over the proposed route for said 
road, would take an ax or two and start on a clear day, when they could be 
guided by the sun — for they had no compass — and take their course over the 
highest and driest ground, marking the trees as they proceeded, avoiding 
swamps and other obstructions as much as possible, and cutting and remov- 
ing the underbrush as they go. Now you have a road ready for horsemen 
and footmen. After this, the first man who fell under the dire necessity of 
going through with a team — which usually was a young pair of steers, not 
very well "broke," made fast to the tongue of a two-wheeled wagon — took 
one or two men (the more the better) with axes, to remove small trees, 
bushes, logs cr other obstructions; and once through, onr teamstex's usually 
had the courage to think they could return by the same road. 

Bridges over streams of water, or causeways over mud-holes between 
here and Mosier's mill, or the " big road," where Waldo now is, were 
wholly unknown for many months after our arrival here. We had but one 
remedy for that evil, and that was. when any one started out for the Owl 
Creek settlement, or down toward Columbus or Lancaster, the usual places 
to procure flour or meal, especially in a wet time, he must not forget his 
ax; and when he saw a bad-looking mud hole, especially with a few poles 
lying in it, that was to him conclusive evidence that they had been used by 
some misguided teamster for the purpose of lifting his wheels out of the 
mixd. The cautious driver now stops his ox-team, which is usually a very 
easy thing to do; he scans the woods for a new route; he seizes his ax, and 
vigorously betakes himself to opening another track around the mud-hole. 
He goes back to his wagon, takes up his whip, says " Gee, Buck," and is 
past the mud hole, not knowing, or wishing to know, how soon he may see 
the next one. 

Another feature of those pioneer roads through the beech woods was that 
the wagon seemed to be continually jolting over the high roots near the 
trees; indeed, in some places, where there was much beech timber, it would 
seem as if their roots were nearly all above ground. 



276 HISTORY OF MA 111 ON COUNTY. 

In the autumn or early spring of 1821, Col. James Kilbourn, of Worth - 
ington, a gentleman well-known by the pioneers of Northern Ohio as a land 
surveyor, a writer of poetry and a ballad singer, came up the Olentangy to 
a point a few miles east of the center of Marion County, laid out a town in 
the woods, near the west bank of the above-named river, in Canaan Town- 
ship, as it was then called, naming this village "Claridon," not forgetting 
to compose a beautiful song about " Sweet Claridon," wherein the charm- 
ing and enchanting beauties of nature were most eloquently and vividly 
described. Several settlers were living near this point, as it was expected 
that the county seat must be located not many miles " from this very spot," 
among whom were Amos Earl, Joseph Hornby, Joshua B. Bearse, James 
Lambert and others; and the prospect of the county seat soon attracted im- 
migrants to this new village. A commodious hotel was soon erected. It was 
a long cabin, with one or two log partitions, and doorways sawed out 
and checked up. They were usually made of round Jogs; then, after they 
were up, the bark, and sometimes a little of the wood on the inside of the 
wall, scutched off with a broad-ax. In a few instances, we have known 
them to hew the outside in the same way. But whether this cabin was 
hewn on the outside we do not remember. George Shippy was the enter- 
prising host of this pioneer hotel, and simultaneously came Ansel Matoon, 
a blacksmith, from Worthington; Mr. Broman, a cabinet-maker, and be- 
fore a twelvemonth passed he had received several orders for coffins. And 
here, also, came Mr. Norton, a tanner, who commenced a thriving busi- 
ness; but the good man, in a few short months, had to succumb to the pale 
monster. 

In the succeeding spring, a committee was sent from headquarters to 
select a site for our county seat. Jeremiah McLand (McLene?), at that 
time a prominent man in our State Government, was one of that committee. 
After viewing the localities claimed by the different parties to be the most 
suitable, they set their post on the Sandusky road, near " Jacob's Well," 
as it was then called. We heard some say it was at a place where there 
was " neither wood, water nor chips. " Then, in consequence of the coun- 
ty seat going to Marion, and the frightful sickness and death during the 
two autumns of 1822 and 1823, the village of Claridon was nearly depopu- 
lated. 

At about the same time, Col. Kilbourn laid out the town of Bucyrus; 
he made another song, and could sing it on all proper occasions. 

In the spring of 1821, our branch of Whetstone overflowed its banks 
several times, and I do not think there was a bridge over that stream from 
its source to its confluence with the Scioto. After the waters had subsided, 
the settlers resolved that a bridge must be built over the Olentangy. 
Henry Parcell was understood to be the architect aud engineer in chief of 
this great enterprise. Accordingly, at the next cabin-raising (of which we 
usually had several every week), due notice was given of the time and 
place, and all bands were to be on the ground early, some with their teams 
(oxen, of course) and log chain, others with axes, mauls and iron wedges. 
shovels and hoes. Now mind, no allowances were made for delinquencies, 
other than absolute necessities. "Uncle Henry." as he was familiarly 
called, was on hand betimes, with all his available force, his four elder 
sons, John, Dan, Jim and Henry, and two sons-in-law, Nathan and Martin. 
The Packard connection came up in about equal force. There were old 
Joshua, an old soldier of the Revolution, Bruce Alanson, Phin. Resh, J. 
Gearson, Sol Wilkinson, Alonzo and Con Bacon. These were the Parcell 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 277 

and Packard tribes. Some were detailed with shovels and hoes, leveling 
the foundations for the abutments, others chopping the logs for same, and 
right here were the oxen looking at the logs, and ready to drag them up as 
soon as they were chopped off. Then there were other men ready to fit 
and build both abutments without delay, and yet other parties were at work 
with their mauls and wedges, splitting the puncheons to be laid down as 
soon as the timbers should be placed on the abutments, and before night 
we had a bridge over the Olentangy that withstood that turbulent stream 
for many long years. 

A brief outline of the way we made use of our time during the first win- 
ter we passed in our new homes in the then far West: As you will readily 
understand, very few could bring any household furniture with them, es- 
pecially when a family of from four to eight or ten members came four or 
five hundred miles on a wagon drawn by a yoke of oxen or span of horses, 
much of the way over a very bad road; and many of our immigrants came- 
here just in that way. The first thing to do was to drive your team near 
a large, fallen tree, near where the cabin was to be built. Now all is in 
motion; a temporary shelter is quickly constructed; logs must be cut to 
build the cabin; some of the neighbors (in some places several miles dis- 
tant) come to see the new-comers, and, if desired, might on the morrow be 
seen, some with axes, a cross-cut saw and a frow, coming, and before the 
sun is down a large tree has been cut, sawed and riven into clapboards — 
enough for the roof. Notice having been circulated, in a day or two the 
cabin is raised and the roof put on, always on the same day, and we often 
finished the task by 2 or 3 o'clock, and played a few games at townball 
afterward; next the puncheons were to be split and hewn for the fioors, 
then a wooden foundation for the chimney, well lined with mud and 
topped out with sticks and mud; next in order they were to be chinked and 
daubed. Daubed was an appropriate name for that exercise. After the mud 
was well mixed for the jambs, back wall, chimney and wall — that for the 
chimney and walls was usually put on by sleight of hands — for the walls a 
large double -handful of this mud would be taken up by the " mud smith," 
thrown into the aperture among the chinking, and then nicely and smoothly 
troweled on. Doors, tables and cupboards were mostly made of clapboards, 
nicely split and shaved, as we had several draw-knives in the settlement, 
and but very few glass windows; but we had a substitute, and that well 
smeared with oil. Here permit us to relate an incident: One day we 
heard Aunt Susy Parcell bemoaning the loss of their pet sheep. Yet, after 
all, she said, " she could hardly see where it was more of a loss than a 
gain to them; the wool," said she, " will make several pairs of stockings, 
the hide we converted into a window, and we saved a large cake of tallow; 
so, you see, we will have stockings, we have a window, to keep the wind 
from blowing in and give us light by day, and the candles will give us 
light by night." Thus verifying the proverb that a sheep never dies in 
debt to its owner. 

Our cabin is up and our goods stowed away as best we could, and 
for the night our beds must be spread on the floor. Now we must go to 
work and make our furniture. For bedsteads, we had several styles; but 
the most primitive and simple kind was that with but one post, on this 
wise: .First, bore a hole in the wall, about the height you wish for yoiu* 
bed, about four feet from the corner; bore another hole into the other wall, 
about six feet from the same corner. Now take a stick of wood, of any 
desirable size, round, square or of any shape, for your post; bore two holes, 



278 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

at right angles, about the height of those in the walls; get two poles, one 
four and a half and the other six and a half feet long, drive the end of one 
into each wall, and the other ends into your post. Now fasten two more 
poles near the walls, or lay clapboards on the front rail, and the other end 
on the logs in the wall, and your bedstead is complete. Of course we had 
chairs, tables, bedsteads and other furniture of many patterns, fashions and 
styles — all made of green lumber — some of round poles, others would split 
them out of large trees and dress them out. And tools were not easily ob- 
tained. Perhaps A had an inch auger, B had a saw, C had some nails, 
etc. , and all must lend and borrow more or less. A large portion of the 
men followed hunting, many of whom would enjoy their evenings at dress- 
ing deer skins. It took two buckskins to make a pair of pants, and two 
fawn skins to make a pair for a boy. We saw two little girls who wore 
dresses made of fawn skins. They were of a purple color, were neatly 
made and looked well. They both grew up to be ladies of respectability. 
The eldest has long since passed over to tho other side: the younger sister 
yet resides in this county, but whether she remembers her nice little fawn- 
skin dress I could not say, but I do think if she could remember how tidy 
they looked, she would feel proud of this memorial of those days of h«r 
childhood. 

But in connection with dressing deer skins, we had all the hickory-nuts, 
hazel-nuts, walnuts and butternuts that we could dispose of. Hogs kept 
fat all the winter on the mast, of which there was an abundance for several 
successive seasons. When the^ soft-shelled hickory-nuts were plenty, the 
deer would chiefly subsist on them. 

Not only were wild game and bees plenty here, but hogs also. No mat- 
ter how tame they were when brought here, as soon as the mast began to 
fall they would stray off and become wild by being constantly frightened 
and harassed by men who were hunting their pigs. Every person having 
cattle or pigs had his peculiar ear-mark recorded by the Township Clerk. 
To-day you have a dozen or more tine, fat hogs, which have been about 
home every day of their lives, to-morrow they don't come, and you nover 
hear of them again. 

This compelled parties who had lost their hogs to offer a large premium 
for their recovery, and that was no less than one-half, which was freely 
given. This tine prospect for gain brought numbers of hog-hunters into 
the field, but, strange to tell, quite a large number of those benevolent pig- 
hunters either forgot or were otherwise prevented from returning to the 
owners their half, but quietly and carefully salted them all down, asking 
no questions. 

We will now bring to your view another scene, contrasting joy wifeb sor- 
row, hope with despair and disappointment. Every family was here in the 
wild woods on their first trial to raise food for future support. No one had 
so much as a potato patch until he cleared a field in the green woods; and 
it was a hard task to get from three to five acres of ground ready for the 
plow in proper season for our spring crops. All the trees over eighteen 
inches in diameter were usually left standing, and deadened by chopping a 
girdle through the bark and sapwood of each tree. 

After our corn-field, of four or five acres (and but few had more than 
that), was cleared, the plowing was commenced among the trees, stumps 
and roots, and with such plows! all with wooden mold-boards. Many farm- 
ers made their own plows, for the very good reason that there was not a 
mechanic of that kind within twenty milos of here that we knew of. As 




- 




\yL^^tACy I Irth^&W 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 281 

the corn is planted, here are all sorts of birds and squirrels, black squir- 
rels, gray squirrels, red squirrels and ground squirrels, digging after it; but 
fortunately potatoes, beans and other vegetables were not molested. As 
soon as the corn began to have ears, all these pests came down, and many 
fields were nearly or totally consumed by them, excepting what was con- 
sumed by the families before the grain was ripe. We continued shooting 
them until there was no more ammunition to be had either in Delaware or 
Mansfield, our nearest stores; then Daniel Parcell and I attacked them in 
Indian style, with bows and arrows, and succeeded tolerably well even in 
that way. Our whole population was compelled to depend upon the old 
settlements for their breadstuff's for another year at least, and but few hav- 
ing either money or means to buy with, left no other way but for the most 
able-bodied member of the household to go where he could obtain grain for 
work, and in this way procure bread for his family. 

This scarcity of grain was another cause of our hogs straying off and 
becoming wild. There was no corn to winter them on, consequently they 
must go to the woods and procure their own subsistence, and when we 
wanted a piece of pork we had to seek, but were not always sure to find, 
but when we did find them they were usually fat enough to kill at any time 
of the year. 

Our cattle usually came through the winter on wild hay in tolerable con- 
dition, if it was well put up, and we gave them plenty of it. 

Next year, our prospects began to look much brighter. We had now 
more than double the acreage of cleared lands, and most of the last year's 
corn-fields had been sown to wheat, which looked promising for a bountiful 
harvest. Our good people determined on making an attempt at curtailing 
the ravages of the squirrels on our incoming crops, and for this purpose a 
squirrel hunt was proposed, and a committee appointed to make the neces- 
sary arrangement. A subscription paper was circulated, and each one sub- 
scribed as many bushels of corn as he thought proper, to be paid the next 
fall; then the prizes were arranged accordingly. The man who produced 
the largest number of squirrel scalps took the highest prize, and so on, the 
hunting to continue two days. On the afternoon of the second day, the scalps 
were to be counted and the several prizes awarded. It also came to pass 
that this committee, or some other committee, had provided a full supply 
of whisky, maple sugar and eggs; whereupon another committee was ap- 
pointed to mix, mingle and commingle those three ingredients into a fluid 
which they called egg-nog. It was a time long to be romembei'ed; and it 
has often been said that there was but one man who left that place sober, 
and that was Daniel Parcell, who had never been known to take a dram. 

This summer brought us our first wheat harvest, and it did not come 
before it was needed, as flour and corn meal had become scarce. We cut 
some sheaves, threshed them, winnowed the chaff out, boiled the wheat 
and ate it with milk. We lived on that kind of food while we cut and 
stacked nearly all of our first crop. Now, as soon as the wheat was dry 
enough to grind, there were other things to bo learned. The first was to 
make a threshing-floor. This was done by shoveling off the surface of the 
ground, throwing some water on, and tramping it down as smooth as possi- 
ble. Some would thresh it out with flails, others would yoke up one or two 
yoke of oxen, chain them together and have them tramp it out. Now the 
threshing was completed, the wheat with the chaff heaped up, and the floor 
swept, but no fanning mill, perhaps, within twenty miles of us. Here 
was another dilemma; but the inventive genius of man ao-ain came to our 



282 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

aid. AVith a heavy linen sheet, one man at each side rolls his side in about 
a quarter or half a yard; now they observe which way the wind blows, take 
their positions accordingly and commence flapping the winnowing-sheet 
rapidly, prodiicing a strong current of air near the ground, while the third 
man, with a scoop or some other vessel, scatters the wheat and chaff before 
this winnowing-sheet, blowing the chaff out, and doing it tolerably well, 
too. But napping the sheet is very fatiguing work, often producing blis- 
ters on the fingers in a few moments. After the wheat was cleaned, the 
next thing to be done was to yoke the oxen, hitch to a cart or pair of 
wheels, load up and start for Mount Vernon, to mill; and there would be 
plenty of our good neighbors impatiently awaiting our return in order to 
borrow some flour. 

After the death of Mr. Norton, the tanner, at Claridon, the settlers 
were much in aeed of a tanner, as leather was a cash article, and no stores, 
as yet, nearer than Mansfield and Delaware, until Mr. A. Holmes brought 
a few goods to Marion, and E. B. & Charles Merriman commenced with a 
small shop in Bucyrus. Most of their goods were then brought from Pitts- 
burg on wagons, and after a two-horse wagon-load of goods, wares and 
merchandise were piled up and exposed to the view of customers, it was a 
rare sight. But not many years after it sometimes so happened that a five 
or six horse team would be driven up to the door of a store-room in Marion 
or Bucyrus, which had been laden at Baltimore or Philadelphia and brought 
all the way over rivers, mountains and valleys without change, right fresh 
from headquarters, in less than four weeks, " cheaper than the cheapest!" 
(No middle men in the case.) Sole leather, 37 1 cents per pound; bar iron, 
11 cents; nails, 12£ cents; muslins and prints, 25 to 37| cents a yard, etc. 

The pioneers of Marion County did not suffer from chills and fevers 
alone; but another form of disease, more to be dreaded than the fevers, was 
that fearful scourge, the milk-sickness, which was most fatal in the rich 
valleys of the Cuquaw and Grave Creeks, where there were but few fami- 
lies which did not experience more or less of the fearful effects of this ter- 
rible disease, either on man or beast. But few of the people being ac- 
quainted with its effects, its cure or preventive, and having but few physi- 
cians (and at first none, that I remember of), and when the first ones came 
here they were mostly unacquainted with it, a large per cent of these cases 
proved fatal. Some parents would go or send to Mount Vernon, Delaware, 
Mansfield, Columbus or Lancaster, and provide a supply of jalap, calomel, 
" tartar mattix," etc., and doctor their families and neighbors; others wqnld 
boil a kettleful of butternut bark and make up a batch of butternut pills, 
or dig up a quantity of blue flag, Culver, May-apple or blood-root, pulver- 
ize and swallow them, or take them in pills or decoction, just as might suit 
the fancy of the giver or receiver. But this state of things did not long 
continue. We soon bad plenty of doctors traversing the highways and by- 
ways, so much that any one who wished to be doctored could be so treated 
to his heart's content. 

The next year, 1824, Dr. Lee, from Mount Vernon, came to our relief. 
He brought his family, and resided in the Vanhorn cabin before mentioned. 
-n,rom that time on we were not unusually afflicted with sickness. 

About this time, Amariah and John Thorp built a saw mill, about four 
miles above where Caledonia now is, and still further up the stream another 
vvas put in operation by Mr. Eberhart, and several others were built on the 
Middle Fork by Jacob Rice, William Shafer, Benjamin Masters, John Mc- 
Kinstry, Benjamin Sharrock and others. All the above-named mills were 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 283 

driven by water-power, and consequently there was not enough water in 
those streams to keep them in operation duriDg more than half the year, 
thereby causing our enterprising fellow-citizens to erect another class of 
flouring mills, to be propelled by horse-power. Of these there were two kinds ; 
one was by hitching four horses to the arms of the master wheel, similar 
to the horse-powers used at the present day; the other kind was by the 
tread-wheel. The first mills of this kind we remember of were Adams', be- 
low Bucyrus, Snyder's and Adrian's, northwest of where Galion now is, 
and in a few years thei'e were plenty of them throughout the "region round 
about;" and usually, when we took a grist to one of them, and it was 
ground and the toll taken out, it transpired that there was not much left 
for the poor customer to take home, and that not Superfine XXX; but that 
was better than the hominy-block or the hand mill. 

In the autumn of 1S23 or 1824, our good old sires conceived the idea of in- 
augurating an English school. The site of the " schoolhouse " was in Mr. 
Charles Larrabee's field, about ten rods southwest of where Mr. Sullivan S. 
Place's house now stands. 

The next move was a day appointed to commence the structure. The 
logs were twenty-four feet long. The foundation was laid the first day and 
several rounds of logs notched down, and in a few days we had the model 
schoolhouse for all the "region round about. " It was composed of round lops, 
but the logs on the inside were slightly hewn down with a broad- ax. The 
floors were of puncheons, split out of logs and hewn, leaving a fire-place in 
the center of the room, with a chimney in the shape of an inverted funnel over 
it. The upper floor was made of the same kind of plank as the lower one, 
the only difference being that the joints in the upper flour were filled and 
besmeared with mud, making the room very warm and comfortable. 

We had three windows, two of paper and one of glass. They were ar- 
ranged in this wise: On the east and west sides a lug was cut out of the 
wall, and small sticks of wood set in about ten inches apart, and paper 
pasted to the logs and to those sticks, serving in the place of window-sash. 
The paper was then well smeared with raccoon's oil, through which the 
light would penetrate mu ch better than without the oil. Then we had a six- 
pane window in the north side, tilled with glass. Next in order was our 
school furniture. For this we cut a straight grained linden, about two feet 
in diameter and near the length of the room, split it into four planks and 
hewed one face on each; the two widest ones, resting on large pins driven 
into the wall, served as desks, and the other two we made into long benches 
to sit upon. Other seats were made in the same way, with never a piece to 
rest our backs against. 

Now, it may not be amiss to give a list of th9 householders in this school 
district, namely, Henry Parcell, Josiah B. Packard, Jason Gleason, John 
Humphrey, Solomon S. Wilkinson, William Shaffer, Samuel Spurdion, 
Noah Lee, John Lindsay, Adam Hipsher, John Beckley, James Larrabee, 
Joseph W. Larrabee, William Van Buskirk, John Lee (Beech), William 
Garberson, Daniel Wyatt, Nathan Clark, Jacob Rice and Benjamin Bell. 

I believe I had the honor of teaching the first school in the little village 
of Letimberville. A list of the householders of this district may be of in- 
terest, for comparison with the present settlers, to wit: Henry Parcell, 
Peter Weyand, Christian Long, James McCauley. James Young, John Foos, 
Jesse Foos, Samuel J. Hill, Seth Knowles, Job McCumber, Peter Spyher, 
Joseph Lykins, Thomas Monnett, Martin McGowen, John Reeder, Thomas 
F. Johnston, Constant Bowen, Charles Wilson, Mrs. Smith, Jackson Dow- 



284 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

ling, John Vanworst, Daniel Hipsher and William Quay. Charles Wilson 
kept a store and tavern; Jackson and David Dowling, carpenters; Alexan- 
der Kirkpatrick, blacksmith; Thomas M. Smith, shoe-maker, etc. 

I taught school at Judge Idleman's cross-roads in the winters of 1829, 
1830 and 1831, at $10 per month and "board around." The School Com- 
mittee urged the propriety of having their school taught at low wages in 
consideration of being promptly paid on the last day of the term. That 
promise was kept to the letter. At that time there was but a small portion 
of the tuition fund raised by taxation — about from one-third to one-half — 
and the balance was to be paid by the householder according to the number 
of days each one sent; and verily, on the afternoon of the la^t day of the 
term, after notice had been given, those householders presented themselves 
at the Captain's office, and paid each one his apportionment. The names 
of the householders, that I remember of, were Jacob ldleman, William 
Pontius, Philip Felter, Jacob Kepnor, John James, Jr., Abraham Hardin, 
George Rupp, Joseph Boyd, James Johnson, John Myers, William David, 
Cyrus Biown, Mrs. Carpenter, John Jones, Sr., and Hiram Wilcox. 

We also had other experiences on the banks of this Olentangy River. 
One was on a contract with William Smith, above King's mill, for a three- 
year-old colt which he valued at $30, for which I agreed to clear seven acres 
of bottom land, namely, to grub it, as it was termed, and chop all the trees 
up to eighteen inches in diameter, chop all the old logs, all linn trees of 
all sizes, trim and chop the same, as all the balance of the logs, about four- 
teen feet long, suitable to roll up in heaps for burning; also to burn the 
brush, thus to make it ready for rolling. I was terribly deceived in the 
amount of labor it would take to clear away those linn trees, and there 
were many of them on the seven acres. 

We also had the pleasure of clearing several other fields, further up the 
creek, on Section 16, one the farm now owned by Mr. George Retterer, then 
owned by John Gilson, also for Aunt Amelia Rogers, Amasa Gleason, Jo- 
siah Williams, Daniel Gilson and others. All cleared much after the same 
style as that for Billy Smith, excepting "all the linn." But we could 
afford to be a little more charitable toward him, as he was very pious — 
much more so than those chaps above him were. 

Once upon a time, I was down the Whetstone on secular business, when 
at nightfall I applied at Mr. George Retterer's for lodging, which was read- 
ily complied with, and in the morning, after a sumptuous breakfast, I ten- 
dered him the needful for his hospitality, which was promptly refused, say- 
ing he would take no pay from the man who cleared the first trees from the 
land upon which he was then raising his bread. Long live George Ret 
terer, and may his shadow never grow less! 

At an early period of our history, Mr. William Shaffer, then living on 
the farm now owned by Mr. Samuel Hill, in Scott Township, conceived the 
idea of erecting a mill, to be driven by horse-power, but before it was com- 
pleted he sold his lands to Geoi'ge Hosham*, and bought the land now 
owned by Mr. John Pittman,on the Middle Fork of the Whetstone Creek, where 
he soon had a small grist mill in operation, and subsequently a small dis- 
tillery was thereunto annexed, thereby enabling his customers to mitigate 
both hunger and thirst. He afterward sold to Jacob Kistler. He next 
built a saw mill on Thorn Run, afterward known as Bockoven's mill. Mr. 
Kistler sold his mill and still to Abraham Krisoly; the next owner was 
David Rettick, and lastly it came into possession of Jacob Rice. About 
this time, Hiram Morse, the next neighbor above the mill, commenced a 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 285 

prosecution against Mr. Rice for damages, resulting in a vexatious and 
protracted law-suit, and the mill was abandoned. 

About the time this mill was built, Messrs. Apt and Strawman, formerly 
from Switzerland, settled on Thorn Run, and were soon afterward joined by 
Messrs. Glathart and Glause. also from Switzerland. 

About 1828, came Elder John Parcell, from Knox County, who failed 
not to make his mark in the advancement of our community. He was a 
master mechanic at the carpenter and joiner business, and had been a Baptist 
minister. From him several of us learned how to construct frame buildings. 
His method was first to make his mortises and tenons, bore the pin-holes 
through the mortises, put his frame together, mark his draw bore on the 
tenons, take them out far enough to bore them through, then put them to- 
gether and tack them with hook pins. Square your work by the 6, 8 and 10 
problem in order to scribe his braces, then his work was laid out. But 
about that time we heard several reports of a Yankee, down East some- 
where, who could frame a building without trying any of his work until 
he was ready to put it up, and it would all come together complete. But 
our carpenters would believe no such thing, until they saw some crazy 
Yankee demonstrate the problem, when they had to " gove him up. " 

About 1830, Mr. Parcell bought theeigbty-acre lot of Manning Richard- 
son, and forty acres of Daniel Wyatt, on which the original town plat of 
Caledonia was laid out a year or two after this time. He commenced erect- 
ing a frame house for a store room on the Boh am lot, and after the house 
was finished Mr. L. Van Buskirk joined with him as a partner, or assistant, 
but think he was a partner. They obtained their stock of goods of Daniel 
S. Norton, of Mount Vernon. This little store, small though it was, saved 
us many a weary trip to Bucyrus or Marion. 

Soon after the store was in operation, Mr. Parcell commenced building 
a saw mill, succeeded by a grist mill, where F. Fisher's mill now is. He 
also contemplated the laying out of a town plat there, whereupon several 
cabins were built on the contemplated town site, but the town was not legal - 
ly laid out and recorded until after Mr. Parcell had sold the tract of land 
from the center of Marion street north to the half- section line to W. S. 
Farrington and C. H. Weed, and the south part to Richard Wilson and G. 
P. Cherry. Thes6 gentlemen had the town plat surveyed by Samuel Holmes, 
named it Caledonia and recorded it on the 11th day of April, 1834 

Mr. Farrington brought a stock of goods here in the spring of 1833, and 
occupied the old store room until he built a new one on the corner now oc- 
cupied by H. Hunter. About the same time, Messrs. House and L. Van Bus- 
kirk opened as a new firm on the east side of the street. Isaac Cherry 
built the house now occupied by J. R. Riley: Josiah Boyce built a hotel at 
Cross' corner; Samuel Littlefield had a chair factory on the bank of the 
creek, but soon afterward died, and was succeeded io the business by Garry 
Clark, who had his turning lathe driven by dogs on a tread-wheel. Among 
the other pioneer mechanics were John W. Dexter and Robert McBride, 
shoe-makers; Joseph and Charles Wooley, blacksmiths, and G. P. Cherry, 
tanner and currier. 

Waldo, Iberia and Letimberville were all inaiigurated at about the 
same time. Waldo being situated on the west bank of Whetstone, on the 
old Columbus & Lower Sandusky road, where the Columbus & Sandusky 
Turnpike separates from this old road, in a rich and fertile district of coun- 
try, was then thought to be a favorable site for a thriving country village, 
about midway between Delaware and Marion, and perhaps would have been 



286 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

if there never had been a railroad built; but all points cannot expect to be 
especially favored by those institutions. 

There existed about that time, round about Letimbarvilli, a few speci- 
mens of the genus homo that were a caution to all honest men. They 
seemed to be properly organized and drilled for any task. It was not un- 
usual for a fat hog, a heifer, bee-hive or any other kind of " goods and 
chattels" to mysteriously disappear and never more be heard from. One 
instance: William Quay, after he had butchered his winter's meat made 
a large quantity of sausage (for a large family), and hung them up in an 
outhouse to dry. On the next morning, Mrs. Quay went into the old 
house to get a nice mess of sausage for breakfast, when lo! to her horror 
and to the horror of the whole family, not an ounce of sausage was to be 
found, and never was heard of until Harvey Larrabee obtained the particu- 
lars of the whole transaction from one of the members of this organized 
gang of marauders in Texas. Such cases were transpiring in the neighbor- 
hood monthly or weekly, without any case ever having been detected that 
we remember of. 

The Columbus & Sandusky Turnpike was made by a company, and or- 
ganized by a few speculators in and about Columbus, who obtained a char- 
ter and a grant of every alternate section or tier of sections where it went 
through Government lands. It was obtained about the year 182S. Col. 
James Kilbourn was one of the master spirits in this great enterprise for 
the benefit of the growing West. George Ulsh lives on a tier of turnpike 
lands; next in order was where Joshua Sechel lives; next, where Capt. 
Knowles and the Walton farm is; next, Thomas F. Johnston's and Henry 
Johnston's. These alternate tiers, through this county, were usually sev- 
eral miles wide — wide enough to make up for losses where the Government 
lands had been bought. The whole distance from Columbus to Sandusky 
by this road was about one hundred and six miles. By the terms of this 
charter, said l-oad was to be made of "good and substantial material," well 
drained and kept in good repair. But instead, it was made of only such 
material as could be plowed and scraped in, composed of sods, muck and 
clay. I do not remember of seeing even one wagon-ioad of stone or gravel 
that had been hauled on it from one end to the other; yet this company, 
after having received all these Government lands, had the bold hardihood 
to put up toll-gates and collect the same rates of toll for traveling on their 
" clay pike," " mud pike," or whatever they might call it, as was charged 
on good ones. You may imagine what kind of a road it was in a wet sea- 
son. We have often known teamsters to be compelled to call upon their 
neighbors to bring their teams and help them haul their wagons out of 
mud-holes near the toll-gates, where they were compelled to pay toll before 
they were allowed to go through. This grievance having been endured a 
dozen or more years, we had petitions printed and circulated from one end 
of this road to the other, which were signed by nearly every man to whom 
they were presented, and were sent to the care of George Sharp, of Dela- 
ware, Representative in the Legislature from this district, who had the 
matter investigated, which disclosed the fact that the Columbus & San- 
dusky Turnpike Company had perpetrated a gigantic fraud upon the good 
people all along the vicinity of this road. About this time, the teamsters 
began to demolish the toll-gates, whereupon the company promptly insti- 
tuted legal proceedings against the offenders, but they were signally van- 
quished, and down went all the toll gates; and that was about the last we 
ever head of that turnpike company. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 287 

In 1847 or 1848, tbo Mad River Railroad, connecting Sandusky City 
with Cincinnati, was put in operation. Next in order was the Cleveland, 
Columbus & Cincinnati Railroad, completed in 1851, and the Bellefontaine 
& Indiana Railway in 1853. 

Lands soon advanced from $8 to $40 per acre; horses from $00 to $150 
per head, with other farm products in about the same proportion. On the 
contrary, commodities of importation, such as iron, cottons, sugar, salt, 
etc., became cheaper, thus proving a decided benefit to the farmer. 

This unprecedented advance in the value of property stimulated our en- 
terprising people to construct public roads, bridges, expensive public build- 
ings and private improvements of all sorts. 

The first reaper I ever saw was near Bucyrus, in A.. D. 1848. It was a 
rude looking apology, compared with those now in use. About the same 
time, the first corn-planters and wheat drills were invented. Our farmers 
were very tardy in purchasing wheat drills when they were first introduced, 
until offers were made to let any farmer have a drill for the difference of a 
crop sown by drill or broadcast on twenty-five acres. The difference, in 
several instances, was so great, in favor of the drill, as to be about double 
the common price of them. Almost simultaneously came the corn plows, 
single and double, with many other improvements for the benefit of the 
farmers. So it was in every branch of mechanical and manufacturing in- 
dustries. 

In our first remembrance, there was no such thing known as a shoe 
closed up with pegs. Then, after they came into use, every shoe-maker had 
to learn to whittle his pegs out with his shoe-knife; but not many months 
after that, Mr. Yankee had his machine in operation for making pegs. He 
was able to measure any size of his pegs out to his customers by tbe bush 
el, which produced an entire revolution in that branch of business. 

So it was with common farm implements. When Mr. Farmer wanted a 
new ax, a hammer, a draw-knife, a chisel, a fork of any kind, or a hoe, all 
he had to do was to go to the nearest blacksmith shop and have them made. 
Our young men cannot imagine what clumsy kind of tools their " grand- 
dads " had to work with. The vast improvement that has been made in the 
mode and manner of manufacturing iron from the ore to a cambric needle, 
a razor, ship anchor, or the most gigantic steam engine is almost incompre- 
hensible! Go into whatever department you may choose, and you will see 
one man with a horse or two and a simple machine of some kind, perform 
with ease the amount of labor which would have required ten men half a 
century ago. 

BY WILLIAM LAEUE, MARCH, 1872. 

"I moved into Marion Township in the fall of 1823. I first lived in a 
cabin built by Marcus Briggs, in the northwest corner of the township, 
on a farm since owned by Southwicks. I rented that farm and a part of the 
farm belonging to Elder Dudley, raised a crop and wintered there. 

" In the spring of 1825, I moved to my present residence in Montgom- 
ery Township, then known as Grand Township, the voting place for which 
was at Marseilles, then called ' Burlington.' I chopped off five acres of 
timber land that spring, trimmed and burned the brush, and planted corn 
among the logs as they lay, and raised a very good crop. There was no 
road, and to get here I had to cut one through the woods, for about four 
miles. It was quite an undertaking then to go to mill. I used to go over 
my road, cut through the woods from here to Scott Town, then along the 
county road between Montgomery and Grand Townships, to the old Belle- 



288 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

fontaine road in Hardin County, then down to West Liberty, in Logan 
County. We generally spent three or four days on the trip. The nearest 
mill was at Claridon, where I sometimes went,; and afterward we occasion- 
ally patronized Caleb Johnson's horse mill in Big Island. 

" Game was plenty in the Scioto bottoms as long ago as 1825-26. One 
night, I shot five deer by caudle- light, and got back home by 11 o'clock. 
This was done from a canoe. ' Jerked venison' was a very common food in 
those days; was very good then, and I should even like to try some now. 
At another time, I stood in the nettles as high as my head, and shot eleven 
turkeys as fast as I could load and shoot. They kept screaming, 'Quit! 
quit! ' but I kept on all the same. Coons were so plenty as to be a nui- 
sance. They were very troublesome about corn-fields, and, of course, were 
fat. I caught and tried out enough, one season, to make twenty-one gallons 
of oil, which I sold for 50 cents a gallon, to Sears, in Big Island, and with 
a part of the proceeds bought a tremendous pair of andirons — the first we 
had. One day in February— I don't remember the year — I went out with 
my dog and caught thirteen coons. When I got home, a fur dealer was at 
my house to stay over night. Next morning I sold him the thirteen coons 
for $13, and was very well satisfied with my day's work. 

" In a new country, as this was then, every man's house and services 
were at the call of his neighbors. My house was, of necessity, a stopping 
place for all that passed that way, and the common charge, if any was made, 
was 50 cents for keeping a man and horse over night. 

" The Scioto then was bridged by only an occasional ' drift,' and the 
ferriage was done by a canoe. I had a large one, and whenever a man ap- 
peared on either bank and 'halloed,' I left my work and ferried him over. 
If he had a horse, we made it swim beside the canoe; if a wagon, we either 
took it over in pieces or ran it astride the canoe and paddled it all over at 
once. For this, we sometimes got a ' Thank you, sir,' and sometimes not. 

" The first settlers of the county were Joshua Cope and Jacob Croy. 
Cope settled in Big Island Township, on the old Messenger farm, and Croy 
on the site of the Pleasant Hill Church, in the same township. 

" Many incidents of pioneer life, often ludicrous, sometimes serious, 
happened during our long residence here; but being rather of a personal 
than public character, we omit them for the present." 

BY DANIEL S. DRAKE. 

" My father, Capt. William S. Drake, came to Marlboro, now Waldo 
Township, Marion County, in the year 1807, and entered 160 acres of land 
at $2.50 per acre, paying one-third down and the balance in one and two 
year payments. He and his sou, Uriah, cleared a small patch the first 
year, and put in a crop of corn, pumpkins and potatoes. He then returned 
to New York for his family, leaving Uriah to cultivate the crop. He re- 
turned in 1808, with a family consisting of his wife and seven children. 
They traveled the entire distance in an old rickety two-horse wagon, 
drawn by two poor plugs of horses. The amount of cash left on their ar- 
rival was 25 cents! 

" The Indians were very numerous at that time, and inclined to be hostile 
to the white settlers. This hostility was fostered by British spies and 
traders, until war was finally declared in 1812. Apprehending hostilities, 
Gov. Meigs appointed William S. Drake Indian Agent for the following 
tribes: Delawares, Wyandots, Pottawatomies and Senecas, then residing 
in the northwest part of Ohio. He made his headquarters at what was 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 289 

then known as ' Negro town, ' now in Wyandot County. As soon as war 
was declared, the Indians became very uneasy. They were uncertain about 
what to do. The Canadians were using all their arts to induce them to 
join the British, while Gov. Meigs desired to have them remain neutral or 
join the forces of the United States. The Governor ordered Capt. Drake to 
remove the Indians to a place called Zanesfield, in what is now Logan 
County This occurred in 1811. The Indians met him in council, con- 
cerning the matter, and sat in deep consultation about forty hours without 
leaving their seats. They finally agreed to go, and in two hours were on 
their way. They numbered about six hundi'ed. They remained at Zanes- 
field a few months, but becoming dissatisfied, returned to Upper Sandusky. 
A chief by the name of Zarhe, or Crane, seemed to have great influence 
among the Wyandots. He was regarded as being friendly to the United 
States. After their return, the Governor appointed two Commissioners — 
Solomon Smith and Moses Bixby, of Delaware — to meet the head-chiefs at 
Upper Sandusky, to obtain a grant for a new road from Lower Sandusky to 
the old Greenville boundary line, in the southern part of Marion County. 
The chiefs granted the request, and the road was to be sixty feet wide. 
The Governor then appointed three Commissioners, Bell, Bair and Van 
Clief, to run and open the road. The chain-carriers and blazers were Capt. 
William S. Drake, Maj. John Bush and Jacob Foos. This road passed 
through what is now Marion Village, and was known as the ' war road.' " 
[Described elsewhere.] 

BY HENEY PETERS. 

" April 1, 1820, I left Fairfield County, to find a home in Sandusky 
Plains, where land was said to be cheap. On the third or fourth day, I ar- 
rived at D. Drake's, on the boundary line. The first familv I found on the 
road was Jacob Idleman, tented at Slab Camp, and he was- alone, putting 
up a small cabin. Next was Van Horn; then David Tipton; Alex Berry, 
just south of where Marion now stands; James Murray, just south of the 
fork of the road a mile north of Marion; Hugh O'Harra, just north of that 
fork; Daniel Fickle, south of Rocky Fork; Mr. Caldwell; Mr. Swinnerton, 
who had just arrived where the family (January, 1878) now lives; Mr. 
Hackathorn; Jacob Coon; Vedersforth, just south of where Little Sandusky 
now is; Mr. Armstrong, opposite where T. Reber now lives, then the block- 
house at Upper Sandusky. Here James Whittaker kept a tavern, with 
plenty of Indians all around. I stayed here two days, and found that I 
had passed through the New Purchase — the land here was a reservation. 
I then returned to Caldwell's, who was erecting a blacksmith shop as I 
went up. I worked for him one month and then returned to Fairfield, to 
wait for the land sale in August. 

" In the spring of 1820, the New Purchase was one township, attached to 
Delaware County. 

" The first election was held at the house of James Murray, a mile north 
of where Marion now stands. He and David Tipton were the two Justices 
of the Peace. Daniel Fickle, John Green and James Lambert were the 
Trustees. At this election we gave forty- eight votes. 

"At the land sale, in August, at Delaware, I bought the eighty acres of land 
on which Van Horn's cabin stoud in October. I built my blacksmith shop, and 
took up my residence with Van Horn. Shortly afterward, he moved away, 
and in January, February and March the first school was taught in the 
cabin he had built. Fifteen scholars attended. 

"In 1821, Big Rock Township was divided into three, four or five town- 



290 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

ships. I fell in Pleasant Township, then comprising the present Richland, 
Pleasant and Green Camp Townships. The first election was held at D. 
Worien's for one Justice of the Peace. There being no candidates, I selected 
\V. Crawford, and he selected me, and thus there was a tie. The Clerk of 
Delaware County cast lots, and drew for Crawford. He mai-ried the first 
couple that I knew of.* The bridegroom was to make him 200 rails for 
saying the ceremony; but two or three weeks afterward the young man said 
he charged too much, and he might undo it. (This was probably the same 
chap who afterward ' ran away owin 1 more than he could pay.') 

" In the fall of 1821, David Tipton sold out and moved away, and the 
next spring Squire Crawford resigned. John Staley and I were elected Jus- 
tices in their place. 

" The first death that I know of was that of a Mr. Klinger, who had 
moved upon the marsh between Beerbower's and Staley's in the cold, wet 
spring of 1821, when no planting could be done until June. He ran out 
of money and provisions, and thinking we would all starve he drowned him- 
self in the river, leaving a wife and five or six children. 

" The first religious society formed on the New Purchase was started by 
Christian Saylery (Staley?) and Jacob Idleman, who also had come in the 
spring of 1820, the former settling on the Whetstone and the latter on the 
race at State Camp. Their meetings were held from house to house, and 
by fall the society numbered thirty or forty members. 

" Our first minister was a Welshman named Stewart, I think, from Rad- 
nor, a local preacher. He was with us frequently until the fall of 1821, 
when he died. James Murray was our first regular minister, arriving in 
the fall of 1821. He organized us into a society, remaining but a few 
months, when he attended conference, and was sent to the Delaware Cir- 
cuit. Andrew Kinnear, I think, came in the spring of 1822. 

" In 1825, I moved to Marion, where the first minister I heard was Mr. 
Bradford, a Baptist. After preaching one day at Eber Baker's residence, 
he wished to know how many professors of religion were present. Only 
two arose. 

" In the spring of 1826, the first Sunday school in the county was organ- 
ized by a Presbyterian minister. We raised $40 for a library. It was a 
union school, and was kept for some time in the brick schoolhouse. 

" The first religious society formed in Marion was the Methodist, com- 
prising Henry Peters, Mr. Hillman, John Ashbaugh and Benjamin Will- 
iams, with their families, and Thomas Anderson and wife." 

BY JOSEPH MORRIS. 

" My great-grandfather, George Morris, was a Scotchman by birth. He, 
with other children, was kidnaped and brought to America about 1680, 
and settled in New Jersey, where he is believed to have left, at his death, 
a large family. My grandfather, Anthony Morris, had a family of four- 
teen children, the most of whom lived to mature age. He died in 1804 — 
the year I was born. Some of his brothers emigrated South, perhaps to 
Virginia or North Carolina. My parents, Joseph and Rachel Morris, had 
twelve children, eleven of whom lived to the ago of men and women. At 
present, only four are left. My parents removed with their family from 
New Jersey to Ohio in 1821, settling in Columbiana County, then compar- 
atively new, building their cabin in the woods, amid bears, deer and wolves. 
My father died a few years afterward. 

* Orrin (Owen ?) Moore and Zubie (Azubau ?) Wiicox. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 291 

" In 1828, I married Jane Warrington, and in 1837, we moved with our 
little family of three children to Richland Township, this county, settling 
upon the land where we now reside, which was entered at Bucyrus three 
years before, at $1.25 per acre. We have now seven children — one in Iowa, 
two in Tennessee and the rest near home. 

" Our means of support whilst clearing the farm were limited, but wild 
game was plentiful, especially turkeys and deer. I remember to have 
trapped, in rail pens, twenty- six turkeys in one winter, a portion of which 
we salted and dried; this the Indians called 'jerk.' These advantages, to- 
gether with the liberal kindness of our few neighbors, made our situation 
quite comfortable. One evening, these lines came up in my mind with pe- 
culiar force: 

• " We are here on Marion soil, 

Far from our kind relations; 
The hope of rest makes light our toil 
And lessens some privations. 

" On another evening, a German man, of respectable appearance, came to 
me as I was chopping wood, having heard the sound of the ax. He was 
lost, and had wandered in the twilight of the evening, hunting some trail 
by which he might find his way home. Not being acquainted with each 
other's language, we were unable to converse. We entertained him at our 
house over night, making use of signs for language. After breakfast next 
morning, I learned from him what neighborhood he was from, and I went 
home with him. He has ever since been my neighbor, and a first-class 
Christian one, too. He died recently, aged about ninety years, leaving an 
aged, noble Christian woman. As an agent, I sold him the 160- acre tract 
which is now a fine farm in the possession of his son Frederick. 

" One evening, on the way to a neighbor's, by a dim moonlight I discov- 
ered some wild animal in the path before me, which I determined to kill. 
It turned upon me before I knew what it was, and before I was fully pre- 
pared to meet it. I seized a club, and then noticed that I had a porcupine 
to contend with. I killed it, but afterward suffered considerably from the 
quills it thrust into my ankles, over my shoe-tops. Porcupines were com- 
mon in those days, but they mostly perished during the cold winter of 
1856. 

" As money was scarce when we settled here, and we needed groceries, 
iron, leather, etc., we exchanged field ashes at 5 cents a bushel for the 
necessaries, which was a great convenience. 

" When we first arrived here, we temporarily lived in an abandoned cabin 
until we could build our own, and thus we had for our nearest neighbors' a 
family whose acquaintance we dreaded. We had been cautioned to avoid 
them under all circumstances. In a few days, the dreaded man brought 
us a pitcher of new milk, saying that he had noticed we had small children 
and no cow. A day or two afterward, he brought a plate of nice fish. For 
twenty-five years afterward — until their death — this family proved kind 
neighbors. 

" In the absence of doctors — for whom, indeed, we had but little need 
— we used lobelia and white ash and white walnut bark, the two latter as 
cathartics. 

" Hugh Alexander, an elderly man, who followed making shingles and 
resided with a friend near the West Fork of the Whetstone, was missed one 
spell of cold weather, and I do not remember that any search was made for 
him. Two or three years afterward, his rifle and some of his bones were 



292 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 



found within a half-mile of my house. He had probably frozen to death. 
He was an invalid, on account of having once frozen his feet. 

Since 1843, I have followed the nursery business, in which I have been 
greatly encouraged by kind individuals in Marion, Upper Sandusky, Marys - 
ville and elsewhere, recommending me. And here I desire, also, to say 
that our township, Richland, is up with the best in respect to farms, roads, 
schools, character of the people, etc., and our County Infirmary, now un- 
der the Superintendence of Daniel Lawrence and wife, is in the care of 
those whose excellence of management cannot be over-estimated. 




HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 293 



CHAPTER V. 



ORGANIC. 

IT is interesting to trace the line of descent of the county of Marion. 
By careful research it is ascertained that the territory now included 
within its boundary lines formed portions of a number of different counties 
before it was finally set off as Marion. The first two counties organized in 
the Northwest Territory were in that portion now forming the State of 
Ohio. Washington County, erected by proclamation of Gov. Arthur St. 
Clair, July 27, 1788, included all that portion east of a line passing from 
the mouth of the Cuyahoga River, up that stream to the portage between 
it and the Tuscarawas branch of the Muskingum; thence across the portage 
and down the Tuscarawas to the site of old Fort Laurens, at the north 
boundary of what is now Tuscarawas County; thence west on a line iden- 
tical with the subsequent Greenville treaty line to the Scioto River, and 
down that stream to the Ohio. It is thus seen that the county of Washing- 
ton as originally formed included about half of the present State of Ohio. 
Hamilton County was nest organized by the same authority, and included 
the region between the Miamis as far north as a line drawn due east from 
the Standing Stone Fork of the Great Miami to the Little Miami; this was 
January 2, 1790. There is nothing to show that its limits were ever ex- 
tended to the eastward, yet in the description of Wayne County, as formed 
by proclamatioD of Gov. St. Clair, August 15, 1796, it would seem that 
Hamilton had been extended to the Scioto; if so. it included what is now 
Marion County, and from that date (1790) should begin the existence of 
an organized county of which Marion formed a part. Wayne County, or- 
ganized at the date above given, undoubtedly included Marion, as the de- 
scription will show: Beginning at the month of Cuyahoga River upon 
Lake Erie, and with the said river to the portage between it and the Tus 
carawas branch of the Muskingum; thence down the said branch to the 
forks at the crossing place above Fort Laurens; thence by a west line to 
the east boundary of Hamilton County, which is a due north line from the 
lower Shawnee (Shawanese) Town upon the Scioto River. This town was 
a short distance below what is now Circlevillo. Pickaway Co., Ohio. A 
due north line from that point would pass through the eastern part of Mar- 
ion County. Thence it ran west-northerly to the south part of the portage 
between the Miamis of Ohio and the St. Mary's Rivers; thence by a line 
also west-northerly to the southwestern part of the portage between the 
Wabash and Miamis of Lake Erie, where Fort Wayne now stands; thence 
by a line west-northerly to the south part of Lake Michigan; thence along 
the western shores of the same to the northwest part thereof, including 
lands upon the streams emptying into said lake; thence by a due north line 
to the territorial boundary in Lake Superior, and with the said boundary 
through Lakes Huron, St. Clair and Erie, to the mouth of the Cuyahoga 
River, the place of beginning. This was the most extensive county formed 
in the Northwest Territory. After the treaty of Greenville, the limits of 
Hamilton County were extended westward to the boundary line designated 



294 HISTORY OF .MARION COUNTY. 

by that treaty, which extended from Fort Recovery, in what is now Mercer 
County, Ohio, directly to the Ohio River, at a point opposite the mouth of 
the Kentucky River. * The seat of justice for Washington County was at 
Marietta; for Hamilton County at Cincinnati; and for Wayne County at 
Detroit, and these conditions remain uuchanged to the present, except in 
the extent of territory in each county. 

March 30, 1803, Franklin County was formed as follows, including 
Marion: "Beo-inning on the western boundary of the twentieth range of 
townships east of the Scioto River at the corner of sections numbered 24 
and 25 in the ninth township of the twenty-first range surveyed by John 
Matthews; thence west until it intersects the eastern boundary line of 
Greene County; thence north with said line until it intersects the State 
line; thence 'eastwardly with the said line to the northwest corner of 
Fairfield County: thence with the western boundary line of Fairfield to the 
place of beginning." The county of Fairfield at that time extended north 
to the State line. February 20, 1805, the western boundary line was proba- 
bly touched by the following description of Champaign County: "Begin- 
ning where the range line between the eighth and ninth ranges, between 
the Great and Little Miami, intersects the eastern boundary of the county 
of Montgomery; thence east to the eastern boundary of the county of 
Greene, and to continue six miles in the county of Franklin; thence north 
to the State line; thence west with said line until it intersects the said 
eastern boundary of the county of Montgomery; thence to the place of be- 
ginning." 

Delaware County was formed February 10, 1808, and embraced the 
whole of Marion. It was bounded thus: "Beginning at the southeast cor- 
ner of Township No. 3, in the 16th range of the United States military 
district; thence west with the line between the second and third tier of 
townships, to the Scioto River, and continued west to the east boundary of 
Champaign County: thence with the said boundary north to the Indian 
boundary line; thence eastwardly with said line to the point where the 
north and south line between the 15th and 16th ranges of the said United 
States military district intersects the same; thence south with the said last- 
mentioned line to the place of beginning." By an act of February 17, 
1809, all that part of Franklin County lying north of Delaware was at- 
tached to the latter. 

MARION COUNTY. 

Marion County at first contained, in addition to its present territory, the 
townships of Cardington, Gilead, Canaan, Morven and Washington, in what 
is now Morrow County, and two miles more along the north side; but it did 
not extend south of the Greenville treaty line. The territory out of which 
this county was at first carved had been purchased from the Indians in 1820. 
In 1822, Eber Baker laid out his town plat, naming it "Marion," after the 
celebrated Revolutionary General, Francis Marion. Soon afterward the 
prospective county in which it was located was also called "Marion," and 
the Legislature of 1822-23 " set off " the county, under that name, appoint- 
ing three Associate Judges, whose duty it should be to appoint the first 
officers. They appointed George H. Busby, Clerk, temporarily; but the 
next fall, 1823, each Judge having a candidate of his own for the office, 
they submitted the question to a vote of the people. The people recom- 
mended Mr. Busby, and he was accordingly appointed Clerk and Recorder 
for seven years. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 295 

FIRST COUNTY OFFICERS AND THEIR WORK. 

The first Commissioners elected in this county were Matthew Merritt, 
Amos C. Wilson and Enoch B. Merriman, and they held their first session 
June 7, 1824, the Auditor being Col. Hezekiah Gorton. The principal 
business of this session, as well as of most of their meetings for many 
years afterward, was the location arid improvement of roads. 

On the first day, Grand and Salt Rock Townships were organized and 
named. Green Camp whs first mentioned by name on the Commissioners' 
record June 8, 1824, and on this day also Morven Township, now in Mor- 
row County, was named, and Pleasant and Richland Townships were or- 
ganized. June 9, the Commissioners decided that the rate of tax levies 
should be to the full extent of the law. This day also Reuben Smith was 
appointed Treasurer, and his fees were fixed at 3 per cent. The Commis- 
sioners also divided the county into four collection districts, as follows: 
1, Green Camp, Pleasant, Richland and Morven Townships, Henry 
Peters, Collector; 2, Scott, Washington, Claridon and Canaan, James Lam- 
bert, Collector; 3, Big Island, Salt Rock, Centre (now Marion) and Grand 
Prairie, Benjamin Hillman, Collector; 4, Bucyrus, Sandusky and Whet- 
stone (then attached to Marion County for certain purposes), Charles Mer- 
riman, Collector. These collectors were allowed 8 per cent for collecting. 

For some reason not given, the Commissioners adjourned at the con- 
clusion of their first day's labors, to meet the next morning " at sunrise. " 

This session also ordered a jail to be built — the first in the county. 

They had a special sessioQ July 5. 1824 (present, Merritt and Wil- 
son), when they ordered built the brick "schoolhouse" on West street, to be 
used also as a court house and meeting house. They ordered $30 from the 
county treasury to be applied on it, while the citizens were expected to 
defray the rest of the expense by subscription. They appointed Eber 
Baker, Dr. George Miller and Adam Uncapher a committee to superintend 
its erection. At this session, Benjamin Hillman was appointed Collector 
of land tax. 

The Commissioners, John Page, Amos Wilson and Enoch B. Merriman, 
met again Monday, December 6, 1824, and appointed Benjamin Davis 
Keeper of the County Weights and Measui'es; ordered surveys of roads, etc., 
and cast lots next day for length of term for each Commissioner, resulting 
in giving Page three years, Wilson two and Merriman one. 

At the next session, March 7, 1825 (Page, Wilsou and Zachariah Welch), 
Big Island and Liberty Townships were organized — the latter now in Craw- 
ford County. 

At the session June 6 to 8, 1825, Pitt Township, now in Wj'andot 
County, was organized. The first settlement was made with the County 
Treasurer, finding everything right. A bounty of $1 per head was offered 
for all wolves killed within the next six months. William Crawford was 
appointed Collector of chattel and State taxes, and Adam Uncapher Treas- 
urer. The Board of Equalization first met October 15, 1825. consisting of 
John Page, Zachariah Welch, Amos Wilson, Andr w Kinnear and Heze- 
kiah Gorton. 

At the session commencing December 6, 1825, the Commissioners were 
John Page, Amos Wilson and Zalmon Rouse. The Auditor was ordered to 
apply to the court for the public papers and donations belonging to Marion 
County. Some time during this year, they fixed the salary of the Prosecut- 
ing Attorney at $40 for the year, and that of the Clerk and Sheriff each at 
$35. 



296 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

January 25, 182G, a house for the jailer was ordered to be built, of hewed 
logs, 22x14. and two stories high, according to a plan on record. The con- 
tract for building was taken by Adam Uncapher, for the sum of $168. 

At the June session in 1826 — John Page, Amos Wilson and Hugh V. 
Smith, Commissioners — William Crawford was appointed Tax Collector, 
and a settlement was made with the Treasurer, and accounts found correct. 

The first duplicate of the county will illustrate the wonderful changes 
that have taken place in fifty years. Even as late as 1827, the total tax 
levies were but $2,703.80. James Taylor was the heaviest tax-payer, pay- 
ing upon more than 10,000 acres of land. His tax was $155.84, a truly 
enormous amount in those days. The town lots now occupied by the Ma- 
sonic Block, Kerr House and prominent business houses of Marion were 
valued at froin $5 to $15, exclusive of buildings. The valuation of real 
and personal property in the corporation at present is $2,178,917, which is 
very low, there being nearly three time3 that amount here. 

In 1829, two tiers of sections were stricken from the east side of Tully 
Township and attached to Washington Township, then in Marion County. 

The townships in 1811 were seventeen in number, namely: Marion, 
Grand, Washington, Gilead, Canaan, Richland, Green Camp, Pleasant, 
Tully, Big Island, Grand Prairie, Bowling Green, Morven. Claridon, Mont- 
gomery, Scott and Salt Rock. 

February 3, 1845, the General Assembly erected Wyandot County and 
altered the boundaries of Crawford County. The act took off a strip from 
the north side of Marion County two miles wide, three miles wide off 
Grand Township, and attached it to the counties north to preserve their 
constitutional area. Thus the northern tier of townships are only four 
miles in extent north and south — Grand Township only three miles. 
March 3, following, these fragmentary townships were ordered re-organ- 
ized under their old names. 

In 1848, Morrow County on the east was formed by act of the Legisla- 
ture, and Washington, Cannan and Morven Townships were taken from 
Marion County, and to maintain the dignity of the latter, Prospect and 
AValdo Townships — that portion south of the treaty line — were added from 
Delaware County. 

Changes in the dimensions of the townships, not affecting the boundary 
line of the county, are omitted here, as they are given in the respective 
township histories in this volume. 

DISTRICTS. 

Marion County is in the Ninth Congressional District, with Knox, Mor- 
row, Delaware, Union and Hardin Counties; in the Thirteenth Senatorial 
District, with Hardin, Logan and Union Counties: and in Subdivision No. 
2 of the Tenth Judicial District, with Crawford and Wyandot Counties. 

THE COUNTY SEAT. 

The county of Marion, though named and defined by boundaries as 
early as 1822-23, was not organized until March 1, 1824. There was a 
sharp conflict for the county seat between Marion (the owners of the site), 
the owners of land two miles north, where Isaac B. Mouser has since re- 
sided, Big Island, Claridon and a paper town called Bellevuron, five miles 
east of Marion, where the Mount Vernon road crossed the Columbus & San- 
dusky Turnpike. Byron Kilbourn, non-resident, was the proprietor. Only 
a log cabin was there. The Commissioners appointed by the State to make 




Marion County Court House, 

BUILT AT MARION AD. 1838. AND TORN DOWN SPRING OF 1883. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 299 

i 
a selection were feasted and favored by the citizens in the respective locali- 
ties. All the sites were examined, and the award was given in favor of 
Eber Baker, probably on account of the ease with which water could be ob- 
tained on his land. This decision has resulted in giving Marion its present 
advantage over all competing points. The land two miles north of Marion 
and Bellevuron are now good farms; Big Island has never grown beyond 
its initial point; Claridon remains as the original nucleus, while the rail- 
road has brought up other towns in the county to considerable importance, 
but all to pay tribute to Marion. Even the capitals of neighboring coun- 
ties are falling behind in respect to railroad facilities, which at the present 
day constitute an important element of prosperity. 

THE FIRST COURT HOUSE. 

The Commissioners' first sessions were somewhat itinerant, being held 
sometimes at one store, and sometimes another, or at the old brick school- 
house on West street. But in June, 1828, the Commissioners took steps 
to provide for themselves and the other county officers a suitable and per- 
manent place for meeting and holding their offices. To this end the fol- 
lowing order was made by them and entered upon their journal of June 6, 
1828: " Ordered there be built a building on the lot in the town of Marion 
which lies between the lots where Adam ITncapher and Daniel Musser now 
reside, for the use and benefit of the county; and that said building be built 
of brick, twenty-feet in front and sixteen in the rear, with a partition through 
the center and a 'fire-place at each end, two doors in front, two windows in 
front and two in the rear, with twenty lights each. " 

This building was completed during that year, and was occupied by the 
county officers until the brick court house was erected. It was located on 
the lot where the store building formerly owned by Martin Miller now 
stands, just north of the Kerr House, and was not removed until a dozen 
or fifteen years ago. 

In the meantime the courts were held in the old brick schoolhouse 
on North West street, where it still stands, the property of John O'Ragan. 

The lot upon which the court house was built was deeded to the county 
as follows: 

Eber Baker, Deed to Marion County: Know all men by these presents: That we, 
Eber Baker and Lydia Baker, of the county of Marion and State of Ohio, for and in 
consideration of one hundred dollars, to us in hand paid by John Page, Henry UsUck 
and Washington W. Concklin, Commissioners of the county aforesaid, the receipt 
whereof we do hereby acknowledge, have released and quit-claimed, and by these pres- 
ents do release and quit-claim unto the said John Page, Henry Ustick and Washington 
W. Concklin, Commissioners aforesaid, and their successors in office, to and for the 
proper use and behoof of the citizens of the county of Marion aforesaid, forever, all 
our right, title, claim, interest and estate which we now have, both at law and in equity, 
as well in possession as in expectancy of, in and to all that certain lot of land situated 
in the town of Marion, as designated on the town plat of said town of Marion, as 
recorded in the Recorder's office of said county as public grounds, with all the appur- 
tenances thereunto belonging. 

In witness whereof we have herewith set our hands and seals this 6th day of 
June, 1829. Eber Baker, [l. s.J 

Lydia Baker, [l. s.j 
Signed, sealed and delivered in the presence of — 

George Hollow a v, 

James H. Godman. 

June 9, 1831, while John Page, Henry Ustick and John C. Bates were 
Commissioners, the initiatory steps toward building the court house on the 
above mentioned lot were taken. On thjeir journal of that date is the fol- 
lowing entry: 

F 



300 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

" Ordered that the building of a court house on the public grounds in 
the town of Marion be sold to the lowest bidder on Thursday, the 21st day 
of July next; and that notice of the same be given for three weeks in the 
Ohio State Journal and the Ohio Monitor, papers printed in the town of 
Columbus, and the Cleveland Herald, printed at Cleveland." 

July 21, 1831, the contract for the building of the court house was let to 
Solomon Zeller, for the sum of $5, 779, which appears from an eutry on 
the journal of that date. The building was to be completed by September 
3, 1833. Mr. Zeller was to be paid as follows: $1,000 in hand, $500 
by the first Monday in December, 1831; $1,000 by the first Monday of 
June, 1832; $1,000 as soon as the walls of said court house were finished 
ready for the roof, and the remainder of said sum, $2,279, as soon as the 
whole work was completed. 

Before any of the above steps were taken, the Legislature had, on January 
7, 1831, passed an act authorizing the Commissioners of Marion County to 
borrow money, in any sum not exceeding $6,000, on such terms as they 
should deem advisable, for the purpose of erecting a court house. Accord- 
ingly, at a special meeting of the Commissioners, August 4, 1831, soon 
after the contract had bean let, Sanford S. Bennett and Elisha Hardy, who 
were then engaged in mercantile business here, under the firm name of 
Bennett & Hardy, were duly authorized by the Commissioners to negotiate 
the loan on behalf of the county at any rate of interest not exceeding 6 per 
cent. By the 7th of October following, these gentlemen had secured the 
money of John Ferguson, of New York, and on that day the Commission- 
ers executed six bonds of $1,000 each, pledging the faith of the county for 
their payment at any time after ten years from that date and within twenty 
years, with interest at 6 per cent, payable semi-annually. The work went 
forward and the structure was completed with but little change from the 
original plans. September 3, 1833, found the building finished, except the 
hanging of the window shutters, completing the cupola and placing the 
lightning rods. The house was accepted and the contractor paid off ac- 
cording to agreement. The county was so young at that time that the 
task of building the court house at $5,779 was as great a burden to the tax- 
payers as one costing $228,000 would be now. 

The second court house was built of brick, was 36x56 feet in dimen- 
sions, besides a large portico in front; was two stories high, and, according 
to the usual plan, had the court room and the principal offices below. It 
was a good building for its day, but long before it was abandoned the peo- 
ple had outgrown it. It was indeed not only too small, but was consid- 
erably out of repair in 1882, when it was condemned, and the next year 
torn away to give place to a new edifice soon to be erected. The 
court house yard was at first surrounded with eight- cornered posts, about 
ten inches in diameter and eight feet apart, sunk in the ground twenty 
inches and being above ground four feet, with a two-inch hole one foot from 
the top, through which was run a chain about the size of a trace chain. 
" Whirligig " gates (turn-stiles) were at each corner except the northeast. 
This fence was after some years supplanted with a nice wooden panel fence 
on a stone foundation, and this in turn by an iron fence. 

February 3, 1883, closed the last term of court held in the old court 
house, which had served almost half a century. Its walls had many a time 
echoed the voice of Thurman, Pendleton, Ward, Sherman, Lawrence, and 
many other eminent men, speakers of all classes, as well as lawyers. As 
the old residents passed through those abandoned chambers before they 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 301 

were torn down, what feelings must have arisen in their bosoms, clinging 
to the memories of a, by-gone age! What associations must have lingered 
in their minds with an indescribable charm, swarming around a multitude 
of scenes and experiences! 

THE PROPOSED COURT HOUSE. 

For several years past a new building has been needed for the safer and 
more convenient keeping of the records and for more room in which to 
hold court, as well as various other meetings and the respective offices. 
Accordingly, during the year 1882, a movement was set on foot toward the 
erection of 'the desired structure upon the old site. 

The commission for selecting a plan for the new court house consisted 
of the County Commissoners, Samuel Mahaffey, C. H. Cromer and George 
Retterer, with Judge J. N. Matthews, of the Probate Court, Clerk John H. 
Thomas, Sheriff John V. Harrison and Amos H. Kling, appointee of the 
Common Pleas Court. These men had the power of appointing the archi- 
tect. They visited court houses in other parts of the State and Indiana, 
and thoroughly posted themselves on plans. Considering both design and 
cost, they decided that the court house at Napoleon — Gibbs and Stine, of 
Toledo, architects — more nearly approximated the needs of Marion County 
than any other. Those architects were accordingly selected for this work. 

The plan adopted contemplates a fire-proof structure of buff sandstone, 
90x110 feet, three stories, including basement, which shows above ground, 
with the cornice standing well above the Kerr House and a belfry towering 
to the height of 140 feet above the pavement. Commodious offices, a 
superb court room and all the modern appendages of heat, light and ven- 
tilation are comprehended in the plan. The cost of the building is to be 
$100,000, and the tax to raise that amount will not exceed 1 mill on the 
dollar for the next decade. 

Bids for the contract were advertised for, and in March the contract for 
building was let to Leffler & Bland, of Marion, who immediately com- 
menced work by removing the old court house. About when they had ac- 
complished this they were obliged to suspend operations, on account of the 
claims of one E. W. Mitchell, of Jackson, Ohio, who was a lower bidder, 
but whose bid was rejected by the County Commissioners for what they 
considered good cause. Mitchell appealed to the Supreme Court and was 
awarded the contract, but up to date, September 1, 1883, has done no 
work. 

THE JAIL. 

A jail became a necessity in spite of the good character of the first in- 
habitants of the village and county, and Eber Baker was once more called 
upon for aid. He built the jail on the same lot now used for that purpose. 
The following is the entry in the Commissioner's journal, to wit: 

Thursday, June 10, 1824. 
Resoloed, That there be erected on Lot No. 10, in the town of Marion. Marion 
Co., Ohio, a log jail, after the following plan, to wit : The logs 16x14 feet. Two sto- 
ries high, seven feet between floors, of square timber laid close together. The 
walls in the lower story sixteen inches thick, in the upper story twelve inches thick; 
two windows in the lower story opposite each other, one foot high, two feet wide, 
with strong iron grates set perpendicular in the center of the logs not more than three 
inches from each other; two windows in the upper story eighteen inches square; with 
iron grates set in the same mauner as in the lower story. The sills halved together 
and sunk six inches in the ground. The lower floor laid with hewed timber a foot 
thick, with shoulders in the sills two inches. The middle floor laid with hewed tim- 
ber a foot thick in a rabbet of five inches; the third floor laid as the first. The wall 



302 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

plates and girders framed together on the upper floor. The roof put on with rafters 
and lap shingles, the gable ends studded and weather-boarded. One door in each 
story made double of oak plank one and a half inch thick, lined with sheet-iron in the 
middle, two feet in width, sufficiently ironed and spiked, with a good substantial lock 
on each, the lower door barred also with a strong bar of iron, and a padlock. The 
cracks pointed with lime and sand, the corners handsomely cut down, a pair of 
Millers' stairs on the outside to the upper door, the whole to be finished and completed 
in a handsome, workmanlike manner. 

This building cost the county nothing. Eber Baker built it at his own 
expense, and presented it to the county. In 1842, it was torn away and a 
new stone jail was built upon the same site, two stories high, and was con- 
sidered a good prison for a long time, but it finally began to prove insecure, for 
prisoners got to picking their way through the solid (?) wall underneath 
the windows and escaping. 

The present beautiful jail building and Sheriff's residence was erected 
in 1878 at a cost of about $28,000. It contains sixteen cells in two tiers, 
besides two for females, over the kitchen. The whole structure is two 
stories high, besides basement and garret, and is architecturally well pro- 
portioned. 

INFIRMARY. 

The paupers of the county were taken care of by the respective town- 
ships until about 1850-55, when an infirmary was established a mile and a 
half north of Marion. It comprised a plat of ground and several log 
structures, which were made to serve uutil about 1809, when the latter were 
burned down. Whereupon the County Commissioners set to work to have 
an institution more worthy of the times, purchasing 130 acres of ground 
on the Mount Vernon road, two and a half miles from the center of the 
town of Marion. Since that time eight acres more have been added. On 
this ground a spacious brick house has been erected, two stories high be- 
sides attic, and in dimensions not far from 80x150 feet. Besides, there is 
a frame house about 35x35, and a pest house for small -pox cases. 

For the last eight or nine years, this institution has been very nearly 
self-supporting, and will be more nearly so hereafter. Only about $3,000 
a year has been appropriated for deficiency. The old place north of town 
was sold February 0, 1871, to W. D. Whipps, for $9,120. 

The following have been Directors of the Infirmary since 1856, each 
being elected at the date given below to serve three years: 

George A. Uncapher, 1857; Henry Ham, 1859; Joseph Court, 1860; 
Michael A. Metz, 1867; James L. Bell, 1868; John B. Andrew, 1869; 
David Kerr, 1870: George Betterer, 1871; Jonathan Bell, 1872; George 
Betterer, 1873; H. Dickhaut, 1871; Jonathan Bell, 1875; George Betterer, 
1876; John O'Bagau, 1877; Joseph Mason, 1878; J. P. Uncapher, 1879; 
John O'Kagan, 1880; Joseph Mason 1881; and J. P. Uncapher, 1882. 
The last three mentioned are the present incumbents. 

WALL MAPS. 

A large wall map, sis feet by eight, of Hardin and Marion Counties, Ohio, 
was drawn up and published in L869, at $10 per copy, by C. O. Titus, of 
Philadelphia. It is drawn on a scale of one and one-fourth inches to the 
mile. The map of Marion County proper occupies about two feet square, 
and that of Hardin about the same, while the remaining space is filled 
with town plats, business directories and miscellaneous information. A 
small map of Marion County was published as early as 1852, at $1. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 



303 



COUNTY ATLAS. 

In 1878, Messrs. Harrison, Sutton & Haro, of Philadelphia, com- 
piled and published a valuable atlas of Marion County of 128 pages, 13x16 
inches, giving a map of the county, of each township, village and the city 
of Marion, of the State of Ohio, railroad map of the United States, litho- 
graphic views of residences and farms, census, the rnilitaiw roll of honor, 
and much historical matter. The price of the atlas was $10. 

TABLE OF AIR-LINE DISTANCES IN MARION COUNTY. 



TOWNSHIPS. 



Big Island... 
Caledonia... 
Claridon — 
Cochran ton 

De Cliff 

Green Camp 

Gurley , 

Kirk patrick 

La Hue 

Longville.. 
Marion — 

Martel 

Morral 

Owen 

Prospect 

Waldo 



be 

<J be 

5.4 

13.413.0 

16.611.7 

4.0 5.0 

1.7 3.7 

6.7 5.6 

3.0! 3.0 

17.412.0 

3.7 9.0 

5.0 1.7 

9.7 5.0 

21.816.4 

8.7| 5. 

9.5! 7.0 

11.511.2 

15.012.8 



4.0 
17.6 



16. 



17.416. 
14.511. 
16.014. 

4.2 7. 
22.020. 
13.511. 

8.9 6. 

3.8 7. 
18.416. 
13.0 9. 
17.013. 
13.3 9. 



7 
6 

6 9. 
1 5. 
315. 

3; 6. 

5 6. 
910. 
420. 
6, 5. 
511. 
314. 
317. 



ft 
* I I 

5 a 



2 8.5: 
3.4 ! 
816.3 
5.2 
6.0 
9.7 
7 21.0 
81 6.7, 
511.3 
613.5 
417.0 



O 

4. 
15. 

9. 

4. 

5. 
18. 

6. 

3. 

5. 

8.5 



O 



^ 



15.0 
6.521.0 
2.0.16.5 
3.5 9.2 

19.0 5.4 
7.315.0 
7.014.0 

10.018.6 

21.016.0 



9.0 
13.4 
25.6 
11.8 
20.5 
13.6 
18.0 



5.0 
17.0 
7.0 
5.5 
9.5 
11.5 



12.6 
8.0 
5.0 

10.0 
9.3 



le.op- 

17.012.0 
20.616.3 
16.617.2 



5.0 — 
5.05.7 



POST OFFICES IN MARION CTUNTY. 

Agosta, old name New Bloomington. 

Caledonia, once called Van Buskirk; this is also the post office for Clar- 
idon. 

Cochranton, name of the post office at Scott Town, ten miles northwest 
of Marion. 

De Cliff, ten miles west of Marion. 

Green Camp, old name Berwick. 

Gurley, at Gurley Station, seven miles west of Marion. 

Kirkpatrick, old name Letimberville. 

La Rue, fifteen miles west of Marion. 

Longville, at Bryan's Station. 

Marion, the county seat. 

Martel, old name Three Locusts. 

Morral, about ten miles northwest of Marion. 

Owen, at Owen's Station, six miles southerly from Marion. 

Prospect, old name Middletown. 

Waldo, about ten miles south by southeast from Marion. 

Wheaton is an old name for Claridon. There is no post office either 
here or at Big Island. 

Beech is the name of a cross-roads one mile from the east line of the 
county, on the route from Claridon to Cardington. At this point there are 
a church (" Salem "), a saw mill, blacksmith shop, schoolhouse, etc. 



304 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 



Pan-town, alias Holinesville. is the old name of a point near the center 
of Bowling Green Township. 

Centerville is a point on the New York, Pacific & Ohio Railroad, in the 
extreme northwestern corner of Prospect Township. 

Winnemac is the name of the old town plat on the opposite side of the 
river from La Rue. 

Sr.lem and Stumptown are old names of other local points. 




HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 305 



CHAPTER VI. 

POLITICAL. 

MARION COUNTY may be said to have been Whig until about 1855, 
and Democratic since that time. That year it was divided between 
Democratic and Know-Nothing. 

From 1801 to 1828, the politics of the country generally were Federal 
and Republican; from 1828 to 1834, Democratic and National Republican; 
1834 to 1855, Democratic and Whig; 1855 to the present time, Democratic 
and Republican. During all these periods, the people have been either 
for the " Administration " (current Presidential) or against it; during the 
second and third periods the Administration party were " Jackson Demo- 
crats," opposed to a national bank, and in favor of " free trade;" and dur- 
ing the present period the Administration party are opposed to State sover- 
eignty and sundry other issues growing out of the slave question and the 
last war. 

The table of election returns in this chapter gives the political complex- 
ion of this county more definitely than can otherwise be done; but it will 
be of some advantage to the studious reader to take into consideration some- 
thing of the current general history of the country, and the exact meaning 
of some of the side issues submitted from time to time in the form of con- 
stitutional amendments, railroad and school questions, third-part}' issues, 
personal matters, etc. 

The method of nominating candidates for office is a subject of interest 
and importance. Previous to 1828, candidates were generally placed be- 
fore the people without the intervention of a party caucus, a political con- 
vention or a primary election. After the establishment of a newspaper in 
the respective localities, the candidates usually announced themselves, or 
were announced by their friends, by a card in the paper for several weeks 
prior to the election. Sometimes there were seven or eight candidates for 
a single office, but usually only two or three. The personal popularity of 
the candidate and his fitness for the office were of more importance than his 
views on national questions. 

In 1833, there were many cripples, as well as others, in the race for 
Treasurer. There was Richard Wilson, who could laugh longer, louder 
and more natural than any of his competitors. There was James Clark, 
whose forefinger on his right hand was just the thing to hook into the but- 
ton-bole of the dear people, when he took them to one side to lay his claims 
before them. Next, Mr. Jeffreys, hobbling along on two sticks as spry as 
a lame cricket, and seeming to say by his looks, " Gentlemen, my claims 
(infirmities) are apparent." Next, Mr. Vincent, who had the most outland- 
ish way of walking or getting around. To see these candidates hob-nob- 
bing the people at general musters, or at court, or on any public occasion, 
was really ludicrous. A short time before election, Mr. Clark withdrew 
his name, closing bis published card with the words, " Go it, ye cripples!" 
Wilson was elected. 

In 1828, party lines were very closely drawn between the Adams 



306 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

and the Jackson men, and rallying committees were appointed in some 
places for the purpose of drawing out the full vote at the election for 
President. At that time, and for many succeeding years, one of the most 
hotly contested questions at issue was which was the old Republican party. 
Both parties claimed to bo the original Jeffersonian Republicans. " Fed- 
eralist," the name of the party to which Washington and Hamilton belonged, 
had long before become a term .of reproach. Nominations began to be 
made by Whigs at mass meetings about 1830, the issue being Jackson and 
anti -Jackson. A few primary elections were held — a custom introduced by 
the Whigs. These elections were held like general or legal elections, with 
Judges, Clerks, poll-books, tally-sheets and returns to a County Central 
Committee. 

The first national political convention in the United States, for the 
nomination of candidates for President and Vice President, was held by the 
National Republican party at Baltimore December 12, 1831. At the next 
Presidential election, in 1832, the county of Marion gave Andrew Jackson 
a majority of 206— in a total vote of 1,236 — an exception to the general cur- 
rent of politics in the early history of the county. In 1836, the county gave 
two "Whig votes to one Democratic; but their opponent, Martin Van Buren, was 
elected President, and by 1840 the Whig element arose all over the country 
with such an ebullition as had never before been witnessed in America, if, 
indeed, it has been seen even since that time. 

LOG CABIN CAMPAIGN OF 1840. 

During the eight years of Jackson's administration and the four years 
of Van Buren's, the veins and arteries of the Government, as is the case 
generally when a party has been too long in power, had become more or 
less corrupted. Many of those who were the collectors and custodians of 
the public moneys had become defaulters — among the number, Price and 
Swartwout — and the whole of them denominated as " Spoilsmen and Leg- 
Treasurers," as mentioned in the song below. Add to this the belief which 
was chronic in the minds of many officials, incumbents and oracles, that 
the party had the right of succession to the Government, and were so solid- 
ly seated in the affections of the people that no human power could dis- 
place them, and we have the key that inaugurated the furor of that memor- 
able year. Their grievances aroused and combined all the latent opposing 
forces in the country, and in their arousing they assumed a spirit of ear- 
nestness that foreboded victory from the very start. 

It may be interseting, especially to the older class of readers, to recall 
to their memory a few of the facts and incidents connected with the never- 
to-be-forgotten " Log Cabin and Hard Cider Campaign of 1840," when 
the Presidential contest was between Martin Van Buren, the then Demo- 
cratic incumbent of the office, and Gen. William Henry Harrison, who was 
the candidate of the W'hig party. That was a campaign which no one who 
passed through it will ever forget. It was a year noted for its large meet- 
ings and its endless hurrahs. The campaign began early in the year, and 
was kept up with unceasing energy till the day of the Presidential election. 
Many people did very little else, for a period of seven or eight months, 
than attend the mass meetings and hurrah "for Tippecanoe and Tyler, too.'* 
The devices to be hauled about in processions were almost endless, and as 
diversified as the ingenuity of man could make them, for effect upon the 
masses. The Whigs were confident of victory. They felt it in their bones, 
as they expressed it, and hence labored with increasing energy and zeal. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 307 

The very atmosphere seemed to be full of victory for them. The Democrats 
were correspondingly dispirited, and felt more than half whipped for the 
six months preceding the election. People went in wagons, carriages, on 
horseback and on foot, to attend all the large gatherings within a radius of 
fifty miles or more, stopping for neither rains nor mud. It was nothing 
unusual to hear of crowds estimated at from 50,000 to 100,000 persons, and 
even more. Women engaged in the contest as enthusiastically as the men. 

Thomas Corwin, the most powerful orator of his day, was elected Gov- 
ernor of the State that year, and contributed no small share in getting up 
the excitement of that memorable campaign and the victory which followed. 
The country at that time was full of brilliant orators, but Corwin was more 
than the peer of them all. He visited all, or nearly all, of the counties in 
the State, and his meetings were made the occasion of a general rally, not 
only for his county, but for all the surrounding counties. He could carry 
his crowd to any point of enthusiasm desired, and could come as near say- 
ing what he desired to say, as any man living. He often made his audience 
laugh and weep in the same eloquent strain. No man, since his day, has 
been able to draw as many hearty cheers from an audience as he did. 

The campaign received its force largely from the remarkable Whig 
State Convention held in the city of Columbus on the 22d day of February 
of that year. It was a mass convention, and every county in the State was 
represented by hundreds of delegates. The city, small then, was fairly 
overwhelmed with delegates. It was out of the question to obtain lodging 
apartments at hotels and boarding houses, and many private houses were 
thrown open and people lay down to rest at night wherever they could find 
a vacant spot. V. W. Smith, who was one of the Ohio State Journal staff 
of writers, gave a brilliant description of that grand outpouring, which 
no pen has ever equaled since. It would be interesting to reproduce it 
here, were it relevant to the design of this work. 

The contest of that year was known also as " The Song Campaign." 
Nearly every Whig could sing, and about every tenth one turned poet, 
which multiplied songs by the thousand, taking in every phase of principle 
in issue between the two parties. These had their effect in producing the 
results which followed. 

It may not be inappropriate to the design of this work to give a short 
paragraph upon the origin of this song campaign, which became general all 
over the country preceding the Presidential election. The first impulse to 
it, so far as can be ascertained, was given by Otway Curry, a citizen of 
Marysville, Ohio. He was a poet of national fame, and wrote, in February, 
1840, what soon became known all over the country as the " Log Cabin 
Song." This was published in slips and circulated at the 22d of February 
convention, and was sung there with marvelous effect by the 5/oung Whigs. 
Almost every delegate carried one of these songs home with him, and in less 
than a week it was reverberating from every hillside and through every 
valley in the State. It was set to the tune "Highland Laddie," and 
commenced : 

Oh, where, tell me where, was your Buckeye Cabin made? 
Oh, where, tell me where, was 3-0111- Buckeye Cabin made? 
'Twas built among the merry boys who wield the plow and spade, 
Where the Log Cabins stand in the bonuie Buckeye shade. 

Oh, what, tell me what, is to be your cabin's fate? 
Oh, what, tell me what, is to be your cabin's fate? 
We'll wheel it to the Capital, and place it there elate, 
As a token and a sign of the bonnie Buckeye State. 



308 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

The idea of the log cabin as a political element in the contest was first 
suggested by a scurrilous article, published in a newspaper in the interest 
of the party supporting Mr. Van Buren for re-election to the Presidency. 
The author of said article had visited North Bend, the home of Gen. Harri- 
son, soon after the nomination of the latter as a Presidential candidate, was 
cordially received and hospitably entertained by him in his humble 
home. In giving an account of this visit to some newspaper, he spoke dis- 
paragingly of Harrison's abilities, and stated, among other things, that he 
lived in a log cabin and drank hard cider, affirming that he had no ambition 
to occupy the position to which he had been nominated, nor abilities to dis- 
charge the duties thereof, and concluded by asserting that if the people of the 
country would furnish him with a sufficient supply of dry crackers and hard 
cider, he would be contented to live in his log cabin home during the remain- 
der of the time allotted to him on earth. This article was soon published in 
all or nearly all of the newspapers opposing the election of Gen. Harrison. 
This aroused his friends, and the newspapers in his interest published 
the article, with bitter editorial comments relating to its tone and spirit. 
The people were reminded of the days when they dwelt in log cabins, were 
taught in log schoolhouses and worshiped their Creator in the same rude 
structures; hence, the log cabin was soon brought into the campaign as 
an element of strength, and as such served its purpose and has become 
historical. 

Hard cider became as celebrated during this campaign as the log cabin. 
It was used as a remedy for all sorts of ills. A kind of " tea," made of strong, 
hard cider, with a pepper pod sliced into it, was a dose to make rheuma- 
tism beat a retreat; willow bark and the heart of iron wood, pickled in cider, 
was good for fever and ague. Wild cherry bark and cider was a "warming" 
tonic, etc. Some of the good old pioneers were opposed to " drunkness," 
produced by whisky, and thought "moderation in all things" should be 
the motto of every man; yet many of these same men would drink " moder- 
ately " of hard cider so often during the day, that when night came they 
hardly knew whether they were moderate drinkers or otherwise. During 
the Presidential campaign of 1840, it was made an emblem of Whiggism, and 
was accordnigly celebrated in the following campaign song, set to the tune 
of "Rosin the Bow:" 

Come ye who, whatever betide her, 

To Freedom have sworn to be true; 
Prime up in a mug of hard cider, 

And drink to old Tippecanoe.* 

On tap I've a pipe of as good, sir, 

As man from the faucet e'er drew; 
No poison to thicken your blood, sir, 

But liquor as pure as the dew. 

No foreign potation I puff, sir; 

In freedom the apple-tree grew, 
And its juice is exactly the stuff, sir, 

To quaff to old Tippecanoe. 

Let Vanf sport his coach and outriders, 

In liveries flaunting and gay, 
And sneer at log cabins and cider: 

But woe for the reckoning day! 

* Gen. Harrison, the hero of the hattle of Tippecanoe, 
f Martin Van Buren. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 309 

During the canvass of 1840, Gen. Harrison visited Marion. At this 
time, one Dr. Robinson was Quartermaster here of the Marion County 
Militia, and George Rowe, General. These men had the custody of what 
arms were in the possession of the militia, namely, an old six-pounder iron 
cannon and a few flint-lock muskets. These were deposited in Dr. Robin- 
son's barn, which, consequently, was called the " arsenal." During the 
night before Harrison's arrival, this "arsenal" was broken open, and the 
cannon hauled off and secreted. Just at daylight, the gun squad, consist- 
ing of Orren Patten, E.G. Spelinan, Charles Smith, Dr. H. A. True, R. Spal- 
ding, W. L. Kendrick, James Butler and J. S. Reed, drew the gun to a 
vacant lot near Mr. Wallace's, on Main street, where they proceeded to 
" wake up the babies " for miles around, pointing the cannon north, 
south, east and west. The gunner was J. S. Reed. 

Upon the occasion of Dr. Duncan's defeat, the same gun squad and Cap- 
tain took the aforesaid six-pounder to the ground now occupied by the Epis- 
copal Church, where it was fired until it became foul and the vent clogged. 
Sod and mortar were used for filling, and some of the by-standers amused 
themselves in standing some distance in front of the cannon and catching the 
sods. By-and-by the gun burst, wounding one or two. William O. Bar- 
nett, who fired the gun this time, had his leg broken and was otherwise in- 
jured. Ed Shrively, after ward called "King Soogan," was thrown forward 
a great distance by one of the Hying pieces. 

The 'campaign of 1844 was characterized by " Hurrah for Polk and 
Dallas!" and "Hurrah for Clay and Erelinghuysen! " The "Liberty" 
party, called by others the " Abolition " party, began at this time to loom 
up like a small cloud in the horizon, feeling strong and heroic (" fool- 
hardy ") enough to nominate a candidate for President of the Onited States. 
They chose James G. Birney, of Michigan, for their standard-bearer, but 
he was scarcely heard of in most sections of the Union. The only issue rec- 
ognized by the masses was that between Jackson Democracy and Henry 
Clay Whiggism. 

POLE- RAISING. 

During this campaign, after the political cauldron got fairly to boiling, 
each party in Marion must raise a pole, believing that the longest pole 
would knock off the persimmons, that is, get the most votes. The Demo- 
crats first hoisted a hickory about a hundred feet high, and on it raised a 
flag, upon which was emblazoned in large letters, " Polk, Dallas, Tod and 
Victory." The Whigs followed by raising an ash pole, some twenty feet 
higher than the hickory, with Henry Clay and Frelinghuysen as their stand- 
ard-bearers. 

The Democracy, determined not to be outdone, immediately set about 
raising a still higher pole — at least fifty feet higher — but after getting it 
up about one-third the way, it broke. The " Coons," as the Clay Whigs 
were then nicknamed, of course shouted for joy, while the Democrats 
stamped with rage. Some of them flew around in a very excited manner. 
They counseled together and determined to send to Columbus for a regular 
ship carpenter, with blocks, tackle, rope and all the necessary appurte- 
nances for raising a pole 225 ft. high in ship-mast style. The ship carpen- 
ter engaged was James Newcomer, who in due time arrived with tackle ap- 
parently enough to raise the Great Eastern, The blood of the Democracy 
was up, and nothing short of a Providential interference could prevent 
them from accomplishing their purpose. 



310 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

The heaviest piece for the pole was cut on the farm of George Rupp. of 
Pleasant Township. It was twenty-eight inches in diameter at the larger 
end, and tapered up beautifully for eighty feet. There were three splices, 
fixed with the best iron bands. It required several days to get everything 
in readiness, and of course it was noised all over the country that the tall- 
est pole in the United States was soon to be raised at Marion. A " good- 
sized " procession left town for " Uncle George's " farm to get the pole. 
Mr. Rupp had the large piece mounted upon his broad-tired wagon, to 
which were attached eight magnificent horses, duly caparisoned with flags 
and the old-fashioned hand-bells. The band and a few carriages led the 
way, and the procession, in wagons and on horseback, made the grand 
entree into town with more pomp and display than Sells' circus company 
could now imitate. 

When the timbers duly arrived in town and were unloaded in front of 
the court house, things " looked like business." A hole, about eight feet 
deep, was dug, at the bottom of which a frame of cross-sills was placed, to 
retain the huge shaft. The day on which this monster pole was erected 
was as pleasant as one could wish, and a larger crowd had assembled than 
had ever before come together in Marion. The pole was properly adjusted, 
according to the design of the superintendent, and when all was ready up 
it went, majestically enough, without an accident. An appropriate flag was 
run up to within about twenty-five feet of the top, and the excited and anx- 
ious hearts of the Democracy began to beat with an inexpressible joy of 
patriotism. 

There is no doubt that this pole victory aided to bring about a poll vic- 
tory for the Democrats at the ensuing election, so far as the county was 
concerned, and they also won in the national contest; but " Tod and Vic- 
tory " was not theirs in the State election. On the night of the jubilee in 
November, a huge box, with sides composed of windows, was well lighted 
up within by sperm candles, and hoisted up 200 feet on this mighty flag 
staff — a grand spectacle; but an accident happening in the procession be- 
low, the li ne was precipitately cut, and down came the " lantern " with an 
awful crash. 

The pole stood until some days after the Presidential election, when it 
was thought best to cut it down, lest it be blown down some time when it 
would do damage. As soon as the pole lay prostrate on Main street, every 
devotee went for pieces of it for relics, and before sundown it was " clean 
gone!" Samuel Saiter took a goodly portion of the best part of the stick to 
his cabinet shop, and manufactured it into neat canes. 

The vote on Governor this fall was very close, there being 1,433 in the 
county for Mordecai Bartley, Whig, and 1,415 for David Tod, Democrat; 
and for President, a month afterward, it gave James K. Polk, Democrat, 
seventy- four majority. 

The next year, 1845, the Whig majority on Representative to the Legis- 
lature was 264, in a total vote of 2,342. 

The year 1848 was characterized by the race between Zachary Taylor, 
Whig, Lewis Cass, Democrat, and Martin Van Buren, " Free Soil." The 
siege was not so exciting as it had been in 1844, and far less so than in 
1840. 

In the campaign of 1852, the nation changed politics, electing Pierce, 
Democrat, to the Presidency, over Scott, Whig, and Hale, Free Soil. This 
county, correspondingly, was Democratic, by 308 majority, in a total vote 
of 2,270. The Free Soil vote was only 78. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUxNTY. 311 

By the year 1854, the anti -slavery sentiment of the people had become 
so strong as to force a re-organization of the parties on a new issue. The 
anti-slavery party this year assumed the name of " Republican," while the 
party opposed rallied under the old " Democratic" organization. Two 
years afterward, Marion County actually gave a majority for the anti-slavery 
party, namely, 1,378 for Fremont and 1,285 for Buchanan. 

This brings the record up to the war, which is in the memory of most of 
those now living, and very little need be said by way of explanation. The 
two principal points are, that during the latter part of the war, and for a 
year or two afterward, a so-called " Union " party organized and made 
nominations for office, but it was of course understood that a " Union " vic- 
tory at the polls would have been a Republican victory; and likewise a 
"Liberal Republican" party was organized in 1872, headed by Horace 
Greeley, which, if victory crowned their efforts, would have been construed 
as a Democratic victory, [n both these third-party movements, the motives 
were probably noble and sincere; and although, like the other " third " 
parties, as granger, prohibition, etc., they did not nominally win the battle, 
they really did influence legislation, both State and national. 

In 1859, the question was submitted to the people, whether the constitu- 
tion should require the sessions of the Legislature to be annual. Some 
thought that annual sessions would be more economical as well as prompt, 
and some thought they would be less so. The vote gave only 410 in favor 
of the proposed measure, and 2,319 against it. 

May 14, 1874, there were four constitutional propositions submitted to 
the people of the State, namely, a new constitution, minority repi-esenta- 
tion, allowing railroad aid and licensing the sale of intoxicating liquors — 
all of which were voted down by the citizens of Marion County. 

ELECTION RETURNS* 

As in almost or quite every county, the e'lection returns and early rec- 
ords of Marion County are somewhat imperfect. Many of the election 
clerks in an early day were too illiterate to make out returns in an intelligible 
shape One returned his "pool" books, and another his "boll" books! 

The reader should remember that the figures in election returns are 
often no test of the popularity of the respective candidates or parties. A 
man may be put forward by his friends against his wili; he may withdraw 
a few days before election, and the people not generally know the fact; 
false stories may be circulated about a candidate; and sometimes, even, a 
man may be voted for, to some extent, who neither put himself forward or 
was put forward by his friends. 

The oldest election returns on file in the office of the Clerk of the Court 
are dated in 1824. First, on the 11th of May, Green Camp Township gave 
Samuel Fish seventeen votes for Justice of the Peace, and Joseph Boyd 
eleven votes for the same office. The certificate of election is signed by 
William Holmes and William Hoddy, Judges of election — the latter a 
Justice. George H. Busby was County Clerk. 

On the loth day of May, Sandusky Township voted for two Justices, as 
follows: Matthias Markley, 22; Ichabod Smith, 32; Westell Ridgeloy, 
17; Michael Brown, 4. The first two were declared elected, the returns 
and certificate being signed by William Holmes, Judge, and John Stealy. 
Justice of the Peace. 

June 26, Claridon Township elected Benjamin Bell a Jiastice of the 
Peace by twenty-one votes, against fourteen for John Roberts; Grand 



312 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 



Township, William Cochran, by twelve votes, no opposition; Washington 
Township, Henry Lemon by thirteen votes, against three for James Neil; 
and Richland, Joseph Oborn by eleven votes, against ten for William W. 
Smith and five for Thomas Rogers. 

October 12, 1824, Richland Township elected Thomas Rogers a Justice 
by eleven votes, no opposition; and Bucyrus Township elected Conrad Roth 
a Justice by twenty-six votes to twenty-two for Michael Bedle. David 
Tipton, Justice of the Peace, was a Judge at both these elections. 

On the 21st of this month, Morven Township elected Isaac Blazer to the 
office of Justice of the Peace by eleven votes to five for James Thomson 
and two scattering. David Tipton and Zachariah Welsh, Justice of the 
Peace, were Judges on this occasion. 

ELECTION MAY 3, 1824. 

Sheriff— George Shippy, 36; Henry Peters, 84; Benjamin Hillman, 
262; John Ballentine, 22. Hillman's majority, 178. 

County Commissioners— William Wyatt, 26; Alexander Berry, Jr., 69; 
John Page 102; David Tipton, 47; E. B. Merriman, 247; William Coch- 
ran, 122; Eber BaW, 53; Amos C. Wilson. 157. Merriman, Wilson and 
Cochran were elected. 

County Auditor — Jacob Keptum, 47; Hezekiah Gorton, 275; Matthew 
Merritt, 209; William Hoddy, 19. Gorton's majority, 66. 

Coroner — Richard Hopkins, 25; Josiah Robertson, 23; Charles Stuart, 
108. Stuart's majority, 83. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 12, 1824, FOR GOVERNOR. 



TOWNSHIPS. 



Claridon 

Green Camp. . 

Canaan 

Grand Prairie 

Richland 

Bucyrus 

Grand 

Sandusky 

Center 

Pleasant 

Morven 

Salt Rock 

Big Island 



IS 



Totals 

Majority for Trimble 



3 
6 
2 

23 
1 

13 
5 

18 
2 
1 

17 

14 

105 



w a 



16 

7 

4 

39 

6 

49 

3 

7 

51 

18 

17 

33 

25 

275 

170 



Congressman— Anni s Parrish, 279; William Wilson, 90. Parrish's ma- 
jority, 189. 

Senator— David H. Beardsly, 224; James Kooker, 122; Joseph Eaton, 
15. Beardsly's majority, 102. 

Representative— Jer Everett, 153; William C. Clerk, 27; George 
Miller, 140. Everett's majority, 7. 

County Commissioners— E. B. Merriman, 297; Amos C. Wilson, 256; 
Matthew Merrit, 109; John Pago, 226; Richard Hopkins, 130. 

Sheriff— Benjamin Hillman, 373. No opposition. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 313 

County Auditor — Hezekiah Gorton, 334; C. Roth, 33. Gorton's major- 
ity, 301. 

County Clerk— George H. Busby. 222; William M. Holmes, 146; Gid- 
eon Messenger, 15. Busby's majority, 76. 

Coroner — Alson Norton, 374. No opposition. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 11, 1825. 

Representative — George Miller, 63; Eber Baker, 96; Josiah Hedges, 
304; Jer Everett, 50. Hedges' majority, 208. 

County Commissioners — Talman Rausse, 294; Zach Welsh, 32; Hugh 
P. Smith, 132; Solomon Rausse, 30; John Croly, 3; Matthew Merrit, 10. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 10, 1826. 

Governor — Allen Trimble, 434; Alex Campbell, 7: Benjamin Tap- 
pan, 3. 

Congressman — James Kilbourn, 123; Lyne Starling, 262; Daniel S. 
Norton, 77. Starling's majority, 139. 

Senator — James Kooker, 277; Charles Carpenter, 40; Edward Mason, 
59; Westell Hastings, 74. Kooker's majority, 203. 

Representative — Benjamin Hillman, 420; Josiah Hedges, 48. Hill- 
man's majority, 372. 

County Commissioners — W. W. Concklin, 158; Hugh V. Smith, 102; 
John Stealy, 58; Daniel Oborn, 50; Van Creasup, 27; James Jenkins, 230; 
Alanson Packard, 42; Isaac Bunker, 27; Benjamin Bell, 75; Matthew 
Merritt, 64. 

County Auditor — Hezekiah Gorton, 459. No opposition. 

Sheriff — Elisha H. Crosby, 294; Henry Peters, 176. Crosby's major- 
ity, 118. 

Coroner — D. D. Tompkins, 289; William Cochran, 132. Tompkins' 
majority, 157. 

SPECIAL ELECTION, DECEMBER 1, 1826. 

Representative — Eber Baker, 218; Josiah Hedges, 83; Andrew Kinnear, 
9. Baker's majority, 135. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 9, 1827. 

Congressman — Lyne Starling, 329; Daniel S. Norton, 68; William Stans- 
bury, 119. Starling's majority, 210. 

Representative — Eber Baker, 116; W. W. Concklin, 107; Josiah 
Hedges, 118; Samuel M. Lockwood, 42; Samuel Treat, 85; George Poe, 22. 
Hedges' majority, 2. 

Sheriff — John O'Harra, 199; Daniel D. Tompkins, 219; Harrison Kelly, 
84. Tompkins' majority, 20. 

County Commissioners — John Page, 273; David Tipton, 107; Chris. 
Brady. 57; Benjamin Bell, 46; John Ashbaugh, 27; Henry Ustick, 281; 
Peter Van Houten, 49. 

County Treasurer — Adam Uncapher, 265; Alvin C. Priest, 26; T. J. 
Anderson, 44; David Jenkins, 169; Daniel Musser, 27. Uncapher' s ma- 
jority, 96. 

Coroner — David Baughman, 96; Amos S. Capron, 140; William Cronk, 
33; John Murphy, 15; John B. Salmon, 107; John Flewwellan, 38. 
Capron's majority. 33. 

Assessor — William Crawford, 233; Samuel Holmes, 71; J. Baker, 67; 
Andrew Kinnear, 127. Crawford's majority, 106. 



314 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 14, 1828. 

Governor — Allen Trimble, 271; John W. Campbell, 214. Trimble's ma- 
jority, 57. 

Congressman— Isaac Minor, 223; William Stansbury, 259. Stansbury's 
majority, 36. 

Senator — Charles Carpenter, 224; James W. Crawford, 249. Crawford's 
majority, 25. 

Representative — John Carv, 204; Henry St. John, 194. Cary's major- 
ity, 70. 

County Auditor — Hezekiah Gorton, 384. No opposition. 

County Commissioner — John Jackson, 104; Henry Ustick, 299. Ustick's 
majority, 195. 

Coroner — John O'Harra, 162; Henry Peters, 202; John Flewwellan, 45. 
Peters 1 majority, 40. 

October 31, 1828, the county gave Andrew Jackson a majority of 60 
for President. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 13, 1829. 

Representative — Jacob Idleman, 313; Robert Hopkins, Jackson, 330. 
Hopkins' majority, 17. 

Commissioners — VV. W. Concklin. 200; Thomas J. Anderson, 87; John 
AY addle, 98; John C. Bates, 244. 

Sheriff— D. D. Tompkins, 308; Samuel Calvert, 241; David Epler, 14. 
Tompkins' majority, 67. 

Treasurer — Sbubael Knapp, 87; Adam Uncapher, 278; David Jenkins, 
377. Jenkins' majority, 99. 

Assessor — William Crawford, 516; John M. Anderson, 128. Crawford's 
majority, 388. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 12, 1830. 

Governor — Duncan McArthur, National Republican, 262; Robert Lucas, 
Democrat, 321. Lucas' majority, 59. 

Congressman— William Stansbury, Whig, 293; Nathaniel McLean, 
Democrat, 379. McLean's majority, 86. 

Senator — Robert Hopkins, Democrat, 619; Charles Carpenter, Whig, 
229; James Kooken, 38. Hopkins' majority, 390. 

Representative — John Nimmons, Democrat, 318; Eber Baker, Whig, 
145; John Cary, Whig, 214. Nimmons' majority, 104. 

County Commissioner — John Page, Whig, 338; John Waddle, Demo- 
crat, 59; John Vanmeter, Democrat, 261. Page's majority, 77. 

County Auditor — Hezekiah Gorton, Whig, 375; John E. Davidson, 
Democrat, 314. Gorton's majority, 41. 

Coroner — David Epler, Democrat, 348; Henry Peters, Whig, 299. 
Eplers' majority, 49. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 11, 1831. 

Representative — Robert Hopkins, Democrat, 237; Henry Ustick, Whig, 
177; Samuel Calvert, Democrat, 114; E. W. H. Read, Whig, 240; Ozias 
Bowen, Whig, 88; William Brown, Whig, 101. Read's majority, 3. 

County Commissioner — John Jackson, 89; John Waddle, Democrat, 54; 
Titus King, Whig, 392; Aaron Hatch, Whig, 101; L. Van Buskirk, Demo- 
crat, 150; R. H. Randall, 105; Charles Webster, 58. King's majority, 
242. 

Sheriff —Cyrus B. Mann, Democrat, 254; David Epler, Democrat, 116; 
William M. Holmes, Whig, 320; John Wick, 238; John K. Van Fleet, 
Democrat, 25. Holmes' majority, 66. 




| | | 



Proposed Court House. 

1883. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 317 

County Treasurer — David Jenkins, 568; Adam Uncapher, Democrat, 
385. Jenkins' majority, 183. 

Recorder- Joel D. Butler, Whicr, 150; John Bartram, Democrat, 274; 
George H. Busby, Democrat, 523. Busby's majority, 249. 

Assessor — T. J. Anderson, Whig, 90; William Crawford, Democrat, 
583; Joseph Boyd, Sr., Whig, 22; John Depue, Whig, 75; Thomas Jeff- 
ries. Democrat, 139; John Williamson, 32. Crawford's majority, 444. 

Coroner — John M. Anderson, 68; Jared Bartram, Whig, 84; John Bend- 
ing, 657; John B. Salmon, 99. Bonding's majority, 558. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 9, 1832. 

Governor— Robert Lucas, Democrat, 712; Darius Lyman, Anti -Masonic, 
351, Lucas' majority, 361. 

Congressman — Jer McLeDe, Democrat, 602; Orris Parish, 223; Joseph 
Olds, 222. McLene's majority, 379. 

Senator — S. S. Bennett, Whig, 554; James W. Crawford, Democrat, 
408; Charles Carpenter, 89. Bennett's majority, 146. 

Representative -Peter Huber, Whig, 277; John Campbell, 79; Samuel 
Calvert, Democrat, 509; John Carey, Whig, ISO. Calvert's majority, 232. 

County Auditor — John E. Davidson, Democrat, 668; D. D. Tompkins, 
Whig, 373. Davids' majority, 295. 

County Commissioner — Daniel Swigart. Jr., Whig, 177; David Tipton, 
Democrat, 46; John Stealy, Whig, 87; William Cochran, Democrat, 107; 
John C. Bates, 108; Abed Rennick, 75; L. Van Buskirk, 447. 

ELECTION NOVEMBER 9, 1832. 

President — Andrew Jackson, Democrat, 721; Henry Clay. Whig, 515; 
William Wirt, Anti-Masonic, 2. Jackson's majority, 206. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 8, 1833. 

Representative — John Wick, 113; L. Van Buskirk, 417; Samuel Cal- 
vert, 355; David Terry, Whig, 176: Joseph McCutchen, Democrat, 50. Van 
Buskirk's majority, 62. 

Treasurer — Christian Musser, Democrat, 237; Michael Vincent, Whig, 
111; Richard Wilson, Democrat, 281; James Clarke, Democrat, 118; Will- 
iam Crawford, Democrat, 259; E. S. Booth, 59; Peleg Mosher, 48. Wil- 
son's majority, 22. 

Prosecuting Attorney — James H. Godman, Whig, 956; Ozias Bowen, 
Whig, 142. Godman's majority, 814. 

Sheriff— Cyrus B. Mann, 764; William M. Holmes, Whig, 255. Mann's 
majority, 509. 

Commissioners — Daniel Swigart, Jr., 251: David Tipton, 2 years, 78; 
William McCrea, Democrat, 77; William Cochran, Democrat, 89; T. H. 
Miller, 2 years, Democrat, 395; T. H. Miller, 1 year, 310; Isaac Blazer, 
275; Amos C. Wilson, Whig, 489. 

Assessor — Alfred Randall, 59; John Depue, 112; Aaron Hatch, Whig, 
286; Thomas Jeffrey, Democrat, 290; John Uncapher, 295; John Boyles, 
52. Uncapher's majority, 5. 

Coroner— Noah Kiinple, 632; Benjamin Kine, 435. Kimple's majority, 
197. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 14, 1834. 

Governor — Robert Lucas, Democrat, 660; James Findlay, Whig, 347. 
Lucas' majority, 313. 



318 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Congressman — Jer. McLene, 601; Joseph Olds, Whig, 400. McLene's 
majority, 201. 

Senator — Robert Hopkins, Democrat, 650; -John Cary, Whig, 337. 
Hopkins' majority, 313. 

Representative — John Campbell, 428; Hezekiah Gorton, 536. Gorton's 
majority, 108. 

County Commissioner — John Page, 113; James Lambert, Whig, 212; 
John Search, 46; Isaac Blazer, 586. 

Recorder — George H. Busby, 505; David Epler, 485. Busby's major- 
ity, 20. 

Surveyor — Samuel Holmes, 312; William Brown, 172; Hugh McClure, 
150; William Dowling, 365. Dowling's majority, 53. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 13, 1835. 

Representative — James H. God'nan, 597; James McCutchen, 195; S. B. 
Jackson, 26; Benjamin Sharrock, 89. Godman's majority, 402. 

Sheriff — Cyrus B. Mann, 923. No opposition. 

County Treasurer — Richard Wilson, Democrat, 914. No opposition. 

County Commissioner — Daniel Swigart, Jr. ; 165; Thomas H. Miller, 
542; James Dunlap, 38; Robert Jeffrey, 155. Miller's majority, 377. 

Assessor — Allen McNeal, 84; John Uncapher, 446; G. B. Rigdon, 74; 
Aaron Hatch, 255. Uncapher's majority, 362. 

Prosecuting Attorney — Ozias Bowen, Whig, 486; George Rowe, Demo- 
crat, 402. Bo wen's majority, 84. 

Coroner — Benjamin Kime, 745; Daniel Clark, 119. Kime's majority, 
626. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 11, 1836. 

Governor — Joseph Vance, Whig, ; Eli Baldwin, Democrat, . 

Congressman — Samson Mason, Whig, 613; John Shelby, Democrat, 313. 
Mason's majority, 300. 

Senator — Hezekiah Gorton, 584; Robert Hopkins, 334. Gorton's ma- 
jority, 250. 

Representative— John Carey, 565; Otway Curry, Whig, 598; Nicholas 
Hathaway, Whig, 325; Joseph McCutchen, 310. Curry's majority, 33. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 10, 1837. 

Representative— Otway Curry, 763; Josiah Scott, 678; Stephen Fowler, 
Democrat, 740; John Campbell, 663. Carry's majority, 23. 

Treasurer— Richard Wilson, Democrat, 892; John Roy, 548. Wilson's 
majority, 354. 

Recorder — Curtis Allen, Whig, 565; Peter Beerbower, Democrat, 877. 
Beerbower's majority, 312. 

Sheriff— David Epler, 687; Joseph Durfee, Whig, 744. Durfee's major- 
ity, 57. 

County Commissioners — John Shunk, three years, Whig, 743; T. F. 
Johnston, one year, 627; Robert Maxwell, three years, 80; George Beckley, 
one year, Democrat, 693; William Dowling, three years, Whig, 576; Robert 
Quay, one year, Democrat, 44. Shunk' s majority, 663. Beckley's major- 
ity, 66. 

Assessor — John Uncapher, 374; Benjamin Bell, Democrat, 115; John 
Brady, Democrat, 165; L. R. Carpenter, Whig, 581. Carpenter's major- 
ity, 207. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 319 

Prosecuting Attorney — Almeron Wheat, Whig, 703; George Kowe, 
Democrat, 672. Wheat's majority, 31. 

Surveyor — Hugh McClure, 544; Thomas Sharp, 144; Samuel Holmes, 
Whig, 698. Holmes' majority, 151. 

Coroner — Benjamin Scoville, 674; James Jones, 725. Jones' majority, 
51. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 9, 1838. 

Governor — Wilson Shannon, Democrat, 934; Joseph Vance, Whig, 936. 
Vance's majority, 2. 

Congressman — Joseph Ridgway, Whig, 928; John McElvain, Democrat, 
937. Ridgway's maioiity. 9. 

Senator— John Carey, Whig, 929; B. F. Allen, Democrat, 933. Allen's 
7najority, 4. 

Representative — Stephen Fowler, Democrat, 930; John Campbell, 844; 
Abel Rennick, Whig, 999. Rennick's majority, 39. 

Auditor — W. W. Concklin, Whig, 806; Lawrence Van Buskirk, Demo- 
crat, 491; CyruB B. Mann, Independent, 553. Concklin's majority, 253. 

County Commissioners — Nathan Peters, Democrat, 816; William Brown, 
Whig, 773; John Parcell, Democrat, 109. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 8, 1839. 

Representative — Guy C. Worth, Democrat, 508; Silas G. Strong, 492; 
William C. Lawrence, 711; James H. Godman, Whig, 685. Lawrence's 
majority, 205. 

Sheriff— David Epler, 788; Joseph Durfee, 929. Durfee's majority, 
141. 

Treasurer — Richard Wilson, 1,350; Henry Peters. 362. Wilson's ma- 
jority, 988. 

County Commissioners — William Taylor, Whig, 761; David Miller, 
Democrat, 940. Miller's majority, 179. 

Assessor — John Uncapher, Democrat, 1,024; L. P. Carpenter, 616; 
John Wilkinson, 56. Uncapher's majority, 408. 

Prosecuting Attorney — Cooper K. Watson, Whig, 754; Samuel Kelly, 
898. Kelly's majority, 144. 

Coroner — James Jones, Democrat, 1,556. No opposition. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 13, 1840. 

Governor — Thomas Corwin, Whig, 1,321; Wilson Shannon, Democrat, 
1,201. Corwin's majority, 120. 

Congressman — Joseph Ridgway, Sr. , Whig, 1,321; H. N. Hedges, Sr., 
1,199. Ridgway's majority, 122. 

Senator — Benjamin F. Allen, Whig, 1,190; James H. Godman, Whig, 
1,321. Godman's majority, 131. 

Representatives — Emery Moore, Whig, 1,315;* Josiah Scott, Whig, 
1,312;* George Beckley, Democrat, 1,210; John Campbell, Democrat, 
1,193. 

County Auditor — L. Van Buskirk, Democrat, 1,192; W. W. Concklin, 
Whig, 1,305. Concklin's majority, 113. 

Recorder — Robert King, Whig, 1,287; Peter Beerbower, Democrat, 
1,223. King's majority, 64. 

County Commissioner — William Shunk, Whig, 1,291; Charles Russell, 
Democrat, 1,206. Saunk's majority. 85. 



320 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Surveyor — John H. Parcell, Democrat, 1,184; Samuel Holmes, Whig, 
1,335. Holmes' majority, 151. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 12, 1841. 

Representative — James Griffith, 892; George W. Sharp, 919; William 
Dovvling, Democrat, 668; Moses H. Kirby, Whig, 912; Alexander Camp- 
bell, 857; Thomas W. Powell, Whig, 980. Powell's majority, 68. 

County Commissioner — Nathan Peters, Democrat, 1,033; Amos C. Wil- 
son, Whig, 667. Peters' majority, 366. 

Prosecuting Attorney — George Rowe, Democrat, 932; Elias G. Spel- 
man, Whig, 796. Rowe's majority, 136. 

Sheriff — David Epler, Democrat, 1,005; James McKinstry, Whig, 818. 
Epler's majority, 187. 

Treasurer — Richard Wilson, Democrat, 1,202; Peter Doty, Whig, 751. 
Wilson's majority, 451. 

Surveyor — William L. Uleyate, Whig, 1,074; William Brown, AVhig, 
706. Uleyate' s majority, 368. 

Coroner — Strother Hord, Democrat, 864; Olney R. Stone, Whig, 910. 
Stone's majority, 46. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 11, 1842. 

Governor — -Thomas Corwin, Whig, 1,257; Wilson Shannon, Democrat, 
1,208; Leicester King, Free Soil, 36. Corwiu's majority, 49. 

Senator — T. W. Powell. Whig, 1,253; James McCutche'n, Democrat, 
1,209. Powell's majority, 44. 

Representatives— Titus King. Whig, 1,281; George W. Leith, 1,246; 
Isaac E. James, Democrat, 1,185; George W. Sharp, Democrat, 1,202. 
King's majority, 35. 

County Auditor — W. W. Coneklin, Whig, 1,230; Peter Beerbower, Demo- 
crat, 1,261. Beerbower's majority, 31. 

County Commissioner — Hugh V. Smith. Whig, 1,268; Wil liam Larue 
Democrat, 1,114. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 10, 1843. 

Congressman — James Weldon, 471; Jacob Brinkerhoff, Democrat, 1,106; 
William W. Irwin, 328. Brinkerhoff's majority, 635. 

Representative — S. T. Cunard, Democrat, 1,085; Samuel Kelly, Demo- 
crat, 1,145; John Carey, Whig, 934; William Smart, Whig, 953. Kelly's 
majority, 60. 

Sheriff— James M. Briggs; Whig, 912; David Epl«r, Democrat, 1,220. 
Epler's majority, 308. 

Prosecuting Attorney — John E. Davids, Whig, 991; William Bobbins, 
Democrat. 1,102. Robbins' majority, 111. 

Recorder — Robert King, Whig, 993; Henry Hain, Democrat, 1,109. 
Hain's majority, 116. 

Surveyor — William Brown, Whig, 1,096; Simeon C. Starr, Democrat, 
983. Brown's majority, 113. 

County Treasurer — Peter Doty, Whig, 751; Richard Wilson, Democrat, 
1,403. Wilson's majority, 652. 

County Commissioner — Richard House, Whig, 1,055; Michael Jacoby, 
Democrat, 973. House's majority, 82. 

Coroner — Olney R. Stone, Whig, 931; Strother R. Hord, Democrat, 
1,123. Hord's majority, 192. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 321 

ELECTION OCTOBER 8, 1844. 

Governor — David Tod, Democrat, 1,415; Mordecai Bart ley, Whig, 
1,438; Leicester King, Free Soil, 86. Bartley's majority, 18. 

Congressman — Jacob Brinkerboff, Democrat, 1,416; William McLaugh- 
lin, Independent, 1,431. McLaughlin's majority, 15. , 

Senator — Hiram F. Randolph, Democrat, 1,440; Thomas W. Powell, 
Whig, 1,414. Randolph's majority, 20. 

Representative — William Hanna, Democrat, 1,435; James B. Shaw, 
Whig, 1,429. Hanna's majority, 6. 

County Auditor — Peter Beerbower, Democrat, 1,444, John Merrill, 
Whig, 1,424. Beerbower's majority, 20. 

County Commissioner — John Uncapher, Democrat, 1,428; Isaac Mouser, 
Whig, 1,415. Uncapher' s majority, 13. 

ELECTION NOVEMBER 1, 1844. 

President— James K. Polk, Democrat, ; Henry, Clay, Whig, . 

ELECTION OCTOBER 14, 1845. 

Representative — George H. Busby, Democrat, 1,039; James B. Sbaw, 
Whig, 1,303; Allen McNeal, Free Soil, 57. Shaw's majority, 264. 

Sheriff— Strother Hord, Democrat, 1,095; John Shunk, Whig, 1,138. 
Shunk's majority, 43 

County Treasurer — Richard Wilson, Democrat, 1,428; Walter Braden, 
Whig, 92. Wilson's majority, 1,336. 

County Commissioner — Thomas Parr, Democrat, 1,049; Hugh V. Smith, 
Whig, 1,053; Alfred Breece, Free Soiler, 80. 

Prosecuting Attorney — William Robbins, Democrat, 996; James H. 
Godman, Whig, 1,154. Godman's majority, 158. 

Coroner — George A. Uncapher, Democrat, 1,101; James Coffy, Whig, 
1,024. Uncapher's majority, 77. 

Subscription of $100,000 to the Bellefontaine & Indiana Railroad — 
For, 1,540; against, 423. Majority for, 1,117. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 13, 1846. 

Governor— David 'Tod, Democrat, 1.120; W T illiam Bebb, Whig, 991; 
Samuel Lewis, Free Soil, 99. Tod's majority, 129. 

Congressman — John K. Miller, Democrat, 1,151; Columbus Delano, 
Whig, 989; Allen McNeal, Free Soil, 85. Miller's majority, 162. 

Senator — Francis Howe, 1,112; Samuel Kelly, 1,184; James Peaseley, 
75. Kelly's majority, 72. 

Representative — T. B. JFisher, Whig, 1,104; George M. Clark, Demo- 
crat, 1,194; James A. Barnes, Free Soil, 72. Clark's majority, 90. 

County Auditor — Peter Beerbower, Democrat, 1,136; Orren Patten, 
Whig, 1,019. Beerbower's majority, 17. 

County Commissioner — William Hanna, Democrat, 1,153; Joel Myers, 
Whig, 986; Richard Hammond, Free Soil, 66. 

Recorder — Henry Hain, Democrat, 1,109; Curtis Allen, Whig, 1,001; 
Nathan Taber, Free Soil, 79. Hain's majority, 8. 

Surveyor — Isaac S. Young, Democrat, 1,072; William Brown, Whig, 
1,067; Thomas Sharp, Free Soil, 76. Young's majority, 5. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 12, 1847. 

Representative — Albert Mc Wright, Democrat, 1,210; James M. Briggs, 
Whig, 1,018. Mc Wright's majority, 192. 



322 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

County Treasurer — William H. Wallace, Whig, 914; Richard Wilson, 
Democrat, 1,232. Wilson's majority, 298. 

Sheriff— David Epler, Democrat, 1,160; John Shunk, Whig, 952. 
Epler's majority, 208. 

County Commissioner — John Uncapher, 'Democrat, 1,160; John Ault, 
Whig, SOI; Archibald Brownlee, Free Soil, 58. Uncapher's majority, 
299/ 

Prosecuting Attorney — William Bobbins, Democrat, 1,083; James H. 
Godman, Whig. 991. Robbins' majority, 92. 

Coroner— Henry Parcell, Democrat, 1,076; James Coffey, Whig, 900; 
Asa Mosher, Free Soil, 102. Parcell's majority. 176. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 10, 1848. 

Governor — Seabury Ford, Whig, 1,302; John B. Weller, Democrat, 
1,460. Weller's majority, 158. 

Representative — John Cassel, Democrat, 1,353; Josiah S. Copeland, 
Whig, 1,248. Cassel' s majority, 105. 

Congressman— Jacob Brinkerhoff, Democrat, 1,229; John M. Miller, 
Whig, 1,346. Miller's majority, 117. 

County Auditor — William H. Wallace, Whig, 949; L. Van Buskirk, 
Democrat, 1,055. Van Buskirk's majority, 106. 

County Commissioner — William Thew, Whig, 872; Lewis Topliff, 
Whig, 1,024; Hiram Knowles, Democrat, 1,032; George Court, Democrat, 
1,013. 

Surveyor — Amos C. Wilson, Whig, 648; Elijah Diz, Democrat, 879; 
Hugh W. Ross, Independent, 454. Dix's majority, 231. 

Coroner — Christian Martin, Democrat, 892; James Rainey, Whig, 
1,065; Rainey's majority, 173. 

ELECTION NOVEMBER 8, 1848. 

President— Lewis Cass, Democrat, 1,072; Zacbary Taylor, Whig, 869; 
M. Van Buren, Free Soil. 66. Cass' majority, 203. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 9, 1849. 

Senator — W T illiam Lawrence, Whig, 1,086; William Thomas, Democrat, 
1,165. Thomas' majority, 79. 

Representative — J. S. Copeland, Whig, 1,064; J. R, Knapp, Jr., 
Democrat, 1,286. Knapp's majority, 222. 

Sheriff— David Epler, 1,218. No opposition. 

County Treasurer— Richard Patten, Whig, 671; Richard Wilson, Demo- 
crat, 1,112. Wilson's majority, 441. 

Prosecuting Attorney— Peleg BuDker, Whig, 761; John Bartram, 
Democrat, 1,000. Bartram's majority, 239. 

County Commissioner — Isaac Halderman, Whig, 796; Thomas Parr, 
Democrat, 918. 

Recorder — Charles Irmer, Democrat, 671; Henry Hain, Democrat, 
1,078. Hain's majority, 407. 

Convention— For, 1,610; against, 184. Majority for, 1,426. 

ELECTION APRIL 1, 1850. 

Senatorial Delegate to Convention — Otway Curry, 1,096; William Gell- 
er, 1,243. Geller's majority, 147. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 323 

Representative Delegate to Convention — Richard Wilson, 1,386; C. S. 
Hamilton,* 1,029. Wilson's majority, 633. 

June 17, 1850, the State adopted the new constitution by 125,564 votes, 
againt 102,976 in opposition; and at the same time gave 104,255 votes for 
license and 113,239 against it. In this contest, Marion County gave 945 
votes for the constitution, 725 against it; and 1,054 in favor of license and 
545 against it. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 8, ] 850. 

Governor — Reuben Wood, Democrat, 929; William Johnston, Whig, 
731; Edward Smith, Free Soil, 64. Wood's majority, 198. 

Congressman — George H. Busby, Democrat, 886; Thomas H. Ford, 
Whig, 703. Busby's majority, 183. 

Representative — Joseph Bain, Democrat, 884; Philander B. Cole, Whig, 
757. Bain's majority, 127. 

County Auditor — Peter Beerbower, Democrat, 867; Ebenezer Peters, 
Whig, 901. Peters' majority, 34. 

County Commissioner — John Uncapher, Democrat, 883; Samuel L. 
Johnson, Whig, 890. Johnson's majority, 7. 

Coroner — James Chard, Democrat, 928; Levi Irey, Whig, 837. Chard's 
majority, 91. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 14, 1851. 

Governor — Samuel F. Vinton, Whig, 850; Reuben Wood, Democrat, 
1,127. Wood's majority, 277. 

Senator — John J. Williams. Whig, 736: Richard Wilson, Democrat, 
1,226. Wilson's majority, 490. 

Common Pleas Judge — William Lawrence, Whig, 887; B. F. Metcalf, 
Democrat, 1,090. Metcalf s majority, 203. 

Representative — Joseph Bryant, Whig, 832; Joseph W. Larabee, 
Democrat, 1,093. Larabee's majority, 161. 

Probate Judge — George Snyder, Democrat, 1,153. 

County Clerk — Robert F. Gray, Democrat, 758; J. R. Knapp, Jr., 
Democrat, 1,111. Knapp's majority, 353. 

County Treasurer — Alexander Sharp, Democrat, 1,204. 

Sheriff — Robert King, 917; Simeon C. Starr, 1,028. Starr's majority, 
111. 

Prosecuting Attorney- -John E. Davids, Whig, 777; S. H. Bartram, 
Democrat, 966. Bartram's majority, 189. 

County Commissioner — Philip Hubbard, Whig, 871; Martin Barnhart, 
Democrat, 1,099. Barnhart's majority, 228. 

Surveyor — J. Cunningham, Whig, 850; Elijah Dix, Democrat, 849; 
Hugh W. Ross, Independent, 247. Cunningham's majority, 1. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 12, 1852. 

Supreme Judge — William B. Caldwell, Democrat, 1,143; Daniel A. 
Haynes, Whig, 853. Caldwell's majority, 290. 

Congressman — Fred W. Green, Democrat, 1,187. No opposition. 

County Auditor — Henry Hain, Democrat, 1,064; Ebenezer Peters, W^hig, 
894; Joel D. Butler, Free Soil, 22. Hain's majority, 170. 

Recorder — James H. Barker, Democrat, 1,058, George R. Stanton, 
Whig, 923. Barker's majority, 135. 

County Commissioner — Smith Frame. Democrat, 1,423. No opposi- 
tion. 

♦Elected by aid of Union County. 



324 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Coroner — James Chard, Democrat, 1,104; Samuel Powell, Whig, 871. 
Chard's majority, 233. 

ELECTION NOVEMBER 3, 1852. 

President— Franklin Pierce, Democrat, 1,250; Winh'eld Scott, Whig, 
942; John P. Hale, Abolitionist, 78. Pierce's majority, 308. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 11, 1853. p 

Governor— William Medill, Democrat, 1,044; Nelson Barrere, Whig, 
594; Samuel Lewis, Free Soil, 354. Medill's majority, 450. 

Senator — George H. Busby, Democrat, 1,120; William Lawrence, Whig, 
741. Busby's majority, 385. 

Representative — John Bartram, Democrat, 779; Ebenezer Peters, Inde- 
pendent, 885; Robert Hopkins, Free Soil, 150. Peters' majority, 100. 

County Treasurer— Alex Sharp, Democrat, 1,215; Moses M. Hubbard, 
Whig, 038. Sharp's majority, 577. 

Sheriff — S. C. Starr, Democrat, 971; S. A. Griswold, Independent, 870. 
Starr's majority, 95. 

Prosecuting Attorney — J. F. Hume, Democrat, 1,312. No opposition. 

County (Jommissioner — John Naylor, Democrat, 1,035; S. L. Johnson, 
Independent, 795. Naylor's majority, 240. 

Surveyor — Hugh W. Ross, Democrat, 120. No opposition. * 

ELECTION OCTOBER 10, 1854. 

Supreme Judge — Shepard F. Norris, Democrat, 007; Joseph R. Swan, 
Whig, 1,043, Swan's majority, 370. 

Congressman — Josiah S. Plants, Democrat, 050; C. K. Watson, 1,041. 
Watson's majority, 391. 

Probate Judge — George H. Busby, Democrat, 583; George Snyder, 
Democrat, 1,111. Snyder's majority, 528. 

Clerk of the Court— J. R. Knapp, Jr., Democrat, 003; J. R. Garberson, 
Whig, 1,047. Garberson' s majority, 384. 

County Auditor — Richard Wilson, Democrat, 732; S. A. Griswold, 
Whig, 903. Griswold's majority, 231. 

County Commissioner — John Rosencrans, Democrat, 098; M. Barnhart, 
Whig, 953. Barnhart's majority, 255. 

Coroner — Elijah K. Corbin, Democrat, 028; J. S. Gosshorn, Whig, 
1,051. Gosshorn's majority, 423. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 9, 1855. 

Governor— Salmon P. Chase, Whig, 1,220; William Medill, Democrat, 
1,108; Allen Trimble, Free Soil, 16. Chase's majority, 52. 

Senator — C. S. Hamilton, Whig, 1,246; A. S. Ramsey, Democrat. 1,173. 
Hamilton's majority, 73. 

Representative— John F. Hume, American, 1,213; George Beckley, 
Democrat, 1,196. Hume's majority, 17. 

County Treasurer — Isaac Uncapher, Whig, 1,191; A. D. Matthews, 
Democrat, 1,220. Matthews' majority, 29. 

Sheriff— John Reed, Whig, 1,207; John D. Guthery, Democrat, 1,206. 
Reed's majority, 1. 

Recorder — John C. Berry, Whig, 1,194; James H. Barker, Democrat, 
1,226. Barker's majority, 32. 

Prosecuting Attorney— J. H. Anderson, Whig, 1,210; E. H. Hull, Demo- 
crat, 1,179. Anderson's majority, 37. ., 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 325 

County Commissioner — Newton Messenger, Whig, 1,214; Smith Frame, 
Democrat, 1,191. Messenger's majority, 23. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 14, 1856. 

Judge of Supreme Court, full term — Ruf us P. Ranney, Democrat, 1,226; 
Josiah Scott, Republican, 1,359. Scott's majority, 133. 

Judge of Supreme Court, to fill vacancy — C. W. Searle, Democrat, 
1,229; Ozias Bowen, Republican, 1,318. Bowen's majority, 89. 

Common Pleas Judge — Ben. F. Metcalf, Democrat, 1,241; William 
Lawrence, Republican, 1,341. Lawrence's majority, 100. 

Congressman — L. W. Hall, Democrat, 1,229; Cooper K. Watson, Re 
publican, 1,342. Watson's majority, 1.13. 

County Auditor — Alex Sharp. Democrat, 1,229; S. A. Griswold, Repub- 
lican, 1,355. Griswold' s majority, 126. 

County Commissioner — J. C. Lee, Democrat, 1,222; William E. Clark, 
Republican, 1,358. 

Poor-House Directors — Abraham Cox, Republican, 1,350; Abel Martin, 
Republican, 1,354; William Conkright, Republican, 1,363; John Rosen - 
crans, Democrat, 1,220; J. J. Wottring, Democrat, 1,210; Isaac P. Guth- 
ery, Democrat, 1,240. 

The first three were elected. 

Surveyor — George Beckley, Democrat, 1,226; Hugh W. Ross, Repub- 
lican, 1,280. Ross' majority, 54. 

Coroner — Charles White, Jr., Democrat, 1,217; P. K. Francis, Repub- 
lican, 1,359. Francis' majority, 132. 

Bank Charter— For, 1,606; against, 579. Majority for, 1,027. 

ELECTION NOVEMBER 4, 1856. 

President — James Buchanan, Democrat, 1,285; John C. Fremont, Re- 
publican, 1,378; Millard Fillmore, American, 5. Fremont's majority, 93. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 13, 1857. 

Governor — Salmon P. Chase, Republican, 1,335; Henry B. Payne, 
Democrat, 1,312. Chase's majority, 23. 

Senator — C. H. Gatch, Republican, 1,341; Joseph Newell, Democrat, 
1,307. Gatch's majority, 34. 

Representative— Joshua Copeland, Republican, 1,293; Richard Wilson, 
Democrat, 1,351. Wilson's majority, 58. 

County Treasurer — James F. Mounts, Republican, 1,278; A. D. Mat- 
thews, Democrat, 1,361. Matthew's majority, 83. 

Sheriff — William B. Lewis, Republican, 1,336; John D. Guthery, 
Democrat, 1,307. Lewis' majority, 29. 

County Clerk— John R. Garberson, Republican, 1,348; W. E. Scofield, 
Democrat, 1,296. Garberson's majority, 52. 

Probate Judge — George Snyder, Republican, 1,336; Harry Hain, Demo- 
crat, 1,301. Snyder's majority, 35. 

County Commissioner — Jacob J. Idleman, Republican, 1,328; Charles 
Owen, Democrat, 1,316. Idleinan's majority, 12. 

Prosecuting Attorney — James H. Auderson, Republican, 1,289; A. Os- 
borne, Democrat, 1,310. Osborne's majority, 51. 

Infirmary Director — Abraham Cox, Republican, 1,319; George A. Unca- 
pher, Democrat. 1,323. Uncapher's majority, 4. 



326 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 12, 1858. 

Supreme Judge — "William V. Peck, Republican, 1,330; Thomas W. 
Bartley, Democrat, 1,251. Peck's majority, 79. 

Congressman — John Carey, Republican, 1,371; L. W. Hall, Democrat, 
1,200. Carey's majority, 171. 

County Auditor — L. F. Raichley, Republican, 1,314; George H. Busby, 
Democrat, 1,236. Raichley 's majority, 78. 

Recorder — N. C. Mitchell, Republican, 1,305; Philip Dombaugh, 
Democrat, 1,267. Mitchell's majority, 38. 

County Commissioner — Noah Gillespie, Republican, 1,295; William R. 
Morris, Democrat, 1,260. Gillespie's majority, 35. 

Infirmary Director— Jacob R. Neff, Republican, 1,338; Lewis Gunn, 
Democrat, 1,231. Nell's majority, 107. 

Coroner — William B. Davis, Republican, 1,311; Albert H. Brown, 
Democrat, 1,230. Davis' majority, 81. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 11, 1859. 

Governor — Rufus P. Ranney, Democrat, 1,391; William Dennison, 
Republican, 1,338. Ranney' s majority, 53. 

Senator — S. G. Hoge, Democrat, 1,316; T. B. Fisher, Republican, 
1,349. Fisher's majority, 3. 

Representative — Richard Wilson, Democrat, 1,341; John A. Carter, 
Republican, 1,363. Carter's majority, 22. 

County Treasurer — John King, Democrat, 1,396; James Powell, Re- 
publican, 1,306. King's majority, 90. 

Sheriff — David Epler, Democrat, 1,320; William Lewis, Republican, 
1,315. Epler' s majority. 5. 

Prosecuting Attorney — Addison Osborne, Democrat, 1,361; J. H. An- 
derson, Republican, 1,237. Osborne's majority, 124. 

County Commissioner — Thomas Harvey, Democrat, 1,419; E. Messen- 
ger, Republican, 1,269. Harvey's majority, 141. 

Surveyor — E. Trumbo, Democrat, 1,414; John Cunningham, Republi- 
can, 1,276. Trumbo's majority, 138. 

Iniirmary Director — Henry Hain, Democrat, 1,377; William Conkright, 
Republican, 1,329. Hain's majority, 48. 

Coroner — George Hineman, Democrat, 1,325; Little, Republican, 

1,365. Little's majority, 40. 

Annual Session of the Legislature — For, 410; against, 2,319. Majority 
against, 1,909. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 9, 1860. 

Supreme Judge — Thomas J. S. Smith, Democrat, 1,635; Jacob Brink- 
erhoff, Republican, 1,478. Smith's majority, 157. 

Congressman — Warren P. Noble, Democrat, 1,614; John Carey, Repub- 
lican, 1,508. Noble's majority, 106. 

County Auditor — William'Crickett, Democrat, 1,615; L. F. Raichley, 
Republican, 1,487. Crickett's majority, 128. 

County Clerk— Philip Dombaugh, Democrat, 1,640; J. W. C. Bryant, 
Republican, 1.470. Dombaugh' s majority, 170. 

Probate Judge— George Gray, Democrat, 1,619; Isaac N. Shepherd, 
Republican, 1,489. Gray's majority, 130. 

County Commissioner — John Rosencrans, Democrat, 1,623; Archibald 
Riddle, Republican, 1,485. Rosencrans' majority, 138. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNT V. 827 

Infirmary Director — Joseph Court, Democrat, 1,660; Addison Tavenner. 
Republican, 1,480. Court's majority, 180. 

ELECTION NOVEMBER 6, 1860. 

President — A. Lincoln, Republican; S A. Douglas, Democrat; J. C. 
Breckenridge, Democrat; John Bell, American. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 8, 1861. 

Governor — David Tod, Republican, 1,616; Hugh J. Jewett, Democrat, 
1,479. Tod's majority, 137. 

Common Pleas Judge — William Lawrence, Republican, 1,614; James 
Kernan, Democrat, 1,481. Lawrence's majority, 133. 

State Senator — Johu Hood, Republican, 1,622; A. Osborne, Democrat, 
1,466. Hood's majority, 156. 

Representative — John Barfcram, 1,598; A. D. Matthews, Democrat, 
1,486. Bartram's majority, 112. 

County Treasurer — A. D. Woolley, Republican, 1,602; John King, 
Democrat, 1,486. Woolley's majority, 116. 

Sheriff — William F. Harvey, Republican, 1,624; David Epler, Demo- 
crat, 1,449. Harvey's majority, 175. 

Recorder — H M. Ault, Republican, 1,620: T. H. Hodder, Democrat, 
1,440. Ault's majority, 180. 

Prosecuting Attorney— Ozias Bowen, Republican, 1,604; H. T. Van 
Fleet, Democrat, 1,465. Bowen's majority, 139. 

County Commissioner — Jacob F. Martin, Republican, 1, 606; Eben 
Lewis, Democrat, 1,483. Martin's majority, 123. 

Infirmary Director — Silas Idleman, Republican, 1,615; Job n Barnhart, 
Democrat, 1,478. Idleman's majority, 137. 

Coroner — Peter W. Lee, Republican; E. K. Corbin, Democrat. 

ELECTION OCTOBER, 1862. 

Judge of Supreme Court — Rufus P. Ranney, Democrat, 1,481; Thomas 
Backus, Union, 1,098. Ranney's majority, 383. 

Congressman — James H. Godman, Union, 1,102; William Johnston, 
Democrat, 1,472. Johnston's majority, 370. 

Auditor — William Cricket, Democrat, 1,483; L. F. Raichley, Republi- 
can, 1,070. Cricket's majority, 413. 

County Commissioner — William R. Morris, Democrat, 1,488 ; 

Thew, Republican, 1,080. Morris' majority, 403. 

Surveyor — E. Trombo, Democrat, 1,474; John Cunningham, Republi- 
can, 1,088. Trombo's majority, 386. 

Infirmary Director — Henry Hain, Democrat, 1,46S; Anderson, 

Republican, 1,103. Hain's majority, 365. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 13, 1863. 

Governor — John Brough, Republican, 1,719; C. L. Vallandigham, 
Democrat, 1,655. Brough's majority, 64. 

Senator — William H. West, Republican, 1,676; Henry T. Van Fleet, 
Democrat, 1,657. West's majority, 19. 

Representative — Everett Messenger, Republican, 1,670; Peyton Hord, 
Democrat, 1,646. Messenger's majority, 24. 

Probate Judge— Georg9 Snyder, Republican, 1,655; George Gray, 
Democrat, 1,670. Gray's majority, 15. 



328 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Clerk of the Court — P. Dombaugh, Democrat, 1,650; Jacob R. Harsh- 
berger. Republican, 1,(314. Dombaugh' s majority. 36. 

County Treasurer — Isaac Young, Democrat, 1,682; Andrew D. Woolley, 
Republican, 1,648. Young's majority, 34. 

Prosecuting Attorney — Ozias Bowen, Republican, 1,638; N. M. Run- 
yan, Democrat, 1,656. Runyan's majority, 18 

Sheriff— William B. Lewis, Republican, 1,661; Samuel Berry, Demo- 
crat, 1,659. Lewis' majority, 2. 

County Commissioner — William Thew, Republican, 1,645; Ro3en- 

cranse, Democrat, 1,658. Rosencranse's majority. 13. 

Infirmary Director — Jacob Kreis, Republican, 1,604; Court, Demo 

crat, 1.672. Court's majority, 68. 

Coroner — James C. Rhodes, Republican, 1,651; Allen, Democrat, 

1,664. Allen's majority, 13. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 11, 1864. 

Secretary of State — W. W. Armstrong, Democrat, 387; William H. 
Smith, Union. 

Congressman — William Johnston, Democrat; James R. Hubbell, Union. 

County Auditor — William Cricket, Democrat; John R. Knapp, Jr., 
Union. 

Recorder — George B. Merchant, Democrat; Hiram M. Ault, Union. 

County Commissioner — William E. Clark, Democrat; John G. Roads, 
Union. 

Infirmary Director — Smith Frame, Democrat; Robert Hopkins, Jr., 
Union. 

ELECTION NOVEMBER 8, 1864. 

President — A. Lincoln, Republican. 387; G. B. McClellan, Democrat, 
340. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 10, 1865. 

Governor — George W. Morgan, Democrat, 1,657; Jacob D. Cox, Union, 
1,460. Morgan's majority, 197. 

Common Pleas Judge — Hugh Thompson, Democrat, 1,655; Conk- 

lin, Union, 1,449. Thompson's majority, 206. 

Senator — Alex. S. Ramsey, Democrat, 1,656; Philander B. Cole, Union 
1,463. Ramsey's majority, 193. 

Representative — John Rosencrans, Democrat, 1,639; Everett Messenger, 
Union, 1,476. Rosencrans' majority, 163. 

Sheriff — Samuel H. Berry, Democrat, 1,642; Levi Bair, Union, 1,452. 
Berry's majority, 190. 

Treasurer — Isaac Young, Democrat, 1,655; Joseph E. Crow, Union, 
1,465. Young's majority, 190. 

Prosecuting Attorney — Noah M. Runyan, Democrat, 1,624; William Z. 
Davis, Union, 1,463. Runyan's majority, 161. 

County Commissioner — Samuel Waddel, Democrat, 1,639; Hannibal 
Irey, Union, 1,482. Waddel' s majority, ]57. 

Infirmary Director — A. P. Johnson. Democrat, 1,652; William W. Conk- 
right, 1,468. Johnson's majority, 184. 

Surveyor — George Beckley, Democrat, 1,659; John Cunningham, 1,454. 
Beckley's majority, 205. 

Coroner — B. F. Allen, Democrat, 1,956; Charles Clendenen, 1,459. 
Allen's majority, 197. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 329 

ELECTION OCTOBER 9, 1806. 

Secretary of State — Benjamin Le Fever, Democrat, 1,679; William H. 
Smith, Union, 1,523. Le Fever's majority, 156. 

Congressman — William P. Beid, Democrat, 1,676; C. S. Hamilton, Un- 
ion, 1,523. Reid's majority, 153. 

County Auditor — Richard Wilson, Democrat, 1,686; John R. Garber- 
son, Union, 1,502. Wilson's majority, 184. 

Common Pleas Judge — Jacob S. Concklin. 

Probate Judge — George H. Busby, Democrat, 1,662: Robert Hopkins, 
1,528. Busby's majority, 134. 

Clerk of the Court — Philip Dombaugh, Democrat, 1,671; Robert 
King, 1,517. Dombaugh' s majority, 154. 

County Commissioner — Isaac F. Guthary, Democrat, 1,651; John Rayl, 
1,522. Guthery's majority, 129. 

Infirmary Director — John B. Andrew, Democrat, 1,681; John Brun- 
dage, 1,519. Andrew's majority, 162. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 8, 1867. 

Governor — R. B. Hayes, Republican, 1,377; A. G. Thurman, Democrat, 
1,953. Thurman's majority, 576. 

Senator — Luther Smith, Democrat; Solomon Kraner. 

Representative — Joshua Copeland, Republican, 1,371; Peyton Hord, 
Democrat, 1,922. Hord's majority, 551. 

County Treasurer —George Diegle, Democrat, 1,841; Robert Hopkins, 
Republican, 1,465. Diegle's majority, 376. 

Recorder — Benjamin F. Stahl, Democrat, 1,817; S. S. Beerbower, Re- 
publican, 1,482. Stahl's majority, 335. 

Sheriff — H. H. Cunningham, Democrat, 1,822; Thomas Pi erson, Repub- 
lican, 1,464. Cunningham's majority, 358. 

Prosecuting Attorney — H. T. Van Fleet, Democrat, 1,818; Ozias Bowen, 
Republican. 1,455. Van Fleet's majority, 363. 

County Commissioner — Robert Hill, Democrat, 1,942; M. McKinstry, 
Republioan, 1,372. Hill's majority, 570. 

Infirmary Director — Michael A. Metz, Democrat, 1,951; John Brun- 
dige, Republican, 1,373. Metz' majority, 578. 

Coroner — Daniel Bader, Democrat, 1,945; S. P. Williams, Republican, 
1,383. Bader's majority, 562. 

Negro Suffrage — For, 1,160; against 2,046. Majority against, 886. 

ELECTION APRIL 6, 1868. 

Common Pleas Judge — James Pillars, 1,520; C. K. Watson, 989; Pill- 
ars' majority, 531. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 13, 1868. 

Secretary of State — Thomas Hubbard, Democrat, 1,941; Isaac R. Sher- 
wood, Republican, 1,457. Hubbard's majority, 484, 

Congressman — John H. Benson, Democrat, 1,943; John Beatty, Repub- 
lican, 1,452. Benson's majority, 491. 

County Auditor— Richard Wilson, Democrat, 1,951; E. Peters, Repub- 
lican, 1,412. Wilson's majority, 539. 

County Commissioner — Joseph Court, Democrat, 1,917; R. G. Boyd, 
Republican, 1,468. Court's majority, 449. 

Surveyor — Emanuel Trombo, Democrat, 1,916; J. Cunningham, 1,453- 
Trombo's majority, 463. 



330 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Infirmary Director — James L. Bell, Democrat, 1,936; William Thew, 
1,458. Bell's majority, 478. 

ELECTION NOVEMBER 3, 1868. 

President — U. S. Grant, Republican, 1,548; H. Seymour, Democrat, 
1,936. Seymour's majority, 388. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 12, 1869. 

Governor — K. B. Hayes, Republican, 1,393; George H. Pendleton, 
Democrat, 1,877. Pendleton's majority, 484. 

Senator — A. S. Piatt, Democrat, 1,882; John Bartram, Republican, 
1,369. Piatt's majority, 513. 

Representative — James W. Devore, Republican, 1,799; Benjamin F. 
Allen, Democrat, 1,386. Devore's majority, 413. 

Clerk of the Court— Philip Dombaugh, Republican, 1,877; Thomas H. 
Hodder, Democrat, 1,257. Dombaugh's majority, 620. 

Probate Judge— J. R. Garberson, Republican, 1,636; Theo A. Cross, 
Democrat, 1,496. Garberson' s major ty, 140. 

Prosecuting Attorney— Caleb H. Norris, Republican, 1,753; Henry T. 
Van Fleet, Democrat, 1,396. Norris' majority, 357. 

Sheriff— H. H. Cunningham, Democrat, 1,684; John Kishler, Republican, 
1,532. Cunningham's majority, 152. 

Treasurer— George Diegle, Democrat, 1,843; Andrew D. Bretz, Repub- 
lican, 1,396. Diegle's majority, 447. 

County Commissioner— Isaac F. Guthery, Democrat, 1,741; John Bain, 
Republican, 1,444. Guthery's majority, 297 

Infirmary Director— John B. Andrew, Democrat, 1,831; Jacob R. Neff, 
Republican, 1,424. Andrew's majority, 407. 

Coroner— Michael Jacoby, Jr., Democrat, 1,843; M. L. Carpenter, Re- 
publican, 1 385. Jacoby's majority, 458. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 11, 1870. 

Secretary of State— William Heisley, Democrat, 1,594; Isaac R. Sher- 
wood, Republican, 1,221. Heisley's majority, 373. 

Congressman— J. R. Hubbell, Democrat, 1,576; John Beatty, Repub- 
lican, 1,212. Hubbell's majority, 364. 

County Auditor— Allen McNeal, 1,215. 

Recorder— B. F. Stahl, Democrat, 1,488; Charles P. Cooper, Repub- 
lican, 1,314. Stahl's majority, 174. 

County Commissioner— Robert Hill, Democrat, 1,564; J. Q. Rhoads, 
Republican, 1,232. Hill's majority, 332. 

Surveyor— Elijah Dix, Democrat, 1,495; J. Cunninghaui, Republican, 
1,215. Dix's majority, 280. 

Infirmary Director— David Kerr, Dftinocrat, 1,562; J. Lykins, Republi- 
can, 1,215. Kerr's majority, 347. 

Continuing the Infirmary*— For, 1,900; against, 538. Majority for, 
1.362. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 10, 1871. 

Governor— Edward F. Noyes, Republican, 1,306; George W. McCook, 
Democrat, 1,879. McCook's majority, 573. 

Common Pleas Judge— A. M. Jackson, Democrat; Mott, Democrat. 

* The government of the Infirmary had been accused of corruption. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 331 

Representative — Richard Lawrence, Republican ; Robert Hill, Democrat. 

County Auditor -Hiram M. Ault, Republican; Samuel E. Hain, Demo- 
crat. 

County Treasurer— James Auld, Jr., Republican; A. D. Matthews, 
Democrat. 

Sheriff- Frank M. Scribner, Republican; John H. Weaver, Democrat. 

County Commissioner — Newton Messenger, Republican; Joseph Court, 
Democrat. 

Prosecuting Attorney — W. Z. Davis, Republican; Caleb H. Norris, 
Democrat. 

Infirmary Director — J. T. Merchant, Democrat; Hartman Dickout, 
Democrat. 

Infirmary Director, to fill vacancy — Luke Lenox, Republican; George 
Retterer, Democrat. 

Corouer — James Coffey, Republican; A. H. Freeman, Democrat. 

Constitutional Convention* — For, 706; against, 0. Majority for, 706. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 8, 1872. 

Secretary of State — Aquila Wiley, Democratic and Liberal Republican. 
1,980; Allen T. Wikoff, Republican, 1,488. Wiley's majority, 492. 

Congressman — George W. Morgan, Democrat and Liberal, 1,995; James 
W. Robinson, Republican, 1,489. Morgan's majority, 506. 

Common Pleas Judge — James Pillars, Democrat, 1,955. No opposi- 
tion. 

Probate Judge — Robert Hopkins, Democrat and Liberal, 1,838; J. R. 
Garberson, Republican, 1,621. Hopkins' majority, 217. 

Commissioner, long term — James M. Harvey, Democrat and Liberal, 
1,961; Valentine Fehl, Republican, 1,491. Harvey's majority, 470. 

Commissioner, short term — Jacob A. Schaaf, Democrat and Liberal, 
1,838; Luke Lennox, Republican, 1,487. Schaaf's majority, 351. 

Clerk of the Court — Philip Dombaugh, Democrat and Liberal, 1,968; 
Alex C. McNutt, Republican, 1,457. Dombaugh's majority, 511. 

Infirmary Directory — Jonathan Bell, Democrat and Liberal, 1,865; Silas 
Idleman, Republican, 1,416. Bell's majority, 449. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 14, 1873. 

Governor — William Allen, Democrat, 1,901; Edward F. Noyes, Repub- 
lican, 1,240; Gideon T. Stewart, Prohibition, 77. Allen's majority, 661. 

Senator — M. C. Lawrence, Democrat, 1,399; Horace Park, Republican, 
1,255; Amos Miller, Prohibition, 72. Lawrence's majority, 144. 

Representative — Robert Hill, Democrat, 1,759; Joshua Copeland, Re- 
publican, 1,309; Barnhart Taylor, Pohibition, 95. Hill's majority, 450. 

Prosecuting Attorney — C. H. Norris, Democrat, 1,932; Thomas C. 
Bowen, Republican, 1,199. Norris' majority, 743. 

Sheriff — John H. Weaver, Democrat, 1,801; Joshua Berry, Republican, 
1,323; John Cocherl, Prohibition, 69. Weaver's majority, 478. 

County Auditor — Samuel E. Hain, Democrat, 1,954; David N. Kem- 
per, Republican, 1,152; William T. Owens, Prohibition, 79. Hain's ma- 
jority, 802. 

Treasurer — A. D. Matthews, Democrat, 2,084; Valentine Fehl, Repub- 
lican, 1,052; Lewis Guud, Prohibition, 71. Matthews' majority, 1,032. 

*Forafull re-coastruction of the Constitution of the State. 



332 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Recorder — Dallas Day, Democrat, 1,698; C. P. Cooper, Republican, 
1,432; V. Lawrence, Prohibition, 70. Day's majority, 206. 

County Commissioner — Samuel C. Dodds, Democrat, 1,907; John W, 
Boyd, Republican, 1,227; G. W. Miller, Prohibition, 75. 

Surveyor — G. B. Christian, Democrat, 1,826; J. Cunningham, Repub- 
lican, 1,238. Christian's majority, 58 S. 

Infirmary Director — George Retterer, Democrat, 1,904; Addison Tav- 
enw, Republican, 1.239; Jacob Free, Prohibition, 70. Retterer's majority, 
665. 

Coroner — John Jones, Democrat, 1,907; R. W. Smith, Republican, 
1,234: AYilliam Broklesby, Prohibition, 76. Jones' majority, 673. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 13, 1874. 

Secretary of State— William Bell, Democrat, 1,719; Allen T. Wikoff, 
Republican, 1,145. Bell's majority. 574. 

Congressman — E. T. Poppleton, Democrat, 1,702; J. W. Robinson, Re- 
publican, 1,169. Poppleton's majority, 523. 

County Commissioner — Jacob A. Schaaf, Domocrat, 1,729; C. H. Pretty- 
man, Republican, 1,102; Charles Owen, 38. Schaaf s majority, 627, 

Common Pleas Judge — Thomas Beer, Democrat, 1,719; Josiah Scott, 
Republican, 1,151. Beer's majority, 568. 

Infirmary Director— J. A. Mouser; William P. Thew, Republican, 
1,125; Hartman Dichout, Democrat, 1,716. Dichout's majority, 591. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 12, 1875. 

Governor — William Allen, Democrat, 2,306; Rutherford B. Hayes, Re- 
publican, 1,534; Jay Odell, Prohibition, 48. Allen's majority, 772. 

Representative — John D. Guthery, Democrat, 2,295; John R. Garber- 
son, Republican, 1,516: J. A. Mouser, Prohibition, 46. Guthery's major- 
ity, 779. 

Coroner— Calvin P. Gailey, Democrat, 2,345; Joseph Oborn, Repub- 
lican, 1,479; W. W. Haley, Prohibition, 49. Gailey' s majority, 866. 

Clerk of the Court — Amaziah H. Hord, Democrat, 2,164; F. C. Ruehr- 
mund, Republican, 1.654; U. K. Guthery, Prohibition, 53. Hord's major- 
ity, 510. 

Probate Judge — Robert Hopkins, Democrat, 2,348; C. M. Stockwell, 
Republican, 1,462; Lewis Gunn, Prohibition, 54. Hopkins' majority, 
886. 

Prosecuting Attorney— Caleb H. Norris, Democrat, 2,347; J. F. McNeal, 
Republican, 1,474. Norris' majority, 873. 

Sheriff — Silas A. Guthrie, Democrat, 2,297; Charles L. Patten, Repub- 
lican, 1,505; J. L. Wilson, Prohibition, 48. Guthrie's majority, 792. 

County Auditor — James L. Bell, Democrat, 2,140; James H. Leonard, 
Republican, 1,641; W. T. Owen, Prohibition, 54. Bell's majority, 499. 

County Treasurer — Peter Beerbower, Democrat, 2,316; Silas Idleman, 
Republican, 1,484; George Lawrence, Prohibition, 49. Beerbower's ma- 
jority, 832. 

County Commissioner — James M. Harvey, Democrat, 2,226; William 
Brocklesby, Jr., Republican, 1,545; Charles Owen, Prohibition, 50. Har- 
vey's majority, 681. 

Infirmary Director — Jonathan Bell, Democrat, 2,272; Everett Messen- 
ger, Republican, 1,553; G. W. Miller, Prohibition, 58. Bell's majority, 
719. 






<2^c 




HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 335 

ELECTION OCTOBER 10, 1876. 

Secretary of State — William Bell, Jr., Democrat, 2,467; Miltun Barnes, 
Republican, 1,788; E. S. Chapman, Prohibition, 26. Bell's majority, 679. 

Congressman— Early F. Poppleton, Democrat, 2,461; John S. Jones, 
Republican, 1,795; Levi S. Benson, Prohibition, 22. Poppleton's major- 
ity, 666. 

Judge of the Common Pleas Court — Thomas Beer, 2,459. 

Recorder — Dallas Day, Democrat, 2,540; Charles A. Shields, Repub- 
lican, 1,693; B. F. Waples, Prohibition, 32. Day's majority, 847. 

County Commissioner — Hiram Knowles, Democrat, 2,368; Robert W. 
Watkins, Republican, 1,839; George Lawrence, Prohibition, 33. Knowles' 
majority, 529. 

Surveyor — George Beckloy, Democrat, 2,476; Wiliiam J. Idleman, Re- 
publican, 1,757; T. M. Mouser, Prohibition, 30; John Cunningham, 7. 
Beckley's majority, 719. 

Infirmary Director — George Retterer, Democrat, 2,450; William B. 
Patten, Republican, 1,773; T. T. Rathel, Prohibition, 29. Retterer's ma- 
jority, 677. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 9, 1877. 

Governor — William H. West, Republican, 1,534; Richard M. Bishop, 
Democrat, 2,252; Henry A. Thompson, Prohibition, 49. Bishop's majoritv, 
718. 

Senator — Hylas Sabine, Republican, 1,504; John J. Hopkins, Demo- 
crat, 2,328; J. R. Smith, Prohibition, 4. Hopkins' majority, S24. 

Representative — John Bain, Republican, 1,539; John D. Guthery, 
Democrat, 2,248; F. M. Stone, Prohibition, 36. Guthery's majority, 709. 

Judge of the Common Pleas Court — Jacob F. Burket, Republican, 
1,542; Henry H. Dodge, Democrat, 2,273. Dodge's majority, 731. 

Prosecuting Attorney — J. N. Abston, Republican, 1,736; B. G. Young, 
Democrat, 1,964. Abston's majority, 22S. 

Sheriff — S. N. Titus, Republican, 1,477; Silas A. Guthrie, Democrat, 
2,325; George Miller, -Prohibition, 40. Guthrie's majority, 848. 

County Auditor — Thomas R. Shinn, Republican, 1,491; James L. Bell, 
Democrat, 2,284; W. T. Owens, Prohibition, 39. Bell's majority, 793. 

Co an ty Treasurer — Silas Idleman, Republican, 1,475; Peter Beerbower, 
Democrat, 2,290; Samuel Wootz, Prohibition, 38. Beerbower's majority, 
815. 

County Commissioner — James Morrow, Republican, 1,558; Jacob A. 
Schaaf, Democrat, 2,183; George Lawrence, Prohibition, 42. Schaaf's 
majority, 625. 

Infirmary Director — John Q. Roads, Republican, 1,614; John O'Regan, 
Democrat, 2,105; Lewis Gunn, Prohibition, 1 43. O'Regau's majority, 
491. 

Coroner — William S. Drake, Republican, 1,502; Calvin P. Gailey, 
Democrat, 2,287; J. A. Mouser, Prohibition, 45. Gailey's majority, 785. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 8, 1878. 

Secretary of State — Milton Barnes, Republican, 1,770: David R. 
Paige, Democrat, 2,196; J. N. Robinson, 46; Andrew Roy, 61. Paige's 
majority, 426. 

Congressman- - Ebenezer B. Finley, Democrat, 2,130; Charles Foster, 
Republican, 1,850; M. Deal, 34; O. C. Brown, 59. Finley's majority, 
2S0. 

H 



836 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Clerk of the Court — Amaziah H. Hord, Democrat, 2,260; Samuel H. 
Gast, Republican, 1,716; Smith Woodcock, 53. Hord's majority, 544. 

Probate Judge — John N. Matthews, Democrat, 2,163; F. C. Ruehr- 
mund, Republican, 1,832; G. W. Miller, 46. Matthews' majority, 331. 

Couuty Commissioner — Samuel Mehaffey, Democrat, 1,908; John J. 
Hane, Republican, 2,114; Lewis Gunu, Prohibition, 29. Hane's majority, 
206. , 

Surveyor — Isaac Young, Democrat, 2,265; Francis M. Bain, Republican, 
1,762; F. M. Bain, Prohibition, 36. Young's majority, 503. 

Infirmary Director — Joseph Mason, |Democrat, 2,001; Jacob F. Sifritt, 
Republican, 1,888; W. AY. Haley, Prohibition, 52. Mason's majority, 113. 

Coroner — John M. Christian, Democrat, 2,246; W. B. Marshall, Re- 
publican, 1,743; F. M. Stone, Prohibition, 46. Christian's majority, 503. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 14, 1879. 

Governor — Charles Foster, Republican, 2,032; Thomas Ewing, Demo- 
crat, 2,778. G. T. Stewart, 39; A. S. Piatt, 41. Ewing's majority, 746. 

Senator — Luther M. Strong, Republican, 2,033; William S. Goodlove, 
Democrat, 2,784. Goodlove's majority, 751. 

Representative — S. D. Bates, Republican, 2,030; J. J. Hopkins. Demo- 
crat, 2,802; J. A. Mouser, Prohibition. 32. Hopkins' majority, 772. 

Prosecuting Attorney — J. C. Johnston, Republican, 1,895; B. G. Young, 
Democrat, 2.633; J. N. Abston, Prohibition, 285. Young's majority, 738. 

Sheriff — Jacob Young, Republican, 2,166; J. V. Harrison, Democrat, 
2,638; Lewis Gunn, Prohibition, 40. Harrison's majority, 472. 

County Treasurer— D. B. Krause, Republican, 2,171; Julius Strelitz, 
Democrat, 2,610; John Riley, Prohibition, 33. Strelitz' s majority, 439. 

Recorder — Milton Morral, Jr., Republican, 2,055; Solomon H. Rupp, 
Democrat, 2,755; William Haley, Prohibition, 44. Rupp's majority, 700. 

County Commissioner — Jacob F. Apt, Republican, 2,138; Samuel Me- 
haffey, Democrat, 2,682; F. M. Bain, Prohibition, 42. Mehaffey's major- 
ity, 544. 

Infirmary Director — Jacob F. Sifritt, Republican, 2,061; J. P. Unca- 
pher, Democrat, 2,697; Smith Woodcock, Prohibition, 44. Uncapher's 
majority, 636. 

Constitutional Amendment, prohibiting license of saloons — For, 3,016; 
against, 1,278. Majority for, 1,738. 

Constitutional Amendment, relative to the Executive Department — For, 
3,011; against, 1,262. Majority for, 1,749. 

Constitutional Amendment, relating to the judiciary — For, 3,478; 
against, 795. Majority for, 2,683. 

Constitutional Amendment, relating to the election of township officers 
—For, 3,499; against, 899. Majority for, 2,600. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 12, 1880. 

Secretary of State — Charles Townsend, Republican, 2,153; William 
Lang, Democrat, 2,924; Charles A. Lloyd, 7; William H. Doan, Prohibi- 
tion, 25. Lang's majority, 771. 

Congressman — James S. Robinson, Republican, 2,102; Caleb H. Norris, 
Democrat, 2,972; J. A. Mouser, Prohibition, 16. Norris' majority, 870. 

County Auditor — David H. Clifton, Republican, 2,305; Charles Hahn, 
Democrat, 2,757; Daniel Uncapher, Prohibition, 30. Hahn's majority, 
452. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 337 

County Commissioner — Watt Watkins, Republican, 2,341; C. H. 
Cromer, Democrat, 2,724; R. G. Boyd, Prohibition, 27. Cromer's major - 
ity, 383. 

Infirmary Director — Michael Zachman, Republican, 2,258; John 
O'Regan, Democrat, 2,770; Joseph Rubens, Prohibition, 25. O'Reo-an's 
majority. 512. 

Coroner— Oliver W. Weeks, Republican, 2,290; John M. Christian, 
Democrat, 2,770; G. W. Crawford, Prohibition, 21. Christian's maioritv 
480. " 

ELECTION OCTOBER 12, 1881. 

Governor — Charles Foster, Republican, 1,862; J. W. Bookwaiter, Demo- 
crat, 2,589; Abraham Ludlow, Prohibition, 198. Bookwaiter' s maioritv 
727. : ' 

Senator — Luther M. Strong, Republican, 1,86 7; Robert Hill, Democrat, 
2,578. Hill's majority, 711. 

Repi'esentative — Jacob Houser, Republican, 1,942; John F. Hopkins, 
Democrat, 2,494: Justice A. Mouser, Republican, 159. Hopkins' majority 
552. 

Judge of the Common Pleas Court — Thomas Beer, Democrat, • 

Luther M. Strong, Republican, . 

County Treasurer — Jacob F. Martin, Republican, 1,802; Julius Strelitz, 
Democrat, 2,629; Wesley Pugh, Prohibition, 186. Strelitz's majority, 827. 

Probate Judge — Thomas R. Smith, Republican, 1,749; John N. Mat- 
thews, Democrat, 2,710; Robert G. Boyd, Prohibition, 169. Matthews' 
majority, 961. 

Sheriff — C. B. Merchant, Republican, 1,833; J. V. Harrison, Democrat, 
2,620; Lewis Gunn, Prohibition, 164. Harrison's majority, 787. 

Clerk of Courts — Thomas L. Leonard, Republican, 1,766; John H. 
Thomas, Democrat, 2.650; P. R. Snowden, Prohibition, 181. Thomas' ma- 
jority, 884. 

Prosecuting Attorney — John F. McNeal, Republican, 2,176; Stephen A 
Court, Democrat, 2,290. Court's majority, 14. 

County Commissioner — Wilson Imbody, Republican, 2,087; George Ret - 
terer, Democrat, [2,297; Samuel Bolander, Prohibition, 160. Retterer's 
majority, 210. 

Infirmary Director — J. R. D. Morris, Republican, 1,862; Joseph 
Mason, Democrat, 2,574; Coi'nelius Coon, Prohibition, 193. Mason's ma- 
jority, 712. 

Surveyor — W. S. Cunningham, Republican, 1,915; Samuel Bell, Demo- 
crat, 2,552; John H. Bouser (or Houser), Prohibition, 158. Bell's major- 
ity, 537. 

ELECTION OCTOBER 10, 1882. 

Secretary of State — Charles Townsend, Republican, 1,783; James F. 
Newman, Democrat. 2,532; Ferd Schumacher, Prohibition, 143. New- 
man's majority, 749. 

Congressman — James S. Robinson, Republican, 1,800; Thomas E. 
Powell, Democrat, 2,512; W. Boner, Prohibition, 12S. Powell's majoritv 
712. 

Recorder — J. W. Hubbert, Republican, 1,733; S. H. Rupp, Democrat, 
2,572; Robert T. Patten, Prohibition, 142. Rupp's majority, 839. 

Infirmary Director — William Brocklesby, Republican, 1,791; J. P. TJn- 
capher, Democrat, 2,507; A. T. Morrow, Prohibition, 155. Uncapher's 
majority, 716. 



338 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 



County Commissioner — Francis M. Wood, Republican, 1,879; Samuel 

Mahaffey, Democrat, 2,541; Wood, Prohibition, 182. Mahaffey's 

majority, 602. 

Coroner — B. W. Davis, Republican, 1,707; A. B. McMurray, Democrat, 
2,540; Justice A. Mouser, Prohibition, 144. McMurray' s majority, 773. 

The following tables of representatives and officers of Marion County 
are compiled for convenience of reference: 

REPRESENTATIVES IN CONGRESS. 



NAMES. YEARS. 

William Wilson 1823-29 

William Stanbery 18 ?? -3 2 

Jeremiah McLene 1833-37 

Samson Mason 1837-39 

Joseph Ridgway 1839-43 

Jacob Brinkerhoff 1843-47 

John K. -Miller 1847-51 

George H. Busby 1851-53 

Frederick W. Green 1853-55 

Cooper K. Watson 1855-57 

Lawrence W. Hall 1857-59 



NAMES. years. 

John Carey 1859-61 

Warren P. Noble 1861-65 

James R. Hubbell 1865-67 

Cornelius S. Hamilton 1807 — 

John Beatty 1868-73 

James W. Robinson 1873-75 

Early F. Poppleton 1875-77 

John S. Jones 1877-79 

EbenezerB. Finley 1879-81 

James S. Robinson 1881-85 



STATE SENATORS. 



NAMES. YEARS. 

I teiiiy Brown 1822-23 

.lames Kooken 1823-24 

I). II. Beardsley 1824-26 

James Kooken 1826-28 

Charles Carpenter 1828-32 

James W. Crawford 1832-34 

Robert Hopkins 1834-36 

Hezekiah Gorton 1836-38 

Benjamin F. Allen 1838-40 

James II. Godman 1840-42 

Joseph McCutcheon 1842-44 

Thomas W. Powell 1844-46 

.lames Eaton 1846-48 

William Lawrence 1848-52 

JohD .1. Williams 1852-54 



NAMES. YEARS. 

William Lawrence 1854-56 

Cornelius Hamilton 1856-58 

C. H. Gatch 1858-60 

T. B. Fisher 1860-62 

John Hood 1862-64 

William H. West 1864-66 

P. B. Cole 1866-68 

Solomon Kraner 1868-70 

John Bartram 1870-72 

Isaac S. Gardner 1872-74 

M. C. Lawrence 1874-76 

W. W. Beattv 1876-78 

Hylas Sabine". 1878-80 

Luther M. Strong 1880-84 



REPRESENTATIVES TO THE LEGISLATURE. 



NAMES. YEARS. 

Elias Murray 1821-22 

Leonard 11. Cowles 1822-24 

Jeremiah Everett 1824-25 

Josiah Hedges 1825-26 

Eber Baker* 1826-27 

Samuel M. Lockwood 1827-28 

John Carey 1828-29 

Robert Hopkins 1829-80 

John Niramon 1830-31 

William Brown 1831-32 

John Campbell 1832-33 

Joseph McCutcheon 1833-34 

John Campbell 1834-35 

James H. Godman L835-36 

( >tway Curry 1836-38 

John Carey. 1836-37 

Stephen Fowler 1837-39 

John Campbell 1838-39 

Guy C. Worth 1830-40 

James H. Godman 1839-40 

Emery Moore 1840^11 

Josiah Scott 1840-41 

James Griffith 1841-42 



NAMES. years. 

George W. Sharp 1841-43 

Thomas Powell 1841-42 

Isaac E. James 1842-43 

John Carey 184:J-44 

William Smart 1843-44 

.lames B. Shaw 1844-46 

Timothy B. Fisher 1846-47 

Albert Mc Wright 1847-48 

Josiah S. Copeland 1848 50 

Philander B. Cole L850-51 

Joseph W. Larrabee 1852-54 

Ebenezer Peters 1854-56 

John F. Hume 1856-58 

Richard Wilson 1858-60 

John A. Carter 1860-62 

John Bartram 1862-64 

Everett Messenger 1864-66 

John Rosencranse 1866-68 

Peyton Bord 1868-70 

James W. Devore 1870-72 

Robert Hill 1872-76 

John D. Guthery 1876-80 

J. J. Hopkins 1880-84 



* J. Hillman was elected, but died before the Legislature convened. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 339 
COUNTY OFFICERS. 

AUDITORS. 

NAMES. YEARS. NAMES. YEABS. 

Hezekiah Gorton 1824-32 S. A. Griswold 1 85 I -58 

John E. Davidson 1832-36 L. F. Raichley 1858-60 

James H. Godman 1836-38 William Cricket 1860-66 

W. W. Concklin 1838-42 Richard Wilson 1866-71 

Peter Beerbower 1842-48 Samuel E. Hain 1871-75 

Lawrence Van Buskirk 1848-50 J. L. Bell 1875-80 

Ebenezer Peters 1850-52 C. Hahn 1880 — 

Henry Hain 1852-54 

TREASURERS. 

NAMES. years. NAMES. years. 

Reuben Smith 1824-25 A. D. Woolley 1861-63 

Adam Uncapher 1825-29 Isaac Young 1863-67 

David Jenkins 1829-33 George Diegle 1867-71 

Richard Wilson 1833-51 A. D. Matthews 1871-75 

Alexander Sharp 1851-55 Peter Beerbower 1875-79 

A. D. Matthews 1855-59 Julius Strelitz 1879 — 

John King 1859-61 

RECORDERS. 

NAMES. years. NAMES. YEARS. 

George H. Busby 1824-37 H. M. Ault 1862-65 

Peter Beerbower 1837-40 George B. Merchant 1865-68 

Robert King 1840-43 Benjamin F. Stahl 1868-74 

Henry Hain 1843-53 Dallas Day 1874-80 

James H. Barker 1853-59 Solomon H. Rupp 1880 — 

Nelson C. Mitchell 1859-62 

CLERKS OP THE COURTS. 

NAMES. years. NAMES. years. 

George H. Busby 1824-44 Philip Dombaugh 1861-76 

William L. Kendrick 1844-52 Amaziah H. Hord 1876-81 

John R. Knapp, Jr 1852-55 John H. Thomas 1881 — 

John R. Garberson 1855-60 

SURVEYORS. 

NAMES. years. NAMES. years. 

Samuel Holmes 1824-34 Emanuel Trumbo 1859-65 

William Dowling 1834-37 George Beckley 1865-68 

Samuel Holmes 1837-41 Emanuel Trumbo 1868-70 

William Uleyate 1841-43 Elijah Dix 1870-73 

William Brown 1843-46 George B. Christian 1873-76 

Isaac S. Young 1846-51 George Beckley 1876-78 

John Cunningham 1851-53 Isaac S. Young 1878-81 

Hugh W. Ross 1853-59 Samuel Bell 1881 — 

PROBATE JUDGES. 

NAMES. years. NAMES. years. 

George Snyder 1851-60 J. R, Garberson 1869-78 

George Grav 1860-67 John N. Matthews 1878 — 

George H. Busby l«67-69 

PROSECUTING ATTORNEYS. 

NAMES. years. NAMES. years. 

Milo D. Pettibone 1824-25 William Robbins 1847-49 

Thomas Backus 1825-26 John Bartram 1849-51 

Charles L. Boalt 1826-27 S. H. Bartram 1851-53 

Joseph Swan 1827-30 John F. Hume 1853-55 

Ozias Bowen 1830-33 J. H. Anderson 1855-67 

J. H. Godman 1833-35 A. Osborne 1857-61 

Ozias Bowen 1835-37 Ozias Bowen 1861-63 

Almeron Wheat 1837-39 Noah M. Kunvan 1863-67 

Samuel Kelly 1839-41 H. T. Van Fleet 1867 69 

George Rowe 1841-43 Caleb H. Norris 1869-77 

William Robbins 1843-45 B. G. Young 1877-81 

J. H. Godman 1845-17 Stephen A. Court 1881 — 



340 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 



NAMES. YKAK-. NAMES. years. 

Benjamin Billman 1824-26 John Rood 1855-57 

ElishaH Crosby 1826-27 W.B.Lewis 1857-59 

Daniel D. Tompkins 1827-31 David Epler 1859-61 

William II. Holmes 1831-33 William F. Harvey* 

Cvrus B. Mann 1S33-37 William B. Lewis 1863-65 

Joseph Durfee L837-4I Samuel H. Berry L865 -<".; 

David Killer 1841-45 Henry H. Cunningham 1867-71 

John Shunk 1845-47 John H. Weaver 1871-75 

David Epler 1847-51 Silas A. Guthery 1875-79 

Simeon C. Starr 1851-55 J. V. Harrison ' 1879 

CORONERS. 
NAMES. years. NAMES. years. 

Charles Stuart 1824 — J. S. Goshoru 1854-56 

Alson Norton 1824-26 P. K. Francis 1856-58 

D. I >. Tompkins 1826-27 William B. Davis 1858-59 

Amos S. Capron 1827-28 Benjamin Little 1859-61 

Henry Peters 1828-30 E. K. Corbin 1861-63 

David Epler 1830-31 B. F. Allen 1863-67 

JohnBending 1831-33 Daniel Bader 1867-69 

Noah Kimble 1833-35 Michael Jacoby, Jr 1869-71 

Benjamin Kime 1835-37 A. H. Freeman 1871-73 

James Jones 1837-41 James Coffy 

Olnev R. Stone 1841-43 John Jones 1873-75 

Strother R. Hord 1843-45 C. P. Gailey 1875-78 

Henry Parcel] 1847-48 John M. Christian 1878-82 

.lame's (hard 1851-54 A. B. McMurray 1882 — 

For a list of the Infirmary Directors, see chapter on the organic history 
of the county, section on the Infirmary. 

SOME OF THE FIRST JUSTICES OF THE PEACE. 

The first Justice of the Peace commissioned in Marion County was 
probably William Crawford in Pleasant Township in 1822. 

In Big Island Township, Joshua Cope, July 5,' 1824. The next was 
Isaac E. James for the same township, January 29, 1827, who resigned 
February 25, 1830. Also Robert Hopkins, April 19, 1830; John Flewell- 
ing, May 14, 1830; Portius Wheeler, October 26, 1831. 

In Center Township, now Marion, William Hoddy and Alexander 
Berry, April 15, 1822; David Tipton, June 26, 1824; Benjamin Davis, 
May 30, 1825; Benjamin Williams, April 24, 1828; John Bartram, March 
3, 1831. 

In Claridon Township, Samuel Bell, July 12, 1824; John Z. Sharp, 
May 18, 1825; John Roberts, July 9, 1827; Joseph Kennedy. April 30, 
1831. 

Grand Prairie Township, Zachariah Welch, July 12, 1824; John Page, 
May 30, 1825; Daniel Swigert, July 9, 1827; William F. Hance, October 
22, 1827; John Kirby, October 22, 1830. 

Green Camp Township, Samuel Fish, May 31. 1824; Alexander Jink- 
ins, March 14, 1825; Asa Freeman, March 14, 1825; David A. Town, 
March 18, 1826; Samuel Powell, March 3, 1831. 

Grand Township, William Cochran, July 14, 1S24; Jonathan Johnson. 
April 23, 1827; Garrett Fitzgerald. January 9, 1827; Alfred Randall, 
June 3, 1828; Abel Rennick, April 30, 1831. 

Pleasant Township, William Crawford, 1822; Henry Peters, August 3, 
1824; William Wyatt, December 18, 1824; Jacob Kepner, October 24, 
1825; Joseph Boyd, April 24, 1828; Daniel Hane, October 26, 1831. 

* Died before qualified. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 341 

Richland Township, Joseph Oborn, July 12, 1824; Thomas Rodgers, 
November 8, 1824; Daniel Oborn, March 18, 1826; Michael Ashbauo-h' 
October 22, 1827; Alonzo D. Monroe, October 29, 1830. 

Scott Township, Alanson Packard, January 27, 1825; Jacob Shaffer, 
April 26, 1828; William Van Buskirk, July 30, 1829; Henry Pard April 
30, 1831. 

Salt Rock Township, John Green June 20, 1824; Hugh V. Smith, 
July 8,1824; George King. April 25. 1827; Stephen Fowler, Mav 4, 
1830. 

Tully Township, John Jameson, June 9, 1828; Alanson Packard, June 
9, 1828. 

Montgomery Township had no Justice of the Peace until William 
Cochran was commissioned, April 16, 1834. William H Davis was coin- 
missioDed October 27, 1835. 

Bowling Green had no Justice of the Peace until April 11, 1839, when 
Joseph Guthery took the office. 

Waldo and Prospect Townships were attached to Marion County afc a 
far later date. 

PERSONAL SKETCHES. 

The following are personal sketches of the more prominent representa- 
tives and county officers: 

Hon. Eber Baker, the founder of Marion, was a native of the State of 
Maine; he was born at Litchfield Corners, that State, April 27, 1780. 
His paternal ancestry is traced back to 1635, when Francis Baker came 
over from Great St. Albans, Herefordshire, England, in the " Planter," at 
the age of twenty- four, and settled in Yarmouth, Mass. June 29, 1802, Mr. 
Eber Baker married Lydia Smith. At the opening of the war of 1812, he 
enlisted in the army; but his regiment being assigned to guard and camp 
duty, he found it impossible to acommodate his active temperament to such 
inactive, monotonous life, and accordingly employed a substitute, and with 
his family left his native State for Wheeling, Va. About a year afterward, 
1814, he moved to Newark, Ohio, and in 182], he came to where Marion 
now stands, bought, the land and the next year laid out the town, naming 
it for Gen. Francis Marion, of Revolutionary fame. In his plat for the 
town, he appropriated four lots for church houses, one for each of four differ- 
ent denominations; five lots for court house and jail, and several acres for 
a cemetery. This ground is still a cemetery and is situated just north of 
the New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio depot. He built a log jail at a cost of 
$400, and presented it to the county. When the Protestant Episcopal 
Church was ready to avail itself of a lot, Mr. Baker bought a lot at 8620, 
and presented it to the church, besides $1,000 in money toward the erection 
of the building. To Mr. and Mrs. Baker were born five children before 
leaving the State of Maine, and one in Newark, Ohio. Mrs. Baker died 
June 24, 1843, lamented by all who knew her, especially by the poor and 
less fortunate, who always found sympathy in her large, generous heart. 
Mr. Baker was married a second time to Mrs. Susan Wilson, at this date 
still living, amiable, pious and possessed of fair health and unimpaired in- 
tellect. Mr. Baker was public spirited, liberal in contributing to the var- 
ious town enterprises, material, moral and religious, and was, during most 
of his life, with his second wife, a member, with her, of the Protestant 
Episcopal Church. He was Representative to the State Legislature in 



342 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

1826-27. He died October 6, 1804. His family consisted of Kev. George 
W.j Charles, Elizabeth B. (who married Alvin C. Priest), Lincoln, Mehit- 
able C. (who married Richard Sargent), and Lydia (who married Judge 
Ozias Bowen). A sketch of George W. appears in the church history of 
the town of Marion. 

Capt. George Beckley, deceased, was born in Dauphin County, Penn., 
November 29, 1804, about se^en miles east of Harrisburg. In 1812. his 
father. John Beckley. removed to Northumberland County, Penn., where 
he suffered severely fro-m the financial troubles of 1S17 to 1820, and thence, 
in 1821, he moved to what is now Marion County, about one mile northwest 
of where Caledonia now is, where he bought eighty acres of land. In 
1835, r he emigrated with all his large family, except George, to Cass Coun- 
ty, Ind. The latter married Eliza, daughter <^f Thomas H. Miller, and 
raised a family of three sons and one daughter, residing on the old home- 
stead the remainder of his long life. As a scholar. Mr. Beckley was self- 
taught, but he spent over fifty years of his life as a school teacher. He was 
also County Commissioner and Surveyor. Was probably the best posted 
man in the county on pioneer reminiscences, many of which he published in 
the Caledonia Argus in 1S75. About 1847-48, he was elected Captain 
of a militia company, whence his title. From 1849 to 1852, he was in Cali- 
fornia, prospecting for the precious metal; in 1854, he was in California 
again, and afterward traveled through Centi-al and South America, chiefly 
bent on prospecting and mining speculations. After his return, he once 
more left for the great AY est, and reached Pike's Peak, where he erected a 
quartz crushing or similar apparatus, which was exchanged for a large 
tract of land in Indiana. This was considered one of his most fortunate 
speculations. He was accidentally killed in May, 1878, by a locomotive 
running over him, and deeply did the community mourn his loss. 

George H. Busby, more widely known as " Maj. Busby," a title gained 
from services with the militia during the war of 1812, was born in North- 
umberland County, Penn. He was of Irish descent, his father having em- 
igrated from Ireland toward the close of the century previous. The family 
were residents of Fairfield County for many years, and there numerous 
descendants still reside. Maj. Busby sought to improve his fortunes by 
becoming a pioneer of the then new district of Marion County, Ohio, in 
1822. He was a citizen, therefore, of Marion County at its organization, 
and of Marion Village when by its selection as county seat, the then mead- 
ows and forests, almost unbroken in that locality, were staked as a town. 
Maj. Busby engaged actively in trade, and by his energy and push laid the 
foundation of a handsome fortune, that was far more speedily destroyed by 
the unfortunate tendency that characterized our fathers of "going bail." 

The character of Maj. Busby was strongly marked by traits that se- 
cured to him all through life the confidence and esteem of his fellowmen 
to a marked degree. The Delaware and Wyandot Indians, from the poor- 
est brave to the head chief, were his fast friends, and their trading confi- 
dence in the Major was strong. Maj. Busby was the first Recorder of Mar- 
ion County, and the record he made, Vol. I, fell into decay during his life 
and was transcribed by his grandson, George Busby Christian, fifty years 
after. Maj. Busby was made the recipient of many tokens of esteem. He 
held the official positions of Recorder. Clerk, Clerk of the Supreme Court. 
Judge of the Probate Court, and in 1S54, after a memorable struggle, was 
nominated as Representative to Congress, to which body he was chosen. 
At this writing. 1883, Maj. Busby stands alone, as the only citizen of 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 343 

Marion County who has sat in the halls of Congress, and during a period of 
sixty years. All positions of trust were to him sacred, and no stain, no spot 
or blemish has ever, in the faintest degree, marred his fair fame. He 
sought to be an honest man, and on his tomb the simple epitaph, " God's 
noblest work, an honest man," tells with truthful eloquence the story of his 
life. He aided greatly to make the place of his home the pleasant village 
that it is, and his brick residence near the public square was for many years 
the seat of a generous hospitality, as well as a center of domestic happiness. 

He was twice married, his first wife being Elizabeth Welch, his second 
Eliza Kennedy. Hannah, wife of William L. Kendrick, and after widow- 
hood, wife of Rev. James M. Heller; and Paulina, wife of Dr. J. M. 
Christian, were children of his first union. The children of his second 
marriage were Eliza Jane, wife of T. P. Wallace; Clarinda. wife of Dr. I. 
S. Sweeney; Lucretia, wife of Henry B. Durfee; Susan, wife of S. E. 
De Wolfe; and Evaline, who died in infancy. Of this large family, Paulina 
and Susan have been called away. Maj. Busby died in 1869; he rests in 
Marion Cemetery, amid the scenes of his active, long and useful life, his 
memory revered by a large and numerous body of descendants, and a still 
larger number of warm friends. 

Col. Hezekiah Gorton, first Auditor of Marion County, 1824 to 1832, 
was born in Montgomery County, N. Y., December 2, 1793. In 1818, he 
located in Franklinton, across the river from Columbus, Ohio. In 1821, he 
came to Big Island, this county, where some thought at the time that the 
county seat would be located. In 1824, he was appointed County Auditor, 
soon after which he removed his residence to Marion. In 1836, he was 
elected to the State Senate, where he served his constituents for two years 
with ability and credit. In 1874, he went to Colorado, to live with his 
youngest daughter, Mrs. J. J. Boyd, returning in 1875 to remain nearly 
two years among his friends in Marion. He went again to Colorado in the 
latter part of the year 1876, remained there until his death, which oc- 
curred at Loveland, June 2, 1882, when he was eighty-eight and one-haif 
years of age. 

Col. Gorton was one of the first grain and wool buyers in Marion Coun- 
ty, and as a business man was earnest and enterprising. When the firm of 
which he was a member became insolvent (unexpectedly to him), he turned 
over all his property to the creditois, leaving himself homeless. The 
Colonel was a Free-Will Baptist all his adult life, and died a Deacon in that 
church. His life as a citizen was an exemplary one. 

In June, 1816, he married Miss A. Capron, who died in Marion some 
years since. At his death he left four daughters and two sons. 

Hon. William Brown, Representative in the Legislature in 1831-32 
and County Surveyor 1843 to 1846, was said to be the best Surveyor the 
County of Marion ever had. He was a man of great energy, marked char- 
acteristics, strict integrity, outspoken and plain. In his years he kept 
even pace with the present century, having been born in 1800, in Provi- 
dence. R.I. His father, Commodore Brown, left for the high seas when 
he (William) was quite young, and the latter went around from place to 
place as a chore boy until 1812, when he went aboard a man of war and 
acted as a powder carrier for the gunners in the war with Great Britain, 
participating in several engagements. He afterward returned to Provi- 
dence and learned the shoe-maker's trade, being bound by indenture to his 
uncle. He had no schooling, and, although he afterward developed 
into so great a mathematician, at the age of eighteen he could not even 



344 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

perform a simple example in addition. Here in this genius was a striking 
example of an unpolished diamond. 

At this time young William began to exhibit that sternness of character 
•which proved to be the foundation of his future success. He worked out- 
side of regular business hours for a little money, with which to buy books, 
and then devoted his evenings and spare moments to study, mathematics 
becoming his favorite. In these he was assisted by a Catholic priest, who 
took considerable interest in bim. 

We digress here to relate an interesting little incident: While our in- 
dustrious young hero was working away at the shoe-maker's bench, some of 
the idle boys of the neighborhood were disposed to play mischievous little 
tricks upon him. One night between 10 and 11 o'clock, one of these 
gamins blacked himself up, and, going to the window of William's shop, 
pressed his face up against the glass and held it in that ghostly position 
until he attracted the young shoe-maker's attention. The latter struck the 
hateful image so suddenly with his hammer that he wounded him severely, 
scarring him for life. 

At the age of twenty-one, Mr. Brown went up into Sussex County and 
taught school, and there married Miss Margaret Moore. Next, he, with five 
or six other families, immigrated West, settling at the Wyandot Mission, a 
few miles north of Marion. Being religious and having studied theology 
some, Mr. B. was stationed as a missionary teacher for the Indians at this 
point. Sundays he preached here and at other points in the vicinity. 
Thpn for a time he was Professor of Mathematics in a university, and 
studied surveying and civil engineering. A canal being proposed from 
Marion to Wyandot, Mr. Brown undertook the survey of the level. Hav- 
ing no factory-made instruments, he made a level roughly out of a piece of 
wood, with vials affixed, partly filled with water, and the other necessary 
fixtures. Then, with volunteer aid, as rodsmen. etc., he proceeded with 
his task. About midway between Wyandot and Marion, he encountered a 
squad of equipped surveyors at work on the route for the Chicago. Cincin- 
nati, Columbus & Indianapolis Railroad, who laughed with contempt at his 
rude appliances and " foolish" undertaking; but, on a challenge for a test, in 
a survey of some miles, Mr. Brown came out within six inches of the point 
made by the great " scientific " party. Mr. Brown was soon afterward em- 
ployed "as. railroad surveyor at |2;500 and $3,500 a year, the latter salary 
on the Mad River route, now the Indianapolis, Bloomington & Western. 
Many were the interesting experiences of Mr. Brown with the Indians, and 
as surveyor, etc., as his having been once captured by tbe Seneca Indians 
and robbed, his having to sleep in a hollow tree, etc., overnight, but space 
forbids their enumeration here. 

Mr. Brown's residence in Marion was from about 1830 to a short time be- 
fore the war of the rebellion, and his official career here has already been re- 
ferred to. He moved from Marion to Springfield, where he was County 
Surveyor from 1868 to 1872, City Surveyor, City Marshal three terms, etc., 
and spent the remainder of his days. He died in 1877, after having passed two 
years in apparent unconsciousness from a stroke of cerebral paralysis. 
Having been a " high " Mason, he was buried under Masonic honors, at- 
tended by a throng of mourning citizens. His first wife died comparatively 
young and was buried in Wyandot. For his second wife he married a 
daughter of Milton Pixley, of Marion, who also is now dead. Mr. Brown 
at one time had considerable property, but by taking a Government con- 
tract for surveying in Kansas he lost all. He used to remark in his latter 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 345 

days that if he could only recover enough to pay his debts he would be sat- 
isfied. His children are Minerva, who married Mr. Rundle and died in 
Marion, of cholera, in 1854. She was a poetess of considerable merit; 
Bellona, now Mrs. James Havens, of La Fayette, Ind., also a poetess, of 
whom further mention is made in another chapter; John D., who was liv- 
ing in New York City two years ago; and George W., a resident of Spring- 
field, engaged in a large agricultural establishment. 

Richard Wilson was born in Watsontown, Northumberland County, 
Penn., November 14, 1804. He came to Marion in the fall of 1828, and 
for some time worked at his trade of chair-maker, and part of the time 
clerked in a store. For a short time he was a resident of Big Island, but 
except that interval he was a resident of Marion from his first arrival here 
until his death. He was Treasurer of the county from 1833 to 1851, Rep- 
resentative to the Legislature in 1858 and 1859, County Auditor from 
1866 to 1871, Assessor of Marion Township a number of terms, etc., and 
in every public capacity he gave entire satisfaction. He was of a courteous 
and gentlemanly disposition; he was also liberal, and would have done 
much more than he did had he not lost his money in the Atlantic & Great 
Western Railroad. He built the track from Galion to Bellefontaine. He 
also paid taxes for many poor men in the county while he was Treasurer; 
probably no man was sold out for taxes while Mr. Wilson was Treasurer. 

Mr. Wilson married Miss Sophronia Parrish, and of their children two 
daughters are now living, in Marion, one a wife of F. R. Saiter; one 
daughter in Wyandot County; one son was killed in the army; another son 
— Byron — has been in the United States Navy ever since he was twelve 
years old; and Cass, a prominent Freemason, resides in Marion. 

Mr. Wilson died February 11, 1882, about seventy-seven and one-quar- 
ter years of age, and was buried according to his request, under the charge 
of the " Blue Lodge," escorted by the Knights Templar; he was a Sir 
Knight. The funeral was very largely attended. 

Josiah Snell Copeland, deceased, was born in 1793, a son of Elijah and 
Irene (Howard) Copeland, of Massachusetts and of Puritan descant. One 
of their ancestors, John Alden. came to America in the Mayflower. Mr. 
Copeland was married in 1818, to Catharine L. Guild, and in 1826 came 
to Zanesville, Ohio, and resided there till he came to Marion in 1844. 
Here he purchased 320 acres, all of which is now included in Baliantine's 
Addition to Marion; it was then called " Copeland's Woods." In these 
woods was held the first county fair of Marion County, originated by him. 
He represented Marion and Union Counties in the State Legislature in 
1848 and 1850, as a Whig; was a Republican after the organization of 
that party. He was an active man in political affairs, being frequently a 
delegate to the State Conventions; was Internal Revenue Assessor, 1865 
to 1870; in Julv of the latter vear he died. His wife died in March, 
1868. 

Of their eight children, th^se six are living: Guild, Earl P., Howard, 
Catharine L. (wife of H. C. Godman), Elijah and Arthur C. 

Cyrus B. Mann, deceased, came to Marion in 1828, from Delaware 
County, where he had located with his parents in 1814, being formerly 
from Chenango County, N. Y. , where he was born in 1804. He was Sher- 
iff of Marion County from 1833 to 1837, and afterward he kept the Ameri- 
can House, where the Kerr House now stands, for about eighteen or nine- 
teen years, then the United States House, which was burned down, the 



346 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 



Central House on Main street, near the railroad, until his death, which took 
place February 20, 1881. and he was buried in the Marion Cemetery. 

Mr. Mann 'married Martha Musser, of Delaware County, this State, 
and they had four sons and five daughters, as follows: Caznau Gideon, 
now in Crestline: William Howard, who died in the army during the last 
war: George T., now in the car works at Terre Haute, Ind.; Charles Henry, 
now in Portland Ind. : Henrietta, in Marion; Anne, who married Mr. 
Braman and lives in Owatonna. Minn. ; Isabel, at home in Marion; Eve- 
line, now the wife of Mr. Biggerstalf, also in Marion; and Clara, at home. 

William Bain, elected Sheriff in 1825, was a partner of the firm of O. 
& S. Crosley & Co., of Columbus, who had established a branch store in 
Marion, in charge of Elisha Crosby. A few days after he was elected he 
fell dead in the store, apparently from heart disease. He was born in Dun- 
dee, Scotland, and immigrated to this country in 1812, settling in Bhode 
Island, where he engaged in the manufacture of hemp bagging; then the 
same business in Paris, Ky., then near Columbus, Ohio, in the same busi- 
ness again, where he sold out for an interest in the Crosby store at Marion. 
He was a Presbyterian, Whig and Abolitionist. He was rather a peculiar 
man, gruff in his manners, often to his best friends, yet liberal, sometimes 
to excess. His likes and dislikes were very strong, and subject to intensity 
by his varying humor. 




HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 347 



CHAPTER VII. 



BENCH AND BAR. 



INTRODUCTORY. 



AHISTOKY of Marion County without a record of the Bench and Bar 
would be like the play of Hamlet with Hamlet omitted from the cast. 
The part played by law in the organization of human society is that of an ever- 
acting force, a force essential to its very existence, and upon which human 
happiness and well-being are unceasingly dependent. Without law man- 
kind would long ere this have perished, as no organization is possible with- 
out it. Upon tne wise interpretation as well as the judicious framing of 
the laws, the well-being of a community is established as upon a rock-like 
foundation, whence it naturally flows as a consequence that the history of 
those upon whom this duty devolves must form no unimportant portion of 
a work of this character. The whole superstructure of law is founded upon 
a few principles of natural justice, and, therefore, at its base, in its 
essential principles, " in its inmost bosom's core," law is the exponent of 
right, and truth and justice; and, notwithstanding the efforts of the 
cunning and unscrupulous, it will still be found that on the whole law is 
on the side of right, and the popular prejudice against lawyers has its 
basis chiefly in ignorance of the true nature of a lawyer's functions, which 
are, to see that every one has the benefit of the privileges accorded him by 
the laws of the land, and that the forms of law are rigidly preserved, as 
upon their strict enforcement of these the stability of society depends. 

As the business of the lawyer is to deal with the daily affairs of men, 
and as these are becoming more and more complex and artificial, it is clear 
that where so many complex interests and counter -interests are to be pro- 
tected and adjusted, to the Judge and the advocate are presented problems 
that require the deepest research and the most trained intellects. As 
change follows change in modern society, without intermission, it is also 
evident that the laws and institutions of the past will not answer the re- 
quirements of the present. The blue laws of Connecticut would burst from 
the limbs of the modern Samson like the cords from the hero of old, and 
the gigantic Afrites that Aladdin saw from bis lamp could not be re- 
turned to their narrow prison house. The discoveries in the arts and sci- 
ences, the invention of new labor-saving contrivances, the enlargement of 
industrial pursuits, the unprecedented development of commerce, the 
founding of new communities into cities and States, require that the science 
of law sbould advance pari passu, in order to subserve the wants and pro- 
vide for the necessities of these new conditions. The true lawyer is the 
man of the hour, and upon his ability and integrity society is largely de- 
pendent. One of the profession has wisely said: 

" In the American State the great and good lawyer must always be 
prominent, for he is one of the forces which move and control society. 
Public confidence has generally been reposed in the legal profession. It 
has ever been the defender of popular rights, the champion of freedom 



348 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

regulated by law, the firm support of good government. In times of dan- 
ger it has stood like a rock and beaten the mad passions of the hour and 
firmly resisted tumult and faction. No political preferment, no mere place 
can add to the power or increase the honor which belongs to the pure and 
educated lawyer. The fame of Mansfield, and Marshall and Story can 
never die. ' Time's iron feet can print no ruin trace' upon their character. 
Their learning and luminous expositions of our jurisprudence will always 
light our pathway. * * * Lord Bacon has said, ' Every man is a 
debtor to his profession:' and assuredly this is true of every lawyer. If 
worthy, it gives him an honorable character and high position. The lawyer 
should prize and honor his profession. He should value its past renown 
and cherish the memory of great men, whose gigantic shadows walk by us 
still. He should love it for the intrinsic worth and innate glory of the 
fundamental truths which adorn it. " 

The paucity of material at the service of the historian as to those who 
have exerted so important an influence upon the county's welfare and 
progress, is indeed a matter of surprise. We, however, present our read- 
ers with that which the corroding hand of time has left untouched. The 
greater portion of the story might, however, be unlocked to him who would 
patiently study the strata of society, as the geologist studies the stony 
records of the earth's past history. 

Before entering upon the specific portion of our story, we can truth- 
fully premise that the Bench and Bar of Marion County has ever been dis- 
tinguished, and has ever stood prominently forward in comparison with the 
profession in the sister counties of the grand commonwealth of Ohio. Mar- 
ion has had names connected with her bar which have adorned the pages 
of our country's history, names of soldiers who did not shrink from taking 
up the sword in defense of their country; names that have adorned the 
halls of legislation of the State; names that have adorned men not merely 
of learning and culture, superadded to native ability, but which also have 
united with these gifts and graces the proud title of honest men, the 
noblest work of God. 

THE BENCH. 

The earliest judicial government for the territory now constituting 
Ohio was vested in a general court composed of three Judges, provided by 
the ordinance of 1787. The first Judges were Samuel Holden Parsons, 
James Mitchell Varnum and John Cleves Symmes, the latter being ap- 
pointed in place of John Armstrong, who declined to serve. They were to 
adopt only such portions of the laws of the original States as were deemed 
suitable to the condition and wants of the people, and were not empowered 
to enact new laws. In the autumn of 1787, the Governor and Judges Var- 
num and Parsons met at Marietta and began the duty of legislating for 
the Territory, continuing in session until December. Contrary to the pro- 
visions of the ordinance, they enacted a number of laws on different sub- 
jects and submitted them to Congress, as required That body, however, 
did not approve them from their manifest illegality under the terms of the 
ordinance After the assembling of Congress in 1789, under the new con- 
stitution, the appointments made under the articles of confederation being 
deemed to have expired, the following new Judges were appointed for the 
Northwest Territory: Samuel Holden Parsons, John Cleves Symmes and 
William Barton. The latter declined to serve and George Turner was ap- 
pointed to fill the vacancy. Judge Parsons soon afterward died, and in 
March, 1790, Rufus Putnam was appointed to fill the vacancy caused by his 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 349 

death. Putnam resigned in 1796, to enable him to accept the office of Sur- 
veyor General, and Joseph Gilman, of Point Harmar, was chosen to till the 
vacancy. Judge Turner left the Territory in the spring of 1796. and dur- 
ing his absence resigned his seat on the bench, which was filled by the ap- 
pointment of Return Jonathan Meigs, in February, 1798. The Judges 
then in commission continued to hold their 'seats until the adoption of a 
State Constitution. 

Between 1790 and 1795, numerous acts were passed which did not re- 
ceive the sanction of Congress, as they were enacted rather than adopted, 
and finally in the summer of 1795, at a legislative session held at Cincin- 
nati . a code of laws was adopted from the statutes of the original States, 
which superseded the chief part of those previously enacted, that had 
remained in force in the Territory, regardless of their doubtful constitu- 
tionality. This code of laws as adopted was printed at Cincinnati in 
1795, by William Maxwell, and became known aa the Maxwell Code; that 
was the first job of printing executed in the Northwestern Territory. But 
very little change was made therefrom until the first session of the General 
Assembly, held under the secoud grade of government, September 16, 1799. 

" The ordinance and the compact. " says Judge Burnet, " which was the 
constitution of the Territory, contained but little specific legislation. It 
prescribed the rule of descents; the mode of transferring real estate, by 
deed of lease and release, and of devising or bequeathing it by will. It 
regulated the right of dower and authorized the transfer of personal prop- 
erty by delivery; saving always to the French and Canadian inhabitants, 
and other settlers who had before professed themselves citizens of Virginia, 
their laws and customs then in force among them, relative to the descent 
and conveyance of property. In addition to these provisions, the compact 
ordained that no person demeaning himself in a peaceable manner should 
be molested on account of his mode of worship or religious opinions. It 
also secured to the inhabitants forever the benefits of the writ, of habeas 
corpus, of trial by jury, of a proportionate representation of the people in 
the Legislature, and of judicial proceedings, according to the course of the 
Common Law." 

The courts of Common Law in the Territory assumed chancery powers 
as a necessity, as there was no tribunal in said Territory vested with such 
powers. Several necessary laws were passed at the first session of the Ter- 
ritorial Legislature at Cincinnati, but matters regarding courts and their 
powers were not satisfactorily settled until the adoption of the first State 
Constitution in 1802. The General Court provided for by the ordinance of 
1787 consisted, as before stated, of three Judges, " appointed by the Pres- 
ident with the advice and consent o f ' the Senate, each of whom received a 
salary of $800 from the Treasury of the United states, It was the highest 
judicial tribunal in the Territory, and was vested with original and appel- 
late jurisdiction in all civil and criminal cases, and of capital cases; and 
on questions of divorce and alimony its jurisdiction was exclusive. It was, 
however, a common law court, merely without chancery powers, and it was 
the court of dernier ressort. It had power to revise and reverse the de- 
cisions of all other tribunals in the Territory, yet its own proceedings 
could not be reversed or set aside, even by the Supreme Court of the 
United States. It was held at Cincinnati in March, at Marietta in October, 
at Detroit and in the western counties at such time in each year as the 
Judges saw proper to designate. " 



350 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

The travels of the Judges and members of the bar in those early years, 
to and from the places of holding courts— Cincinnati, Marietta and Detroit 
— were attended with difficulties of the most serious nature. The distances 
were always great, settlements were scarce and the way was rough. Their 
journeys were made on horseback, and it was exceedingly necessary that 
the horses they rode should be good swimmers, for it was in the days be- 
fore bridges had been thought of, and only the best fording places along 
the numerous streams were sought out by the tired travelers. Judge Bur- 
net, who knew from experience all the trials of the times, wrote of thetn as 
follows : 

" The journeys of the court and bar to those remote places through a 
country in its primitive state, were unavoidably attended with fatigue and 
exposure. They generally traveled with five or six in company, and with 
a pack-horse to transport such necessaries as their own horses could not 
conveniently carry, because no dependence could be placed on obtaining 
supplies on the route; although they frequently passed through Indian 
camps and villages, it was not safe to rely on them for assistance. Oc- 
casionally small quantities of corn could be purchased for horse feed, but 
oven that relief was precarious and not to be relied on. In consequence of 
the unimproved condition of the country, the routes followed by travelers 
were neessarily circuitous and their progress slow. In passing from one 
county seat to another, they were generally from six to eight and sometimes 
ten days in the wilderness, and, at all seasons of the year, were compelled 
to swim every water-course in their way which was too deep to be forded; 
the country being wholly destitute of bridges and ferries, travelers had, 
therefore, to rely on their horses as the only substitute for those conven- 
iences. That fact made it common, when purchasing a horse, to ask if he 
were a good swimmer, which was considered one of the most valuable qual- 
ities of a saddle horse. " 

Lynch law was liable to be adopted by the men of the border settlements, 
and one or two instances of its execution in the form of public whippings, 
are known to have occurred: but in August, 1788, a law was published in 
Marietta, Pstablishing a " General Court of Quarter Sessions of the Peace, 
and County Courts of Common Pleas," and these superseded the Lynch 
code before it had been in operation a year. Mr. McMillan was appointed 
the Presiding Judge of those courts in the county of Hamilton. 

The first Constitution of the State of Ohio, adopted November 29, 1802, 
contained in its third article, the following provisions for the judicial gov- 
ernment of the State: 

Section 1. The judicial power of this State, both as to matters of law 
and equity, shall be vested in a Supreme Court, in Courts of Common 
Pleas for each county, in Justices of the Peace, and in such other courts 
as the Legislature may from time to time establish. 

Sec. 2. The Supreme Court shall consist of three Judges, any two of 
whom shall be a quorum. They shall have original and appellate jurisdic- 
tion, both in common law and chancery, in such cases as shall be directed 
bylaw; Provided, That nothing herein contained shall prevent the Gen- 
eral Assembly from adding another Judge to the Supreme Court after the 
term of five years, in which case the Judges may divide the State into two cir- 
cuits, within which any two of the Judges may hold a court. 

Sec 3. The several Courts of Common Pleas shall consist of a Presi- 
dent and Associate Judges. The State shall be divided, by law, into three 
circuits; there shall be appointed in each circuit a President of the Courts, 




Judge 0. Bowen 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 353 

who, during his continuance in office shall reside therein. There shall be 
appointed in each county not more than three nor less than two Associate 
Judges, who, during tbeir continuance in office, shall reside therein. The 
President and Associate Judges in their respective counties, any three of 
whom shall be a quorum, shall compose the Court of Common Pleas, which 
court shall have common law and chancery jurisdiction in all such cases as 
shall be directed by law; Provided, That nothing herein contained shall 
be construed to prevent the Legislature from increasing the number of cir- 
cuits and Presidents after the term of five years. 

Sec. 4. The Judges of the Supreme Court and Courts of Common 
Pleas shall have complete criminal jurisdiction, in such cases and in such 
manner as may be pointed out by law. 

Sec 5. The Court of Common Pleas in each county shall have juris- 
diction of all probate and testamentary matters, granting administration, 
the appointment of guardians and such other cases as shall be prescribed 
by law. 

Sec C. The Judges of the Court of Common Pleas shall, within their 
respective counties, have the same powers with the Judges of the Supreme 
Court, to issue writs of certiorari to the Justices of the Peace, and to cause 
their proceedings to be brought before them, and the like right and justice 
to be done. 

Sec 7. The Judges of the Supreme Court shall, by virtue of their 
offices, be conservators of the peace throughout the State. The Presidents 
of the Courts of Common Pleas shall, by virtue of their offices, be conser- 
vators of the peace in their respective circuits; and the Judges of the Court 
of Common Pleas shall, by virtue of their offices, be conservators of the 
peace in their respective counties. 

Sec 8. The Judges of the Supreme Courts, the Presidents and the 
Associate Judges of the Courts of Common Pleas,, shall be appointed by a 
joint ballot of both Houses of the General Assembly, and shall hold their 
offices for the term of seven years, if so long they behave well. The Judges 
of the Supreme Court and the Presidents of the Courts of Common Pleas 
shall, at stated times, receive for their services an adequate compensation, 
to be fixed by law, which shall not be diminished during their continuance 
in office; but they shall receive no fees or perquisites of office, nor hold 
any other office of profit or trust under the authority of this State or the 
United States. 

Sec 9. Each court shall appoint its own Clerk for the term of seven 
years; but no person shall be appointed Clerk, except pro tempore, who 
shall not produce to the court appointing him a certificate from the major- 
ity of the Judges of the Supreme Court that they judge him to be well 
qualified to execute the duties of the office of clerk to any court of the same 
dignity with that for which he offers himself. They shall be removable for 
breach of good behavior, at any time, by the Judges of the respective 
courts. 

Sec 10. The Supreme Court shall be held once a year in each county, 
and the Courts of Common Pleas shall be holden in each county at such 
times and places as shall be prescribed by law. 

Sec 11. A competent number of Justices of the Peace shall be elected 
by the qualified electors in each township in the several counties, and shall 
continue in office three years, whose powers and duties shall, from time to 
time, be regulated and defined by law. 

Sec 12. The style of all processes shall be " The State of Ohio; " all 

i 



354 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

prosecutions shall be carried on in the name and by the authority of the 
State of Ohio, and all indictments shall conclude against the peace and 
dignity of the same. 

The new Constitution of Ohio, adopted June 17, 1851, made considera- 
ble changes in the courts, and Article 4, providing for judicial matters in 
the State, is as follows: 

Sec. 1. The judicial power of the State shall be vested in a Supreme 
Court, in District Courts, Courts of Common Pleas, Courts of Probate. 
Justices of the Peace, and in such other courts, inferior to the Supreme 
Court, as the General Assembly may from time to time establish. 

Sec 2. The Supreme Court shall consist of five Judges, a majority of 
whom shall bw necessary to form a quorum or pronounce a decision. It 
shall have original jurisdiction in quo warranto, mandamus, habeas corpus 
and procedendo, and such appellate jurisdiction as may be provided by 
law. It shall hold at least one term in each year at the seat of govern- 
ment, and such other terms at the seat of government or elsewhere as may 
be provided by law. The Judges of the Supreme Court shall be elected 
by the electors of the State at large. 

Sec. 3. The State shall be divided into nine Common Pleas Districts, 
of which the county of Hamilton shall constitute one, of compact territory 
and bounded by county lines; and each of said districts, consisting of three 
or more counties, shall be subdivided into three parts of compact territory, 
bounded by county lines, and as nearly equal in population as practicable, 
in each of which one Judge of Common Pleas for said district, and resid- 
ing therein, shall be elected by the electors of said subdivision. Courts of 
Common Pleas shall be held by one or more of these Judges in every county 
in the district as often as may be provided by law; and more than one 
court or sitting thereof may be held at the same time in each district. 

Sec 4. The jurisdiction of the Courts of Common Pleas, and of the 
Judges thereof, shall be fixed by law. 

Sec 5. District Courts shall be composed of the Judges of the Courts of 
Common Pleas of the respective districts, and one of the Judges of the 
Supreme Court, any three of whom shall be a quorum, and shall be held in each 
county therein at least once in each year; but if it shall be found inexpedi- 
ent to hold such court annually in each county of any district, the General 
Assembly may, for such district, provide that said court shall be holden 
at three annual sessions therein, in not less than three places; Provided, 
That the General Assembly may, by law, authorize the Judges of each dis- 
trict to fix the times of holding the courts therein. 

Sec 6. The District Court shall have like original jurisdiction with 
the Supreme Court, and such appellate jurisdiction as may be provided by 
law. 

Sec 7. There shall be established in each county a Probate Court, 
which shall be a court of record, open at all times, and holden by one 
Judge, elected by the voters of the county, who shall hold his office for the 
term of three years, and shall receive such compensation, payable out of 
the county treasury, or by fees, or both, as shall be provided by law. 

Sec 8. The Probate Court shall have jurisdiction in probate and tes- 
tamentary matters, the appointment of administrators and guardians, the 
settlement of the accounts of executors, administrators and guardians, and 
such jurisdiction in habeas corpus, the issuing of marriage licenses, and for 
the sale of land by executors, administrators and guardians, and such other 
jurisdiction in any county or counties as may be provided by law. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 355 

Sec. 9. A competent number of Justices of the Peace shall be elected 
by the electors in each township in the several counties. Tbeir term of 
office shall be three years, and their powers and duties shall be regulated 
by law. 

Sec 10. All Judges other than those provided for in the constitution, 
shall be elected by the electors of the judicial district for which they mav 
be created, but not for a longer term of office than live years. 

Sec 11. The Judges of the Supreme Court shall, immediately after 
the first election under this constitution, be classified by lot, so that one 
shall hold for the term of one year, one for two years, one for three years, 
one for four years and one for five years; and at all subsequent elections, 
the term of each of said Judges shall be for five years. 

Sec 12. The Judges of the Courts of Common Pleas shall, while in 
office, reside in the district for which they are elected; and their term of 
office shall be for five years. 

Sec 13. In case the office of any Judge shall become vacant, before 
the expiration of the regular term for which he was elected, the vacancy 
shall be filled by appointment by the Governor, until a successor is 
elected and qualified; and such successor shall be elected for the unexpired 
term at the first annual election that occurs more than thirty days after 
the vacancy shall have happened. 

Sec 14 The Judges of the Supreme Court and of the Court of Com- 
mon Pleas shall, at stated times, receive for their services such compensa- 
tion as may be provided by law, which shall not be diminished or increased 
during their term of office; but they shall receive no fees or perquisites, 
nor hold any other office of profit or trust under the authority of this State 
or the United States. All votes for either of them, for any elective office, 
except a judicial office, under the authority of this State, given by the 
General Assembly, or the people, shall be void. 

Sec 15. The General Assembly may increase or diminish the number 
of the Judges of the Supreme Court, the number of the districts of the 
Court of Common Pleas, the number of Judges in any district, chano-e the 
districts or the subdivisions thereof, or establish other courts, whenever two- 
thirds of the members elected to each House shall concur therein; but no 
chaDge, addition or diminution shall vacate the office of any Judge. 

Sec 16. There shall be elected in each county, by the electoi-s there- 
of, one Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas, who shall hold his office for 
the term of three years, and until his successor shall be elected and quali- 
fied. He shall, by virtue of his office, be clerk of all other courts of rec- 
ord held therein; but the General Assembly may provide by law for the 
election of a Clerk, with a like term of office, for each or any other of the 
courts of record, and may authorize the Judge of the Probate Court to per- 
form the duties of Clerk for his court, under such regulations as may be 
directed by law. Clerks of courts shall be removable for such cause and in 
such manner as shall be prescribed by law. 

Sec 17. Judges may be removed from office by concurrent resolution 
of both Houses of the General Assembly, if two-thirds of the members 
elected to each House concur therein; but no such removal shall bo made 
except upon complaint, the substance of which shall be entered upon the 
journal, nor until the party charged shall have had notice thereof and an 
opportunity to be heard. 

Sec. 18. The several Judges of the Supreme Court of the Common 
Pleas and of such other courts as may be created, shall, respectively, have 



356 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTV. 

and exercise such power and jurisdiction, at chambers or otherwise, as may 
be directed by law. 

Sec 19. The General Assembly may establish Courts of Conciliation, 
and prescribe their powers and duties; but such courts shall not render final 
judgment in any case, except upon submission by the parties, of the mat- 
ter in dispute, and their agreement to abide such judgment. 

Sec. 20. The style of all process shall be, " The State of Ohio: " all 
prosecutions shall be carried on in the name and by the authority of the 
State of Ohio, and all indictments shall conclude, " against the peace and 
dignity of the State of Ohio.'" 

THE COMMON PLEAS COURT. 

The first session of this eourt, hold at Marion, was a special term, com- 
mencing May 7, 1824, by the Associate Judges, William Holmes, Jacob 
Idloman and David H. Beardsley, who appointed George H. Busby Clerk 
of the Court, pro tern.; but differing as to who should be appointed, each 
Judo-e having a candidate of his own, they agreed to consult the wishes of 
the people by taking the popular vote. Accordingly, the following entry 
was made upon their journal: " Ordered that the Clerk of the Court of 
Common Pleas of said county be elected at tho next October election, and 
that William M. Holmes, Gideon J. Messenger and George H Busby be 
considered as candidates for said office." At the election, the people chose 
Mr. Busby, and he was accordingly appointed for a term of seven years. 

Another special term of the court was held June 9, 1824, by the Asso- 
ciate Judges, at which session administration and apportioning Justices of 
the Peace for the different townships were the principal business. 

The hrst regular term of the Court of Common Pleas of Marion Coun- 
ty commenced September 23, 1824, Hon. Ebenezer Lane, President Judge, 
and the above mentioned Associate Judges. Benjamin Hillman was Sher- 
iff. The appointments of Busby for Clerk and of Pettibone for Prose- 
cuting Attorney were continued. The venire for the first grand jury was 
<j uashed on motion of the Prosecutor. The Sheriff summoned a Grand 
Jury as follows, the first in the county: Benjamin Salmon, Foreman; James 
Jenkins, Nathan Clark, William Wyatt, David Town, Samuel Jones, David 
Tipton, -John Green, Hugh O'Harra, Samuel Kniseley, Alvin Priest, Levi Ham- 
mond, Daniel MeMichael, William Caldwell and Isaac Darling. No mid- 
dle names are mentioned in the above list, although some of the men had 
two given names. At this term several licenses to keep tavern were issued, 
at $7 to $10. Enoch B. Merriman and Jam9s Bailie obtained license to 
keep store in Bucyrus for one year, at $15 each. J. H & William 
Holmes and George Will obtained license for the same fee to keep store in 
Marion one year. 

The first case on the docket of Marion County is " the State vs. Eber 
Baker." The following is the indictment and record of the case: 

Slate of Ohio, Marion County, Court of Common Pleas of the term of September, 
in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty-four. 

.Marion County, 88. The Grand Jurors of the State of Ohio, impaneled and 
sworn, to inquire of crimes and offences committed within the body of Marion County, 
in the name and by the authority of the State; of Ohio aforesaid, upon their oaths 
present, that Eber Baker, late of the county of Marion aforesaid, on the 15th day of 
September, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty-four, with 
force and arms at Center Township, in the county of M uion aforesaid, and within the 
jurisdiction of this court, did sell spirituous liquors by less quantity than one quart, to 
wit : One pint of whisky to one David A. Town, to be drunk at the place where sold, 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 357 

to wit, at the house of said Eber Baker, in said township, without being duly authorized, 
contrary to the form of statute in such case made and provided, and against the peace 
and dignity of the State of Ohio. 

M. D. Pettibone, Prosecuting Attorney. 
State op Ohio. ) 

vs. >- Indictment for selling Spirituous Liquors. 

Eber Baker. ) 

This day came the prosecutor in behalf of the State, and the defendant being 
arraigned pleaded guilty to the indictment. 

Whereupon, it is considered by the court that he pay a fine of one dollar, together 
with the costs of prosecution, taxed to dollars and cents. 

Samuel Bailie, at this term, was the first foreigner who filed his decla- 
ration of intention to become a citizen of the United States in this county. 
Samuel Holmes was appointed County Surveyor for five years. George H. 
Busby was appointed Recorder, pro tern. Court continued but one day. 

A special term was held November 27, 1824, by the Associate Judges, 
William Holrnes. Jacob Idleman and Benjamin Salmon. Special terms 
were also held December 7 and 13 following, and at the last date Mr. Busby 
was appointed Recorder for seven years, as before mentioned. Special 
terms were held several times during the ensuing winter and spring, to at- 
tend to habeas corjms and administration. 

The first civil cases appearing on the docket as disposed of were at the 
April term, 1825. The first entries are of the cases of John Luck vs. Sam- 
uel Holmes and George A. Gaylord vs. William Caldwell, both of which were 
dismissed. The first civil case tried before a jury was that of Westell 
Ridgeley vs. Isaac Dorland, for slander. The plaintiff claimed $500, and 
got $75. May for plaintiff and Harkness for defendant. The following 
persons composed this first petit jury in Marion County: William Car- 
penter, George Fickle, George McElvain, Zebediah Hide, Alexander Frazer, 
George Poe, Amos Clark, James Scott, John Maxfield, Reuben Smith, 
Peter Beabout and George Luke. 

Two petit larceny cases were tried at this term, both defendants found 
guilty and sentenced to imprisonment in the county jail, one for seven days 
and the other for twenty days. 

Slander cases were somewhat numerous in these early times, consider- 
ing the small number of cases on the docket; but the court and jury had a 
habit then of going right through a case and it was soon ended. 

The court allowed Edson Harkness $5 in each of the larceny cases above 
mentioned, for defending, and the Clerk and Sheriff were allowed the mu- 
nificent sum of $35 each as an annual salary for the term of seven years. 
At this term, the grand jury presented seven indictments- — two for selling 
spirituous liquors and five for larceny. 

Two Wyandot Indians were brought before William Holmes at a special 
term September 1, 1825, on some complaint, but were discharged. Their 
peculiar names were Half John Frost, alias Dannubee,and General Washing- 
ton, alias Nundundee. 

This year, 1825, the Prosecuting Attorney, Milo D. Pettibone, was al- 
lowed a salax-y of $40 a year, to be paid him " in just proportions by the 
County Treasurer, at the close of each term of court/' At the May term in 
1826, Charles L. Boalt was appointed Prosecuting Attorney of Marion 
County, and Alson Norton was Associate Judge in place of Enoch B. Mer- 
riman. The court allowed Boalt, Prosecuting Attorney, the sum of $80 
for prosecuting at the two terms of court held in the county, one-half at 
the end of each term. 

In that early day criminal cases were proportionally as numerous as at 



358 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

the present period of the county's history. In 1825, there was one in- 
dictment for forgery, one for perjury and one for horse-stealing; but neither 
of these eases was over tried. Habeas corpus cases were common at special 
terms of the court, and generally the prisoners were set free. 

The first minister's name on the records as of one authorized to solem- 
nize marriages is that of Rev. Nehemiah Story, of the Regular Baptist 
Church, November 13, 1826. 

The first newspaper named in the records is the Delaware Patron, in 
May, 1826. 

At the November term, 182(3, the salary of the Sheriff was fixed at $50 
a year, payable one half at each term of the court. The Clerk of the court 
was also allowed a salary of $50 a year payable likewise. James K. Corey 
was allowed $15 for services as special prosecutor at this term. At the 
May term, 1827, Joseph Swan was appointed Prosecuting Attorney of Mar- 
ion County, aud at the November term following, he was allowed $80 a 
year. At the end of the third day's proceedings of this term, in the jour- 
nal entries, occur the words, " Judge Lane left the bench," in his own 
handwriting. 

The attorneys named on the docket during the first three years were J. 
M. May, E. Harkness, O. Parrish, M. D. Pettibone. Charles L. Boalt, P. 
B. Wilcox, S. Banta and Mr. Latimer. Most of these were non-residents. 
The name of Godman and Bowen first appear on the docket in the case of 
Thomas McNeal vs. Bowdish and Town, in May, 1829. They were attor- 
neys for Town. These gentlemen at once took a prominent position, as 
they had one side of almost every case, while C. L. Boalt had the other. 

In 1830, they did business separately, and in nearly every case Bowen 
and Godman were arrayed on opposite sides. 

Following are personal sketches of the Judges whose jurisdiction in- 
cluded Marion County: 

John Adair McDowell, the first President Judge of the Common Pleas 
District, which included the territory afterward made Marion County, was 
the son of Samuel and Ann (Irvin) McDowell, and was born near Harrods- 
burg, Ky. , May 2(3, 1780. He studied law, and in the war of 1812 served 
with distinction on the staff of Gov. Shelby. November 9, 1809, he mar- 
ried Lucy Todd Starling, youngest daughter of Col. William Starling, and 
at the solicitation of his brother-in-law, Lucas Sullivant, removed with his 
wife to Franklinton, Franklin Co., Ohio, late in 1815 or early in 1816, and 
there became a prominent and successful lawyer. In 1819, he was ap- 
pointed by the court as Prosecuting Attorney for the county of Franklin. 
He was a member of the lower branch of the Legislature in 1818-19, and 
in 1820 was elected President Judge of his judicial district. He is remem- 
bered as a man of fine personal appearance, was possessed of great natural 
talent and was popular. He died September 20, 1823, leaving two chil- 
dren. The vacancy on the bench caused by his death was tilled by the ap- 
pointment by Gov. Morrow of Gustavus Swan, whose jurisdiction, how- 
ever, did not include Marion County. 

Ebenezer Lane, according to the records, held the first courts of Marion 
County up to 1829. He resided at Norwalk, and the lack of conveniences 
for travel then existing made it a long and tiresome journey for him to 
come to Marion. He was a gentleman and lawyer of high character and 
ability. His finely and closely written signature on the old court records 
gives evidence of modesty and of an even and unruffled nature. He was 
afterward elevated to the Supreme bench of the State, and while occupying 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 359 

that position be became noted for the brevity of his written opinions. They 
were o-iven in a few words, but explained his position admirably. After his 
term as Supreme Judge expired, he became noted as a railroad lawyer. He 
was in all respects a model man and an honor to his district and State. 

David Hio-gins was Common Pleas Judge from 1829 to 1837. He also 
lived at Norwalk. He was a fair lawyer and an honest and good Judge, 
but quick and nervous. He lost his leg by amputation, having badly 
broken it by being thrown from a buggy, as he was going down a hill near 
Delaware. He afterward went to Washington, D. C, where he became a 
Clerk in one of the departments, and finally died in that city. 

The Common Pleas records of Marion County are signed by David Hig- 
gins from 1829 to February 13, 1837, where the entry is made by the 
Clerk, " Records not complete after this date; " and no Judge's name ap- 
pears thenceforward for a number of years. 

Frederick Grimke, of Chillicothe, held this position. Judge Grimke 
was a tall, slim, pleasant looking man, and had a fine legal education. He 
was distinguished more for his excellent knowledge of the law than for his 
practical application of it, but was possessed of very good ability in the 
latter connection. He was subsequently elevated to the Supreme bench of 
the State. 

Hon. Ozias Bowen,* who passed from earth September 26, 1871, was one 
of the giants of the Marion bar. Born July 23, 1805, in Oneida County, 
N. Y., among the Catskill Mountains, not much is known of his early ca- 
reer, but sufficient has been preserved to establish that he was reared amid 
a community, outspoken, heroic, high-principled, and these early surround- 
ings gave a permanent basis for his moral character. When a youth of 
eighteen, he came West to Ashtabula County, Ohio, where he studied law 
and was admitted to the bar, and where he also published a weekly paper. 
In 1828, he came to Marion, and after teaching school and keeping store, 
he resumed the practice of the law, rising to the positions of Prosecuting 
Attorney and Judge of the Court of Common Pleas, which position he 
held with credit to himself and benefit to the community for fourteen years, 
his circuit extending at one time as far as Lake Erie. A seat on the bench 
of the Supreme Court of Ohio was also awarded to him. In whatever 
tended to advance the welfare of the people, Judge Bowen took a deep in- 
terest; education found him its warm advocate; all churches alike shared 
his bounty, although the Presbyterian community claimed him as its 
especial member; the cause of the slave found in Judge Bowen an ardent 
advocate, and his associations were ever with the Republican party. He 
was the friend and coadjutor of such men as Salmon P. Chase, Columbus 
Delano and the like. His fine residence in the southern part of the village 
of Marion attested that his labors had met with their due pecuniary reward. 
In physique, Judge Bowen was five feet and eleven inches in height, while 
his weight was 195 pounds, thus attesting that a vigorous body is ever the 
basis of a vigorous mind. 

Judge Bowen's profession and the practice of it made him a prominent 
and noticeable character, not only in the town and county where he lived, 
but througout the State, and to him, as a lawyer, more attention should be 
given in this biography than to any other phase of his character. 

He was a leading lawyer, eminent and successful, the peer of any with 
whom he came in contact professionally. He was not a fluent or eloquent 
speaker, and brought to his aid none of the graces or tricks of voice ur ac- 

*Thia biography of Judge Bowen was kindly contributed by .1. F. McNeal, Esq. 



360 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

tion of the trained elocutionist. As art advocate, he was reasonable, logi- 
cal, plain, fair, direct and powerful, and although he could not sway or 
control a court or jury by bursts of eloquence, yet he had immense influ- 
ence as a shrewd, argumentative reasoner. He was a good judge of men 
and character, and had what has always been the element or secret of suc- 
cess in every department of man's work — a vast amount of good, solid com- 
mon sense. 

In his practice, he was fair, bold, fearless and dignified, always com- 
manding and securing the attention and respect of the court. 

He was exceedingly careful in giving advice and counseling in litigation, 
always desiring to avoid and keep out of bad cases; but when he had deter- 
mined to go en he entered upon the work of the preparation and trial of 
his cases with the determination to succeed, and no client could ever 
charge him with neglect or want of zeal. His many years of practice and 
his long experience as a Judge made hicu exceedingly familiar with 
the law and especially rules of court and of practice. Yet even in his later 
years, he never went into court, in even the smallest of cases, without a 
brief, both of facts and of law. With good natural qualifications and long 
experience, he put no especial dependence in either, but did depend on 
the results of special preparation and labor in every case. His secret of 
success was indomitable energy and unremitting .labor. He kept a com- 
mon-place book, in which were noted the results of bis investigations, and 
always ready and at hand; he had a brief when any subject came before 
him a second time. Every trial in which he was engaged found him with 
full and especially prepared brief, and every one was tried with a view of 
taking it to a higher court. If he did not secure on tbe first trial what he 
thought he ought to have, and his cases will sbow that even where he was 
beaten below, he was most likely to be successful in the end. He was a 
bold, hard fighter, and like every strong, uncompromising character, made 
some enemies, but the profession will always recognize him as one of the 
strongest men at the bar in Northern Ohio, in his day. His thoroughness 
was remarkable and bis attention to details equally so. His students will 
always remember one direction which he gave as to the conduct of trials, 
viz., "never omit to make every point in your case, no matter how trifling 
or small it may seem to you, for although it may look trifling, yet it may 
be the decisivo point in the mind of the court or jury to which you are try- 
ing the case." This notice of Judge Bowen's professional character and 
career would not be complete if we failed to note one beautiful trait in that 
character, and that is his uniform kindness and courtesy to the young men 
of his profession. All who were so fortunate as to practice with him will 
remember this. No young man ever appealed to him for professional as- 
sistance in vain, when he was free and could give it. He gave the benefit 
of his experience and counsel willingly and joyfully, and always had a kind 
and eucouraging word to those who felt the embarrassment of inexperience. 
Tbe young lawyers who were about him remember him gratefully. To do 
the life and professional character of Judge Bowen justice we cannot, 
probably, better sum up the whole matter than by saying, " He was a great 
lawyer." 

Benjamin F. Metcalf, the first Judge of Common Pleas for this district 
under the new constitution, lived the most of the time during his term of 
office at Lima, Allen Connty, although his home when elected was at Del- 
phos, on the line between Allen and Van Wert. He was originally a tailor 
in Champaign County. It is thought that he was admitted to the bar at 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 361 

Sidney, Shelby Cd., Ohio, and he is kuown to have practiced law at that 
point before his -election to the bench. Considering his limited opportu- 
nities, he was a good lawyer and splendid Judge. What he lacked in 
schooling he made up in common sense. He had a large brain ; was 
shrewd; a man of strict integrity and socially popular, being jolly and 
humorous, but strong drink got the mastery of him occasionally. He died 
at Lima soon after the last war. 

William Lawrence, Judge of Common Pleas from 1856 to 1865, and 
the successor of Judge Metcalf. resided at Bellefontaine, Logan County. 
He was a well-read lawyer, possessed remarkable industry and energy and 
was a satisfactory Judge. Morally, he was religious and without blemish. 
He was always pleasant and affable, and was popular both with the people 
and the bar. He was brought up in Jefferson County, thi; State. At the 
opening of a court in May, 1861, when the people were excited about the 
war, he ordered the Sheriff to raise the national flag over th^ cupola of the 
court house in Marion, which order the Sheriff refused to obey. The latter 
was therefore brought into court and fined for contempt. He then hoisted 
the flag according to the original order. In 1S62, Judge Lawrence went 
to the front with a regiment, of which he was Colonel. AVhile in the serv- 
ice, his salary as Judge continued, which he drew and distributed to the 
school districts throughout his circuit. In the fall of 1864, he was elected 
to a seat in Congress, and resigned his position upon the bench to enter 
upon his new round of duties. Near the close of the term of President 
Hayes, he was appointed First Comptroller of the United States Treasury, 
which position he now occupies. Upon the resignation of his Judgeship, 
the vacancy thereby occurring was tilled by the election of 

Jacob S. Conklin, of Sidney, Ohio, who was possessed of good ability, 
but had not been as long in practice as Judge Lawrence. As a man, he 
was honest and conscientious. His habits are, to some extent, unfavorably 
commented upon. He is now located at Sidney in the practice of his pro- 
fession. In the fall of 1882, he was a candidate for Congress on the Re- 
publican ticket, but was defeated by Benjamin LeFevre. He was a fine 
lawyer and an honest Judge. He was succeeded by — 

Abner M. Jackson in 1871, who, while in office and a resident of 
Bucyrus, resigned. He moved to Cleveland and afterward to Colorado. 
To fill out his unexpired term, the Governor appointed the present incum- 
bent — 

Thomas Beer, also a resident of Bucyrus, who was born in Wayne County, 
Ohio, September 7, 1832. He became a pupil of the Vermilion Institute, 
at Hayesville, Ashland County, and in 1848 began teaching school. He 
chose law as a profession, and commenced its study with John C. Tidball, 
at Coshocton, in 1851, teaching school in the meantime to defray expenses; 
remained with him until 1853. From 1S54 to 1858, he was Postmaster at 
Alliance, Ohio, and in the latter year he became editor cf the Stark County 
Democrat, at Canton. Ohio, and in 1862 editor of the Crawford County 
Forum. Was admitted to the bar in 1862, and began practice at Bucyrus, 
Ohio. In 1863, he was elected to the House of Representatives on the 
Democratic ticket, and re-nlected, holding the position up to and including 
the session of 1866-67. Was a member of the Constitutional Convention 
in 1S73; appointed Judge of the Common Pleas Court for the Fourth Sub- 
division of the Third Judicial District of Ohio, August 15, 1S74, then com- 
prising the counties of Wood, Hancock, Seneca, Wyandot, Crawford and 
Marion. In October, 1874. he was elected to fill the unexpired term of 



362 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Judge Jackson, who had resigned; in 1876, was re-elected to the full term 
of five years; and in 1881 he was again re-elected, to serve until February 
9, 1887. As a practitioner, Judge Beer was fair and honorable. On the 
Bench he is not rapid in his decisions, but takes time to fortify himself 
with precedents, which practice leads the people to regard him as a careful, 
impartial and just Judge. 

Marion County is now in the Second Subdivision of the Tenth District of 
the State of Ohio. 

SOME OF THE ASSOCIATE JUDGES. 

William Holmes, one of the original proprietors of the town plat of 
Marion, was an Associate Judge for a time. He left here some time pre- 
vious to 1840 and went West, where he died many years ago. 

Isaac E. James, of Big Island, was one of the earliest Associate Judges. 

Jacob Idleman was an Associate Judge as early as 1819. Before him 
was tried the first case in the Common Pleas Court. (See history of Pleas- 
ant Township.) 

Sandford S. Bennett, although he had no love of litigation, or any- 
thing in connection therewith, and never sought office, was, notwithstand- 
ing, honored with that of Associate Judge from 1832 to 1835. Born in 
Berkshire County, Mass., January 9, 1791, Judge Bennett survived, hale 
and vigorous, until November 29, 1881, when he was cut down suddenly by 
heart disease. In his family Bible, written in his own hand, are these 
words: " Oh, how wonderful that I, the first-born of my father's family of 
ten children, should be left to record the death of each and all of them !" 
Reared at Burlington, Vt., amid the stirring scenes of the war of 1812, he 
came to Berkshire, Delaware Co., Ohio, in January, 1816; was Sheriff of 
that county and there married Almira Stoughton, of Hartford, Conn., who 
survives him. residing with their only child, Eleanora, wife of Dr. T. B. 
Fisher. Judge Bennett was successful in business, accumulating consid- 
erable wealth and erecting the large business block known by his name. 
He was a consistent member of the Protestant Episcopal Church from 1853 
to his death 

Genrge Gray was born in Essex County, Del., May 18, 1806. His 
father, Frazier Gray, was a soldier in the Revolutionary war. George 
worked on a farm with his father until he was seventeen years of age, 
when he went to learn the carpenter and joi tier's trade. Three years after- 
ward, he married Miss Jane Barr, February 13, 1827; then he worked two 
years in a ship yard near home. Then, in 1829, he came to Ohio in com- 
pany with his brother, Rev. David Gray, arriving at Zanesville May 20, 
where the latter stopped. George came on to Salt Rock Township, this 
county, where he worked at his trade for awhile, as mechanics were very 
much needed at the time. In 1835, he was elected by the Legislature as 
Associate Judge of Marion County, and served seven years with fidelity. 
He served two terms as Probate Judge of Marion County, from 1860 to 
1866, and was elected Mayor of the city of Marion, which office he soon 
afterward resigned. He was elected Justice of the Peace for Montgomery 
Township, and in 1858 was appointed Postmaster at Cochranton (Scott- 
Town). Finally, he was elected Jiistice of the Peace for Grand Township. 
He died at his old residence in Scott- Town, December 29, 1880, one of the 
oldest membei-s of Marion Lodge, No. 70, A. F. & A. M. He left five chil- 
dren. His wife died twelve years previously. 

Thomas J. Anderson was Associate Judge with Hon. Ozias Bowen for 
five or six years. He was a hatter by trade, a resident of Marion for many 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 363 

years, growing up with the place from its infancy, but not accumulating 
much property. He moved to Missouri, where he died and was buried, 
about 1875. He was a very active man, positive in his manner and of strict 
integrity. 

Judge John Bartram was born June 12, 1804, in Redding, Fairfield 
Co., Conn., and came to Marion County, Ohio, November 20, 1827. 
Just previously, September 2 5, 1827, he married Miss Jane Hopkins, in 
Pickaway Township, Pickaway County, Ohio. He began office as Town- 
ship Clerk in Marion in 1831; was elected Justice of the Peace in 1832, 
and re-elected in 1835 and 1838; was appointed Postmaster by Postmaster 
General McLean in 1833, and resigned in 1835 on account of ill health. 
He served as Assistant Auditor from 1835 to 1838. He was again ap- 
pointed Postmaster in 1838, and served until 1841. He next served as 
Commissioner to fill a vacancy one year, and was made Fund Commissioner 
of Marion County. He said the United States lost nothing by the trans- 
actions of this countv, for every dollar was paid back when needed. Mr. 
Bartram was Associate Judge from 1840 to 1847, following the dry goods 
trade from 1840 to 1846. He then reviewed his legal studies and was ad- 
mitted to the bar. He was Prosecuting Attorney three years; was Repre- 
sentative in the State Legislature, 1860-61, and Senator, 1870-71; was a 
Republican politically. He died November 17, 1879, leaving a widow and 
a son, Samuel H., an attorney at law, both in Marion. September 25, 
1877, Judge Bartram's golden wedding was celebrated, when a magnifi- 
cent gold-headed cane was presented to him by the Marion bar, Col. John 
J. Williams being the spokesman for the bar. It was a genuine surprise 
present. On the head of the cane was engraved " Presented to Hon. J. 
Bartram by the members of the bar of Marion, September 25, 1877." 

Judge John Merrill was born December 28, 1814, in Delaware County, 
N. Y., came with his parents to Ross County, Ohio, when five years of age. 
Having there lost his father when about eight years of age, he came w r ith 
his mother to Marion, in the fall of 1829, and began his trade of tailor. 
In 1835, he commenced the business of custom tailor, in which he was con- 
tinuously engaged until the spring of 1879. He was three times married. 
His first marriage was with Sarah Havens, April 16, 1834. By this mar- 
riage there were six children, four of whom reached majority, and three 
survived him. Losing by death the mother of these, January 14, 1849, 
in July following he was united by marriage with Miss Leah Turney, and 
by this union there were three children. She died in September, 1875, 
and in the summer following he was married to her sister, Mrs. Rachel 
Adams, who survives him. Mr. Merrill was for seven years an Associate 
Judge of Marion Common Pleas, and filled this position with dignity and 
honor. In May, 1852, he was elected to the Board of Education and served 
continuously until May, 1866. He was elected to the Village Council for 
several terms, viz.. a term of one year each in 1854, 1858, 1861, 1866, 1867 
and terms of two years in 1868 and 1877. He died May 14, 1879, at the 
age of sixty-five. 

This is probably the place to give an account of a remarkable fugitive 
slave case, that came up before Judge Boweu and United States Commis- 
sioner Bartram. The negro's name was 

BILL ANDERSON. 

In 1839 occurred a riot in Marion between slavery and anti- slavery 
partisans, which not only made a lasting impression upon the minds of 



364 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

the citizens, but fixed in tkem more strongly than ever the old party preju- 
dices upon the most serious question that ever vexed American politics. 
Marion was a depot on the "underground railroad." "Bill Anderson" 
was the name of a negro who took up his abode in Marion about a year 
previously. He was as black as any negro, weighed not less than 200 
pounds, and. to use a phrase common in those days, was a very " likely 
nigger." By his good behavior and willingness to work at a fair price, 
he had gained the good' will of the people. With the " boys," he stood at 
the top notch, in consequence of his ability to sing the old melodies of the 
plantation and finger the banjo to perfection. While William was thus 
enjoying the " fat and hominy " of the land, what should disturb his peace 
and quiet but the appearance of a brace of " Virginians " named McClana- 
han and Goshorn, and one or two other men, claiming that said "Billy" was 
the property of one Mitchell, who had previously bought him of one Anderson. 
The "darkey" was, accordingly, by legal process, stowed away in one of the 
cells of the old white oak jail to await a requisition frorn his native State. 
Considerable sympathy was manifested for him, and he was not to be de- 
livered over to the agent of Mitchell without a trial. The day came for the 
agent to prove " property," etc., and after a hearing, Judge Bowen decided 
that under the statutes of Ohio the prisoner could not be delivered to 
Mitchell's agent, as he had failed to show that he at any time had pos- 
session of him. Bill was thereupon released from custody. 

This started a whirlwind. Without process, the Virginians seized Bill 
by the arms and started for the office of Judge John Bartram, then United 
States Commissioner, before whom it was proposed to try the case under 
the laws of the United States. Main street had just been macadamizd with 
stone fresh from the quarry, and while Bill was on the way to Judge Bart- 
ram's, anti-slavery men began to pelt the Southerners freely with the stones. 
The captors, however, succeeded in reaching the Judge's office with their 
prize, where occurred a scene of confusion and excitement beyond descrip- 
tion. The Judge stood in his office door and endeavored to disperse or 
quiet the mob so that the trial could proceed, while the Southerners flour- 
ished bowie knives and pistols, and loud talking of every kind shattered 
the very air. At this juncture, some half a dozen men broke open the 
"arsenal," seized each an old United States flint lock musket, rushed into 
the crowd and demanded entrance into the Cominissionei*'s office, which 
was refused. One Elias G. Spelman, a law student, with his musket firmly 
grasped and the bayonet fixed, made a charge upon Judge Bartram, which 
probably would have been fatal had not Rodney Spaulding successfully in- 
terfered by knocking the gun to one side, which entered the wall of the 
building about four inches. This climacteric performance, of course, di- 
rected all eyes to the spot, at which opportunity Billy made good his es- 
cape through a back door that some one had opened. Goshorn and others 
followed, and in a minute or two Goshorn threw a bowie knife at him, 
striking him in the small of the back, but rebounding without injury. 
Billy ran all the faster, and soon hid himself in a shock of corn in a field 
where John Dumble once made brick, but which ground is now occupied 
by a railroad. William S. Hutchison sagaciously sounded the shock with 
his foot, saying, " Keep dark, Billy." 

When Goshorn threw the bowie, s Elliott Davidson knocked him down 
with a brickbat, which of course ended the race, for the crowd centered 
there to witness the bleeding w T ounds of Goshorn. Billy then saw his op- 
portunity to " clear " the country, which he did most effectually, as he got 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 365 

on the underground railroad for Canada and went through on the " light- 
ning express." 

During the fracas, a " boss " printer, small in stature and correspond- 
ingly zealous for the right, when the cry of " To arms " was given, seized 
two of those venerable old flint-locks and started for the field of action, 
dragging them along by their muzzles. Maj. Busby told him not to make 
a fool of himself, when the obedient little printer-editor deliberately 
" stacked arms " against the north end of Byerly's hotel and rested from 
further hostilities. 

The court issued a bench warrant and caused the arrest of the rioters, 
who were marched off to jail and locked up. where they spent a few hours in 
discussing the merits of some good brandy and sugar kindly furnished 
them. They were released on bail till next morning, when the Virginians 
were fined $50 each, which they paid and returned home. 

This riot engendered hard feelings between citizens, which were never, 
with many, satisfactorily adjusted. A short time thereafter, while William 
Fisher was delivering an address before the Lyceum in the court room, a 
crowd who did not like his ideas, commenced stamping their feet and clap- 
ping their hands and hissing like infernal creatures. Mr. Fisher continued, 
determined not to be bluffed. The Mayor appeared and commanded the 
disturbers of the peace to desist, saying he demanded this in the name of 
Mayor and by authority of law. He was told that it was not his " put 
in," and he gracefully retired. Shortly afterward, a flaming hand-bill, 
headed " Freedom of Speech," and signed by a number of the best citizens, 
was circulated, calling for a mass meeting at the court house; and soon 
after that another hand-bill was circulated by the anti-abolitionists, calling 
for a meeting at the same time and place to take into consideration the 
propriety of closing the doors of the court house against meetings having 
for their object the agitation of the question of slavery. This created a 
great sensation, and everyboby was anxious to see what would be done on 
that day. The day came, and fortunately the Sheriff locked the court 
house against both parties. It was then suggested that the crowd was too 
large for the court room any way, and a few men. to preserve order, organ- 
ized on the portico and resolved that " all who did not favor abolition sen- 
timents," should repair to the south side of the court house, and all those 
in favor of the same to go to the north side. It was funny to see some of 
the chronic office seekers endeavoring to be on both sides at once, or man- 
aging to ascertain on which side the largest crowd would assemble before tak- 
ing either side. One man changed sides three times, stealthily creeping 
around the back way, to escape observation! He became settled at last on 
the strongest side, which was the anti abolitionist. 

THE BAR OF THE PAST. 

Milo D. Pettibone, not a resident here, was the first Prosecuting Attorney 
for this district after the organization of the county. 1824-25, being ap- 
pointed by the State. 

Thomas Backus, also non-resident, succeeded Mr. Pettibone in 1825 or 
182(3. 

Charles L. Boalt, Prosecutor in 1826-27, was a successful lawyer, res- 
ident in Marion several years. Some time between 1833 and 1840, he 
moved to Norwalk, Ohio, where he was a leading lawyer until his death. 

Gen. James H. Godman, lawyer and ex-State Auditor of the State of 
Ohio, Avas born October 19, 1808, in Berkeley County, AY. Va., and moved to 



366 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Ohio with his parents in 1812, settling in Fairfield County, where he re- 
mained until 1816, when he went to Franklin County, Ohio, and there ob- 
tained the rudiments of his education in the private schools of that day, and 
finished in the higher branches of an English education at the old Colum- 
bus Academy. Deciding upon following the profession of law when eight- 
een years of age, he selected as his preceptor Judge Orris Parish, of Co- 
lumbus, Ohio, with whom he read for two years, when he was admitted to 
the bar, after a most thorough and searching examination, such as is 
scarcely known at the present day. Soon after his admission to the bar, 
in 1828, he settled at Marion, Ohio, and opened an office for the practice of 
his profession, which more rapidly than usual became both large and re- 
munerative. In November of that year he was married to Miss Ann S. 
Davis, of Marion, which proved to be a most fortunate and happy union. 
He proved himself capable, energetic and trustworthy, and soon advanced 
to the front ranks of society and of his profession; was twice elected Pros- 
ecuting Attorney of the county, against his own protest; twice to the House 
of Representatives of the General Assembly, once State Senator, and twice 
Auditor of State of the State of Ohio. In 1851, he drew up and procured the 
passage of an act of the General Assembly of the State of Ohio, chartering the 
Bellefontaine & Indiana Railroad Company ; was in the spring of that year 
elected President of that company, which he immediately organized; 
had its line surveyed and located from Gabon through Marion, Hardin, Logan, 
Shelby and Darke Counties, to the Indiana State line at Union City, and 
passing through the county seats of Marion, Logan and Shelby Counties. 
Such was his influence, that he induced the counties of Marion and Shelby 
to take stock in the corporation and issue bonds therefor, as did also sev- 
eral of the townships in Logan and Darke. He accepted real estate to the 
amount of $300,000, upon which he issued bonds of the company, secured 
by mortgage. He issued $800,000 first mortgage bonds of the company, 
sold all the bonds, built the road in a little over two years, equipped it 
well, managed it until the fall of 1856, when he resigned and resumed the 
practice of his profession, which he continued until April, 1861. 

When trying a case in court,the President's proclamation was received an- 
nouncing the fall of Fort Sumter and calling for 75,000 volunteer troops, he 
moved the court to adjourn without day, which was doue, and he imme- 
diately recruited a company and was elected its Captain. His company 
was attached to the Fourth Ohio Volunteer Regiment, of which he was ap- 
pointed Major, afterward Lieutenant Colonel, and finally Colonel. He was 
severely wounded while leading his regiment at the battle of Fredericks- 
burg. After the war, he» was brevetted a Brigadier General for distin- 
guished services in the field. He was a Whig in politics until the forma- 
tion of the Republican party, with which he has been prominently con- 
nected to the present time. But he was never a bitter politician; was al- 
ways independent, just and impartial in the discharge of his official 
duties, and retired from public life with the respect and confidence of the 
citizens of all shades of politics. His official duties as State Auditor re- 
quiring his residence at Colurabus, Marion is not now the home of Gen. 
Godman ; but this county is still proud to regard him as peculiarly her own. 
Gen. Godman was deprived by death of his beloved partner some five years 
ago, and of his sons three reside in Columbus; one is a Methodist clergy- 
man in the Southern States and another has followed in the footsteps of 
his father by making law his profession. 

J. S. McDonald was practicing in Marion shortly after 1830. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 367 

E. G. Spelman was a member of the Marion County bar in an early day. 
In 1838, he was Recorder for the town of Marion. 

George Rowe settled in Marion some time prior to 1840. He read law 
with J. H. Godman and became a successful attorney; was Prosecuting 
Attorney for one term. He was a good " stumper," full of anecdote and 
humor, a large man of singular appearance, especially in respect to his 
eyes, and was rather uncouth in manner. When the gold fever arose in 
1849, he started from this place with a company overland to California, 
leaving his wife and family here. He settled in Marysville, Cal., became 
a prominent lawyer and a man of considerable property, which however, 
he subsequently lost, and died poor. He became a Spiritualist some years 
before his death. 

William B. Sloan was an atoorney here many years ago. He moved to 
Ottawa County, where he is still living, having served oupi term there as 
Probate Judge. He was a native of Marion, a son of the well-known pio- 
neer, Thomas M. Sloan. 

William Fisher, a brother of Dr. T. B. Fisher, practiced law in the 
Marion courts about 1840-41; went to Bucyrus, Ohio, where he was in 
partnership with Judge Scott a few years: he then moved to the western 
part of Morrow County, where he died many years ago. 

A man named Litter was a pi'ominent lawyer here about 1830-35. 

A. J. Bair practiced law in Marion only a year or two, 1842-43. He 
now lives in Indiana. 

William Robbins, Prosecuting Attorney, from 1843 to 1845 and from 
1847 to 1849, moved to Morrow County, where he died. 

Bradford R. Durfee, one of the leading members of the Marion bar. at 
a time when the county boasted of lawyers second to none in the State 
(1840 to 1860), was born January 20, 1816, in Tiverton, R. I., now Fall 
River, Mass. He was a descendant, in the sixth generation, of Thomas 
Durfee, who came from England in 1660, whose descendants have since 
lived at Fall River. His grandfather, Joseph Durfee, was a Colonel in the 
Revolutionary army. His parents moved to Washington County, Ohio, in 
1816, by the only means of conveyance in those days, a wagon. They died 
and were buried there soon afterward. The children moved to Athens 
County. Bradford R. resided in Athens County and in Cleveland until aboat 
1834, when he came to Marion to work in the cabinet and carpenter shops 
of his brothers, Joseph and Gardner. For several years, he worked during 
the day and studied law during the night. He was admitted to the bar in 
1841, and used to say that he went from the "bench" to the bar. He at- 
tended school at Granville from 1838 to 1840. November 6. 1S43. he mar- 
ried Miss Mary M. Hardy, who died March 3, 1857. April 6, 1858, he 
married Miss Pauline M. Peters, and they had one son, May 25. 1859, 
and one daughter, October 29, 1862. Mr. Durfee practiced law until Fort 
Sumter was tired upon in April, 1861. As a lawyer, he was signally 
successful. A portion of the time he was alone, and when in partner- 
ship, he was associated with such eminent men as Judge Cooper K. Wat- 
son. Gen. George Rowe and Judge Ozias Bowen. In 1853, he engaged in- 
banking, establishing " Durfee's Exchange Bank" of Marion, the "Bank 
of Bellefontaine," and in 1854 the "Delaware County Bank," at Muncie, 
Ind., and one at Indianapolis. In these ventures he was very successful, 
and at a time when it required nerve and foresight. The day after Fort 
Sumter was tired upon, Mr. Durfee volunteered as a private soldier in the 
Fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was commissioned Lieutenant Colonel 



368 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

of that regiment, December 31, 18(31, and soon afterward became its 
Colonel. Among bis many services as a soldier may be mentioned his com- 
mand of the attack on Romney, in which he was successful in capturing 
the place and obtaining the keys to the prison. With these he liberated 
the Union soldiers confined there. The keys are still in possession of his 
family. Col. Durfee died at Marion February 20, 1863. 

John F. Hume, attorney at law from 1852 to 1858, in partnership with 
John J. Williams, is another one of those remarkable examples of an un- 
polished gem being worked up into extraordinary brilliancy. In 1852, 
when Mr. Williams was a member of the Ohio Senate and needed a partner 
at home to keep up his business, there was presented to him at Columbus 
one day a poorly dressed, unprepossessing young man, who introduced 
himself as John F. Hume, desiring a situation as assistant in a law office. 
With considerable misgiving, Mr. Williams accepted him, for a brief pro- 
bation, coming home with him and setting him to work at unfinished cases. 
After an absence of about a week, Mr. Williams returned, and to his sur- 
prise found elaborate briefs made up for every case on hand. He bought 
him a new suit of clothes and gave him every encouragement to go ahead. 
He exhibited great native ability and faithfulness, and within the next six 
months the firm of Williams & Hume did a larger amount of business than 
has ever been done in the county by any one firm in the same length of 
time. Mr. Hume had good health, and was ever " up and at it." He after- 
ward began to take a prominent part in political affairs; was a Democrat, 
but was elected to the Legislature on the Know-Notbing ticket. In that 
body he made an elaborate, logical and impressive speech upon a question 
which came up with reference to the naturalization of foreigners. After 
this session of the Legislature, however, Mr. Hume became a Republican, 
and as such he stumped the county, and at the next election the county 
went Republican. In 1858, the above partnership was dissolved, and Mr. 
Hume, having married a young lady of wealth here, went to St. Louis,Mo. , and 
opened up business; but he soon put his means into the Missouri Democrat 
and for a time became its chief editor. He had had some experience in 
this capacity here in Marion. Next we hear of our subject, he was Rail- 
road Commissioner for the State of Missouri. After serving a term, he 
became obnoxious to many prominent politicians of that State. They 
thought he was making too much money out of the position. Thereupon 
he asked the Governor for an indorsement of his fidelity, in the shape of 
a re- appointment for a second term, on condition that he would imme- 
diately resign. He would not resign without the indorsement. The appoint- 
ment was put off to the last day of the Legislative session. He received it, 
but apparently too late to resign and give the Governor and Senate time to 
find a successor. Hume thus secured another term of office. After making a 
fortune of perhaps $500,000, he left Missouri and removed to Jersey City, 
N. J., where be added further to his wealth; then to Poughkeepsie, N. Y., 
where he has built a fine residence and now lives in luxury. 

James H. Anderson, Prosecuting Attorney, from 1855 to 1857, was born 
in Marion, a son of Judge Thomas J. Anderson. When about fifteen 
years of age, he commenced as clerk in the dry goods store of J. E. 
Davids; afterward became a successful lawyer, and is now a successful 
banker in Columbus, Ohio. 

Peleg Bunker was a practitioner at the bar in this county about thirty 
years ago; was a fair lawyer, but not apt to accumulate property; was in 
partnership with William Hull a short time, who died while a partner. 



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HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 371 

Mr. Bunker afterward died at Zanesville, this State. His widow and 
•daughter still reside in Marion; one son is in Cleveland, and another in 
Toledo. 

Cooper K. Watson was an able lawyer of Marion before the war; was a 
Whig and then Republican, and represented this district in Congress in 
1855 to 1857, when his party was growing into power as an anti-slavery 
element, and the people were gathering wrath preparatory to a great strug- 
gle at arms. At that time he was a resident of Seneca County. He also 
served as Common Pleas Judge. He was a "whole souled" man, possessing 
all the qualities of popularity. He died a few years ago, leaving a widow 
and two daughters. 

A. Osborne, editor of the Mirror before the war, and then a lawyer and 
Prosecuting Attoimey from 1857 to 1861, died a few years afterward, of 
softening of the brain 

H. C. Grodman, son of Gen. James H. Godman, was admitted to the 
bar in Marion County and was a successful practitioner for several years; 
he then followed his profession in Delaware, Ohio, two or three years, and 
retired from practice, and is now living at Columbus. 

Noah M. Runyan, Prosecuting Attorney from 1863 to 1867, two terms, 
was born in Mount Vernon, Ohio; came to this county about 1846, and died 
about two years ago. 

Almeron Wheat practiced law in this county in company with Gen. 
Godman for a time, and afterward went to Indiana, where, at last accounts, 
he was doing well in his profession. He was unmarried when he left this 
county. 

E. H. Hull was a young man admitted to the bar in this county, prac- 
ticed here a short time and went to Texas, married, and settled upon a farm, 
where he was prospering at last accounts. 

William Hull, cousin of tbe preceding, was also admitted to the bar in 
this county; was in partnership with Peleg Bunker a short time, elected 
Mayor of the town of Marion, and in a few weeks afterward died. He was 
a talented young man. 

T. A. Cross and D. A. Shields were admitted to the bar in this county 
and practiced awhile at Caledonia. Mr. Cross was from Hardin County. 

John R. Knapp, Jr., was admitted to the bar here, but never practiced 
the legal profession. As he was more prominently connected with the 
press of the county, see the chapter on that subject. 

Thomas Duncan practiced law a short time some five or six years ago, 
and then went to Mount Gilead. 

Capt. William E. Scofield was one of the able members of the Marion 
bar of his time. Was born in Muskingum County, October 4, 1834, set- 
tling in Marion in 1856, after graduating at the Ohio Wesleyan University. 
He studied law with Charles Sweetzer, of Delaware, Ohio, and was ad- 
mitted to the bar of the Supreme Court in 1857, from which time he 
devoted his energies to his profession. He felt his client's cause was his 
own, and, throwing himself into his cases with all the ardor of an energtic 
nature, was generally successful. He was a brilliant speaker, always forci- 
ble and frequently vehement, but never losing sight of the intricate details 
which are the great essentials of law. Well versed in criminal law, he Was 
engaged in a number of the most prominent criminal cases; for example, 
that of Enoch Young, accused of the murder of Bensley, of Waldo Town- 
ship; that of Pitman vs. Monnett, for the replevin of a calf, which was 
carried up and decided in favor of plaintiff, when the costs, exclusive of 

j 



372 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

attorneys' fees, amounted to over $1,000. Mr. Scofield held many places 
of public trust, was conspicuous in the army, and no man had warmer 
friends, and in return, his genial and ardent nature cemented and made 
lasting the friendship. He passed away July 5, 1883, in his forty-eighth 
year. 

THE BAR OF THE PRESENT. 

We subjoin brief biographical sketches of the present members of the 
Marion bar, chiefly dwelling upon their professional career and status. 
The present bar is an eminently respectable one, and maintains the high 
prestige attained by the bar of the past, of whom they are no unworthy 
successors. They are devoted to their profession, hard fighters, throwing 
themselves with zeal and energy into the side they are called upon to ad- 
vocate, and on the whole they command the confidence of their own com- 
munity; and among her sister counties, Marion has no reason to be 
ashamed of the home talent of her bar. 

John E. Davids has the distinction of being the oldest living member 
of the Marion bar, having been a student of Gen. James H. Godman from 
1838 to July, 1842, when he was admitted to the bar of the Supreme Court 
of the State. After three years' devotion to his profession, he turned to 
mercantile business, which he followed until 1867, when he returned to 
law. In October of that year, he was elected Justice of the Peace, and by 
successive elections has held that office ever since. He has been Notary 
Public since 1848, served as Mayor of Marion from 1858 to 1861, has been 
six years on the School Board, during two of which he has been President. 
The many official trusts Mr. Davids has held are the best evidence of his 
efficiency and integrity. 

Col. John J. Williams was born in Jefferson County, Ohio. He grad- 
uated at Franklin (Ohio) College in September. 1840, and the following 
December came to Marion. Early the next year he opened the Marion 
Academy and conducted it successfully for about a year; read law with 
Gen. James H. Godman, and was admitted to the bar in June, 1843. He 
practiced with Gen. Godman nine years, with J. F. Hume from 1852 to 
1858, and subsequently with A. Osborne and J. C. Johnston, and since 
that time he has been alone. In 1851-52, he was a member of the State 
Senate, representing Marion, Logan, Union and Hardin Counties^ and dur- 
ing both sessions was a member of the Standing Committees on the Public 
Schools, Municipal Corporations and the Penitentiary. He was one of only 
seven Whigs in this Senate, they being the last of that party in this State 
elected as such to that body. In 1853, he was a candidate for Governor 
before the last Whig Convention held in the State. He recruited, in May, 
1861, three companies for the Sixty-fourth Kegiment Ohio Volunteer Infan- 
try, and was commissioned Major, and in 1862 promoted to Colonel of the 
regiment. He served till some time in 1863, when he returned home and 
resumed the law business, which he has since followed. He has publicly 
participated in political campaigns as a Republican. 

Samuel H. Bartram, son of the late Judge John Bartram, read law with his 
father and John T. Brasee, of Lancaster, and graduated at the Cincinnati Law 
School in the spring of 1850, subsequently taking a second course in the school. 
He was in partnership with his father for a time. In 1859-60, he practiced 
law in New York City, then with his father until the death of the latter. 
He was Prosecuting Attorney of this county from 1851 to 1853. 

J. C. Johnston has been a resident of Marion since 1851). He served 
as Mayor for nine years, Justice of the Peace six years, and in other ways 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 373 

receiving substantial evidence of popular favor. Mr. Johnston commenced 
the study of law with Judges Lawrence and AVest, of Bellefontaine during 
1852 to 1854, at the same time engaging in teaching school. August 15, 
1854, he was admitted to the bar by Chief Justice John A. Corwin, and 
the following year began practice in Van Wert, remaining there until Feb- 
ruary, 1859, when he removed to Marion. Mr. Johnston's business is a 
very successful one, and takes in the range of all the courts. During the 
war, he f«lt called upon to take up arms in defense of his country, and en- 
listed May 2, 18G4, in Company B, One Hundred and Thirty-sixth Ohio 
National Guards, serving on garrison duty at Forts Ellsworth and Lyons, 
and on the return of his company was elected Captain. 

John N. Abston, a native of Virginia, was raised in Logan County, 
Ohio, and became a resident of this county in January, 1872. He was ad- 
mitted to the bar in Columbus in 1855, after which time he was a res- 
ident of Hardin County, where ho was Prosecuting Attorney; he came from 
that county to Marion. Has taken part in politics as a Democratic speaker. 
He was elected Justice of the Peace in Marion in September, 1882, and is 
now acting in that capacity. 

M. V. Payne was born in Fort Morrow, now in Waldo Township, in 
1833, and partly reared in Indianapolis. He returned to this county, and in 
1850 went to Galion, where he was Mayor; was admitted to the bar in 1856 
in Indiana, and in 1873 came to Marion, where he has since practiced law. 
He is a Democrat and has taken part in political campaigns. 

H. T. Van Fleet is a prominent member of the Marion bar. He is a 
native of Big Island Township, and his legal preceptor was Judge John 
Bartram. His admission to the State bar dates back to June 14, 1860. 
Entering upon the practice of his profession at Marion, he has continued 
ever since with signal success, his legal career being but once interrupted, 
when he answered the call of his country and served as Second Lieutenant 
of Company E, Ninety-sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, from July 2, 1862, 
until January 10, 1863, resigning on account of ill health. He has been 
admitted to practice in all the courts, State and Federal. From 1867 to 
1869, be was Prosecutor, City Solicitor three years, and is now President, of 
the School Board. Mr. Van Fleet has been a leading criminal lawyer, en- 
joying an extensive and successful practice, but of late has given his chief 
attention to civil law. In politics, Mr. Van Fleet is a Democrat, and it 
was on his motion when a delegate at the National Democratic Convention 
in 1868, at New York, that Ohio cast a solid vote for Horatio Seymour. 
In 1863, he ran on the Democratic ticket against William H. West for 
State Senator, and although defeated he succeeded in reducing the usual 
Republican majority, x'unning far ahead of his ticket. 

William Z. Davis stands in the foremost ranks of the Marion Bar. and 
having devoted himself to his profession, he has secured a large practice 
and a deservedly high standing. Mr. Davis is a native of Loydsvillo. 
Belmont Co., Ohio, where he was born June 10, 1833. He removed with 
his father, Dr. B. W. Davis, to Greene County, and received his education at 
Dayton and Miami City. In 1859, he came to Marion, and while an assist- 
ant to the County Clerk, read law under J. H and H. C. Godman. The 
following year he devoted his sole attention to law and was admitted to the 
bar in February. 1862. His studies were interrupted in April. 1861, when 
he enlisted in Company H, Fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and again 
August 5, 1862. when he entered Company E. Ninety-sixth Ohio Volunteer 
Infantry. He participated in the battles of Chickasaw Bayou and Arkansas 



374 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Post, when he was obliged to resign through sickness, being honorably dis- 
charged in March, 1863. After recovering from the illness contracted in the 
army, Mr. Davis entered upon the practice of law with Messrs. West & Walker, 
of Bellpsfontaine. In 1864, Gen. Godman having been elected Auditor of 
State, Mr. Davis was admitted a member of the firm, which became Godman & 
Davis. The firm of Godman & Davis had an extensive practice until its dissolu- 
tion in 1871, when Mr. Godman removed to Delaware. Since that time 
Mr Davis has devoted himself exclusively to building up his present large 
practice. As a man of honor and uprightness, as well as an able lawyer, 
Mr. Davis possesses the esteem and confidence of the county. 

J. F. McNeal, senior member of the leading law firm of McNeal & Wol- 
ford, is yet, comparatively, a young man, having been born at Iberia (then 
in Marion County). April 28, 1840. When he had just arrived at his ma- 
jority, he was among the first to respond to the call for men to defend his 
country's flag, and enlisted in April, 1861, in Company I, Third Ohio Vol- 
unteer Infantry. At the expiration of his three months' term of enlistment, 
he re-enlisted in Battery E, First Ohio Light Artillery, serving until April, 
1865, about the close of the war. Mr. McNeal had the superior advantage 
of reading law under Judge Ozias Bowen, one of Marion's ablest lawyers, 
from April 8, 1865, to May 16, 1867, when he was admitted to the bar in 
Champaign County. On June 1, following, he formed a partnership' with 
Mr. J. C. Johnston, which continued three years, when he practiced alone 
until June 1, 1876, admitting P. Dombaugh as a partner. This last part- 
nership was dissolved November 15, 1876, and on January 1, 1879, the 
present firm of McNeal & Wolford was formed. By his sterling integrity 
of character, as well as by his legal attainments, Mr. McNeal has built up 
an extensive and lucrative practice. 

George Diegle read law under the instruction of Judge A. M. Jackson, 
ofBucyrus; from 1850, he served four terms as Justice of the Peace. In 
1867, he was elected County Treasurer, and in 1868 took charge of the 
office; in 1869, he was re-elected and at the expiration of his second term 
he was admitted to the bar of the State. In 1875, he was again elected 
Justice of the Peace, and re-elected in 1877. He was Township Assessor 
of Tully seven years, Township Treasurer seven years, and has been a 
member of the City Council of Marion. He speaks German as well as En- 
glish. 

B. F. Stahl, a native of Fairfield County, this State, was born in 1838, 
and in 1850 he went to Union County, in 1862 to Delaware County, and in 
1864 to La Rue, and in 1868 to Marion; was admitted to the bar in March, 
1876, and was Recorder of Marion County from 1867 to 1873. 

A. M. Tidd was born in Hardin County April 14, 1852; graduated at 
the National Normal School at Lebanon in August, 1873, read law with J. 
D. King, of Kenton, two years and was admitted to the bar of Ohio in 
March, 1876. In August following, he came to Marion and for a time was 
a member of the firm of King & Tidd, and has since been alone. 

Marcus B. Chase was born in Windham County, Conn., came first to 
this county in 1871, and permanently settled here in 1873. Studied law 
with J. F. McNeal and was admitted to the bar April 7, 1876. He was in 
partnership with J. Q. Codding from 1876 to 1880, and practiced at La Rue 
from 1879 to 1880. 

J. Q. Codding read and practiced law with J. F. McNeal three years; 
was admitted to the bar April 7, 1876; was in partnership with M. B. 
Chase from 1876 to 1880. Mr. Codding is now in insurance business and 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 375 

conveyancing, in which he excels. His conveyance papers are in the neat- 
est trim. 

B, G. Young is a native of Pennsylvania and a graduate of the Ohio 
Wesleyan University: began the study of law with W. Z. Davis in 1874, 
and was admitted to the bar in July, 1876; was elected Prosecuting Attor- 
ney the fall of the same year, and re-elected in 1878, serving four years. In 
1880, he was appointed County School Examiner, and in August, 1888, was 
nominated by the Democratic party Representative to the Legislature. 

Charles F. Garberson was born in Marion County in 1851. He grad- 
uated in 1873 in the classical course of the Ohio Wesleyan University at 
Delaware, where he was President of the senior class. He followed sur- 
veying on the Columbus & Toledo Railroad and Illinois Central two years; 
studied law with W. Z. Davis, and was admitted to the bar of the Supreme 
Court in 1876, a member of the first class admitted under the present sys- 
tem. For his excellent examination he received a prize certificate. Since 
that date, he has been most of the time in the practice of law. Was ap- 
pointed School Examiner in 1882, and re-appointed for three yeai*s in June, 
1883. 

Stephen A. Court, present Prosecutor for Marion County, also read law 
under the direction of J. F. McNeal, commencing in 1874, and was ad- 
mitted to the bar in January, 1878, since which time he has practiced his 
profession. In 1879-80, he was of the firm of Abston & Court and in 
1881-82, of the firm of Codding & Court. In 1880, he was elected City 
Solicitor and re-elected in 1882. In 1881, he was elected Prosecuting, At- 
torney, which position he now holds. 

John H. Wishek, attorney at law at Prospect, commenced his legal 
studies in the Law Department of the Michigan State University at Ann 
Arbor, where he graduated in the class of March, 1878. He was then in 
the law office of Johnson & Seley at Kenton until the following October, 
when he removed to his present place of residence, where he is a partner 
of J. C. Johnston, of Marion. Since June, 1879, he has been Mayor of 
Prospect. He attends to nearly all the legal business in his vicinity. He 
was born in Warren, Warren Co., Penn., a son of Charles and Barbara 
Wishek, who now reside in Sharon, Medina County, Ohio. 

Charles C. Fisher, son of Dr. T. B. Fisher, graduated at Keuyon Col- 
lege, read law with J. F. McNeal one year, and attended the law school of 
Harvard University, graduating in June, 1878. He was admitted to the 
bar of the Supreme Court of Ohio December 4, the same year. In March, 
1879, he went to Cincinnati, where he was with ex-Gov. Cox until Decem- 
ber, 1881, when he returned to Marion. January 1, 1882, he became a 
member of the firm of (J. C.) Johnston & Fisher. 

J. A. Wolford, of the firm of McNeal & Wolford, although but thirty 
years of age, has already made his mark as a successful practitioner, and is 
regarded by all as a young man destined to rise in the ranks of his profes- 
sion. His reading of law dates back to 1876. The year following, he grad- 
uated in the classical course at Hillsdale College, Michigan, and contin- 
ued his legal studies with Mr. McNeal, being admitted to the bar of the 
Supreme Court December 31, 1878, and the next day formed a partnership 
with Mr. McNeal. His admission to practice in the United States Courts 
dates July 1, 1882. 

Will E. Scofield, eldest son of Capt. W. E. Scofield, was born in 
Marion in 1860. He received his education in the high school, graduating 
in 1877. The year previous he was appointed Deputy County Clerk, and 



376 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

acted as such two years. He read law with his father and was admitted to 
the bar of the State November 1, 1881. He was a member of the firm of 
Scofield & Scofield, which firm was dissolved by his father's death, July 5, 
1883. In September, 1882, he was elected Justice of the Peace. 

George D. Copeland, son of Howard Copeland, is a native of Marion. 
He graduated in the high school in the class of 1880, and soon after took 
up the study of law with McNeal & Wolford. He completed his law course 
at the Cincinnati Law School in 1882, and since that time has been in the 
office of his preceptors. 

C. M. Idleman is the latest accession to the bar of Marion. He wa* 
born in Pleasant Township in 1854, and after reading law was admitted to 
the bar in June, 1883. He is a member of the Board of County School 
Examiners. 

Lewis F. Raichley, an old resident of Marion, practiced law here in for- 
mer years. 

George Crawford, of the Independent, is a licensed attorney, though 
not now practicing. 

T. K. Smith, farmer and cattle dealer, residing four miles south of Mar- 
ion, was a lawyer in Delaware County. He came to Marion County and is 
well known as a leading officer in the order of the Patrons of Husbandry. 




HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 



377 



CHAPTER VIII. 



MATERIAL PROGRESS. 

MARION COUNTY comprises so uniformly a good agricultural soil, 
and is so favorably situated in respect to railroad communication, 
that its progress in material things has been greater than the average of 
like communities. The history of material development can only be told 
by statistical tables; and as such matter makes rather dry reading, this chap- 
ter will necessarily be very short. To obtain a correct idea of the com- 
parative progress of the county from time to time, it is essential to have a 
census table, of which the most important is a table of the population. This 
will be good for genera) reference, as well as for the purposes of this chap- 
ter. It is, therefore, here given first of all: 

POPULATION OF THE COUNTY BY DECADES. 

1830 6,551 j 1850 12,618 I 1870 16,184 

1840 14,765 I 1860 15,490 | 1880 20,565 

The apparent falling off in 1850, in the above table, is due to the fact 
that in 1845 and 1848 several townships were taken from the county in the 
organization of other counties. 



POPULATION BY TOWNSHIPS AND VILLAGES. 



TOWNSHIPS AND VILLAGES. 



1860. 



Big Island 911 

Bowling Green 637 

Claridon, including Caledonia 1,464 

Caledonia ( 

Grand 445 



Tully 757 

Waldo, including village 1,081 

Waldo Village 320 



1870. i 1880. 



940 
903 
1,483 
419 
403 
370 
999 



Grand Prairie 

Green Camp, including village 748 

Green Camp Village 

Marion, including city 3,014 j 3,486 

Marion City 1,844 i 2,531 

Montgomery, including villages 1.212 1,451 

La Rue I 

New Bloomington ' 

Pleasant 1,115 , 1,078 

Prospect, including village 1,195 1,280 

Prospect Village 

Richland • • • • 1,406 

Salt Rock 431 

Scott 586 



1,146 
351 
495 
770 

1,029 
247 



1,226 

1,219 

1,771 

627 

485 

485 

1,362 

312 

5,151 

3.899 

1,765 

614 

271 

1,181 

1,724 

600 

1.210 

551 

553 

878 

997 

248 



FIRST EOADS AND TURNPIKES. 

An Indian trail ran from Upper Sandusky, by Caledonia, thence, by way 
of Mount Gilead, Fredericktown and Mount Vernon, down Old Creek to 



378 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

White "Woman River. This was the old war trace, and much traveled. 
The next trace ran from Upper Sandusky, by John Ballantine's old place, 
or about a mile west of Marion, to the head branches of the Scioto. A 
man by the name of Wright, a jeweler and blacksmith, lived on the trace, 
in what is now Green Camp Township. The Delawares had traces run- 
ning toward the tire lands on the reserve, which they traveled a good deal. 

Wagon roads were slowly and gradually made, simultaneously with the 
building of the log cabin residences and development of the farms. The 
first so-called "road" through the county was denominated the "war 
road," lirst marked out by a march of Gen. Harrison's soldiers. It ran 
north and south through Marion, and its exact course is described in the 
chapters on Marion and Reminiscences. 

The tirst road that became well established by considerable travel was 
called the "Radnor road," running from Delaware to Upper Sandusky, by 
way of Radnor, Green Camp and Big Island. It was a State road, and its 
general course was straight. The next was another State road, between 
the same points, via Marion. Other State roads were from Mount Vernon 
to Marion, from Mansfield to Marion and from Marion to Kenton. These 
were surveyed under orders from the State, and some bridges built; but 
they were not much improved. 

The soil of the western country generally is composed of humus, mold 
and the most finely comminuted clay, and therefore of such a nature as to 
render traveling difficult during wet weather. This character of the soil 
has, indeed, been the greatest drawback to the early development of the 
country. How to make good roads has ever been the greatest puzzle to the 
citizens. 

Columbus & Sandusky Turnpike. — As early as 1833, under a charter 
from Congress, a narrow ridge of soil was thrown up in a straight line from 
Columbus to Sandusky, designed to be a "turnpike," but which was in 
reality a "mud pike," as the people generally termed it. It ran through 
the eastern part of Marion County, north by about thirty degrees east, from 
Waldo through Richland, Claridon and Scott Townships — through the lat- 
ter township centrally, by way of Letimberville. In wet weather it seemed 
to be worse than untouched ground, and in dry weather it was not needed. 
Reason: The material of which it was made consisted of an impalpable 
powder, made into paste. 

It was built by a company in Coluinbus, headed by Orange Jackson, 
who sold the lands, donated by the Government for the purpose, to con- 
tractors, and the latter built the road by sections. They established toll- 
gates upon the route, and many a joke has passed the rounds concerning 
the serio-comical experiences of travelers who had to pay their 5 cents a 
mile on this route and then work their way along with a fence-rail in hand 
to pry the stage out of the mud every few rods. 

About 1843, the citizens petitioned the State Legislature to annul the 
charter of the company; and an investigation was made by that body, which 
disclosed the fact that the Columbus & Sandusky Turnpike Company had 
perpetrated a gigantic fraud all along the line. While the investigation 
was in progress, the indignant citizens demolished the toll-gates, and since 
that time the turnpike has been a free road. 

John Kraner once went to Columbus by this route with a horse and 
buggy, when it seemed all that his horse could do to pull him slowy up to 
the toll-gate, where appeared the gate-keeper for the toll (!) as polite as a 
French dancing-master. In relating his experience afterward, Uncle 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 379' 

John said, " De next time I goes to Columbus in a horse and bogy, I goes 
in a stage. I tell you, some of de time de road was so bad, I taught my 
horse and bogy vould die!" 

The Marion &• Waldo Pike Company was organized September 12, 1868, 
under a charter, with a capital of $25,000, to construct and operate a turn- 
pike leading south from Marion and about thirty- five degrees east, and to 
extend to the county line, or about ten miles, to be a part of the route- to 
Columbus. Its junction with the old Columbus & Sandusky Turnpike was 
at Waldo, upon which it rau a mile and a quarter. The first officers were 
S. S. Bennett, President; John E. Davids. Secretary; and Benjamin Wad- 
del, Treasurer; the Directors being John Brundige, Charles Bishop, Benja- 
min Waddel, D. S. Drake, Henry Falk, E. Uncapher and S. S. Bennett. 

This company immediately proceeded to improve the road, by ditching, 
graveling, etc., and established toll-gates. The organization has ever since 
been kept up, and improvements made upon the road from time to time. 
Within the last year, crushed stone has been placed upon the track for two 
miles near Marion, which will soon form, with the surface, a well macadam- 
ized road bed. 

Directors elected June 8, 1883: J. J. Hane, N. R. Tavenner, A. W. 
Myers, Silas Idleman, Levi Jones, T. B. Fisher, E. G. Allen. Officers: 
E. G. Allen, President; J. E. Davids, Secretary; and Benjamin Waddel, 
Treasurer. 

The rates of toll on this pike are, for every ten miles, as follows: For 
a four-wheeled carriage, drawn by one horse, 15 cents; for each additional 
animal with same, Scents; sleigh, 5 cents; sleigh with two horses, 10 cents; 
horse and rider, 5 cents; each head of horses in droves, 3 cents; each head of 
cattle six months old and upward, 1 cent; each head of sheep or hogs, £ cent; 
stage-coach or omnibus, 30 cents; two-wheeled carriage, drawn by one 
horse, 10 cents; for such a vehicle drawn by two animals, 10 cents. No 
toll is charged those attending elections, funerals, church, musters, military 
duty, etc. 

The gate-keeper at the cemetery near Marion is R. May; three miles out, 
at Hoffman's Corners, Marion Ames; seven miles out, Mrs. Mary Robin- 
son. 

The Marion & Middletoivn Turnpike Company. — The stockholders met 
January 31, 1870, and elected as Directors R. S. Fish, E. Uncapher, Jacob 
Ringer, J. W. Hughes, T. J. Magruder, R. G. Boyd and P. O. Sharpless. 
The Board elected E. Uncapher, President; J. E. Davids, Secretary, and 
K. S. Fish, Treasurer. Capital stock, $10,000. Purpose, to improve and 
keep in repair a road commencing at Marion and extending five miles in 
the direction of Middletown, now Prospect. The company continued in 
existence and kept up the road until March 6, 1883, when it was sold to the 
county for 40 percent of the stock, since which time the road has been free. 
At the last meeting of the stockholders, January 8, 1883, R. G. Boyd, Ira 
Uhler, Jacob Bleich, Samuel Smeltzer, James Court, T. J. Magruder and 
J. J. Hane were elected Directors, and R. G. Boyd was elected President; 
J. E. Davids, Secretary, and R. S. Fish. Treasurer. 

The Marion & Beririck Pike was built by subscription in 1872, and ran 
until 1878, when it was made a free road. The men chiefly connected with 
this enterprise were Bat Cusick, Joseph Uncapher, John and Samuel Rayl 
and R. T. Fish. J. E. Davids was Secretary of the company. 

The Marion & Big I$la)i<{ Pike was built or macadamized as a free road 
under the auspices of the county government. 



380 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

RAILROADS. 

A surprise to herself, Marion has become one of the most remarkable 
railroad centers in the State, with a prospect of two more roads still. A 
short account of each road is proper here. 

Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati & Indianapolis Railway. — The original 
charter of this company was granted by the Legislature of Ohio March 
14, 1836, the object being to construct a railway from Cleveland to Cincin- 
nati, via Columbus and Wilmington. Through non-user, that charter be- 
came dormant, but it was revived and amended by act of March 12, 18-45. 
The road was completed and the first train run over it from Cleveland to 
Columbus on the 22d of February, 1851; distance 138 miles. After several 
changes, the name by which the company is now known — " Cleveland, Co- 
lumbus, Cincinnati & Indianapolis Railroad Company " — was adopted May 
16, 1868. 

Belief ontaine d- Indiana Railroad. — About the time of the survey of 
the Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati & Iudianapolis Railroad reached Gal- 
ion, the people of Marion County waked up to the practicability and wis- 
dom of having a railroad, connecting at Galion and ultimately extending 
westward. Accordingly, as early as 1845, the county voted for $100,000 
stock for this branch, to be called the " Bellefontaine & Indiana Railroad." 
The bonds were sold favorably, but work did not commence for several 
years. In April, 1850, Chief Engineer W. Minor Roberts published an 
elaborate report of a preliminary survey, accompanied with a full statement 
of the advantages which would accrue to the people from the road. Work 
was then pushed, and on August 28, 1852, the first train, a mixed one, was 
run through from Galion to Marion; conductor, Howard Copeland, well- 
known in Marion. In June, 1853, through trains to Union City commenced 
to run. The Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati & Indianapolis Railroad 
Company subsequently leased this road, and fifteen or twenty years ago 
purchased it, since which time it has gone under that name, being the 
" Indianapolis Division " of that road. 

During the year 1882, there were shipped from Marion by this road 41,- 
810,082 pounds of freight, of which 353 cars were of live-stock — namely, 
110 cars of cattle, 14 of horses and mules, 95 double decks and 8 single 
decks of sheep, 79 double decks and 47 single decks of hogs. During the 
previous year, 1881, there were forwarded from this station 231 cars of 
live-stock — that is, 76 of cattle, 10 of horses and mules, 49 double-decks 
and 1 single-deck of sheep, and 54 double-decks and 41 single-decks of 
hogs. The receipts of freight for the year 1882 amount to 34,404,724 
pounds. 

It appears that the principal freighting, both ways, is heaviest during 
the summer months. For example, during the summer of 1882, the aver- 
age amount forwarded was five to eight millions a month, while for the rest 
of the year it ranged from one to two millions. 

Neic York, Pennsylninia & Ohio Railroad. — March 10, 1851, is the 
date of the charter of the "Franklin & Warren Railroad Company, " to 
construct a road from Franklin, Portage County, by way of Warren, Trum- 
bull County, to the east line of the State, with power to continue the same 
from its place of beginning in a westerly or southwesterly direction. Under 
this authority, the line was constructed from a point on the State line in 
Trumbull County, to Dayton, 246 miles. By decree of the Common Pleas 
Court of Portage County, October 17, 1855. the name of the above road was 
changed to " Atlantic & Great Western." Other lines connecting eastward 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTT. 381 

were consolidated August 19, 1865, with this line, under the above name. 
During the next fifteen years, there were many transfers and changes under 
mortgages and otherwise, until January 6, 1880, when it was all sold to 
the New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio Company, and recently it has been 
leased to the New York, Lake Erie & Great Western Railroad Company. 
The stock of these lines has been always chiefly owned in England. 

In Marion County, at loast $100,000 stock was taken in this road in 
1852, the subscription list being headed by Bradford R. Durfee, Ozias 
Bowen, J. S. Copeland and others at $5,000 each. Considerable grading 
was done; but directly some of the subscriptions were repudiated, law- 
suits followed, work ceased, and all the stock lost by the citizens, except 
what was refused to be paid by a few. The road, however, was finally com- 
pleted, through this county, soon after the war. The principal office is at 
Cleveland, Ohio. 

During the month of June, 1883, there was forwarded East, by this 
road, from Marion, 42,707,602 pounds of freight, and business is con- 
stantly increasing. The passenger traffic is correspondingly great. 

Columbus & Toledo Railroad Company.— On May 28, 1872, the company 
was incorporated, under the general act of May 1, 1852, the corporators 
being M. M. Greene, P. W. Huntingtoa, B. E. Smith, W. G. Deshler. 
James A. Wilcox and John L. Gill, of Columbus, for the construction of 
a railroad from the city of Columbus to the city of Toledo, through the 
counties of Franklin, Delaware, Marion, Wyandot, Seneca, Wood and 
Lucas, a distance of 123 T 7 1J miles. The capital stock fixed in the certificate 
of incorporation is $2,500,000, which by law is divided into shares of $50. 
On July 1, 1872, subscription books were opened in Columbus and Toledo. 
On October 9, 1872, $270,000 having been duly subscribed, the corporators 
called a meeting of the stockholders, which was held in the city of Colum- 
bus on November 13, 1872, and nine directors were duly elected (which 
number was increased to thirteen by the stockholders at their meeting on 
April 15, 3874). On the same day the Directors met and organized the 
company, by the election of the proper officers. October 15, 1873, the 
line of the road was permanently located through the towns of Dela- 
ware. Marion, Upper Sandusky, Carey and Fostoria. August 4, 1875, bids 
for construction were opened, and on the 16th a contract was concluded 
with Miller, Smiths & Co. The next day they commenced work. By No- 
vember, 1876, the portion between Columbus and Marion, 46 miles, was 
sufficiently completed to justify the company in complying with the urgent 
solicitation of stockholders and business men along the line to operate the 
same. This was done at considerable cost in proportion to the amount of 
business, which was, necessarily, limited on so short a distance upon a new 
and incomplete road. 

On January 10, 1877, the entire line was so far completed that through 
business was commenced, and regular trains run between Columbus and 
Toledo, under an arrangement with the contractors, who were, however, 
occupied for some time after that in finishing up the road, so that it was 
not fully completed and accepted by the company until July following. 
The road was completed, 118^,-, miles, fully equipped, and provided with 
all the necessary and proper terminal accommodations in Columbus and 
Toledo, at a cost of $3,338,507.54, being $28,244 per mile. 

Now, as to Marion County's part in securing the above road. Early in 
the summer of 1873, twenty-five men were appointed at a citizen's meeting, 
as a committee to raise stock, and soon $165,000 was raised. The list of 



382 



HISTORY OF MAIUON OOUNTT. 



subscribers was headed in July with Robert Kerr and Amos H. Kling at 
$5,000 each; J. J. Hane. J. Ballantine and J. S. Reed at $2,000 each; T. 
P. Wallace at $1,500, and the following at $1,000: J. Fribley, T. Fahey, 
Henry True, B. Cusic, Christopher Haberman, T. C. Bowen, Wilson Im- 
body, Uhler & Cummin, R. H. Johnson, S. S. Bennett, D. McWilliams, 
L. Fite. G. H. Kling & Co., F. Gooding, Henry Ten Eyck and the Marion 
Gas- Light Company. 

Some doubt being afterward expressed by the company as to the reli- 
ability of the subscription, Messrs. Kling and Hane offered to guarantee 
the collection of the subscription for 10 per cent of the total. While the 
prospect was thus gloomy, some of the stockholders sold out at 40 to 70 cents 
on the dollar. Others, who held on until 1881, realized $1.25 for every $1 
invested. The road has yielded handsome dividends from the start. The 
subscription proved to be good, as all was collected except about four per 
cent, namely, $6,796. Work on the track then went forward, and the first 
train over the Columbus & Toledo road to Marion arrived from Columbus 
about 1 P. M. , October 19, 1876, amid a throng of welcoming citizens. 
The Silver Baud discoursed its liveliest music. 

In July, 1881, the Columbus & Toledo road was sold to a syndicate, 
and the name was changed to the " Columbus, Hocking Valley & Toledo 
Railroad." 

The following was the business of the road in this county in 1877, its 
first year: 





STATIONS. 


FORWARDED. 


RECEIVED. 




POUNDS. * EARNINGS. 


POUNDS. 


EARNINGS. 




4,368,184 $'.2,008 47 
2,0:56,775 672 17 
4,967,838 2,681 82 
1,342,720 546 71 


4,692,205 

455,050 

17,801,535 

817,548 


$3,021 03 




282 48 




9,194 41 




378 53 







And the following in 1882: 



FORWARDED. 



STATIONS. 



EARNINGS. 



Morral i 3,806,589 

Marion 79,240,414 

Owen I 14,788,083 

Prospect ' 8,359,735 



$1,608 43 
25,905 52 
4,714 01 

4,489 98 



RECEIVED. 



1,029,325 

139,731,386 

1,138,390 

7,538,407 



EARNINGS. 



$803 8* 

55,678 06- 

896 38 

5,216 70 



In 1882, the number of passengers from Marion were 26,879, from 
whom the earnings were $17,388; Owen, 2,988 passengers; earnings, $941; 
Prospect, 11,667 passengers; earnings, $6,164. 

Chicago & Atlantic Railway. — This popular line forms the Western 
outlet for the New York, Lake Erie & Western Railway, and is owned and 
managed by a corporation known as " The Chicago & Atlantic Railway 
Company." As the wise and skillful management of this important means 
of intercommunication contributes largely to the prosperity of Marion, it 
gives us pleasure to state that nothing is left, undone by the management to 
secure that end. The road is well equipped, and the officers prompt, care- 
ful and obliging. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 383 

The movement for the building of this road originated about ten years 
ago, and among the prominent men of Marion County that took part in the 
agitation for this railroad may be mentioned Judge John Bartram, Messrs. 
H. T. Van Fleet, Thomas McMurray, G. H. Norris, Ira "Uhler, S. R. Dura- 
ble, T. Fahey and P. O. Sharpless. These gentlemen, in association with 
others, formed a committee to solicit subscriptions for stock to the pro- 
jected line, then denominated the " Baltimore, Pittsburgh & Continental," 
and they were fairly successful in their canvass, grading being vigorously 
commenced, and in great part completed between Marion and Kenton by 
the contractors. Bean & Co. , under the superintendence of Mr. David Kelly. 
But it will be remembered that this year, 1873, was the year of the great 
periodical panic, with its disastrous "Black Friday," and this railway, like 
most other projects of a like nature, came to a halt for about six years. 

But the project was never finally abandoned. With the warming and 
revivifying influence of returning prosperity, further subscriptions were 
solicited and obtained to the amount of $50,000 in Marion, of which citizens 
of the western part of the county raised about two -fifths. 

Recently, the work has been pushed to completion and the track finished 
this spring, the first trains for business ai'riving at Marion the first week in 
June. The last Boai'd of Directors, elected in August, 1883, were Hugh J. 
Jewett, President; J. Condit Smith. J. M. Adams, C. C. Waite, C. L. 
Atterberry, J. H. Schiff, Gaorge J. Bippus, T. A. Lewis and O. W. Chi Ids. 
As showing the amount of business transacted by this line, we may mention 
that its first month's traffic to Marion amounted to 36,070,342 pounds, and 
the out-freight was, for the same period. 13,985,027 pounds, of which 
4.926,000 pounds was coal. 

Ohio Central Railroad. — The "Atlantic &Lake Erie Railway Company" 
was incorporated in 1869. to build a road from Toledo to Pomei'oy, passing 
through Tully Township, this county. In 1879, the name was changed to 
" Ohio Central Railroad," and June 23, 1881. being consolidated with other 
lines, it was still further changed to the " Richmond, Allegheny & Ohio 
Central." This line is now in operation, running through Tully Township, 
this county, crossing the New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio and Cleveland, 
Columbus, Cincinnati & Indianapolis Railroads at Three Locusts. 

The total mileage of railroad track in Marion County is about ninety 
miles, besides nine miles of sidings. The valuation of the seventy-six miles 
in operation in 1881 was $930,168, on which the tax was $12,125.06. 

PROPOSED RAILROADS. 

The New York, Pittsburgh & Chicago Railroad Company was organized 
in June, 1881, with Gen. James S. Negley as President, and several mill- 
ionaires for Directors. This organization at first virtually embraced the 
Pittsburgh, Newcastle & Lake Erie and Pittsburgh & Western roads, al- 
though the latter, a few days afterward, combined into an independent 
-company. The intention of this company from the start has been to build 
their road to Marion, here to connect with the Chicago & Atlantic. The 
road is already in operation as far as New Lisbon, Ohio, a distance of fifty- 
four miles from Pittsburg. John Halliard, of New York City, agent and 
general solicitor for the company, has been in Marion this season, the sum- 
mer of 1883, to raise the $25,000 expected of the citizens here, and to 
secure the right of way, one-half the subscriptions to be paid when the road 
is graded and the other half when the cars are running from New Lisbon to 
this place. A large committee has been appointed, beadwd by Caleb H. 



384 HISTORY OF .MARION COUNTY. 

Norris, J. J. Hane, S. R. Durable, etc., to raise the stock and secure the 
right of way. 

The Mount Vernon, Coshocton & Wheeling Railroad is a proposed 
route from Wheeling, W. Va., through the counties of Belmont, Jefierson, 
Tuscarawas and Coshocton, via Walhonding Canal and Owl Creek Valley 
to Mount Vernon, and thence to Marion, to connect with the Chicago & 
Atlantic. 

EXPRESS AND TELEGRAPH. 

The express companies, of course, came along with the first railroads. 
The amount of receipts of express companies for the year ending April 30, 

1882, subject to taxation, in Marion County, was as follows: American 
Express Company, $557; United States Express Company, $530. Apply- 
ing the principles upon which assessment is made, these figures may be 
taken to indicate the amount of business. 

The telegraph came along, also, with the first railroad, the first operator 
in Marion being Mr. Frary, a daguerrean artist, appointed in August. 1853. 

AGRICULTURE. 

Notwithstanding the wonderful fertility of the rich, virgin soil when the 
old forests were cut away and the vivifying rays of the sun shone upon the 
first crops planted by the hand of man, agriculture was not the road to 
wealth for the pioneers of this region. The great embarrassment under 
which they labored was the difficulty of getting the products of their soil to 
market. In spite of roots and stumps.' sprouts and bushes, the newly 
cleared land brought forth bountiful harvests; but the wagon roads were 
imperfect, canals and railroads entirely wanting and the distance to large 
ports so great and navigation, etc.. so difficult and hazardous, that the pio- 
neer farmer had but little encouragement. But the older the country be- 
came, and the more thickly settled, the more rapidly have improvements 
been made and farmers become wealthy. 

The following is the last crop report for Marion County, 1883: 

Wheat, acres sown, 30,921; bushels produced, ' 375,224; number of 

acres sown for harvest of 1883, 26,776. Rye, acres sown, 50; acres sown 

for crop of 1883, 23^; bushels produced, 761. Buckwheat, acres sown, 8l|; 

bushels produced, 1,605. Oats, acres sown, 8,334; acres sown for crop of 

1883, 5,494; bushels produced, 263,599. Barley, acres sown, 43; acres 
sown for crop of 1883, 146; bushels produced, 1,092. Corn, acres planted, 
41,208; acres planted for crop of 1883,34,135; bushels produced, 1,570,- 
799. Meadow, acres, 16,045; tons of hay, 19,925. Clover, acres »owu, 
8.077; bushels of seed, 6,674; acres plowed under for manure, 271. Pota- 
toes, acres planted, 994^; acres for crop of 1883, 613; bushels produced, 
81,407. Butter, pounds made, 52.812. Sorghum, acres planted, 50|; gal- 
lons of sirup, 3,762 Maple in 1883, pounds of sugar, 3,452; gallons of 
sirup, 2,117. Bees, number of hives, 1,727; pounds of honey, 19,813. 
Eggs, number dozens, 475,658. Grapes, pounds gathered in the year 1882, 
21,290. Apples, acres occupied, 2,793; bushels produced, 48,560. Peaches, 
bushels produced, 1,654. Pears, bushels produced, 414 »-. Lands owned, 
number of acres cultivated, 92,739; number of acres pasture, 51,390; num- 
ber of acres of woodland, 36.0S4; total number of acres owned, 189,531. 
Wool, pounds shorn, 1882, 345,955. Milch Cows, number owned in 1882, 
4,574. Stallions, number owned in 1882, 31. Dogs, 1,301. Sheep killed 
by dogs, 578; value, $21.09: injured by dogs, 967; value, $1,021. Domes- 
tic animals died from diseases, Hogs, 2,2S4; value, $13,789; sheep, 1,643, 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 385 

value $4,616; Cattle. 250. value, $4,278; Horses, 179, value, $16,770. 
Losses by floods : Live stock, value, $1,224; grain, etc., value, $5,985: 
fences, etc., value, $3,021. 

For the respective townships, see under their headings. 

MARION COUNTY AGRICULTRAL SOCIETY. 

For a third of a century there has now been one continuous organiza- 
tion, under the above name, generally prospering and holding fairs every 
year, except, possibly, one or two. The first report is dated November 19. 
1851, up to which time the society had received for membership, $116; 
from the county treasury, $62.50; from members to whom premiums had 
been awarded, $16; total, $194.50. Disbursed: For premiums awarded on 
horses, $27; on cattle, $45; on sheep, $20; on swine, $40 (?). At the same 
fair, the following were the premiums on fruits and vegetables: 

Best specimen of apples, not less than six varieties, and not less 

than twelve apples of each variety $1 00 

Second best show of apples 50 

First best half bushel of onions 50 

Second best half bushel of onions 25 

First best bushel of sweet potatoes 50 

Second best bushel of sweet potatoes 25 

First, best bushel of turnips 25 

First best bushel of beets 25 

Best half dozen pumpkins 25 

Best show of flowers 25 

Best and greatest variety of vegetables 50 

C. B. Mann, ) Capt. Elisha Hardy, President. 

William Clark, J- Committee. 

J. Search, ) S. S. Bennett, Secretary. 

The fairs were first held in " Copeland's Woods," in Ballantine's Ad- 
dition, on ground leased for the purpose. The society then bought about 
three acres of ground west of town, north of the present C. & A. round- 
house, where fairs were held for several years. In 1862, they purchased 
the present grounds, comprising thirty- seven acres. 

The grounds are fenced and furnished with the necessary buildings, 
etc., for a successful exhibit of all articles that may be brought. Besides, 
there is a half-mile race-track, one of the best in the State, and tests of 
equine speed constitute the chief attraction at the fairs. As long ago as 
1830, speed exhibitions were made at various points in the county by an 
association called the " Marion County Club." The amount spent for im- 
provements on the grounds in 1875-76 were $3,554; in 1877. $1,230; in 
1878, $489; in 1879, $305. There are now mechanics' and floral halls; 
vegetable hall; a tine- art hall, built last year at a cost of $1,000; two din- 
ing halls, $800 and $1,000, in round numbers; and a splendid amphithe- 
ater, costing upward of $2,000. According to the last Assessor's returns, the 
grounds were valued at $3,700, and the buildings at $3,300 — not counting 
the fine-art hall and new dining hall above mentioned. 

About five years ago, it was learned by experiment that the annual exhibi- 
tions of the society could succeed just as well without having intoxicating 
liquors sold on the grounds. 

The receipts and disbursements for the last ten years have averaged 
about as follows: 

1873— Receipts, $3,670; disbursements. $3,599. 1874— Receipts, 
$3,496; disbursements, $3,343. 1875 — Receipts. $6,835; disbursements, 
$6,832. 1879— Receipts, $6,495: disbursements, $6,542. 

The premiums offered for the fair of 1883 amount to over $5,000. 



386 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 



OFFICERS. 



YKAK. 



PRESIDENT. 



1858 E. Messenger 

1859 E. Messenger 

I860 E. Messenger 

1861 E. Conley 

1862 E. Peters 

1863 E. Messenger 

L864 David Pettit 

1865 David Pettit 

1866 David Pettit 

,1867 E. Messenger 

1868 E. Messenger 

1869 E. Messenger 

1870 A. Monnett 

1871 Peyton Fiord 

1872 A. H. Kling 

1873 C. Smith 

1874 C. Smith 

l*7. r , Felix Reber 

1876 Felix Reber 

1877 George Retterer 

1878 T. R. Smith 

1879 i George Retterer 

1880 A. H. Kling 

1881 H. Dickhaiit 

1882 J Jacob Howser 

1883 Jacob Howser 



SECRETARY. 



TREASURER. 



A. D. Matthews 

A. D. Matthews 
H. M. Ault 

H. M. Ault 
H. M. Ault 
H. M. Ault 
John E. Davids 
Isaac Young 
John A. Carter 
John C. Johnston 
8. E. De Wolfe 
T. H. Hodder 

B. F. Stahl 
B. F. Stahl 

W. E. Scoheld, Sr. 

W. E. Sconeld, Sr. 

Dallas Day 

J. E. Crow 

J. E. Crow 

J. E. Crow 

J. E. Crow 

J. E. Crow 

J. E. Crow 

J. E. Crow 

J. E. Crow 

W. S. Cunningham 



E. Peters 
A. D. Matthews 
A. D. Matthews 
A. D. Matthews 
A. D. Woolley 
A. D. Woolley 
John E. Davids 
John E. Davids 
John E. Pavids 
T. P. Wallace 
T. P. Wallace 
Isaac Young 
Isaac Young 
T. P. Wallace 
W. H. Mohr 
W. H. Mohr 
W. H. Mohr 
S. E. Hain 
J. i}. Codding 
A. H. Kling 
John Hardy 

J. Q. Codding 
Dallas Day 
Dallas Da}" 



For the present year, 1883, the Executive Committee are Jacob Howser, 
C. H. Gooding, J. F. McNeal and Watt Watkins, and the Board of Man- 
agers, Thomas Dickson, Tully; J. H. Coulter, Scott; G. W. Walters, Grand 
Prairie; John McElvy, Salt Rock; V. Fehl, Grand; D. H. Clifton. Mont- 
gomery; J. R. Frame, Big Island; D. H. Harvey and J. F. McNeal, Mar- 
ion; I. A. Merchant, Claridon; M. Jacoby, Jr., Richland; C. H. Gooding, 
Pleasant; John Travis, Green Camp; W. Imbody, Bowling Green; Watt 
Watkins, Prospect; J. A. Schaaf, Waldo. 

The number of members is given only for the following years in the re- 
cords: 1874, 471; 1875, 438; 1876, 534. 



PATRONS OF HUSBANDRY. 

This organization among the farmers, though never as strong in Marion 
as in many other counties, took root quite early, and has never been with- 
out a " cloud of witnesses " since its first introduction. Justice Grange, 
No. 317, was the first one formed, December 29, 1873. Its charter mem- 
bers wpre Ezra Phelps, J. R. Frame, Martin Lee, L. W. Clelland, J. H. 
Deal, Jesse Rhoads, ~ H. C. Frame, I. M. Wood, A. B. Gray, C. H. Mc- 
Elvy, L. W. Britton, J. F. Gray, A. P. Rhoads, F. M. Wood, John 
Rhoads, J. M. Rhoads, Elizabeth Phelps, S. A. Frame, Anna M. Lee, Ollie 
L. Clelland, F. Deal, Irene AVood, Lizzie Gray, Alameda Gray, Jennie E. 
Rhoads, A. L. Wood and L. R. Rhoads. Ezra Phelps was first Master, and 
L. \Y. Clelland first Secretary. This grange was organized by Samuel 
Lutz, of Wyandot County. During the years 1874 and 1875, the follow- 
ing granges were organized in the order named: Nos. 468, 684, 867, 921, 
1,001, 1,014, 1,080, 1,122, 1,198, 1,199. No. 684 consolidated with 921 im- 
mediately after its organization, also 1,199 with 468. Nos. 468, 1,001 and 
1,080 each has a grand hall. There are now five live granges in the coun- 
ty. W. M. Likins is the present Deputy of the county. 




g|WWti,ilBt»WHFti|, 



$m 




(Ito/tfA if t 



'IH44/P~- 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 389 

An earl) and bitter prejudice was excited against the grange by the 
imprudence of a few of its first members, whose only idea of the grange 
and its mission seemed to be to save 1 cent a pound on sugar and 25 cents 
a barrel on salt, etc. Selfish and mercenary motives have wrought mis- 
chief, if not ruin, in every order, and the grange has been no exception. 
Had the early friends of the order held the grange to its legitimate work 
— the social and mental culture of its members — with the thrift and intelli- 
gence of the people of Marion County, there is little doubt but that four- 
fifths of the farmers would to-day be proud to say, " I am a Patron of Hus- 
bandry." As grange principles are better understood, they are more gen- 
erally adopted, and while the number of lodges and members has fallen off, 
the vitality of the order has in qo wise abated. The Deputy is arranging 
for a series of lectures this fall and winter, and it is expected much good 
will be done, and the order greatly strengthened. 

FINE STOCK. 

In respect to the introduction of improved breeds of horses into this 
section of the country, probably Jacob Howser, of Claridon Township, takes 
the lead. In 1867, in company with William Gilmor, he went to France, 
whence they imported "Napoleon," "Jim" and "Snap." After keeping 
them one season, they sold them for $8,000. In 1869, he went to France 
again, with importing company, and brought over fourteen stallions. On 
casting lots, Mr. Howser drew "'Prince Imperial," for which $3,000 was 
paid. This specimen took the $300 prize at Springfield. He is now six- 
teen years old. Mr. H. also owned " Hyotoga," a pacer, which he purchased 
of Benjamin Reed in Harrison County. This horse sired "Bay Dick," now 
owned by William H. Vanderbilt. He also sired " George B.," the great 
trotter once owned by Watkins Bros. Mr. Howser has, besides, a pair of 
road horses. His sons, W. G. and B. R., are engaged also in the fine stock 
business. 

In the line of cattle, perhaps Jacob Howser takes the lead. In 1872, 
he engaged in rearing Durham cattle, which he has since often exhibited 
at the Marion County fairs and received the first premium. " Sir Curtis " 
was bought in Bourbon County, Ky., by B. R. Howser & Co. in 1881. He 
is three years old, weighs nearly 2,000 pounds and is the finest bull in the 
State. When one year old, he drew the iirst premium of his class at the 
Bourbon County fair, and took the sweepstakes over all ages. 

Messrs. Howser & Co. also keep thoroughbred Spanish Merino sheep, 
in which business they have been engaged since 1858. They now have 300 
No. 1 sheep eligible to registry. They have sold wool to the amount of 
$21,000 worth; had on hand, at one time, as many as 7,000 head of sheep. 
At the present time they have 2,500 head. 

Of hogs, they have as good Poland-Chinas as any in the State, selling 
from $10,000 to $12,000 worth annually. Messrs. Howser & Sons are the 
leading exhibitors at the county fairs. 

MARION COUNTY IMPORTING COMPANY.* 

The importation of draft stallions, from France and England, into Mar- 
ion County, for breeding purposes, commenced in 1867. In February of 
that year, Jacob Howser and William Gilmor imported from France three 
Norman stallions, and in July, T. P. Wallace, A. H. Kling and Watkins 
Bros, imported from France four Norman stallions. 

*This article was prepared by T. P. Wallace, Esq., Secietary of the Company. 



390 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

The second importation was in 1808, the company then being composed 
of T. P. "Wallace, A. H. Kling, Watkins Bros., James Coffy, Jacob Howser, 
William Gilmor and Luther Smith. The importation of that year com- 
prised fourteen Norman stallions, all produced in France. 

The third importation was in 1870, the partners being T. P. Wallace, 
A. H. Kling, Orron Patten, James Coffy, Watkins Bros, and Jacob Howser. 
the importation for that year being thirteen Norman stallions, purchased 
in France. 

In 1881, the company being theu composed of T. P. Wallace, A. H. 
Kling, Watkins Bros., James Coffy and Jacob Howser, imported five Nor- 
man stallions from France and two English draft stallions from England. 

The fifth importation was in 1882, the partners being T. P. Wallace, 
A. H. Kling, Watkins Bros., James Coffy and Jacob Howser. The impor- 
tation for that year was ten Norman stallions, purchased in France, and two 
English draft stallions, purchased in England. 

The sixth importation w T as in 1883, the company being composed of the 
same partners as in 1882. The importation for 1883 was nine Norman and 
three English stallions. 

The Marion County Importing Company have always made it a rule, in 
the purchase of horses, to get the best stallions they could find in France 
and England, never having failed to purchase a horse, if the animal suited 
them, regardless of price. The average price at which these stallions were 
sold was nearly $3,000 each, one being sold at §4,000 and a number bring- 
ing $3,300 to $3,500 each. The aggregate sales have amounted to about 
$150,000. The horses have been distributed through the States of Ohio, 
Illinois, Missouri, Indiana, Kansas and Iowa. AVhile the importation of 
these horses has been very profitable to the company, it would be safe to 
say that the increased value of the horses in Marion County alone, since 
1867, in consequence of these importations, has not been less than $150,- 
000. The half and three-quarter blood geldings and mares usually sell at 
$200 to $300 each at four years of age, and in some instances as high as 
$400. The half and three-quarter blood stallions sired by the impoi-ted 
stallions sell at $500 to $1,500 each. In fact, it is difficult, even now, to 
buy a five-year-old Norman or English horse, such being usually sold at 
three or four years old. 

VALUE OF MANUFACTURES IX 1881. 

Cabinel ware $ 600 

( larriages, buggies, etc 25,it?t> 

Wagons, drays, carts, etc 5,905 

All other wooden manufactures 5,470 

Leather articles 7,400 

Drain tile, 1,364,000 feet 7,550 

Miscellaneous 3,250 

BUILDINGS. 

Dwellings erected in 1881 132 

Value $ 61,825 

Stables and barns erected 40 

Value $ 11,825 

Stores and warehouses 13 

Value $ 63,350 

Total of buildings erected 185 

Total value $137,000 

Buildings destroyed by fire 16 

Value $ 7,450 

Valuation of railroad property in the county in 1882 was $1,257,038; taxes, $20,- 
648.19. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 



391 



VALUATION OF PROPERTY IN MARION COUNTY. 

The following table gives the aggregate valuations of all the real and 
personal property placed upon the duplicate for taxation in each township, 
town, village and separate school district in the county, and the rates in 
mills levied upon it for the years 1881 and 1882: 



TOWNSHIPS AND VILLAGES. 



Marion Township j 

Marion Corporation f 

Claridon Township j 

Caledonia Separate School District... [■ 

Caledonia Corporation ) 

Richland Township 

Pleasant Township 

Green Camp Township ) 

Green Camp School District '- 

Green Camp Corporation \ 

Bowling Green Township / 

LaRue Corporation [ 

Tully Township 

Scott Township 

Grand Prairie Township 

Salt Rock Township 

Grand Township 

Montgomery Township ] 

Bloomington School District | 

Bloomington Corporation 

LaRue Union School District 

LaRue Corporation 

Big Island 

Prospect 

Prospect Separate School District. . . 

Prospect Corporation 

Waldo 

Waldo Union School District 

Waldo Corporation 



1881. 
Valuation. 



13,408,447 

1,1.70,828 

905,790 

847,795 

568,922 

542,960 

731,853 
529,240 
519,860 
545,982 
349,150 



944,453 

814,172 
835,179 

467,200 



Rate 

in Mills. 



1882. 
Valuation. 



13.5] 

16.8 I 
22.4 



$3,513,065 

1,257,914 

966,660 
856,255 

601,732 

539,694 

788,221 
511,540 
528,970 
547,313 
333,250 

988,188 

847,160 
832,523 

475,630 



Rate 
in Mills. 



12.2 
21.3 
11.6 
19.9 
24.5 
10.6 
12.2 
13.5 
16.5 
18.5 
j 13.2 
j 23. 1 
12.3 
12.5 
13.8 
13.9 
12.6 
fl2.3 
I 15.2 
\ 18.6 
15.7 
23.1 
14.2 
( 14.8 
-21.4 
/ 26.3 
( 13.5 
^25.4 
28.9 



• i ijr, t e A COUnty arP 2o3 ' 469 acres of land > val ued at $7,291,730, of which 
$1,1J7,660 worth is m the villages; value of chattel property, $5,098 725- 
total valuation, $13,588,115. In 1881, the County Auditor reported 103 - 
714 acres cultivated in the county; 55,808 acres in pasture, 39,480 acres 
woodland, and 2,351 acres lying waste; total, 201,765 acres. 

For the banking interests of the county, see Marion, Caledonia, Prospect 
and LaRue in this volume. 

FINANCIAL CONDITION OF THE COUNTY. 

The present indebtedness of Marion County, according to the last re- 
port— in 1882-is $126,764.84, consisting of 5 and 6 per cent bonds for 
road improvements, to be paid by assessments on the lands benefited 

Waldo Township has a debt of $1,600 in 6 per cent bonds, for cemetery 
ground, to be paid by taxation. 

The village of Marion owes $13,000 for street improvements, 6 per cent 
bonds, to be paid by taxation under a special act. 

The village of Caledonia is in debt to the extent only of $325, to be paid 
by taxation. 

The village of Prospect owes $400, in 7 per cent bonds, to be paid'bv 
taxation, under a special act. * * 

Total of village debts, $13,725. 



392 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 



Besides, the Caledonia School District owes $800 in 8 per cent bonds, 
to be paid by taxation under a special act. The village of Prospect owes 
$9,500 in 6 per cent bonds, for building a schoolhouse, to bo paid by tax- 
ation. Total school debt in the county, $10,300. 

Total of public indebtedness in Marion County, $152,389.84. 

Fees of county officers for 1882: Recorder's fees, $1,316.25, of which 
$180 was from the county treasury. Amount charged but unpaid, $80. 
Amount paid Clerks or Deputies, $195.50. Net cash received during the 
year, $1,300.75. Sheriff's fees, $1,286. Clerk's fees, $1,482.63. Prose- 
cuting Attorney's, $524.25. Probate Judge's fees, $1,400.21. Treasurer's 
fees, $1,903.40. Auditor's fees, $2,514.13. County Commissioners' fees, 
Mahaffey, $761.90: Cromer, $689.10; Retterer, $725.90— same as for 
predecessors. 




HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 393 



CHAPTER IX. 



RELIGION, TEMPERANCE, EDUCATION, LITERATURE AND ART. 

THE CHURCHES. 

THE statistics of churches given in census returns do not, in all cases, 
agree with the statements put forth by the denominational organs of the 
various sects. The census Superintendents have their own point of view 
and apply tests different from those known to the compilers of religious 
year-books and registers. It should be borne in mind, too, that reports of 
the numbers of church edifices and their accommodations and value are 
not always true measures of the religious activity of a community. A 
strong denomination with numerous churches may often strengthen itself by 
suffering a weak church to cease to exist when it becomes unable to sup- 
port itself. There are churches that find a place on the rolls of a denomi- 
nation and may be enumerated in census returns, which, having a legal title 
to an edifice, and mantaining some kind of an organization, have ceased to 
gather congregations, to support a minister or to conduct any of the serv- 
ices of public worship. It is not easy to determine the number of 
churches in a given area, for the reason that it is not easy to determine what 
constitutes a church to entitle it to a place in an enumeration. On this 
point the Superintendent of the ninth census remarks: " A church, to de- 
serve notice in the census, must have something of the character of an in- 
stitution. It must, be known in the community in which it is located. 
There must be something permanent and tangible to substantiate its title 
to recognition. No one test, it is true, can be devised that will apply in 
all cases; yet, in the entire absence of tests, the statistics of the census will 
be overlaid with fictitious returns to such an extent as to produce the effect 
of absolute falsehood. It will not do to say that a church without a church 
building of its own is therefore not a church; that a church without a pas- 
tor is not a church; nor even that a church without membership is not a 
church. There are churches properly cognizable in the census which 
are without edifices and pastors, and, in rare instances, without a professed 
membership. Something makes them churches in spite of all their de- 
ficiencies. They are known and recognized in the community as churches, 
and are properly to be returned as such in the census. " 

In the county of Marion, as nearly as can be ascertained, there are 
about seventy-five churches. The number of members in these respective 
churches are reported in most instances in the city and township histories 
in this volume, but not being reported in all. the exact total cannot be 
given. It is estimated, however, that about twenty- seven per cent of the 
population are members of the church, or about one-half of those who are 
of an age of sufficient maturity to become members of the church. 

The strongest deuominations in point of numbers are the Methodists, 
Free-Will Baptists, Lutherans and Evangelical, Presbyterians and German 
Reformed, Catholics and United Brethren. There is but one Universalist 
Church in the county (at Caledonia), but two Christian Churches (Marion 



394 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

and Letiruberville), no Congregationalists, who are common elsewhere, no 
Unitarian, Swedenborgian or Mormon organizations, and but one Orthodox 
Quaker. Joseph Morris, of Richland Township. 

THE MARION COUNTY BIBLE SOCIETY. 

A history of Marion County would be very imperfect if it did not in- 
clude some account of its County Bible Society, auxiliary to the American 
Bible Society. There can be no doubt that this society has had much to do 
in influencing and determining the moral and religious tone of this com- 
munity, out of which has come not only a large proportion of the existing 
churches of the county, but much of its prosperity and the spirit of improve- 
ment and progress which characterizes the people of the county at the pres- 
ent time. When in 1830 the Marion County Bible Society was first organ- 
ized, it was evidence of the fact that there were those among the pioneer 
settlers who appreciated the teachings of the Bible and the importance of 
having these teachings disseminated and observed. 

It is worthy of notice that the first organization of this society in 1830 
was but fifteen years after the formation of the American Bible Society, 
which took place in 1815; so that this County Auxiliary Society, with all 
its disadvantages, was early in the field in its endeavors to help forward 
the beneficent designs of the parent society, and it is pertinent and fitting 
to say that whatever good has resulted from the operations of this county 
society, it may all be reviewed as so much testimony in commendation of 
the r benevolence and wisdom of the originators and founders of the Ameri- 
can Bible Society. There can be no doubt that this county society has 
been an incentive and a help in the organization of most of the churches 
now found in the county. There were but few churches in the county at 
the date of its first organization — not half a dozen, it is believed — and at 
the period of its re-organization in 1836, only a comparatively small number 
of the churches now found in the county had been organized. 

The increased circulation of the Bible, through the instrumentality of 
the county society called attention to its teachings and to the commission 
and warrant furnished by the New Testament to gather the people into 
church associations; and formal church organizations have followed as a 
natural result. Without entering into statistical details of the operations 
of the society, it will suffice for the present purpose to state that, from its 
re-organization in 1836, it has maintained a depository, at which there 
has usually been an ample supply of Bibles and Testaments to meet the 
wants of the county and carry out the objects of the society. Thousands 
of volumes have gone out from the depository, and, besides paying the 
parent society for these books, a very considerable sum of money lias been 
contributed to that society, to aid it in its work of circulating the sacred 
Scriptures among the destitute in the wide field which it occupies. The 
work of the county society has been prosecuted by various methods. It has 
sometimes had local visitors in the different school districts, and at other 
times employed canvassing agents to go over the entire county to seek out 
the destitute families and to supply them, and at the same time solicit 
from the friends of the Bible their pecuniary contributions to pay for gra- 
tuitous distributions to the needy among us, and to enlarge the contribu- 
tions of this society to the parent society. In addition to the methods just 
mentioned, there have been organized in all the fifteen townships of the 
county branch societies, and there have been periods when most of these 
branch societies have done good work for the Bible cause. As the work of 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 395 

this society has been inaugurated and carried forward chiefly by the per- 
sonal agency of those who have been its official representatives and mana- 
gers, their names are a part of its history. 

The first meeting was called in February, 1830, when the county cov- 
ered greater territory than at present and the settlers were scattered and 
poor. The roads were also poor, especially in the winter, and when this 
first meeting was held. It sometimes required three hours for a man on 
horseback to go from Big Island to Marion, a distance of five miles. For 
ten years after this time, no vehicle above the dignity of a two- horse wagon 
was known in the county, yet to this meeting came men from all parts of 
the county, as, Henry Ustick, from Mount Gilead; Joseph Boyd and Shu- 
bael W. Knapp, from Pleasant; John McElvy, from near Cochranton; 
and several Browns, from Canaan. In 1874, but one attendant at that 
meeting was living in the county — John Wildbahn, who died shortly after- 
ward. This meeting was held in the log-cabin residence of Mr. Wildbahn, 
located where Mr. Dietrich's residence now is in Marion. The large 
rooms of this cabin were well filled. 

Rev. Eldred Barber, who had been instrumental in calling the meeting, 
was the first President, and Adam Uncapher Secretary. Canvassers were 
appointed for each township, and soon about $300 worth of books were sent 
for from the American Bible Society, then only fifteen years old. These 
probably required six or eight weeks to reach their destination, and they 
were in due time distributed by the canvassers. Another invoice was 
afterward ordered, and of these about $300 worth were accidentally burned 
in the store of William Bain in 1831 or 1835. The society was now 
deeply in debt to the parent society, and seems to have held no meetings 
for two or three years. In 1836, it was re-organized, with Samuel Allen 
President, Thoma3 Cratty Secretary and Reese Darlington, Depositary. 
Rev. Henry Shedd was appointed General Agent for all that part of the 
county east of the Whetstone. At this time, the society's debt amounted 
to $800 or $1,000. Many of the books were deposited in the different town- 
ships and in the hands of men who did not know how to push them out 
into the community or introduce them into use. Many of them lay in 
closets or upon shelves until they were saturated with dust and worm- 
eaten. 

Thus the interest wore along until about 1851 to 1853, when a general 
canvass of the county was made. At the present time (1883), another can- 
vass is being made, for the second or third time. John Cocherl is the col- 
porteur. In 1873, there were twenty life members and twenty-five county 
members; and since that time the average has not been far from that. A 
payment of $30 constitutes a life member and a payment of $5, a county 
member. 

When the Masonic Block in Marion was burned, all the records of this 
society were burned with it. 

The county depository is at Denison & Co.'s drug store. Marion. 

According to the last annual report, March 9, 1883, the following is 
the status: Books sold from the county depository, $6(3.40; delivered to 
Ladies' Missions and Ladies' Depositories, $14; given away, $2; delivered 
to Lady Missionaries of the auxiliary and branch societies, $9.20; on 
hand, $254.50; received into the treasury, $166.72, of which $10.50 was 
paid to the parent society; $50.28 disbursed on donation account; $6.64 
paid to the canvassing agent; and on hand $59.30; S. E. DeWolfe is Presi- 
dent and J. C Markert, Secretary. 



39G HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

MARION COUNTY SUNDAY SCHOOL UNION. 

This was first organized in March, 1829, with Eber Baker as President; 
Daniel D. Tompkins, Treasurer; and O. Bowen, Secretary. Rev. Eldred 
Barber, Agent for the American Sunday School Union, was the organizing 
officer This union was kept for a long time. In 1830, they reported ten 
schools in the county, with sixty-three teachers and 512 scholars, all fur- 
nished with libraries. 

The Union was reorganized February 1, 1883, at the Presbyterian 
Church in Marion, under the direction^of officers of the State Union, by 
the adoption of a constitution and the election of officers, as follows: Rev. 
E. B. Raffensperger, President; Vice Presidents — Marion, Rev. L. A. Belt; 
Prospect, John F. Sellers; Green Camp, John Kibler; Bowling Green, 
Luke Lenox; Montgomery, West Precinct, H. B. Mills; East Precinct, J. 
B. Virden; Grand, Hugh V. Davis; Salt Rock. Samuel Morral; Grand 
Prairie, E. Brown; Scott, N. B. Brooks; Tully, I. Auld; Claridon, North 
Precinct, Rev. M. Scotl ; South Precinct, Rev. James Owens; Richland, 
M. Jacoby, Jr.; "Waldo, James Emery; Pleasant, T. R. Smith; Big Island, 
Isaiah Uncapher. Permanent Secretary, Jacob Fribley; Assistant Secre- 
tary, Rev. J. F. Smith. Treasurer, Rev. O. E. Baker; Executive Commit- 
tee, Rev. S. D. Bates, S. E. DeWolfe, Revs. W. Dowling, J. E. Julian 
and C. G. Hertzer. 

By this strong organization, it will be seen that the educators of Chris- 
tianity mean business. The object of the union is to render Sunday school 
work more efficient, by instructing the teachers how to teach and bring 
children into the school, by aiding and inciting parents to send their chil- 
dren to Sunday school and work in the same, and by aiding the officers of 
the Sunday schools to be proficient in their work. 

TEMPERANCE. 

The first temperance society in Marion County was organized in the vil- 
lage of Marion as early as 1828. T. J. Anderson, Rev. Barbour, Rev. James 
Gilruth, T. L. Henderson and a few others were the active workers, and the 
results of their labors were manifest, as the people began to learn that 
houses could be raised, logs rolled and corn husked without the aid of 
whisky. It was called a "Moral and Temperance Society," formed "to 
suppress drunkenness and blasphemy." They adopted a constitution and 
elected officers, Rev. Gilruth being the first President and James H. God- 
man the first Secretary. 

The Washingtonian temperance movement was started in Marion in 
1842, by Judge Thomas J. Anderson, Thomas Henderson, John E. Davids 
and others. Very few men signed the pledge, but most of the women 
did. After flourishing for three or four years, it went down, or wa3 in a man- 
ner supplanted by the order of the Sons of Temperance, who organized a 
division here about 1846 or 1848, prominent among whom were Judge An- 
derson, Levi H. Randall, Alfred Randall, John E. Davids and the minis- 
ters of the place. The division became very strong and flourished until 
about 1854 or 1855. Soon after this, the Washington style was revived. 
The principal orator of those times was a resident of Fremont, Ohio, nick- 
named the " Buckeye Broadax." After the close of the war, the Sons of 
Temperance were re-organized again for several years. 

The Good Templars struck in about 18(30, and soon grew to a numerical 
strength of from 400 to 500. Prominent in the organization were John E. 
and William B. Davids, William Turner and others. In four or five years,. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 397 

the zeal for attending meetings died out, and the charter was consequently 
surrendered. 

The Sons of Temperance are still flourishing in Marion, for an account 
of which see history of that city. 

The " Murphy " movement was introduced in Marion April 7, 1877, by J. 
B. Pomeroy and R. V. Hunter, two young men from the University of 
Wooster. Their speeches were stirring appeals; their meetings were 
thronged; the music, led by Mrs. S. C. Osborn, was inspiring; and within 
two or three weeks more temperance work seemed to be accomplished than 
had been done for years before. By the 24th of the month, 1,200 had 
signed the pledge (same as the old Washingtonian of 1840 to 1855), sev- 
eral hundred of whom had been drinking men. 

. Women's Christian Temperance Union. — The temperance wave called 
the " Women's Crusade " struck Marion during the months of February and 
March, 1874. An informal meeting was held February 26, when Rev. Mr. 
Bates was elected President and Mrs. Van Fleet, Secretary. J. R. Gar- 
berson and Rev. D. D. AVaugh were appointed delegates to attend a con- 
vention at Cleveland, where Dr. Dio Lewis was officiating, and invite him 
to come to Marion and open the campaign. They went upon their errand, 
but the Doctor was not at liberty to come. In the meantime the women 
had a remonstrance drawn up and signed by over ],200 persons, and sent 
to the Legislature then in session, and also to the Constitutional Conven- 
tion, asking them not to change the statute called the " Adair Law." 

A large mass meeting was called to be held in the Methodist Church, 
and so thorough and earnest was the movement that a committee of one 
woman from each church in Marion was appointed to invite the men of the 
city to close their places of business, and even the court then in session to 
adjourn, so that all the citizens could be free to attend. Mr. Waugh called 
for all the women who would pledge themselves to the temperance work 
until success crowned their efforts, and 185 responded, which number was 
increased in a day or two to over 200. Besides. 160 men pledged themselves 
to assist in the work. 

At a meeting held at the Presbyterian parsonage March 3, 1874, the 
" Temperance League " was organized with the following officers: Presi- 
dent, Mrs. John Bartram; Vice Presidents, Mesdames Davis, Waugh, Kent, 
Baker, Snyder, Bates, Gugle and Day; Recording Secretary, Mrs. Sharp- 
less; Corresponding Secretary, Mrs. Van Fleet; Treasurer, Mrs. J. M. 
Heller; Executive Committee, Mesdames E. Dickerson, T. B. Fisher, 

Cronenwett, H. Riley, A. P. Henderson, D. R. Miller, W. Dennig, 

P. Cusic, Mrs. Dr. True, Powers and C. Smith; Advisory Com- 
mittee, of gentlemen, Revs. Henderson, Waugh, Bates, Julian, Orr, Hum- 
mer, Miller and the Catholic priest. 

During this month, a committee of eighteen ladies was appointed to 
canvass the town and obtain signatures to both the ladies' and the gentle- 
men's pledges, subject to the approval of the League; and also sent through 
the post office an invitation to each saloon keeper, asking him to offer his 
voluntary pledge of surrender. On March 5, the various forms of pledges 
were adopted — the " citizens'," the " physicians'." the "druggists'," the 
"dealers' " and the "property holders'. " 

March 6, 1874, in the Methodist Episcopal Church, Mother Stewart, of 
Springfield, Ohio, the apostle of this new departing, addressed the meet- 
ing preparatory to the heroic onslaught the women were about to make 
personally on the saloons. Prayer and deliberation brought down the Di- 



398 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

vine baptism and grace, sufficient unto the day. They marched forth. 
" Although the day was exceeding inclement," the Secretary remarks on the 
record, " we decided the trial moment had come, and out we marched upon 
the streets, with Mother Stewart at our front. We went with trembling, 
but God's grace, which never fails in the hour of need, went with us by 
the way, and as we went upon the muddy pavements, we felt God's spirit 
overshadowing and leading us." 

The women visited two saloons, but found their doors closed against 
them. They repaired to the church and prayed and sung, and went out 
upon the street again, nearly 200 strong. Two saloons were closed against 
their entrance and two opened their doors. Timothy Fahey was the first 
dealer to place out his sign that his saloon was closed. Within a few days 
several saloons surrendered. Detachments of the League were sent out to 
visit saloon-keepers in different parts of the county and ask them to join 
the good cause. 

April 6 was municipal election day in Marion, and the influence of the 
tidal wave was perceptibly felt in the make-up of the new boards of officers 
and Councilmen. 

May 20, the Advisory Committee asked the ladies to retire from the 
streets, that they might have a better opportunity to carry out some secret 
plans of their own. They retired, but never to take the street again. 

In July, a movement was made for a more permanent organization, 
with a view to extending operations throughout the county, and keeping 
them up until victory was won. A constitution and by-laws were adopted 
and officers elected. In the course of a year or two, however, it was found 
unnecessary to continue meetings during the week. 

By the close of 1876, nine leagues had been organized within the 
bounds of Marion County, petitions sent to Congress and tracts distributed 
and eighty subscribers secured for temperance papers. The good work 
ramified in all directions, especially in the channels of the church; 170 
names were secured on the basis of a paid membership, placing $88.47 in 
the treasury. 

In 1882, Miss Frances Willard, of Chicago, delivered a lecture in Mar- 
ion, which was well attended and exerted a strong influence for good. 
During this year also nearly every township was visited by committees sent 
out to revive and ameliorate the methods of work; a petition extensively 
circulated was forwarded to the Legislature and resolutions passed at a 
large mass meeting of the citizens were also sent to the Representative in 
the State Legislature. The Agricultural Societ} r has been influenced to 
prohibit liquor-selling upon the fair grounds. In the absence of the Pres- 
ident of the Union, on account of ill health, the First Vice President, Mrs. 
Moore, filled her place creditably, and the attendance at the regular meet- 
ings has generally been good! 

The Union has a room in the Masonic Block for their meetings, leased 
for the purpose, which they have had for several years. 

The foregoing account gives an idea of the nature and extent of the 
women's work which commenced as a " crusade" and soon crystallized into 
a permanent and beautiful form, which must grow until the laws of the 
land are made as efficient as imperfect human nature can make them, and 
all sensible people refuse to touch, taste or handle the deceitful serpent — in- 
toxicating liquor. 

The present (1883) officers of the Women's Christian Temperance Un- 
ion for Marion are: President, Mrs. J. C. Johnston; First Vice President, 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 399 

Mrs. H. C. Moore: Second Vice President, Mrs. S. A. Powers; Recording 
Secretary, Mrs. R. H. Johnson; Corresponding Secretary, Mrs. Hattie Bar- 
tram; Treasurer, Mrs. H. S. Lucas; Editress, Mrs. L. Hume. 

The women's union has done much good work throughout the county, not 
detailed in the above account. At Caledonia, for instance, they shut up 
every saloon, and their work at many points resulted in a more signal vic- 
tory than at Marion. 

A " Father Mathew," or Catholic, temperance society has been kept up 
in Marion, but it does nob co-operate with other temperance societies in 
special work. 

EDUCATIONAL. 

Marion County has not been a whit behind her sister counties in her 
educational interests. The character and extent of her early schools are 
best described in the chapter on pioneer life. The proximity of -the county 
to a fine university at Delaware has had a good effect upon the pedagogical 
profession here, and through them, materially, upon the schools. To ob- 
tain an idea of the growth of the schools, the only method is to compare the 
present statistics below with — nothing in 1820. 

EDUCATIONAL STATISTICS OF 1881. 

Paid to this county from the State Common School Fund, $9,568.55; 
payments from the county, $13,008.85; excess of receipts from the county. 
$3,440.30; balance of cash on hand in the county treasury, September i, 
1880, $35,420.43; State tax, $9,704.76; irreducible school fund, $922.52: 
amount of local tax for school and schoolhouse purposes, $49,334.73; 
amount received on sale of bonds, $200; amount of fines, licenses, tuition 
of non-resident pupils and other sources, $1,623.34; total receipts, $97,- 
205.78. Amount paid teachers in the primary department, $34,844.25; in 
the higher departments, $2,485.60; total, $37,329.85; amount paid for 
managing and superintending, $1,740; paid for sites and buildings, 
$2,221.37; interest on or redemption of bonds, $1,426.80; fuel and other 
■contingent expenses, $11,229.88; total expenditures, $53,947.90; balance 
on hand September 1, 1881, $43,257.88; number of youth between six and 
twenty-one years of age, 6.770; of unmarried youth between six and twen- 
ty-one, white, there are 3,423 males, and 3,282 females; colored, 32 males 
and 33 females; total, 6,770; number between sixteen and twenty-one, 
1,621; per cent of enumeration to population of 1880, 32, which is about 
the average. 

In 1881, there were 120 subdistricts in the county and seven separate 
districts, with eight subdivisions. There were three schoolhouses erected 
during the year, at a total cost of $2,396; total number of schoolhouses, 
120, besides seven in separate districts. The value of the school property 
in the townships was $62,930; in the separate districts, $65,700; total, 
$128,630. All the township schools are considered primary. The school- 
houses in the separate districts are counted also as primary, but of thirty- 
two school rooms (not including recitation rooms) in these, five are high 
school rooms; in the townships are 121 school rooms; accordingly, in the 
latter are 121 teachers required, while in the other class 38 teachers are 
necessary. 

During the year. 103 male teachers were employed and 136 females in 
the townships; and in the separate districts, 14 male and 31 female in the 
primary, and one «jf each sex in the high school: total number of teachers 



400 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

employed during the year, 28G; number of teachers who taught the entire 
time the schools were in session, 56, of whom 21 were gentlemen and 
35 ladies. The average wages of teachers per month of four weeks, to the 
nearest integer, were as follows: In the townships, for primary male teachers, 
$33 a month; female, $23; in the separate districts, male $44, and female, 
.$34. 

No townships or districts are reported as having less than twenty-four 
weeks of school within the year, and the average number of weeks the 
schools were in session was 27 in the townships and 33 in the separate 
districts. 

The average rate of local tax in the townships for 1880-81, was two and 
nine-tenths mills on the dollar; for 1882, three mills; in the separate dis- 
tricts, six and nine-tenths in 1880-81, and eight and six-tenths in 1882, 
which in the townships was a little more than the average for the State, 
and in the separate districts a little less. 

The enrollment of pupils in the townships was 4,051, of whom 2,174 
were males, and 1,877 females; in the separate districts, primary, 590 
boys and 610 girls; high, 165 boys and 219 girls; total, 1,584; grand 
total, 5,635. Total enrollment of pupils between sixteen and twenty-one, 
815; total of re-enrollments, 168; average monthly enrollment, 3,258 in 
the townships and 1,299 in the separate districts. In respect to average 
daily attendance in the townships, that of the boys was 1,314; girls, 1,206; 
in the separate districts, primary, boys, 408; and girls, 432; high, boys, 
101; girls, 151; grand total, 3,612. The per cent which the average daily 
attendance was of the average monthly enrollment was 77 in the townships 
and 84 in the districts. 

As to the branches of study, Marion County in 1881 stood as follows: 
In the alphabet, 741 scholars; reading, 4,309; spelling, 4,467; writing, 
3,778; arithmetic, 3,592; geography, 1,875; English grammar, 1,100; 
oral lessons, 1,073; composition, 305; drawing, 823; vocal music, 870; map 
drawing, 210; United States History, 358; physiology, 39; physical geog- 
raphy, 17; natural philosophy, 5; German, 56; general history, 14; algebra, 
158; geometry, 17; trigonometry, 5; surveying, none; chemistry, none; 
geology, none; botany, 93; astronomy, 17; book-keeping, none; natural 
history, none; mental philosophy, none; moral philosophy, none; rhetoric, 
10; logic, none; Latin, none; Greek, none; French, none. 

The reader must not infer that, because no pupils are reported in cer- 
tain branches above, therefore there is any lack of intelligence or of appre- 
ciation of those branches; for, in the first place, children generally attend 
higher schools for the higher branches, and, secondly, the relative impor- 
tance of some of those studies is a debatable question. 

There are no private or colored schools reported for 1881 in this county. 

Teachers' Institutes. — These have flourished in Marion County for over 
thirty years. The records being lost, only an approximate account can be 
given. For some time past, the average attendance at these institutes has 
been 130 and upward. Their sessions are held in Marion. 

In the winter of 1882-83, a " teachers' union " was organized, compris- 
ing the teachers of Marion and five other counties in the vicinity. 

Teachers' institutes at the present day are far different in their char- 
acter from what they were at first. In the early days, a few would meet, 
without programme, and endeavor to entertain one another by their wit, the 
subject matter being arithmetical and grammatical, puzzles and curiosities, 
comparing merits of text books, interesting experiences in the schoolroom. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 401 

-with an occasional essay, more literary than scholastic. Of course, there 
was a good deal of fun, but little instruction. Long since, the institutes 
have been turned into real schools, taught by competent instructors, who 
are paid in part by the State. In this respect the teachers have been often 
favored by professors from the universities and colleges at Delaware, Colum- 
bus, Urbana, Springfield, Mount Union, etc. 

LITERATURE. 

Of good poets and writers Marion has had a fair share. None, it is 
true, have become eminent, but several deserve special mention in a work 
like this. Not to say anything here of the members of the various profps- 
sions — ministerial, medical, legal, pedagogical and editorial — who enjoy a 
high average standing, there may be noticed in this connection the authors 
of poems and books, residents at some or other time of this county. 

MRS. MINERVA RUNDLE. 

This lady belonged to the talented family of William Brown, best known 
as a correct surveyor. She died in Marion in 1854, of cholera. Her poetic 
pen obeyed the weeping Muse, as her numerous productions show. She 
was a frequent contributor to the Buckeye Eagle. Two selections are here 
given : 

IT MATTERS NOT MUCH WHERE THE COLD FORM IS LEFT TO LIE. 
BY MRS. M. RUNDLE. 

It matters not much, when the blood grows chill, 
And the heart is hushed and the pulse lies still, 
When the ear is deaf to the voice of mirth, 
And the eye is closed to the scenes of earth, 
When the last low word and the fainting breath 
Is kissed away from the lips by Death— 
I say that it matters not where is laid 
The cold, still form, when the soul has fled. 

It matters not much, though the ashes lie, 
Unburied, beneath a torrid sky; 
Though the bones of a thousand soldiers slain 
Be left to bleach on the battle plain; 
Though the body may find a boundless grave 
In the briny depths of the ocean wave ; 
Though the feet of loved ones may never tread 
Where the cold earth pillows the 'lifeless dead. 

TRUE LOVE AND A HAPPY HOME. 

O, give me neither pomp nor wealth, 

Which some would gladly own ! 
For all I ask is strength and health, 

True love and a happy home. 

Where blessings such as these abide, 

Harsh strife can never come, 
And peacefully doth love preside 

O'er such a happy home. 

And sweet prosperity will cling 

Around a bright hearthstone; 
Its welcome presence e'er will bring 

True love and a happy home. 

And naught can interrupt the bliss 

Which speaks in every tone. 
Who could desire aught more than this: 

True love and a happy home ! 



402 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

MRS. JAMES HAVENS. 

Prominent among Ohio's talented daughters is the gifted poetess and 
philanthropist, Mrs. James Havens, a native of Ohio, for many years a 
resident of Marion, but now a resident of La Fayette, Ind. She was a sis- 
ter of Mrs. Rundle just mentioned, and was born at the Indian mission of 
the Wyandot tribe near Upper Sandusky, close by the spot where the gal- 
lant Col. Crawford was burned at the stake by the Indians, and more than 
a decade of her first years was passed amid the leafy dells and wildwood 
glades of her forest home. Her friends often imagined that the wild, 
weird romance of those early years have lent their tinge of ideality to all 
her subsequent life. When in her eleventh year, her father left the In- 
dians and removed with his little family of motherless children to Marion, 
the capital of this county, where the subject of this sketch first began to 
manifest a decided poetical talent. At the early age of twelve, she pub- 
ished in the Marion Buckeye Eagle, a poem entitled " The Sons of Tem- 
perance," which elicited an elaborate editorial compliment from the talented 
S. A. Grriswold, who was at that time editor and proprietor of the paper. 
He spoke encouraging words of prophecy to the timid little poetess and 
offered her carte, blanche to his columns, which she availed herself of with 
credit. At the age of fourteen, she entered the list of competitors for a 
prize poem, offered by the faculty of a university, and came off victorious 
over students and professors. She was educated under the vigilant eye of 
her father, who, a poet and a scholar himself, was proud of the success of 
his talented daughter, and urged her to unceasing efforts, and often child 
and father burned low the midnight oil in poring over tomes of romance, 
poetry and song. 

At the age of sixteen, she was happily married to Mr. James Havens, 
a young clothing merchant of Marion, a gentleman every way worthy his 
bride, and for several years of her life seemed absorbed in domestic joys 
and cares; and though she never dropped her pen entirely, she devoted 
much of her time to domestic and social duties. But a change came. The 
financial crash that swept away so many fortunes in Marion County sent 
Mr. Havens and his wife penniless out into new fields to retrieve their fal- 
len fortunes. Earnestly, cheerfully and happily they labored, not for 
themselves alone, for their hearts and their home were always open to the 
necessities of others, and their little family of three boys was continually 
increased by the adoption of little waifs, who, but for them, would have 
been either homeless or county charges. And there has never been a year 
in all their married life that they were without adopted children, as care- 
fully reared as their own. A philanthropist by instinct and education, Mrs. 
Havens has spent her life for the welfare of others, especially in the tem- 
perance field. As President of the Woman's Christian Temperance Union 
ever since the first year of its organization in Indiana, she has labored 
with unabating energy, and though seriously objecting to the role of a 
public speaker, her grace as a presiding officer has often brought her to the 
rostrum, where her words of tender pathos and thrilling eloquence have 
charmed her audience into speedy conversion to her doctrines. 

Not content with ceaseless effort for humanity at home, the foreign 
mission field claims a portion of her time, and for several successive years 
she has been chosen President of the Women's Foreign Missionary Society 
of Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church in La Fayette. We find a little 
gem floating in the newspaper world, written, evidently, in her later years, 
which shows that though at one time her mind may have entertained the 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 403 

ambition that beckoned her so wooingly toward fame in the fields of liter- 
ature in the days gone by, her heart is now closed to all save the calls of 
God and humanity. The pathetic little poem is entitled 

MY BROKEN WING. 

I pass my hand through my faded hair, 
That is almost white as the snowdrifts are; 
And I see the trace of a hidden hand, 
Girding my brow with a frosty band. 

Age has been writing his autograph here, 
Letter by letter and year by year; 
Patiently printing each letter and line, 
Dipping his pen in the fountain of Time. 

Now, as the changeable seasons roll, 
An eternal summer is in my soul; 
All I covet and all I claim, 
I comprehend in a spotless name. 

My soul exults in the dim perfume, 
That is wafted up from ambition's tomb; 
For its frost and its fret and its fever-pain, 
Will never sully my soul again. 

Sweet content with her heavenly face, 
Graciously planted a resting place; 
In the strange, deep cells of my woman-heart, 
Gilding my life by her magical art. 

Never again shall ambition's strife 
Ruffle the depths of this happier life. 
Glorious dreams to the air I fling, 
Fold forever my broken wing. 

Faded the dreams and the hopes and the fears 
That fretted the days of my earlier years; 
The gilding is tarnished— mildew and rust, 
Have scattered my glorious dreams to the dust. 

Happily now, I can sit and sing, 
Painless now is my folded wing; 
I can even smile as the days go by, 
That I only creep where I hoped to fly. 

Notwithstanding her habitual cheerfulness, her poems generally have a 
tinge of deepest sadness — a doubt of the acceptability by the Father ^of the 
use of her talents. 

We close this sketch by the reproduction of a poem filled with unrest 
and dissatisfaction that her efforts fall so far short of that which talents 
such as hers demand: 

TEMPEST -TOSSED. 

There's a dreary chill in my heart to-night, 

A numbing woe in my heavy brain; 
I look beyond for a gleam of light. 

And but shadows troop in a dismal train. 

I, shuddering, glance at my wasted strength, 

At my unused gifts from my Father's hand: 
At the chain of "resolves" drawn a marvelous length, 

That rivals the strength of a rope of sand. 

Misfortune skulks in my path and laughs, 

If I build a hope or indulge a dream. 
I'll be glad when the Boatman is touching the shore 

To ferry me over the mystical stream. 



404 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

I think with a moan of what might have been; 

Of the better pathway I should have trod: 
And shrink from a thought of the future dim, 

When I render my stewardship back to God. 

I have striven, I know, with a ceaseless care 

To render that stewardship clear and true; 
But the "interest " wastes, and despite my prayer, 

The "principal " fades like the morning dew. 

O, God! when the reckoning time shall come, 

When the dross is cast from the purest gold — 
When nations flock to the harvest-home — 

Shall I be cast from the Shepherd's fold? 

I blindly grope through a darkened moor, 

And the shadows tangle across my way; 
I can catch the gleam from the beautiful shore, 

But it deepens the gloom this side the ray. 

I wonder if others were ever lost 

In the mazy gloom of a pathless lea? 
I wonder if others are tempest-tossed 

And comfortless left on a stormy sea? 

I strain my eyes for the beacon-light, 

Which others see from the watch-house shore, 
But nothing catches my longing sight 

But tempest and darkness, and nothing more. 

Helpless and lost, I am drifting on, 

Nearer and nearer the unknown sea; 
Dreading, yet courting the Rubicon, 

Doubting what there may be waiting me. 

Though I've lost my compass, my chart and roll, 

And the shore-lights sink in the mist afar, 
My faith still points to the mystic pole — 

To the mystic pole and the guiding star. 4 

CHARLES F. GARBERSON, ESQ. 

For a sketch of this gentleman, see the chapter on the Bench and the 
Bar. 

A HUMAN SKELETON. 

O, relic, ghastly, repulsive, clammy, void, 
Wherein life and death were both destroyed ! 
Will reason e'er again this emptiness control 
And it possess again that mystery, the soul, 
And sentient be, instead of lifeless, mute and dull, 
And cease to lie in ruins, a crumbling skull? 

This vacant skull, the realm where busy brain oft teemed 
With cheerful thought, or sad and gloomy seemed, 
Where wavering doubt still posed the reason in the strife 
To know the substance, sum and end of life! 
Could fancy e'er have dreamed that in this dingy room 
'Twould lie untenanted, decayed in gloom? 

This fleshless hand, which now no master thought obeys, 
Perchance once clasped some loving palm in other days. 
Perchance its bounties to the needy poor were free, 
And earned enduring treasure, safe for all eternity; 
These, stored in never-ending, fadeless paradise, 
This hand shall ne'er be called again to sacrifice. 

Here, in the ash of time, like fading embers gray, 

Lie these feet, which, with their burdens mingled by the way. 

Amidst the echoes of whose sad, departing tread; 

Hope, too, of their return forevermore has fled, 

And naught is left to time but this strange anatomy — 

Wondrous proof of God, and of His creatures' frailty. 



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// 







HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 407 

These eyeless sockets in sullen blankness seem to mourn 

The beauteous orbs which in them used to burn; 

Yet, if with pure affection's glow they beamed, 

The soul, whose kindling rays from out them streamed 

Shall thrill again in never-ending light, 

And to these darkened voids give back eternal sight. 

From out this silent waste perhaps once came 
The merry voice in joyous, glad acclaim; 
From ruby lips the sweetest. accents fell, 
The spirit's loveliness in tuneful songs to tell; 
'Tis naught not that these upon the ear once rung, 
In scattered dust now lies the speechless tongue. 

J. A. OSBORNE. 

The following poetic effusion might paradoxically be termed a "sorrow- 
ful sonnet," published by the above, a resident of Marion at the time: 

SORROW. 

Sorrow has changed all nature to my view; 

The woods are still as green, the fields as gay. 
The stars are still as bright, the sky as blue, 

As when they charmed me in my childhood's day; 
But now, in all their beauty I can see 

Something that ever 'minds me of decay; 
Some leafless branch deforms the stately tree. 

Some blight still lingers on the buds of May: 
The starry watchers wear a softened light, 

As if I gazed on them through gathering tears. 
But when I turn to yon pure sky, a bright 

And glorious vision to my mind appears, 
Making the earth seem dull beyond compare, 
Since only heaven above is changeless as 'tis fair. 

J. J. CROWLEY. 

This gentleman is a mechanic, now an employe in the Huber Machine 
Works, and is a native of New York State. For a time he was at Urbana, 111., 
attending the Industrial University at that place and working on the Re- 
publican, where he partially lost his sight. He came to Marion in 1874, 
and in 1875, when the " Philadelphians," a literary club, in which such 
men as B. Gr. Young, S. A. Court and others took prominent part, was or- 
ganized, Mr. Crowley indicted the following: 

THE PHILADELPHIAN SHRINE. 

Methinks I see a lofty height, 
Enclothed in grandeur, armed with might, 
Which stretches forth its massive peaks, 
And to the world its wonder speaks; 
Its deep ravines bespeak of thought 
Far deeper than the world has wrought; 
Its towering heights the excellence 
Which ever follows diligence. 

Its craggy arms loom out in air, 
The emblems of its missions fair — 
To glow the world with culture bright, 
To change thought's darkness into light. 
And on its summit laurels grow, 
Which in the air their fragrance throw — 
The symbols of the brilliant stars, 
Who did not fear the world's vain scars. 



408 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Aye, there they stand in morning sun 
And gaze upon the race they've run, 
E'er beckoning to those below 
To come where brighter colors glow ; 
And o'er that mount a flame doth lie, 
Which lumes the portals of the sky. 
Causes the world to bow its knee 
In reverence to its majesty. 

And in the midst of that bright flame, 

In blood-red letters, is a name — 

Its utterance is to me divine; 

It joys my heart to see its shrine — 

"Philadelphian" rules that towering height,. 

And on its brow her motto bright 

Is scrolled in golden letters fair, 

And mental culture freights the air. 

O, were that glorious vision true, 
"Philadelphian" shrine were naught but few 
E'er reached that fairy land of thought, 
Though millions for its plains have sought. 
The world would bow its mighty head, 
And God His richest blessings shed 
On those who strove its crest to find 
By cultivation of the mind. 

Then, noble workers, clutch old Time. 
And wrench from him his pearls sublime ; 
Climb on, up Learning's laurel hill, 
And thus obey your Master's will. 
O, may the day not distant be 
When I thy luster bright shall see, 
The angels fair a wreath to twine 
In honor of " Philadelphians ' " shrine ! 

" AGNOSTIC." 

The following is by a Marion citizen, signing the above as his nom de 
plume: 

WHY DON'T HE LEND A HAND. 

You say there is a God 

Above the boundless sky, 
A wise and wondrous deity, 

Whose strength none can defy. 
You say that He is seated 

Upon a throne most grand, 
Millions of angels at His beck: 

Why don't He lend a hand? 

See how the earth is groaning! 

What countless tears are shed! 
See how the plague stalks forward 

And brave and sweet lie dead! 
Homes burn and hearts are breaking, 

Grim murder stains the land, 
You say He is omnipotent, 

Why don't He lend a hand? 

Behold, Injustice conquers! 

Pain curses every hour; 
The good and true and beautiful 

Are trampled like the flower. 
You say He is our Father; 

That what He wills doth stand; 
If He is thus almighty, 

Whv don't He lend a hand? 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 409 

What is this monarch doing, 

Upon His golden throne, 
To right the wrong stupendous, 

Give joy instead of moan? 
With His resistless majesty, 

Each force at His command, 
Each law His own creation, 

Why don't He lend a hand! 

Alas! I fear He is sleeping, 

Or is Himself a dream, 
A bubble on thought's ocean, 

Our fancy's fading gleam. 
We look in vain to find Him 

Upon His throue so grand; 
Then turn your vision earthward ; 

'Tis we must lend a hand. 

'Tis we must grasp the lightning 

And plow the rugged soil; 
'Tis we must beat back suffering, 

And plague and murder foil; 
'Tis we must build the paradise. 

And bravely right the wrong: 
The God above us faileth; 

The God within is strong. 



A. F. LAPHAM. 



Well known as a former resident of Marion, but now of Florida, is the 
author of the following jeu d'esprit, written in the Marion Probate office, 
November 14, 1873: 

CHALK -MAEKS OF A JUROB. 

In the court-room we were seated 
By the court politely greeted, 
Till the room was stuffed and heated — 
Sitting, standing, panting, fetid. 

Some were chewing, others smoking, 
Also with the poker poking, 
Others in the corner joking, 
And the belligerents choking. 

But the lawyers were the queerest: 
Each proclaimed his case the clearest, 
And by night declared the nearest — 
Though the beaten learned the dearest. 

First they looked so calm and musing, 
Then like storms on ocean cruising; 
Face to face almost to bruising, 
Soon to lull in quiet snoozing. 



After the announcement in the Buckeye Eagle of the marriage of John 
W. Bain, July 29, 1851, to an Indianapolis lady, occur three and a half 
stanzas of poetry, one of which reads thus: 

"Strange indeed that a Buckeye boy 
Could find no land to give him joy 
Without wandering to the Hoosier vale. 
As if Buckeye lasses bad grown stale! " 



410 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Many other parties in Marion County have contributed occasional pieces 
of poetry to the local papers, under noms de plume, or anonymously, as 
Maria, Betta, Kate, Etta, Edith, Yankee Mo., Ernest, Vario, J. G., P. H., etc., 
who could not be traced up. Richard Lawrence, of Claridon, published 
one good piece. Jacob Idleman, in 1831, published a lyrical poem full of 
religious fervor, and the next year a hot philippic against priest-craft, 
which waked up some criticism. The "Olentangy Bard" published many 
years ago a number of interesting pieces in the Scotch dialect. 

MARION ART SCHOOL. 

Marion is also ahead of all her sister towns in the art of painting. The 
introduction of drawing and painting in this place was quite novel in man- 
ner aud apparently accidental. The entire credit is due to Mrs. Sweeney, 
wife of Dr. R. L. Sweeney, a leading physician of this city. Mrs. Swee- 
ney, a daughter of Col. W. W. Conklin, is a native of this place, but was 
educated in Pittsfield, Mass. While in school, she exhibited quite a talent 
for painting, excelled in the study and execution of that art, and acquired 
a very correct knowledge of painting in all its most difficult phases. After 
leaving school, she, unlike many other young ladies, did not neglect her ac- 
quirement, but continued to give it sufficient attention to improve, both in 
taste and execution, and thus aimed at a higher degree of culture in that 
direction. 

When, in 1869, Mrs. Sweeney's two daughters, Nellie and Jennie, ar- 
rived at such an age as to understand the fundamental principles of draw- 
ing and painting, she began teaching them. Their simple but beautiful 
productions soon attracted the attention of some of their schoolmates, who 
also desired to take lessons, and Mrs. Sweeney was prevailed upon to take 
a small class of perhaps half a dozen, composed exclusively of school chil- 
dren. This class made such rapid advancement in its work and acquired 
such skill and proficiency that it engendered a taste for the accomplish- 
ment in persons of a mature age, and many accessions were made from 
time to time, until what was at first a small class of half a dozen has now 
grown to one of about eighty pupils, including young ladies and married 
ladies, and even some young men, representing the first families of this 
city, among whom are the wives and daughters of lawyers, bankers and 
merchants. Some are from neighboring towns, as Galion, Bellefontaine, 
Defiance, etc. One of the apartments of his elegant residence forms the 
studio, in which Mrs. Sweeney receives her pupils and gives them instruc- 
tions. This studio is occupied every hour of the day and every day of the 
week, by some of her many pupils. This would seem an unwieldy class, 
for one lady to instruct at a private residence, but Mrs. Sweeney is equal 
to the emergency. She has divided the class into sections, and instructs 
them in a regular, gradod and systematic manner. To some she teaches 
drawing, and the more advanced she assists in their work in water colors 
and in oils. During the hour spent by the writer at Dr. Sweeney's, exam- 
ining the different productions of the young artists' skill and witnessing 
their work, there was a number of young ladies present whose work, though 
incomplete, showed real artistic taste and beauty. There was a profusion 
of pieces in the studio, many of which, however, were not completed. 
The young ladies present at the time were finishing work, both in water 
colors and in oils, and while their subjects were not of the most difficult 
character, being mostly flowers and some <>f the simpler landscape views, 
they exhibited in flower painting a fioe appreciation of colors, a skillful 






HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 41 1 

grouping and an excellent knowledge of materials; and in landscape 
painting a careful and delicate blending of colors really quite remai'kable. 
The pupils have access to most of the leading art journals, which are taken 
by Mrs. Sweeney, are placed upon the tables in the studio and are at all 
times at their disposal. Thay also have the advantage of the studies of 
the masters to copy after, Mrs. Sweeney having secured and placed at their 
command copies from the works of Julien, Hubert, Bonheur, Birket, Foster, 
Landseer, and many others. 

Mrs. Sweeney has pupils in all the departments of drawing and paint- 
ing from the simplest pencil sketching to the highest perfection of portrait 
painting and decorative work, several of whom have done some very fine work 
on satin, both in water colors and in oils, and also in oils on china. A few 
have succeeded admirably in portrait drawing and painting. Among them 
is Miss Jennie Sweeney, who has several specimens in crayon in her fine 
collection, besides a very fine portrait of her sister finished in water colors, 
which is certainly very well executed. The coloring is beautiful in the 
principal lights, and the flesh tints are softened by the shadows to an ivory- 
like smoothness. The pupils have several times placed specimens of their 
work on exhibition, one of them obtaining the first premium at the State 
fair for crayon work. 

This is a brief sketch of the origin and progress in this department of 
art culture here in Marion, which although only about thirteen years in 
growth, is assuming a wide range and approaching a wonderful state of 
perfection. It has furnished something of interest for many of the Marion 
ladies to engage in, and the association and study has also been the means 
of adding culture to the accomplishment. Besides, it has enabled them to 
beautify their homes by the thought of their own brains and the skill of 
their own hands. 

MUSIC. 

Marion County is somewhat ahead of most counties of the State in re- 
spect to musical talent. Some of the finest amateur concerts that have 
ever been given in Northern Ohio have been produced here, which have 
elicited favorable comments from the press, both in the countrj" and in the 
larger cities. This has been a source of great pride and gratification to the 
citizens. Only a few weeks ago the Marion Cornet Band took the third 
prize at a State Band Tournament. (See history of Marion.) One of the 
greatest singers the world has ever known passed two of the best years of 
his life in Marion, namely, 

PHILIP PHILLIPS. 

This modern "psalmist of Israel," who still considers Marion his home, 
enjoys a national reputation as a musician, and is even known in the Old 
World, where he has spent some time. He was born August 13, 1834, iu a 
plain farmhouse at the foot of a wooded hill in Chautauqua County, N. 
Y., a section of country famous for literature, science and song. Here, 
at the above date, says his biographer, "Philip began his song— in a minor 
key, for be was a minor of minors himself. This first song was, perhaps, 
nothing new or strange in the Phillips household, for this noisy youngster 
was the seventh in the squalling scale! The six other children, as they 
came in their regular order of about one year and a half apart, no doubt 
had introduced themselves in the same key. Philip's lungs, however, 
proved to be as elastic in this first exercise as those of his stoutest baby 
predecessor; and why not? He was the prophet of his own career." 






412 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

When about live years of age, he was frequently called upon to sing by 
the neighbors who dropped in to visit his parents. Before complying 
with such requests, he would always settle himself in the family cradle, and 
then rock himself vigorously all the time he sang. This rocking accom- 
paniment seemed to be necessary to his success, as well as to his own 
enjoyment of the exercise. When yet but a very small boy, Philip made 
his first public appearance in sacred song— by almost an accident. It was 
at church, when the minister gave out the familiar hymn, " When I can 
read my title clear," and. the choir, an untrained rural organization, made a 
failure to sing it. They attempted a tune somewhat new, and, after scram- 
bling around tones and half tones, they became discouraged. The minister, 
having heard Philip sing the tune at home successfully, stepped down to 
where he was sitting and asked him forward to sing it, <whioh the little fel 
low did, all alone, and well. The effect can be more easily imagiued than 
described. 

„, When the boy singer was nine years of a°:e, his pious mother died. A 
short time previously, he had accidentally cut his foot with a scythe, and 
seeing the blood flow freely, and believing in his youthful simplicity that 
the flowing of blood was a sure forerunner of death, he ran, frightened, to 
hie mother for consolation, asking how soon he would die. His mother, 
ever on the alert to impress religious truth on his mind, answered " Oh, 
Phillie, I don't know. Don't you think we had better pray." Thus she 
taught him that "God is a refuge and strength, a very prese*nt help in 
trouble! when his mind was in the most impressible condition, although 
she knew the wound was not dangerous — an opportunity that most mothers 
would inadvertently let slip. 

After the death of his mother, the lad went out among comparative 
strangers to be brought up. At one of his homes, he had charge in part of 
a large dairy. He soon got to know all the sixty or eighty cows by name, 
and in milking (he milked eight or ten cows night and morning), he would 
sing. The cows became so accustomed to it that they would become res- 
tive if he did not sing. When rallied upon the point, he rnodestty replied, 
" The cows kick and hook if I do not sing; and sometimes they hook and 
kick all the same, even if I do sing." 

In the fall and winter of 1850-51, Philip attended his first singing 
school and learned the rudiments of music, using first the " Dulcimer " and 
then the "Shawm." During the year following, he had access to a melo- 
deon, upon which he became so proficient in a few months that he could 
play it in church. Meanwhile he began to enjoy a rising fame for singing 
temperance songs in the neighborhood. The Good Templars opened be- 
fore him considerable opportunity. He began teaching music at the age 
of nineteen in Allegany, N. Y., and conducted his large class through one 
term with signal success. 

After commencing two or three doubtful ventures, from which he was 
wisely dissuaded, he set out independently to devote his time to teaching 
music and selling music books and musical instruments. At a Baptist 
revival he sang sacred solos, which had great effect, possibly beyond that of 
all the other efforts of the minister and congregation combined. One day Mr. 
E. B. Olmstead, Superintendent of the Public Schools of Marion, Ohio, 
went to hear him sing, and was so greatly pleased that he invited him to 
his Ohio home. Mr. Phillips came, and his first introduction to the people 
of Marion was an evening of song at the Baptist Church. At the close a 
large class was organized, which Mr. Phillips taught every week for two 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 413 

consecutive terms, with greater success than ever before. After making 
another tour in Western New York, he returned to Marion and brought 
out the cantata of Esther and gave it several times with eminent satisfac- 
tion to the public. 

" It was during this second visit," says Dr. Alexander Clark, "that 
Philip began to permit a touch of roma ace in his music. He suddenly dis- 
covered that he had a very interesting pupil in one of his classes in instru- 
mental music, Miss Ollie M. Clark, daughter of Harvey Clark." They 
were married September 27, 1860, and Mr. Phillips bought a residence in 
Marion for $1,000, in which he resided two years. As there was then no 
regular Baptist Church in Marion, he felt it his duty to join the Methodist 
Church, of which his wife and friends were active members. Rev. Isaac 
Newton was at that time the pastor. Of that church Mr. Phillips has ever 
since been a member. 

About this time the subject of this sketch brought out his first book, 
" Early Blossoms," and although his opportunities were not large, he sold 
20,000 copies. He also taught music at other points in Ohio and Indiana. 
He then formed a partnership with William Sumner, of Cincinnati, and for 
the purpose of prosecuting business, he temporarily disposed of his Marion 
home. In a year or two he brought out his second book, " Musical 
Leaves," which commanded an immense sale; it had a large circulation in 
the army. Upward of 700,000 copies of this work were sold. Next ap- 
peared the " Singing Pilgrim," a most unique and methodical compilation 
of sacred songs. The story of John Bunyan's " Pilgrim" suggested topics 
of thought and pictorial illustration. This book had an extremely large 
sale, and occasioned innumerable calls from all parts of the country upon 
the author to give "services of song." 

The great war of the rebellion closed, and Mr. Phillips was invited to 
be present at the final anniversary of the " United States Christian Com- 
mission" at Washington City, where he sang a song entitled " Your Mis- 
sion" with such effect that he was requested to repeat it the same evening, 
by President Lincoln, who was present. 

During the same year, 1865, his music store in Cincinnati was swept 
away by fire the same evening that he was singing in Leavenworth, Kan. — 

"Can there overtake me any dark disaster, 
While I sing for Jesus, my blessed, blessed Master V " 

He then rented a store in New York, but a bad man caused him to lose 
$5,800. He then visited England, but was soon offered $4,800 a year to 
sing in the Presbyterian tabernacle in San Francisco, which he partially 
accepted. He is now (1883) with his wife, making a tour of Europe. 

Mr. Phillips has given thousands of evenings publicly to sacred song, 
never with pecuniary loss to the party or society employing him, and gen- 
erally with considerable gain. 

In 1880, he published a nice 300-page volume entitled the " Song Pil- 
grimage Around and Throughout the World," embracing a life of song ex- 
periences, impressions, anecdotes, incidents, persons, maimers, customs, 
sketches and illustrations throughout twenty different countries, and con- 
taining his biography, from which we have abstracted the foregoing ac- 
count. 



414 HISTORY OF MARION COUNT1, 



CHAPTER X. 



MEDICAL. 



EARLY PHYSICIANS OF MARION COUNTY. 



THE first regular physician who located in Marion County was Dr. Eben- 
ezer Ballantine,who came here from Kinderhook, N. Y., in the year 1820. 
The Doctor came to this country and settled at a very early day with his sons, 
about a mile and a half north of the present corporation of the town of 
Marion. As he was very old and quite worn out before he came here, he 
practiced but little and died in about three years after his arrival. In 
three weeks' time his wife also died. His children continued to live in the 
county, and have brought up large and influential families. The old cabin 
built by the Doctor still stands. 

Dr. Alson Norton, in the year 1820, came from the State of Connecti- 
cut to Radnor, Delaware Co., Ohio, where he remained but a short time, and 
then located at Big Island, this county, succeeding Dr. Ballantine only a 
few months. His first residence was a cabin built of round logs and covered 
with clapboards secured by "weight-poles." His professional rides were 
long and laborious, as his practice extended over the whole of Marion and 
parts of adjoining counties. Delaware, Ohio, was the nearest point at which 
he could procure drugs. The Doctor resorted, of course, to the only ad- 
missable mode of travel in those days, on horseback, in which manner he 
meandered through the woods by way of cow paths from house to house. 
In sickly seasons, it often took him several days to make his rounds, remain 
ing overnight wherever darkness overtook him. His cabin was frequently 
visited by the Wyandot Indians while on their hunting tours, as it was a 
favorite place to rest and beg "johnny-cake." In the course of time, the 
Doctor entered the tract of land upon which his cabin was erected and built 
a comfortable frame dwelling. The land is now cultivated as one of the 
productive farms of Big Island Township. 

Dr. Norton continued the practice of his profession to the time of his 
death, which occurred in the year 1848. His wife was a sister of Orange 
Johnson, who was one of the prominent men of Central Ohio in early days. 

Dr. George Miller came from the State of Pennsylvania in the year 
1824 and located in Marion, Ohio. He was a well-educated physician, and 
was gaining a large practice when death suddenly checked his career 
within three years from the time he settled here. 

Dr. Joseph Billings, a student of Dr. Upson, of Worthington, Ohio, 
came to Marion in the year 1824. Soon after his coming, he became en- 
gaged to Miss Lydia Holmes, the beautiful and accomplished daughter of 
District Judge William Holmes, but the early death of the Doctor, which 
occurred in 1825, prevented the consummation of the marriage contract. 

Dr. Simeon A. Conch, a fellow student of Dr. Billings, came shortly 
after the death of the latter and assumed his position in the practice of 
medicine. In fact, in more ways than one did Dr. Conch take the place of 
his predecessor, for he soon became engaged to Miss Lydia Holmes and 



,M.D. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 415 

afterward married her; but his career, like that of Drs. Miller and Billings, 
was very short, for he died within two years' time after he located in the 
town. 

Dr. Jabez P. Manning, an Eastern man, located in Marion in 1824 or 
1825; but he, too, was unable to stand the hardships of the physician's life 
in those days, and death soon ended his career. 

Two other physicians, whose names we were unable to learn, also locat- 
ed in Marion about the same time with those above mentioned; but their 
fate was like the others; they were doomed to very short lives; and thus it 
became a very noticeable fact in the history of the early physicians of the 
town of Marion that the first seven who located here all died within a space 
of three years; and surely the inducements for doctors to come to Marion 
were not great in the days of miasmatic poison. 

Dr. George Halloway, the first physician who was able to stand the 
hardships here and live any length of time, came from the State of Massa- 
chusetts in 1825 and located in Marion. His practice soon extended for 
miles around, as he was quite successful. The mode of travel was still 
confined to the saddle, as the roads were new and rugged, often mere 
paths running through the forest, marked by "blazed trees " as guides to 
the proper course. The diseases of this country in those days were princi- 
pally of a bilious character and " milk sickness" or "trimbles." In the former 
class of diseases, the torpid liver had to be aroused, and Dr. Halloway's 
favorite prescription for this purpose was calomel in heroic doses, generally 
forty grains, repeated in from four to six hours. In the treatment of milk 
sickness, the Doctor also enjoyed a good reputation, and the typical old 
saddle bags were familiar to nearly every family. 

Dr. Halloway was truly one of the pioneer physicians, experiencing all 
the fatigues and hardships that were known only to those who were here 
in an early day. He continued in practice to the time of his death, which 
occurred at his home in Marion in the year 1867, having reached the ripe 
old age of fourscore and five. The Doctor was surgeon in the war of 
1812 and located at Buffalo. 

Dr. Basil Holmes came from Newark, Ohio, to Marion in the year 1825. 
He practiced his profession in this county for several years, and then moved 
to Delaware, Ohio, where he died. He was Postmaster at one time in Mar- 
ion, and frequently carried letters in his pockets for persons living at a 
distance from town and distributed the mail on his professional rounds. 

Dr. William H. Beid came from one of the Eastern States and located 
in Marion in the year 1830. He soon acquired a large practice, as he was 
a shrewd physician. "When he had been here two years, he met with an ac- 
cident, suffering a fracture of the femur. His brother, who was a few 
years his junior and also a physician, came to take care of the Doctor and 
his patients. After William H. regained his strength, the two brothers 
practiced together until the death of William, which occurred in about a 
year. After this event, Dr. Ezra Beid moved to Indianapolis, where in 
time he gained a very enviable reputation. The brothers were both accom- 
plished physicians, being well educated aDd members of an influential 
family. 

Dr. J. Livingston located in Marion in 1832. He practiced with very 
good success here for a number of years, and then moved to Missouri, 
where he went into a general business, trading, raising stock, etc. ; in this 
way he amassed quite a fortune. His' wife's maiden name was Lydia 
Tootle, of Marion. 



416 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Dr. W. C. Johnson was born in Harrison County, Ohio, January 21, 1808. 
At his native place he resided until after his graduation in medicine and two 
years' practice in his profession. He came to Marion in 1836, and formed 
a partnership with Dr. Livingston. From this time on until the time of 
his death, which occurred July 24, 1864, he continued the practice of medi- 
cine in Marion and adjoining counties. The Doctor attended medical lect- 
ures at Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, Penn. His widow, Mrs. 
Johnson, is still living and resides on North Main street, Marion. Ohio. 

H. A. True, A. M., M. D., was born at Union, Me., August 10, 1812. 
He graduated at Bowdoin College, Me., in 1832, and at Bowdoin Medical 
College in the following year. He afterward attended medical lectures at 
Boston Medical College, and in 1834 was appointed Assistant Physician at 
the Summerville Insane Asylum. In 1835, he attended medical lectures at 
Pittsfield, Mass., and in the same year he went to New York City and lo- 
cated, where he engaged in the practice of medicine and drug business for 
four years. In 1839, Dr. True came to Marion and practiced his profes- 
sion for a period of ten years; after this he engaged in the dry goods trade 
up to the year 1856, and then he went to banking, and continued in the 
latter business to the time of his death, which occurred December 12, 1876. 
Dr. True was a man of unusual ability and strength of character. He was 
a great reader and a close observer. His influence for good was very 
marked both in the community and in the church. His study of theology 
had been such that in the latter days he frequently occupied the pulpit in 
the church of his chosen denomination, the Presbyterian. 

Dr. W. W. Briggs was born and raised near Essex, Union Co. , Ohio. 
When he arrived at the years of maturity, he began his medical studies 
with a Dr. Pickett, of Delaware. He attended his first course of lectures 
at Starling Medical College, Col ambus, Ohio, and the second at the Ohio 
Medical College, Cincinnati, where he received his medical degree. He 
first located at Prospect, this county, and in 1854 he removed to Marion, 
where he continued the practice of his profession very successfully until the 
year 1862, at which time he was appointed Surgeon of the Forty -sixth Reg- 
iment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and died in the service of his country at 
Marietta, Ga., a brave soldier and a good physician. His first wife was a 
Miss Rachel Landon, and his second Miss Phcebe W. Davids, sister to 
Esquire John E. Davids, of Marion. Dr. : Briggs' remains were brought 
home, and now rest in the Marion Cemetery. 

Of the physicians now living who have practiced medicine in this coun- 
ty for thirty years, are Drs. T. B. Fisher, B. W. Davis and R. L. Sweeney, 
of Marion; Dr. R. C. Bowdish, of Big Island; Dr. Joshua Copeland, of La 
Rue, and Dr. J. W. Devore, of Claridon. 

THE FIRST COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY. 

The first county medical society organized in Marion County was on 
March 6, 1850. The meeting was held at the American House and was 
composed of a majority of the regular physicians of the county. Dr. H. 
A. True was made Chairman of the meeting and Dr. W. R. Applebaugh, Secre 
tary. On motion of Dr. J. C. Norton, a committee was appointed to draft 
a plan of organization, constitution and by-laws. The committee consisted 
of Drs. Norton, of Marion; Rogers, of Scott Town; and Wilkins. of La 
Rue. A committee, consisting of Drs. Norton, Gabriel and Burkholder, was 
appointed to prepare a code of ethics, and still another committee, com- 
posed of Drs. Kendler, Johnson and Bodamann, was delegated to arrange 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 417 

a fee bill. The first officers elected were: President, Dr. Samuel Grafton; 
Vice President, Dr. J. C. Norton; Secretary. Dr. W. R. Applebaugh; 
Treasurer, Dr. H. A. True; Standing Committee, Drs. Ferris, Briggs and 
Norton. Officers to be elpcted annually. 

At its organization, the members of this society were Drs. George Hol- 
low ay, J. C. Norton, H. A. True, John Black. W. R. Applebaugh, Robert 
H. Cochran, J. R. "Williams, E. S. Gross, John Byres, Chauncy Lewis, W. 
W. Bridge, Samuel Grafton, J. H. Burkholder, James M. Briggs, J. Kin- 
dler, N. Atwood, W. C. Johnston, J. A. Rodgers, R. C. Bowdish, Orrin 
Ferris, Cyrus Ramsey, R. L. Sweeney, A. W. McPherson, T. B. Fisher, 
D. M. Jones, A. R. Gabriel and C. A. Bodeman. The meetings of the 
society were held monthly in the Presbyterian Church, and were usually 
well attended until May, 1852, at which time several of its members died 
and others moved away, thus crippling the society to such an extent that it 
lost vigor, and the meetings were discontinued. 

THE NEW ORGANIZATION. 

On June 5, 1877, a meeting of the regular physicians of the county 
was held at the office of Dr. R. L. Sweeney, Marion, Ohio. An organiza- 
tion was effected and constitution and by-laws adopted, with the following 
officers elected: President, Dr. R. L. Sweeney; Vice President, Dr. R. C. 
Bowdish; Secretary, Dr. C. P. Gailey; Treasurer, Dr. T. B. Fisher; Stand- 
ing Committee, B. W. Davis, A. B. McMurray and S. B. Marshall. 

On motion, a committee, consisting of Drs. Sweeney, Davis and Gailey, 
was appointed to draw up a fee bill and report the same at next meeting 
of the society. This bill at a subsequent meeting was agreed upon and 
adopted, which has ever since been the guide and standard of fees by the 
regular physicians of the county. In a short time, a suitable code of ethics 
was drawn rip by a committee consisting of Drs. T. B. Fisher, A. B. Mc- 
Murray and R. C. Bowdish, and adopted by the society, which has had its 
influence in keeping harmony and friendship among the members of the 
profession. From its organization to the present time, the society has done 
good work. Its meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each month, in 
the City Hall, and the papers that are read and the discussions of impor- 
tant subjects that are participated in by the members all have an educat- 
ing and an elevating influence on the minds of those who are striving to 
ascertain all possible truths that pertain to the cause, nature and cure of 
the many diseases with which humanity is afflicted. 

The society elects its officers annually. The present incumbents are: 
President, Dr. O. W. Weeks; Vice President, Dr. W. C. Denman; Secre- 
tary, Dr. F. W. Thomas; Treasurer, Dr. R. L. Sweeney; Standing Com- 
mittee, Drs. B. W. Davis, R. L. Sweeney and W. C. Denman. 



418 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 



CHAPTER XL 



THE PRESS. 

AMONG the professions, none have taken higher rank than that of jour- 
nalism, and the position of editor on one of the great dailies, or on 
one of the leading magazines, or even the small country weekly, is probably 
a more responsible one than that of any other professional man. The news- 
paper, the editor, the reporter and the compositor are the Archimedean lev- 
ers that move the world. Their character and doctrines fashion public 
opinion and their defeats and triumphs become matters of history. Their 
jests may become stale, phraseology hackneyed, and principles exchanged 
by the minority for passing attractions; their enemies may forgive and 
friends forget, yet through all these vicissitudes of life, through the mass 
of inconsistencies that human nature cultivates, the universal verdict of 
mankind renders to their agencies an infinite good. Important affairs may at 
times be mismanaged, but there is certainly no profession or professional 
representative who is more entitled to the fullest moral support than journal- 
ism and the journalist. He is the weather-vane of public opinion, and 
should be firm and upright amidst swaying interests, cross purposes and 
perilous exigencies. His thoughts should not be blinded by personal con- 
siderations, but left free to adjudicate questions of grave import to humani- 
ty as safely, clearly and effectually as the purest judge on the bench. Such 
must the editor be, a man true to himself,his race and his God. Of such ma- 
terial must he be composed if he would dictate a policy or direct an admin- 
istration that will live in history as the mark and model of its time. 

The newspapers of Marion County, from the issue of the first number 
of the People's Advocate, the pioneer journal of the county, to the present 
time, have generally ranked high with the press of the country. Perhaps 
the newspapers of no section of the Northern States wield a more potent 
and beneficent influence than those of Marion County. To them is due 
great credit for the rapid strides made by the people in developing to so 
high a state the natural resources of this county, in building beautiful vil- 
lages, and even developing fine farms; in the progress enjoyed in all 
branches of legitimate business, in securing the educational advantages 
and molding the social status of the people of the county, which is of a 
much higher character than most communities in the Northwest. The men 
who have from time to time labored at the j,helm of the various papers 
recorded in this chapter deserve praise for their services rendered in aid- 
ing to make one of the very first counties in Ohio out of the wilderness of 
half a century ago. 

EARLY MARION JOURNALS. 

The People's Advocate and Marion and Sandusky Advertiser. — This is a 
long name for a small paper, but for that early day the paper was probably 
large enough. It was the first newspaper of Marion County, being started 
October 8, 1828, and it ceased to exist March 9, 1830. Publishers, Leonard 
H. Cowles and Jason Case, Whigs. The size of the paper was twenty by 
twenty-five inches, five columns to the page. The contents were peculiar, 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 419 

an article headed "Monkeyana" filling nearly all of the first page and nearly 
two columns on tho second page. No local news was given in it; nor was 
such matter published in any newspaper to a considerable extent until a 
comparatively l-ecent period, say within about twenty-five years. It seems 
that the above paper had been published in Delaware about two years, when 
it was removed to Marion. The first number contained the Adams and 
the Jackson State and county tickets. Judge Bo wen's law card commenced 
in the number of October 28, 1828. As an example of the opportunity for 
hearing from the outside world, the announcement was made that no mails 
had been received in Marion from Monday, November 3, till Saturday, the 
8th, on which day tho paper was published. This was at least four days 
after the Presidential election, and the patience of some men must have 
been exercised in waiting for news. At that early day, however, before the 
days of railroads and telegraphs, the people were unused to rapid trans- 
mission of news and had not the expectation possessed by us of the present 
day. Besides, election excitement was not so intense then as now, and the 
citizens really did not care so much to be in haste for the news. 

It was nothing uncommon for the People's Advocate, etc., to miss an 
issue for want of paper or on account of a broken press. The printing was 
rather j)oor. The last issue was dated on the outside " Saturday, March 6, 
1830," but on the inside " Tuesday, March 9, 1830," with not a word of ex- 
planation for its discontinuance. A part of the file of this paper is now in 
the possession of Harry True. 

Marion Phoenix. — The next candidate for public favor was the Marion 
Phoenix, the first number being issued April 29, 1830, by Little & 
Stanton. Its politics were mixed, though evidently Whiggism predomi- 
nated. Various articles in this paper were well written, showing consider- 
able ability. General news was given, but local news, except weddings and 
deaths, was ignored. July 29, 1830, William F. Stanton retired from the 
concern, and Harvey D. Little continued the publication of the paper, act- 
ing as editor, publisher, compositor and " devil." He spoke of the difficul- 
ties of keeping up the subscription list of the paper because Jackson men 
thought he was a Whig, which was the case. He said he had only 118 
subscribers, when he ought to have 300 to make it pay. He took a rest 
from July till September 2, 1830, and during October he missed two issues. 
Finally, Saturday, May 31, 1831, the Phoenix ceased to exist, a few 
extras only being struck off afterward to complete legal notices. The rea- 
son for suspension assigned was too much friendship of the editor for Henry 
Clay. 

Marion Observer. — Succeeding the Phoenix was the Marion Observer, 
the first number of which was issued Wednesday, July 4, 1832, by W. Milli- 
kan, now of the Fayette County Herald. This paper had cholera items and 
some accounts about the Black Hawk war, then just beginning. The poli- 
tics of the paper was not stated, though it was evident at the start that its 
owner was a Whig. In the issue of July 28, 1832, the announcement that 
John Bartrum (as his name was spelled) had been appointed Postmaster 
at Marion, in place of John S. McDonald, resigned. 

Millikan was accommodating, promising to take country produce for his 
paper. After the Presidential election in 1832, he got out a head-line. 
" Huzzah for Old Hickory!" But he soon turned against the significance of 
that banner and came out for a National Bank in opposition to Jackson. 

Saturday was a favorite publication day with the pioneer newspapers of 
Marion. Millikan issued his sixteenth number Saturday, November 17, 
1832, and on the next Saturday came out with his paper as the 



420 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Western Galaxy. — His reason for changing the name was that the latter 
was " prettier." Millikan had his troubles also about getting paper to 
print on, occasionally missing an issue on that account. In 1834, he 
came out editorially in decided opposition to Jackson and in favor of a 
National Bank. July 19, this year, the paper came out under the firm of 
W. & J. Millikan, the latter a brother of the former proprietor of the paper. 
This partnership continued until November 22, 1834, when J. Millikan re- 
tired and the paper was " suspended for a few weeks," except extras to save 
legal advertisements, while the proprietor got his assets in shape for col- 
lection. W. Millikan resumed publication January 17, 1835. April 1, 
this year, he called his paper the 

Western Galaxy and Marion Free Press, and so ran the paper until Jan- 
uary 1, 1836, when he offered his office for sale. This paper was twenty - 
one by thirty -two inches in size, six columns to the page. Possibly the 
election of Van Buren to the Presidency gave the death-blow to Millikan's 
enterprise, and he sold out, the last issue being dated January 1, 1837. 

The Marion Gazette was published by Alexander and George Sprung in 
1837. It was neutral in politics. At some seasons of the year, especially 
just after a term of court, one would have taken it for a legal publication, 
as it not infrequently contained fifteen columns of Sheriff sale notices. It 
must be remembered, however, that a great financial " panic " prevailed at 
that period. 

In 1844, the name of this paper was changed by Messrs. Sprung to 

Freemen's Banner. — The Whigs, feeling the necessity of having an 
organ, called at the Gazette office and informed the proprietors that unless 
they would consent to turn their paper into a political organ, they (the 
Whigs) would be compelled to send for press and types and start one. After 
looking over the field, a bargain was struck, the Gazette went under and up 
came the Freemen's Banner, published by one of the Sprungs and edited 
by Cooper K. Watson, who had just located in Marion in the practice of 
law. For a short time this was a lively sheet; but the Democracy gradu- 
ally withdrew their patronage, and it seemed that another paper would 
soon have to be started. The publisher of the Banner was shrewd. He 
filled it so full of patent medicine and other advertisements that the editor 
hardly had room to say a word, and soon the Whigs began to cry "Stop my 
paper!" Then the Sprungs declared that nothing short of a paper neutral 
in politics would be self-supporting, and after consultation with the powers 
that "used to be," 

The Marion Saturday Morning Visitor took the place of the Banner. 
The Visitor was considerably enlarged and in due time the old subscribers 
came back and the paper ran on prosperously. Both bed and platen of the 
press were enlarged by resident blacksmiths, the Clarks, who did a difficult 
and responsible job. 

According to Mr. Knapp, the above paper was called at one time the 
Saturday Morning Visitor and Intelligencer, and was printed in a portion 
of the old market building erected by Eber Baker on the corner of Center 
and East streets. It was once named the Marion Whig and edited by A. J. 
Bair, a young lawyer. 

Buckeye Eagle. — The first number of this paper was issued May 22, 
1844, published by T. P. Wallace and edited by S. A. Griswold. It was a 
seven-column folio, compactly made up and ably edited. May 19, 1847, 
Mr. Griswold took charge of the Eagle and conducted it until May 17, 
1850, when H. Haldeman took possession of the office and ran it till July 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 421 

20, 1854, being in company with W. C. Trimble in the publication of the 
paper during 1850-52. The paper was then suspended for several months 
on account of cholera. Mr. Haldeman was an influential man. He died 
in 1854, in Marion. 

S. A. Griswold was born probably in Delaware, Ohio, graduated at 
Gambier College, lived in Tiffin a number of years, then in Marion, and 
has now been at Lancaster, this State, for perhaps twenty years, editor of 
the Gazette. He is a good editor and a quiet, well-behaved citizen. He 
has been a man of a family since he resided in Tiffin. 

D. J. Bean, from the neighborhood of Columbus, owned and edited the 
Eagle in 1848-49, his first paper: then sold to Mr. Haldeman and went to 
Petersburg, this State, were he published the Reveille, and from there to 
Cincinnati, where he was river reporter for the Commercial, and where he 
died in 1865 and was buried. His widow lives in Marion. 

December 30, 1854, under the charge of J. N. Appleton. the paper 
came out as the 

Independent American, and was so run till March 21, 1856, when J. W. 
Dumble bought the office, and the name 

Marion Eagle was given to the paper. September 7, 1857, the firm 
name became J. W. & S. R. Dumble, and April 7, 1859, Dumble & Co. 
W. P. Dumble was editor and S. R. Dumble publisher. Paper, folio, six 
columns, twenty-one inches. October 20 following, S. R. Dumble's name 
was dropped. April 3, 1862, during the exciting but gloomy period of the 
great war, the name was again changed to the 

Marion County Unionist, which name was retained only until December 
18 following, when George Crawford purchased the office and changed the 
name to 

The Marion Independent, retaining sole control until January 20, 1866, 
when Samuel R. Dumble purchased a half interest, and the firm name was 
changed to George Crawford & Co. The office and paper have ever 
since been run under that name. It will be observed that the office, with 
broken links, it is irue, dates back fifty-five years, to a period within four 
years of the organization of the county by the election of officers. It has 
been for a long time on a firm pecuniary basis, with good machinery, good 
patronage and good fame. Many a good testimonial has been given by 
other papers of the good " make-up " and solid appearance of the Inde- 
pendent. It is one of the most fixed institutions of Marion, and the people 
feel proud of it as an organ of the Republicans and mouth-piece for the 
highest sentiment of the community. 

S. R. Dumble, of the firm of George Crawford & Co., proprietors of the 
Marion Independent, was born in Chambersburg, Franklin Co., Penn., July 
23, 1837, of English parentage. His father, John Dumble, was born near 
Land's End, Cornwall Co., England, November 30, 1790, died May 9, 1862. 
His mother's maiden name was Martha Barr; she died in 1855. aged forty- 
four. They came to Marion in 1839. In 1849, his father went to Califor- 
nia, when his mother removed to Mount Gilead, Ohio. In 1853, the sub- 
ject of this sketch entered the office of the Sentinel, then owned by his 
brother, W. P., to learn printing. In 1854, he returned to Marion, where 
he completed his apprenticeship with P. Dombaugh in the Mirror office. 
At the close of his apprenticeship, he hired to work for James Appleton on 
the Independent American. In 1856, in company with his brother Joseph, 
he took the paper and changed it to the Marion Eagle. In 1858, he formed 
a partnership with his brother, W. P., which continued until August 6, 1862, 



422 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

when he entered the army, enlisting in Company E, Ninety-sixth Ohio Vol- 
unteer Infantry, as a private; engaged in the skirmish at Chickasaw Bayou 
near Vicksburg. and in the battle of Arkansas Post January 11, 1863. H« 
was discharged March .17, 1863, and returned to Marion, where, after re- 
cruiting his health, he was employed by George Crawford on the Independ- 
ent until May 2, 1864, when he again enlisted, this time in Company B, One 
Hundred and Thirty-sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and mustered out with 
the regiment September 11, 1864. From that time he was in the employ 
of Mr. Crawford until January 10, 1866, when they formed a partnership, 
as before mentioned. 

June 28, 1859, Mr. Durable was married to Miss Lizzie A. Corn, a na- 
tive of this county and a daughter of Solomon and Catharine Corn. Their 
children are Howard L., Marion M., Martin L. and Bessie B. , besides one 
daughter deceased. Mr. Dumble is a member of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church, and also of the three Masonic bodies in Marion. He has not 
gained to the extent that many of his fellow business men have, but is com- 
fortably situated. He has done his full share in advancing the various pub- 
lic enterprises of his day, both in money and labor contributed. 

George Crawford, editor of the Marion Independent from 1863 to the 
present time, was born in Steubenville, Ohio, November 5, 1827, and is a 
son of John and Mary (Ford) Crawford, father a native of Virginia and 
mother of Ireland. His paternal grandfather was also a native of Ireland, 
who came to America in colonial days and was in the American Army dur- 
ing the entire time of the Revolutionary war. He was a cousin of the cele- 
brated Col. William Crawford, who was burned by the Wyandot Indians at 
Upper Sandusky in 1782. (See Chapter II.) 

When Mr. Crawford, the subject of this sketch, was fourteen years of 
age, his parents moved with him to Coshoctoa County, Ohio, where they 
lived about thirteen years. During this time he worked at farming and 
coopering, attended school at Steubenville and Roscoe, studied law with 
Judge William Sample and was admitted to the bar at twenty-seven years 
of age. 

In July, 1854, he moved to Upper Sandusky, Wyandot County, and 
practiced law there eight years, serving as Prosecuting Attorney one term. 
Within three days after the tiring on .tort Sumter, he enlisted as a private 
in the service of the Government to suppress the insurrection, becoming a 
member of Company C, Fifteenth Ohio Infantry, under Capt. W, T. Wil- 
son. He served out his time (four months) but did not afterward return to 
the service, on account of disability. He remained at Upper Sandusky un- 
til January, 1863, when he removed to Marion, bought the old Unionist 
office, changed the name to the Marion Independent, and after running it 
alone for three years, formed a partnership with S. R. Durable, uuder the firm 
name of George Crawford & Co., which relation has since remained un- 
changed. 

April 16, 1855, Mr. Crawford married Miss Mary E. Danforth, in Ros- 
coe, Coshocton Co., Ohio, a native of Guernsey County, this State, and 
their two children have been Cora, born in 1856, and died in September, 
1864, and Harry, born March 28. 1866. Mr. Crawford has been a member 
of the Presbyterian Church for thirty-five years, and is also a member of the 
Grand Army and of the Royal Arcanum. As an editorial writer, Mr. Craw- 
ford has had an extended experience, and is especially strong in his mar- 
shalling of solid facts and arguments, and his utterances carry conviction as 
those of an earnest and conscientious writer and of one cautious not to ex- 





'up/7^*u«/fin^'- 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 425 

ceed the limits of truth and justice in the advocacy of his favorite ideas. 
He is a self-made man, having worked up from the bottom rung of the lad- 
der. In a business point of view, he has made a success of the Independent, 
which has a wide circulation, notwithstanding the fact that the county is 
strongly Democratic, a fact also which indicates the liberality of the peo- 
ple of Marion in their political sentiments. 

As a representative citizen and editor we give the portrait of Mr. Craw- 
ford in this work. 

The Marion Democratic Mirror. — Contrary to the long pedigree of 
names and organs preceding the Independent, the Mirror has not changed 
since its birth, June 4, 1842. It was ushered into existence as a Demo- 
cratic paper by John R. and Russell A. Knapp, and edited for one year by 
William Robbins. The latter is now deceased, his widow residing three or 
four miles south of Marion. The second year it was conducted by Robbins 
& Knapp, afterward by Russell A. Knapp and John B. Dumble. In 1848. 
John R. Knapp again took charge of the paper and conducted it until 1851. 
By this time it was a six-column folio, twenty-one inches to the column. 
December 27, 1850, B. F. Warner became an assistant in the publication. 
He was a young man from Knox County to this place, and March 7, 1851. 
his name was dropped from the paper and he left the county. 

April 18, 1851, Thaddeus O. Thompson, a young man, and A. R. Scott 
became publishers. August 29 following, Mr. Lugenbeel's name ap- 
peared in place of Scott's, while Mr. Knapp continued as editor. Novem- 
ber 14, it was Thompson & Scott again; April 16, 1852, Mr. Thompson was 
alone; July 29, 1853, Philip Dombaugh became proprietor and publisher; 
May 2, 1856, S. C. Nicholas became publisher, while Mr. Dombaugh con- 
tinued as editor; February 19, 1857, A. J. Crawford, proprietor, T. J. and 
A. J. Crawford, editors; April 9, 1857, the Mirror Company proprietors, no 
editor's name appearing, but Mr. Knapp did the editing all the same; 
July 30, 1857, A. Osborn, editor; February 11, 1858. J. R. Knapp, Jr., 
and J. B. Dumble, proprietors, still under the name of the Mirror Com- 
pany, who enlarged the paper to a five-column quarto, fifteen inches to the 
column, Mr. Knapp editor; September 30, 1858, Osborn & Thomas, pro- 
prietors; October 14, 185S, A. Osborn. editor; January 10, 1861, T. H. 
Atwater and G. W. Spooner, editors and proprietors, and paper enlarged to 
seven columns, twenty-three inches, Thomas H. Hodder, political and gen- 
eral editor, and Gr. W. Spooner, local editor. Mr. Spooner was from Al- 
bany, N. Y., whither he returned from Marion. February 27, 1862, T. H. 
Hodder, proprietor, publisher and editor; March 15, 1866, paper enlarged 
to eight columns; October 3, 1870, J. K. Newcomer, now of Columbus, and 
Guy Webber, editors and proprietors. In 1872. J. K. Newcomer, editor, 
no proprietor or publisher mentioned at the head of the paper, which was 
now still further enlarged to nine columns, of twenty-seven inches; January 
2. 1873, Newcomer alone; December 9, 1875, J. K. Newcomer and J. H. 
Williston (now of the Bucyrus Forum), proprietors; August 24, 1876, New- 
comer & Co., proprietors, the "Co." being Christian & Webber; February 6, 
1877, Newcomer & (George B.) Christian; November 7, 1878, George B. 
Christian, editor and proprietor, assisted by A. C. Bowen for a time; De- 
cember 2, 1880, Christian & (James H. ) Vaughan, editors and proprietors; 
September 7, 1882, J. H. Vaughan & Co.. proprietors, and L. A. Brunner, 
editor. 

Mr. Osborne was first appointed as Receiver and George H. BuVby was 
subsequently appointed in Mr. Osborn's place. 

>! 



426 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Philip Dombaugh, teller of the Marion Deposit Bank, was born in Ba- 
varia. Germany. February 8, 1831. His parents, Philip and Catharine 
Dombaugh. emigrated to the United States in 1841 and settled in Rich- 
land County, Ohio. They subsequently removed to Gabon, where they 
both died in 1853. Philip was reared on a farm. At the age of fifteen, 
he was apprenticed to the printer's trade and served three and one-half 
vears at Bucyrus in the office of the People's Forum, now the Crawford 
County Forum. Mr. Dombaugh was a partner in the publication of the 
Forum till 1853, at which time he came to Marion and purchased the 
Democratic Mirror printing office. He continued to publish this paper 
until 1857, when he sold it. In 1856, he was appointed Postmaster of Mar- 
ion, but resigned in 1857. In 1860, he was elected County Clerk, and by 
consecutive elections held that office fifteen years. Mr. Dombaugh was 
one of the most efficient Clerks Marion County ever had, as his long admin- 
istration in that important capacity fully attests. Mr. Dombaugh read law 
and was admitted to the bar. Since 1879, he has been teller in the Marion 
Deposit Bank. He served as a member of the School Board nine years and 
is now on his third term as Corporation Treasurer of Marion. He is a 
member of the Masonic order, and was Master of Marion Lodge and Higb 
Priest of Marion Chapter. • 

John B. Dumble, a native of Chambersburg, Penn., came to Marion in 
1838, learned printing with the Sprungs, and in 1847 became editor and 
proprietor of the Mirror. He soon afterward established thw Mount Gilead 
Messenger, the first newspaper in that county. Returning to Marion in 
the fall of 1852, he became Cashier of the Exchange Bank. In 1860, he 
went to Memphis and became political editor of the Appeal, and was after- 
ward connected with the Macon (Ga. ) Telegraph, Atlanta Constitution and 
other papers. He finally died at Jackson, Ga., November 19, 1880, aged 
nearly fifty-six years. He was buried there, under the auspices of the Ma- 
sonic fraternity. 

John R. Knapp was born in Warsaw, Wyoming Co., N. Y., May 4, 
1824; with his parents, he emigrated to Ohio in 1836 and settled in Marion 
County. On the 8th of May, 1837, in his thirteenth year, he commenced 
learning the " art preservative of all arts " — the printing business — with 
Messrs. George W. and Alexander W. A. Sprung, who were then the pro- 
prietors of the Marion Gazette, a weekly paper, neutral in politics. In 
1841, having served his apprenticeship, he went to New York, where he 
remained until the following spring, when he again " put in his appearance " 
at Marion. In a few days after his return, he issued a prospectus for a 
small weekly publication entitled the Aurora Borealis. After procuring 
a handsome subscription list — for everyone wanted to "give the young 
man a chance " — he was about to purchase new type on which to print the 
paper, Mr. Sprung having agreed that his press might be used for that pur- 
pose, when some man of ingenious (?) mind "put a flea" in the ear of 
Mr. S. , to the effect that " should he (Sprung) permit that little sheet 
to be printed in his office, in less than one year it would turn out a locofoco 
paper," greatly to the damage of the said Sprung. Mr. S., therefore, 
" shut down " on this enterprise. As the receipts of the little sheet would 
uot justify the purchase of an entire office, the fond hopes of Mr. K. were 
nipped in the bud, and aptly he was heard to exclaim: 

" Man's inhumanity to man 
Makes countless thousands mourn." 

But Mr. Knapp did not " stand on his head," or make an unnecessary 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 427 

" racket," but quietly walked into the law office of William Robbins, Esq., 
ami submitted his grievances, together with the proposition that if Mr. R. 
would agree to take charge of the editorial management, he, Mr. K., would 
purchase a printing office and publish a weekly paper of good size; to 
which Mr. R. agreed most willingly. A prospectus was immediately cir- 
culated for the publication of a paper to be called the Democratic Mirror, 
and in less than ten days a sufficient subscription list was secured to war- 
rant the success of the undertaking. May 2, J 842, the first number of the 
Mirror was issued; Mr. "William Robbins, editor, and John R. and Russell 
A. Knapp, publishers. Mr. R. continued to control tha editorial columns 
for about two years, when Mr. K. assumed charge. It was a venture, but the 
founder believed that if pluck, energy and economy would accomplish the suc- 
cessful establishment of a readable paper, it should be done. With the aid 
of many friends of both political parties (for the public were not slow to see 
that two youths were battling against the tide to make the paper a suc- 
cess), at the end of the first year Mr. K. was able to pay off the indebtedness 
incurred in the purchase of his printing press, types, etc., and proclaim 
that the Mirror " had come to stay." While many extras and supplements 
were issued in connection with the paper, at no time during Mr. K. 's con- 
trol of the paper was a regular issue ever missed. 

In 1845, the Mirror passed into the hands of Mr. R. A. Knapp, Mr. 
John R. Knapp going to Bucyrus, Ohio, where he established the People's 
Forum (now Crawford County Forum), which he continued to publish un 
til 1847, when, his health failing, he sold the paper to Mr. M. P. Bean 
and returned to Marion and engaged in the mercantile business with Mr. 
Richard Patten. In the meantime, the Mirror had passed into the hands 
of Mr. John B. Dumble, who continued its publication until the formation 
of Morrow County, when he went to Mount Gilead and founded the Demo 
ci cubic Messenger. Mr. K. again took charge of the Mirror, and continued 
its edifcur and proprietor until he was elected Clerk of the Court of Common • 
Pleas, when he leased the office to Thumpson & Scott. Thev were suc- 
ceeded by Mr. Philip Dombaugh; he by Mr. M. Nichols. Messrs. Craw- 
fords, of Delaware, published the paper for a time, when again the estab 
lishment passed into the hands of the Mirror Publishing Company, Mr. 
Knapp again taking charge, changing its make-up to an eight- page form. 

In 1859, Mr. K. went to Perrysburg, and started the People's Press, 
which he continued as long as the receipts would pay expenses, without 
taking into account the wear and tear of the brain and body of the editor. 
In the publication of the Press, there was " heaps of fun but little money." 
His financial exchequer not being "flush," Mr. K. "pulled up stakes" 
and returned to Marion, where he remained until the breaking out of the 
rebellion, when he enlisted in the Fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Com- ^" 
pany H, for three months. Before the expiration of that time — in fact, 
before leaving the State — he re-enlisted for three years, and served as high 
private, Commissary Sergeant, Quartermaster Sergeant, and the last thir- 
teen months as Regimental Quartermaster. The regiment was mustered 
out in June, 18C4, at Columbus, Ohio, by reason of expiration of term of 
service. In November, 1864, he re-enlisted, and was assigned to the One 
Hundred and Forty- second Indiana Volunteer Infantry, with which he 
served until the close of the war. The regiment was honorably mustered 
out by reason of order of the "War Department. 

At the time Marion and Union Counties comprised a legislative dis- 
trict, Mr. K. was a candidate for member of the House of Representatives, 



428 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

and although the political complexion of the district was Whig, by a de- 
cided majority, Mr. K. came very near defeating bis Whig opponent — Mr. 
Josiah Copeland. Union County was " too many for Marion." At the first 
election under the new Constitution of Ohio, he was elected Clerk of the 
Court of Common Pleas and District Court. He was also Clerk of the Pro 
bate Court, established the same year, Hon. George Snyder, Judge. In 
1846, while at Bucyrus, Ohio, he was appointed First Assistant Clerk of 
the Ohio Senate, under Mr. John G. Breslin. Afterward, he was elected 
Chief Clerk of the Senate for two successive sessions. At that time, the 
Senate consisted of eighteen Democrats, fifteen Whigs and three Free- Soil - 
ers — consequently a tie, the latter party voting with the Whigs. On the 
125th ballot, Mr. K. was cho-ien Chief Clerk. While the Whigs had no 
" personal objection " to Mr. K., they opposed his election for the reason 
that they knew he would, if elected, give the " State printing " (worth 
$50,000) to the " Lion of Democracy"— Col. Samuel Medary. This was a 
" crumb " worth fighting for. At the next session, he was elected on the 
third ballot. 

Id 1855, Mr. Knapp was admitted to the practice of the law by the Su- 
preme Court at Columbus, Ohio, and practiced his profession for several 
years. 

In 1852, he was regularly entered, passed and raised to the sublime de- 
gree of Master Mason in Marion Lodge, No. 70, of F. & A. M. He was 
one of the charter members of La Salle Lodge, No. 52, I. O. O. F., at Bucy- 
rus, Ohio, having joined the order at Columbus, Ohio, July 5, 1845. He 
assisted in installing Kosciusko Lodge, No. 58, I. O. O. F. , at Marion. 
Ohio, and afterward united with that lodge oq card. He was one of the 
original members of Mizpah Encampment, No. 50, at Marion, Ohio. 
In April, 18(36, Mr. K. was appointed a First-Class Clerk in the Second 
Auditor's office, Treasury Department; afterward promoted to a Second- 
Class Clerkship, where he remained until July, 1875. He is now engaged 
in the Government Printing Office. 

Since 1863, Mr. K. has been as ardent in the advocacy of the principles 
of the Republican party as he formerly was of the Democratic party, of 
which he was for many years a conspicuous leader. In every relation it may 
be truthfully said of Mr. Knapp, that in whatever he undertook, he evinced a 
moral courage and determination which gave him reason to hope for a suc- 
cessful accomplishment of his purpose— to discharge every duty with 
promptness, accuracy and to the entire satisfaction of those concerned; and 
to this make-up of his character may be ascribed whatever success he has 
shared through life. 

In 1844, Mr. Knapp was married to Miss Ann L. Kennedy, of Marion, 
which union has proven a happy one. They have three children, residing 
in Washington City, D. C. The first and eldest — Minnie Ann — married 
Mr. John F. Gibrow; the second (living) — John H. — a contractor and build- 
er, married Kate E. Rightstine, and the youngest — Harry C. — is a printer. 

Thomas H. Hodder, editor of the Democratic Mirror, 1861-70, was born 
in the Isle of Guernsey, in the spring of 1837; came to this country in 
early youth; commenced life as a dry goods clerk at La Fayette and Fort 
Wayne, Ind. At the age of fourteen, he went to learn the printer's trade, 
with Mi\ Flagg, in Lima. At the age of sixteen, he established the Ken- 
osha Democrat, and published it for a time. Next, he was engaged for 
awhile in the /■Jiiiju'rr office, at Dayton, Ohio. In 1859, lie was Columbus 
correspondent of the Cincinnati Enquirer. From Columbus he came to 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 429 

Marion, as above noted. After selling out in Marion, he went to Cincin 
nati, and took charge of the State agency of the Equitable Life Insurance 
Company. December 18, 1871, he purchased the Butler County Democrat, 
and published it until April, 1875. In December following, he formed a 
partnership with J. H. Godman, Jr., in Columbus, in a wholesale leather 
store, which business he followed until his death. He made money by all 
his ups and downs through life. For some time previous to his death, he 
was a member of the Episcopal Church. He died July 28, 1876, and was 
buried in the Marion Cemetery by the Odd Fellows, a large concourse of 
citizens attending. He married Mattie L. Saiter, and at his death he 'eft a 
widow and three children. 

Mr. Hodder was a very " outspoken " man, and sometimes — especially 
during the exciting period of the war, when many people were over-sensi- 
tive — the feelings of some of the citizens would be aroused by his oxpres- 
sions. At one time a riot was imminent, an account of which is given in 
the military chapter. 

James K. Newcomer was born in Fayette County, Penn., August 10, 
1833, and in 1837 his parents moved to Holmes County, Ohio, where they 
remained until the spring of 1844, when they removed to what was then 
the western part of Lucas, now Fulton, County, Ohio, and settled in the 
woods. James K. aided in clearing up a farm, wheie the present 
county seat, Wauseon, was afterward located. With such an educa- 
tion as a primitive common school afforded, at the age of eighteen, 
in the year 1852, he apprenticed himself to the printing business, 
in the office of the Fulton Democrat, then published at Delta, Ohio; 
he subsequently published the Delta Independent, and in 1857 was 
elected Recorder of Fulton County by a majority of seventeen, while 
the opposition party had a majority on their State ticket of about three 
hundred. In 1860, he was appointed Deputy Marshal, to take the census 
of that decennial period. After the expiration of his official term of Re- 
corder, he purchased the Ottawa Democrat, at Port Clinton, Ohio, in 1861, 
which he conducted until the fall of 1864, when he returned to Fulton 
County and engaged in mercantile pursuits at Wauseon, in the meantime 
joining his father in making what is known as Newcomer's Addition to 
Wauseon. In 1867, he was a candidate on the Democratic ticket for a seat 
in the State Legislature, but was unsuccessful at the election; he was one 
of the Clerks of the Ohio Senate in the sessions of 1868 and 1869, and at a 
special election to fill a vacancy in the Senate of that legislative term, was 
nominated as the candidate of his party for State Senator in the Toledo 
District. In the summer of 1869, he took charge of the Constitution, at 
Elyria, Ohio, which paper he published until October, 1870. when he par- 
chased the Democratic Mirror, at Marion, Ohio, which he conducted until 
the fall of 1878. In 1873, he was nominated by the Democratic State Con- 
vention for the office of Comptroller of the Treasury, but with the balance 
of the ticket, except Hon. William Allen for Governor, was defeated by a 
small majority. In 1874, he was appointed by Gov. Allen as Trustee of 
the Girls' Industrial Home, a State institution. In 7879, he purchased 
the office of the Democratic paper at Urbana, Ohio, and engaged in publish- 
ing the Chamjmign Democrat. In November, 1882, sold the Champaign 
Democrat, and purchased the Clinton County I >rin<«T<it, at Wilmington, 
Ohio, which he is at this date engaged in publishing. In January, 1883. 
he was appointed by Secretary Newman to the position of Stationery Clerk 
in the Secretary of State's office, and is faithfully filling that position, in 



430 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

conjunction with exercising editorial control of "his paper at Wilmington. 
He has always been an ardent Democrat in politics, adhering strictly to the 
principles of the party with unwavering devotion. 

Soon after attaining his majority, became a Freemason, and has been a 
faithful member; held the positions of Deacon, Secretary, Wardens and 
Master. Was the first newspaper man to introduce steam power and power 
press in Marion County. 

In 1858, he married Mary Elivca Harrison, who died in 1864. In 1871, 
he maried Fatie E. Way, daughter of John C. Way, who came from Canada 
and was of Scotch descent. 

George B. Christian, formerly editor of the Mirror, was born in Marion 
December 27. 1846. He was reared in his native place and educated in the 
public schools, from which he graduated in 1863. June, of the same year, 
he enlisted in the Fifth Battalion Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, and served un- 
til February 15, 1864. He was but sixteen when he entered the ranks of 
the army, and was one of Marion County's youngest soldiers. His service 
was mostly scouting in Kentucky. He was Deputy Auditor during Richard 
Wilson's administration, and in 1873 was ejected County Surveyor, and 
served as such three years. He has been engaged for the last five years 
in building and contracting, in which pursuit he has been very successful. 
Mr. Christian is an active, public-spirited citizen, and he has been promi- 
nently identified with many of the leading improvements of the county. 
Every enterprise that has tended to contribute to the benefit and substantial 
growth of the community or county has always received his hearty co-oper- 
ation and support. He has been a warm advocate of the gravel road sys- 
tem, and has been connected with the construction of a number in the 
county. He built the first gravel road in Marion County, extending from 
La Rue to the Union County line. He was either builder or engineer of the 
Radnor, Mount Olive, Green Camp & Fnion County line, and Marion & 
Big Island pikes; and is now connected with the gravel road from Marion 
to Prospect. He has been interested in all the railroad enterprises of 
later years; was part owner and contractor in the erection of the Masonic 
Block, and a large number of residences and other buildings. He is also 
the chief owner in the wigwam. He was a member of the Board of Ed- 
ucation three years, and served on the Building Committee, consisting of J. 
R. Garberson, A. H. Kling and Mr. Christian, that superintended, the erec- 
tion of the North School building in 1879. He was engaged as editor and 
proprietor of the Mirror from 1877 to September, 1882, when ill-health 
compelled him to seek more active pursuits. During his editorial career, 
Mr. Christian made a vigorous fight for the water works, which received 
the majority of votes, but, lacking the necessary legality, failed. He was 
an efficient editor, and was always an advocate of public improvements. 
His union with Miss Lydia E. Morris, daughter of John R. Morris, was 
celebrated October 14, 1869. Their children are George B. and Mamie B. 
Lena died aged two years. Mr. Christian and lady are members of the 
Presbyterian Church. He is connected with the Masonic order and G. A. R. 

James H. Vaughan, of the above mentioned firm, was born in Ypsilanti, 
Mich., May 3, 1848. His father was Harman Vaughan, a machinist by 
trade. When he was about two years of age. the family removed to Sid- 
ney, Ohio, where his father, in 1851, died with the cholera. His mother 
then returned with the family to Ypsilanti, but in a short time moved back 
to Sidney, where the subject of this notice passed his youth, until 1869, 
when he went to St. Paris, Champaign Co., Ohio, started a newspaper, and 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 431 

conducted it a year and three months. He next went to Marion, Ind.. and 
established the Democrat, the first Democratic paper ever printed in Grant 
Comity, remaining there a year and four months, during which time he 
placed the paper upon a firm financial basis, and it is now one of the lead- 
ing county journals of that State. From Marion, Mr. Vaughan went to 
Richwood, Union County, and established the Rich wood Gazette, in 1872, 
which he sustained for seven years, and while there he was Treasurer of 
Richwood Corporation for four years. Next, he had charge of the Char- 
lotte (Mich.) Leader for seven months, and then, August 6. 1880, he moved 
to Marion, where he has since resided, as publisher of the Mirror. After 
having charge of it for three months, he bought a half-interest in it. 

January 17, 1878, Mr. Vaughan was married to Miss Viola Olds, of 
Marion, a grand daughter of Col. Hull, one of the pioneers of Marion 
County They have one child — Mabel. Mr. V. is a member of the I. O. 
O. F., of the Encampment and of the K. of P. He is a quiet, unpreten- 
tious and unobtrusive gentleman, a very successful business man, and an 
able, spicy writer, who has gained considerable reputation in the State. 

We give the portrait of Mr. Vaughn in this work. 

L. A. Brunner, who with Mr. Durum controls the Wyandot Union and 
the Marion Mirror, was born in Maryland in 1825. He graduated at Mar- 
shall College, Penn., and came to Delaware, Ohio, in 1816, where he ed- 
ited the Delaware Standard for two years. He then returned to Maryland, 
where he edited several newspapers, and finally in 1819 he came to Upper 
Sandusky, and since that time has been connected with the Wyandot Union. 
In September, 1882, he purchased an interest in the Marion Mirror. Mr. 
Brunner is an old journalist, and being associated with so experienced a 
writer as Mr. Dumm, the journals under their charge take a position far be- 
yond that of the ordinary country press in general. In conjunction with 
his editorial work, Mr. Brunner has devoted his attention largely to politics, 
and has attained a position of no little prominence in the political sphere 
of the State. He represented his county in the Sixty-first, Sixty -second 
and Sixty-fifth General Assemblies of the State, and during the Sixty-fifth 
was the leader of the Democratic forces in the House. During the Sixty- 
third session he was Clerk of the House, and at the convention of Wvandot 
County, held June 18, 1883, he was again chosen by his party for Represent- 
ative, and was elected in October for a fourth term by a majority of 698 
votes over W. Maxwell, his opponent. Mr. Brunner has rendered his party 
able service, and has been rewarded with the highest office in the gift of 
the people of his county. 

In 1850, Mr. Brunner married Miss Jane Sherman, of Delaware, Ohio, 
but a native of Watertown, N. Y. Their three children are Mary, now, 
Mrs. John Geiger, of Upper Sandusky ; Addie, now Mrs. B. W. Holman. 
of Washington, D. C, and Grace. 

R. D. Dumm, of the firm of J. H. Vaughan & Co., and editor of the 
Mirror, is a native of the Keystone State, but has made his home in Upper 
Sandusky most of the time for the last forty years. He is an old and ex- 
perienced editorial writer, which has been his life's work, and in his chosen 
vocation he has acquired a solid and enviable reputation for vigor, brill 
iancy and wit. As a writer of ability, his views on matters and things 
attract general attention. His work commenced on the Wyandot Pioneer 
in 1849-50, on which he remained until 1851. with the exception of some 
time spent in attendance at Wesleyan University, for the purpose of laying 
a good foundation for his education. He then began the publication of 



432 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

the Democratic Vindicator, a journal ardently opposed to the principles of 
Know-Nothingism, and when, after two years, that " ism " went to the 
" tomb of the Capulets," he attended the Cincinnati Law School, graduat- 
ing in 1857. After practicing law for a short time, at Freeport, 111., he re- 
turned to Upper Sandusky and started the Wyandot Union, which he con- 
tinued to publish until October, 1865; from that time to 1874, he was 
editor of the Fort Wayne (Ind.) Daily Sentinel. Again returning to Upper 
Sandusky, he was elected County Clerk, a position he held for six years, 
after which, with L. A. Brunner, he purchased the Union, and in Septem- 
ber, 1882, an interest in the Mirror, both of which relations he still sus- 
tains. Mr. Dumm is of an affable disposition, and this, coupled with the 
fact that but few writers in the State have had more extended experience 
as a journalist, contributes to the popularity of the journal which he edits. 
Squatter Sovereign. — Two numbers of this paper were issued in Marion 
in 1859. 

Marion Democrat. — By the year 1867, two parties had formed in Mar- 
ion County, in the Democratic ranks, concerning the policy which was 
pursued by the editor of the Mirror; and a new paper was started by 
those opposed to that policy, and named the Marion Democrat. It was 
owned by a stock company, headed by Mr. Burnsides, and ran vigorously 
for about a year and a half, ending in a successful bolt at the county elec- 
tion of 1869. Of this paper a Mr. Hathaway was publisher, and William 
Hubbard and Noah M. Runyan successively editors. 

The Daily Pebble was a small sheet, started in the spring of 1877, by 
O. C. Smith, who ran it about seven months and sold out to S. Hume, who 
changed the name of the paper to the 

Daily Star. — The first number of this paper is dated October 8, 1877; 
Hume Bros. (W. P. andH. S.), publisher, and S. Hume, their father, editor. 
The daily has been run steadily ever since. It was commenced as a four-col- 
umn folio, fourteen inches to the column, and has since been enlarged to five 
columns, eighteen inches to the column. Devoted to local news; indepen- 
dent in politics. Office at the south-east corner of Main and Railroad streets, 
first floor. Nine newsboys are employed to sell the paper, which has be- 
come a necessity to the business wants of the Marion public. 

S. Hume, editor of the Daily Star, is a native of Pleasant Township, 
this county, where he was born in 1831. He passed his time until nineteen 
years of age, upon a farm, where he learned the cai-penter's trade, a busi- 
ness that he followed for nine years, in Marion. Dayton and Harrisburg, 
Penn. Subsequently, he was a dealer in lumber and coal .at Marion, and 
afterward removed to Goshen, Ind., where for ten years he was a dealer in 
butter and eggs, when he returned to Marion and has been engaged in a 
variety of enterprises, among which was the exclusive sale and control of a 
patent peanut roaster over nine counties, which, under his energetic man- 
agement, proved to him a financial success. Having sold out his territory 
in the above enterprise, he opened a grocery store in Marion, conducting 
the same four or five years, when he sold out and some time afterward took 
charge, as its landlord, of the " Exchange Hotel," which was located on 
the present site of the " Hotel Marion." While conducting the hotel busi- 
ness, he purchased the Pebble office, as above stated, " more as a toy" than 
for anything else, but on giving up the hotel business he became satis 
tied that the wants of the business men of Marion would support a daily, 
and has since devoted the most of his time to the interests of the Daily Star, 
which, under his able and enterprising management, has become a necessity 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 433 

to Marion and the surrounding country. He is ably assisted by his sons, 
and the columns of the Daily Star are replete with local and other news. 
Mr. Hume has been in the habit, for years, of attending fairs and public 
gatherings in different parts of this and other States, and selling "Modoc 
jewelry," his business tact and ability as a talker winning for him in this 
calling pecuniary success. Mr. Hume is a live man and editor. He was 
married, August 31, 1858, to Miss M. P. Hoxter, of Marion. They have a 
family of the following children: Willis P., Harry S., Sadie A. and 
John C. 

The Family Monitor was a religious twelve-page monthly, published in 
Marion for a year, about 1840, by Kev. J. A. Dunlap, a Presbyterian clergy- 
man, and printed at the office of Messrs. Sprung. This periodical had been 
previously published as the Calvinistic Monitor, at Fredericksburg, Ohio, 
by Simeon Brown, and it was taken from Marion to Springfield, Ohio, and 
merged into the Presbyterian of the West. It is now the Herald and Pres- 
byter, at Cincinnati. Mr. Dunlap died in 1847, at Springfield, and his 
widow is now a resident of Marion. 

The Prospect Monitor. — The Middletown Union was established as a five- 
column quarto, the first number being issued December 2, 1875, edited 
and owned by A. M. Vaughn; independent in politics. In April, 1876, 
the name of the paper was changed to 

The Prospect Union. — In October following, it was again changed to 

Prospect Republican, when it became Republican in politics. Thus it 
was continued for twenty-one months, when the type and presses were sold 
to a Mr. Fleming, who moved the outfit to La Rue, and published the La 
Rue News. 

Prospect Advocate. — This was edited by J. H. Jamison, and owned by 
Gary Webber, of Marion. The paper, independent in politics, ran about 
nine months, when the press and type were taken to Marion. 

The next was the present paper, which was started by H. R. Clowes, the 
first issue being dated April 13, 1878, a six-column folio. April 12, 1882, 
it was enlarged to a seven-column folio. This was the first successful at- 
tempt at a newspaper in Prospect. It is run as an independent paper, and 
has a circulation of 500 copies. 

Its editor and proprietor was born in Indiana Township, Allegheny 
Co., Penn., June 17, 1843. His father was James Clowes, a native of that 
county, and was a manufacturer of furniture, twelve miles north of Pitts- 
burg, on the Allegheny River. Our subject learned the cabinet trade in 
the factory of his father, and in August, 1862, enlisted in Company F, 
One Hundred and Thirty-ninth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteer Infan- 
try; was with the regiment until the December following, when he was dis- 
charged on account of disability. In July, 1863, he enlisted again, in 
Company G, Sixty-second Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, and 
immediately reported to his regiment, which was then in the front, at Bever- 
ly Ford, Va., on the Rappahannock River. This regiment was discharged 
at expiration of their term of service, July, 1864, and Mr. Clowes was trans- 
ferred to Company C, One Hundred and Fifty-fifth Regiment Pennsylvania 
Volunteer Infantry, and served with them until the close of the war. He 
was first a private, then a Corporal, and a Sergeant at his discharge, Way 
9, 1865, at Washington City, D. C. ; he was with the Army of the Potomac. 
During the war, he participated in twenty-four battles and skirmishes. 
Was wounded four times while in the service; first, at the battle of the 
Wilderness. May 5, 1864, by a minie ball in the leg, above the kneo: 



434 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

secondly, at Spottsylvania Court House May 12, 1864, a slight wound on 
the tip of the nose, by a musket ball; thirdly, at the same battle, May 13, 
a wound in the shoulder by a piece of shell; fourthly, at the battle of 
Petersburg, in the breast by a minie ball passing through to his left side, 
where it was cut out. He was not disabled by the first three wounds, but the 
last laid him up for several months. At the close, he returned home, where he 
remained until 1873, when he came to Ohio and located at Shiloh, Richland 
County, bought the Shiloh Review, with its press and fixtures; paper, a 
five-column quarto, independent in politics. He sold out in 1876, and in 
1878 came to Prospect. 

Mr. C. is a member of the order of the Knights of Pythias, Durward 
Lodge, No. 153, of Prospect. 

April 4. 1872, sundry citizens of La Rue made a loan of $300 to A. M. 
Vaughan & Bro., late of Marion, Ind., for the purpose of buying a print- 
ing press. The press was received and s*et up April 18, and the week fol- 
lowing the first copy of the La Rue Citizen was issued. In April, 1873, 
Vaughan & Bro. sold out the office to Robert C. Owen, of Phillipsburg, 
Penn., who ran it till July 2, 1873, when he was injured by the cars at 
Marion, Ohio, from the effects of which he died the same week. July 10, 
several of the citizens joined and gave a note for the office, re-selling it 
to W. Walt Smith, who ran it till October 1, when, failing to pay as 
agreed, the company took possession and appointed J. J. Hopkins, G. N. 
Myers and G. C. Allinger a committee, who ran the paper till March 4, 
1874, when publication was suspended, and a few months later the mate- 
rial of the office was sold, and used to start the Argus, at Caledonia. 

La Rue Neivs.- — In December, 1876, George A. Fleming and John Tritt 
established the La Rue News (a five-column quarto), and conducted it under 
the firm name of Fleming & Tritt, for about eighteen months, when Tritt 
retired. In June, 1879, Fleming sold out to Wheeler Belong, who ran it till 
March 10, 1880, and then sold to J. M. Hoffa. Hoffa changed it, in December, 
1880, to an eight-column folio, and ran it till May 10, 1882, when he sold 
it to C. G Harraman, who still conducts the paper, J. M. Hoffa acting as 
foreman. It has a circulation of about 600. 

Caledonia Argus. — The first number of this newspaper appeared June 
25, 1875, with Will H. Warner and J. Blanchard as editors and proprie- 
tors. Within a few weeks, Mr. Blanchard disposed of his interest to Dr. 
G. T. Harding, and the firm of Warner & Harding conducted the paper 
a month or two when Mr. Harding retired, and Mr. Warner was alone till 
September 7, 1876. The issue of this date came out under the names of 
Henness & Beugough, who had purchased the paper. This firm continued 
until February, 1877, when Beugough retired. Since then, Mr. Henness 
has been sole editor and proprietor. 

This paper was first started as a four-column folio. May 18, 1876, it 
was changed to a five-column quarto, the form it still retains. When Mr. 
Henness first took charge of it, the circulation was only 450; it now reaches 
about 600. It is no partisan paper, and bears the motto, " Independent, 
fearless and free." 

George Henness was born in Sussex, England, April 20, 1832, son of 
John and Sarah (Knowles) Henness, of Hampshire and Sussex, England; 
parents both died there. He was brought up to the printer's trade, entering 
on an apprenticeship when thirteen years of age and serving seven years. 
At the expiration of this period, he went to London and worked at his trade 
a few months; thence to Cheltenham, Dudley, Arundel and Brighton. At 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 435 

the latter place, be was engaged two years at his trade, till 1872 — a part of 
the time on the Daily News — when he came to America and spent four years 
on the Daily Commercial, of Pittsburg, and from thence he came to 
Caledonia, in September, 1876. 

September 20, 1857, he married Miss Jane Hancock, daughter of Isaac 
Hancock, and a native of Northamptonshire, England, where she was born 
October 6, 1831. They have had two children — Harry Ernest, who died 
aged six months, and Fred, who died aged seven years, both in England. 

Mr. Henness is a member of Manchester Unity, I. O. O. F., of England; 
Ancient Order of Foresters. K. of P. and P. O. of A. He was one of the 
founders of the order of P. O. of A., in Caledonia, and first Supreme Re- 
corder. 



CHAPTER XII. 

MISCELLANEOUS. 

CRIMINAL. 

THERE have been twenty-two murders committed within the limits of 
Marion County, which number is less than the average. But there 
have not been so many indictments, as several cases afforded no clew to the 
perpetrators. Some of the most remarkable instances of murder are here 
related. 

MURDER OF MRS. ULSH. 

November 8, 1861, the wife of Levi Ulsh, about five miles east of Mar- 
ion, was shot and killed by an unknown assassin. Mr. Ulsh was East on 
business, and there were in the house a hired girl and a small girl about 
nine years old and a hired boy about seventeen years old. About 7 o'clock 
in the evening, the dog commenced barking, as if some one were prowling 
around. The hired boy, C. Zeller by name, went out with a gun and passed 
around the house, but discovered no one. He went into the house, sat down 
in a chair with the gun beside him, and after about five minutes' conversa- 
tion, the assassin out of doors approached and shot through the window at 
Mrs. Ulsh, killing her. No reason could be assigned for the dastardly act, 
and no clew was ever obtained as to the identity of this most wicked mur- 
derer. 

JAMES LEFEVER 

At Green Camp, May 14, 1874, James Lefever killed Frank Johnson 
with a hammer. The latter was intoxicated, and engaged in a quarrel with 
Lefever, calling him a liar, etc. , to which Lefever responded, " You are a 
gentleman," and left, going to his blacksmith shop, whither Johnson fol- 
lowed. The two were alone in the shop, and as Lefever afterward claimed, 
Johnson seized a hammer and made for him. Lefever said to him that he 

should not be beaten by him as he had been by . Whereupon he pushed 

Johnson back, out of sight of a couple of men working in an adjoining 
shop and struck him four blows with a hammer, one of which, upon the 
head, proved fatal, Johnson dying two hours afterward, Lefever was tried 
at the May and November terms of court following, C. H. Norris, Prosecu- 



436 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

tor, assisted by W. Z. Davis, appearing for the State, and J. C. Johnston, 
H. T. Van Fleet and M. V. Payne appearing for the defense. November 
21 the accused was found guilty of murder in the second degree, and sen- 
tenced for life. December 6, 1878, he was pardoned by Gov. Bishop, 
through the efforts of his attorney, M. V. Payne, who clung to him to the 
last. 

MURDER OF JOHN R. ARONHALT. 

March 11, 1879, was an awful day at Marion. About 5 o'clock in the 
morning, the tire bell rang, and many citizens rushed into the streets to 
ascertain the place of the tire; but no fire was to be seen, except that the 
house of John R. Aronhalt was full of smoke, and a few persons were there 
fighting an initial fire. Soon after, the dead body of poor Aronhalt was 
found on a bed, the latter burned so that both it and the body had fallen 
to the floor. The corpse was drawn out of the smoke, when it was dis- 
covered to have been beaten, and the head had a bullet-hole in the right 
temple. The limbs were partially rigid, showing that he had been dead 
some time. A revolver was soon afterward discovered under the front steps 
of the house. Many rumors were immediately afloat as to the identity of 
the murderer and the cause of the crime; but the true history was never 
ascertained. The deceased had made his will, and was somewhat dissipated 
in his habits. 

ENOCH H. YOUNG AND OILMAN HOUSEWORTH. 

These men were indicted for killing Israel Bensley February 25, 1880, 
with a knife, at Waldo. B. G. Young was Prosecutor for the State, assisted 
by W. Z. Davis, and for the defense were Attorneys C. F. Garberson and 
W. E. Scofield, Sr. Young's trial took place at the June term following. 
A great deal of evidence was taken, eloquent pleadings were made by all 
tho attorneys, and the jury brought in a verdict of murder in the second de- 
gree; whereupon Young was sentenced to hard labor for life. , The public 
feeling at the time seemed to be strongly in favor of hanging, and seven 
of the jury were in favor of finding guilty in the first degree. The jury- 
men were Jacob Jletterer, foreman, James Powell, David Porter, 
Henry Knowles, Dennis Pangbourn, Henry Garvin, John W. Malone, 
William Leepei 1 , John Barringer, John W. Anselman, James D. Lewis, 
Christian Hoberman. On the day of the murder, Enoch Young and 
Oilman Houseworth were boon companions, in drinking and carousing 
around the village of Waldo. They had created considerable dis- 
turbance, and about sunset a crowd had collected. Among the by- 
standers was Israel Bensley, of Waldo, who interfered in behalf of 
a lad, and exchanged a few words with Enoch Young. During the 
melee of that evening, Young received a thrashing from Jim Coleman, 
whereupon he disappeared in a rage. Some time afterward, while Bensley 
stood at the post office, leaning on the window-sill, Young rushed suddenly 
around the corner, and attacked Bensley with a large knife, cutting him 
to the artery just above the heart. In five minutes Israel Bensley was dead. 
As Young rushed to the attack, Gilman Houseworth accompanied him. 
brandishing a large pair of shears. Both were arrested and tried, with the 
result as stated, in reference to Young, who is now in the State prison at 
Columbus, while Gilman Houseworth took a change of venue to Hardin 
County and was finally acquitted. Enoch Young was but twenty-seven 
years of age when he committed this crime. Israel Bensley, the victim, was 
an old resident of Waldo, aged forty-nine. His wife was a daughter of 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 437 

ex-Sheriff E. K. Corbin. He »had won the respect of his neighbors by the 
brave way in which he had assumed the burdens of life; for, besides a fam- 
ily of five children, from eleven to twenty-one years of age, raised by him, 
he had cared for his old father and mother in their declining, helpless 
years. 

ORRIN DE PUE. 

Tuesday, October 4, 1881, a little after 3 o'clock in the afternoon, Orrin 
De Pue, of Marion, shot and instantly killed Francis M. Foster, of the 
livery firm of Foster & Le Fevre. The deed was committed in the store of 
Timothy Kelly, on the west side of Main street, by the first alley south of 
the railways. Mr. Kelly, E. Furgason and others seized the murderer, 
who did not attempt to escape. An excited crowd soon gathered; a portion 
at the jail, a portion to follow the prisoner to jail and the rest to the house 
of mourning. They cried out "Hang him," and it was with considerable 
difficulty and shrewd management that the officers saved the life of the 
prisoner from the hands of an infuriated mob. 

The prisoner went through the ordeal pale but otherwise cool. On 
reaching the jail, he announced that " that crowd hadn't sand enough to 
hang him to a lamp-post," and manifested a carelessness as to his fate. He 
said he might just as well die now as on a gibbet, and made other remarks 
of equal daring. He was probably a native of an adjoining county, but had 
passed his life in Marion. At the time he committed the atrocity, he was 
a resident of Stumptown, with a wife and one-child. He was a plasterer 
by trade, and had, until a short time previously, been steady in his habits. 

On Wednesday night following, the murderer hanged himself with his 
bed -sheet in his cell. Not having room to fall very far, his death must have 
been protracted and painful. Other prisoners heard choking sounds for 
some time. No cause has been assigned for the murder, except a feud be 
tween Mr. Foster and a brother of De Pue. 

BRIEFER MENTION. 

In 1869 or 1870, a man named Mcintosh was found lying across the 
railroad track with the lower part of his abdomen cut through. The ver- 
dict of the Coroner's jury was that the man had been murdered, and that the 
perpetrators of the crime had thrown the dead body upon the railroad 
track to make the public believe that he had been killed by beino- run over 
by an engine, and thus elude suspicion. One or two similar cases occurred 
near Caledonia some years ago. Eli Fink, for example, was found upon 
the railroad track with his head cut off. He had been in a saloon during 
a quarrel. The engineer claimed that he saw, as his train approached, two 
women near the point on the track where the dead body was found. New- 
ton Milliser was poisoned to death with arsenic July 22, 1879. An individ- 
ual was tried for the murder but cleared, and no further clew has been 
found to the identity of the criminal. James Taylor killed Clayton 
Randall at Waldo with a billiard cue August 26, 1879. He was tried and 
convicted of murder at the November term of court following, and on the 
28th of that month sentenced to nine years' imprisonment. 

About 1857, a woman named Nancy Holly, from another county, was put 
to death by a dose of strychnine prescribed by a criminal of the same coun- 
ty, her death taking place in Marion. 

THE JAIL REPORT. 

The jail report for the year 1881 gives about an average of the number 



438 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

confined there for many years past. It is as, fellows: Total number con- 
fined during the year, 30 males and 1 female. Charged with felony, 9; 
misdemeanors, 18; sentenced, 3; average duration of sentence, 8^ days; 
held for trial, 24; insane, 2; epileptic, 2; under sixteen years of age, 3; 
cost of keeping, $741.95; average cost per day, 55 cents. The report for 
1882, however, gives figures materially below the above. 

CHOLERA. 

"While this dreadful scourge has visited many parts of the United States 
several times, the only time it has ever attacked the people of Marion 
County was in the hot season of 1854. About July 20, it broke out in the 
village of Marion, and it departed during the first week of September, after 
snatching away sixty-five citizens, including, probably, a half-dozen in the 
country. A number of those attacked recovered. It was introduced by a 
case arriving here from Crestline by train. After about ten deaths had 
taken place, during the first week, many of the pepple fled away in terror, 
which, it was thought, was a good thing, as it took away the material upon 
which the insatiate monster was about to feed, and but very few, if any, 
of those who fled were attacked. All business was suspended, and the streets 
were as desolate as those of Baalbec. Every night there seemed to be a 
damp, heavy mist prevailing. A goodly number of those who remained ex- 
hibited great heroism in caring for the sick and disposing of the dead. 
Among these benefactors may be mentioned John D. and George W. Brown, 
James Havens and wife, Joseph Ayers and others. 

During the siege, the Village Board of Health kept the public advised of 
the progress of the epidemic, and gave sanitary counsel. 

WORTHLESS APPRENTICES. 

It seems that the law in this State once required absconding indentured 
apprentices to be advertised for, although the masters did not desire their 
return; for in the early newspapers of Marion there frequently appeared 

an advertisement headed, " Six cents Reward " for the return of , and 

" no charges paid;" " One cent Reward;" " One cent Reward and a Gill 
of Buttermilk; " " One cent Reward and a Cow's Tail," etc., and " no 
thanks returned!" 

STAR FALL. 

November 13, 1833, occurred the wonderful meteoric shower, when 
some people gathered together in groups to pray. T. M. Sloan, a pious 
Christian, asked for a little more time; R. King got into a corn-crib to beg 
God for mercy. Many thought the last day had come. 



PART IV. 





,\ !/ 




HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 441 



CHAPTER I. 



EARLIER WARS. 



THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR. 



Although the war of the Revolution took place long before Marion County, 
or even Ohio, was settled, this heading is introduced here to give place to a 
few notices of Revolutionary soldiers who have lived in this county. It is 
to be regretted that a complete list is unobtainable. 

Frazier Gray. — In the Union Graveyard at Scott Town, there stands a 
stone over the remains of Frazier Gray, a soldier of the Revolution. He 
enlisted in the Delaware Continentals, and served as one of the " Blue 
Hen's Chickens " until the conclusion of the war, without receiving a 
wound. He returned to Delaware with his disbanded comrades, and re- 
sided there until 1839, when he joined his sons, George and Samuel, in this ■ 
county. He was with his regiment on the Hudson a* the time Maj. Andre 1 
was captured, and was one of the soldiers who guarded him while in coa- 
hnement, and stood near the gallows when the Major was hung. He re- 
lated the occurrence, from a soldier's point of view, about as follows: 

" Andr6 was well and neatly dressed, was polite and courteous in his 
manners, never betraying the least emotion, and when on the scaffold he 
made a beautiful speech, full of loyalty to his King, and denying any in- 
tention of acting as a spy. He claimed that, under the circumstances, he 
ought not to be hung; but if death was inevitable, a soldier's death, by 
shooting, should be ordered. As his last appeal met with no response, he 
turned to the officer near him, and with smiles on his face signified his 
readiness tu die in any way for his King and country." 

Mr. Gray knew Gen. Washington, and had conversed with him. One 
occasion was this: Mr. Gray, with a few others of the "Blue Hen's Chick- 
ens," were out of the lines one day collecting chestnuts. Washington and 
his Orderly rode near, and the former called Mr. Gray to him. " What are 
you doing there?" asked the General. " Gathering some nuts, sir," replied 
Mr. Gray, " by permission." " It is right, then," rejoined Washington, 
" but remember, green chestnuts are very^unwholesome. Be careful and not 
eat too many, for we cannot spare any Delaware men," and with a regular 
military salute the General rode away. 

Mr. Gray died suddenly, free from pain and disease, in 1849, at the age 
of eighty-nine years. 

Maj. Pangburn, an early resident of Big Island, was also a veteran of 
the Revolution. 

Joshua Van Fleet, a Revolutionary soldier, and an early settler of Big 
Island Township, emigrated to America when twelve years of age, and 
when fourteen enlisted in the war, serving the last three years. He was a 
Representative to the New York Legislature, and was a member of the com- 
mittee that drafted a bill, which became a law, abolishing slavery in that 
State. He also served as Judge of the County Courts. In 1832, he came 
to Big Island Township, where he died January 8, 1849, aged eighty-four. 

N 



442 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Johiah Wilcox, father of Hira Wilcox, an early settler in Waldo, was a 
Colonel in the Revolutionary war, and subsequently brevetted Brigadier 
General, and was a member of Washington's staff. He had charge of Gen. 
Washington's body-guard in the march on Trenton. 

Mr. Clark, who settled in Richland Township among the first pioneers, 
was a soldier in the Revolutionary war. His son, Israel Clark, was one of 
the pioneer school teachers of Marion. 

John Irey, another Revolutionary soldier, came from Loudon County, 
Va., to Claridon Township, in 1830, and died in 1838. 

war of 1812. 

From 1811 to 1814, was an exciting war period in this country. There 
were a few settlers within the present limits of: Marion County, especially 
near the southern boundary and in Big Island Township; but at this dis- 
tance of time, it is difficult to obtain anything like completeness, either in 
the catalogue of those of this community who took part in that war, or in 
the part taken by any citizen. There are but few rolls now on file at the 
Adjutant General's office, and from these can be gleaned but little history. 
Almost every citizen within the limits of the county who was a military 
subject at that time, was in the service at some time during the war. The 
chief character from this region was not a resident of Marion County at 
that time, having located just south but adjoining the Greenville treaty line. 
We refer to 

Capt. William S. Drake, who took a company to Lake Erie. On start- 
ing out, they encamped the first night on " Battle Run," about four miles 
from Marion on the Waldo road. The Captain told some of the men that 
if there should be an alarm of Indians during the night, they should run 
to their homes, to protect them, and he likewise ordered them to " sleep 
upon their arms." The men lay down to rest, and the Captain, desiring to 
have some fun, slipped out of camp into the woods during the night, fired 
off his gun and screamed "Indians! Indians!" The confusion in the lit- 
tle camp was tremendous. Some of the men who had not heard all the 
instructions endeavored to form for a fight, while the others, according 
to orders, made all possible speed for their homes. Nathaniel Brundige, a 
well-known pioneer, was one of those who started for his home, not know- 
ing the true source of the alarm. Supposing that he had been asleep but a 
few minutes, he took the moon for his guide, but had really slept several 
hours, and his guide took him from home instead of toward it, and after 
going about ten miles he came out at Radnor. Drake afterward begged 
Mr. Brundige's pardon. 

Capt. Drake, seeing the bad effect of his stratagem, called out to his 
men that he had raised the alarm in sport, but the harder he yelled the 
faster the scared men ran. Finally, he rallied the most of his men and 
proceeded on his march, reaching his destination and rendering good serv- 
ice at Sandusky. 

The terror caused by Drake's fleeiug men spread all over the settle- 
ments. Goods were hastily packed up and the teams driven off at the top 
of their speed. One family, in their flight to Worthington, lost a little 
boy, two or three years old, from the wagon, and gave him up as a sacrifice; 
but he was found, and lived for many years in the western part of Dela- 
ware County. The fugitives fled through Delaware, and men were quickly 
raised to help defend the border against the Indians; but upon arriving at 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 443 

Norton, the true state of the case was learned. The settlers at Norton were 
busily engaged at their usual labor. 

Capt. William S. Drake was the father of the late Daniel S. Drake. He 
was a jovial, fun-loving man, and he never dreamed that his little plan for 
fun would have such serious results. 

While Capt. Drake and his men were quarterd at the site selected for 
Fort Finley, Fort Meigs was besieged by the British and Indians. They 
could hear the roar of the cannon, and judged a severe battle was taking 
place. He became very uneasy as to the result, and called for two volun- 
teers to approach the fort and learn the cause of the cannonading. Orderly 
Sei-gt. McCalley and James Shafer, the fifer, offered to go. They jumped 
into a canoe, or "dugout," and descended the river. On arriving within 
sight of the fort, the British fired on them, but they rowed rapidly along, 
hoisting a flag of truce, and entered the fort. They carried a letter from 
Capt. Drake to Gen. Harrison, and desired to return, but were detained 
because the woods were full of Indians and British. The next day a force 
was sent out to scour the woods in search of the enemy. McCalley accom- 
panied the force, and was wounded in the ankle and fell; and while expect- 
ing to lose his scalp, a mounted Kentuckian rode up and offered his horse, 
and assisted him to mount. By this means he reached the fort, and lived 
to return home, and afterward drew a pension of $18 a year as long as he 
lived. 

la the absence of the Captain, his family took shelter at night in Fort 
Morrow, in what is now the southern part of Waldo Township, on what is 
known as the old Wyatt farm. 

Jacob Walters, father of J. C. Walters, of Scott Township, and Jesse 
Walker, who used to live about four miles south of Marion, were soldiers 
in the war of 1812. Mr. Walters died in 1855, and was buried in the 
cemetery at Sandusky. Mr. Walker died at his home, south of Marion, a 
number of years ago. 

Benjamin Riley, of Green Camp Township, and Adam Hines. of Backus' 
command, were also soldiers of 1812. The latter was buried in the Under- 
wood Graveyard, in Claridon Township. 

William Arnold, formerly of Waldo Township, was on Lake Erie the 
day of Perry's victory. 

Capt. Flinn was wounded by Indians north of Marion, while on his way 
from Detroit. He subsequently died at Fort Morrow, Waldo Township. 

William Wolfley was also wounded by the Indians, near Upper San- 
dusky, and died at Wyatt's tavern. Maj. Daniels, froin Chillicothe, was 
wounded at the* same time, but recovered. 

The foregoing, with others, numbering thirteen in all, were buried in 
Wyatt's Graveyard. 

Jacob Rice, a teamster in the war of 1812, and with Gon. Harrison dur- 
ing his campaign, settled in Caledonia, where he was a charter member of 
the first Masonic Lodge, and died, at the age of ninety-three years, prob- 
ably the oldest Mason in the State. 

Bruce Packard, who lost an arm in the battle of Lundy's Lane, settled 
in the wilds of this county about 1820, or soon after, cleared a farm and 
cultivated it — using the ax, plow, hoe, etc., and doing all kinds of farm 
work, with one hand. He raised a large family. 

William Patten, a local minister, and a veteran of the war of 1812, set- 
tied near Prospect in 1S22. 



444 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 



Capt. John Yanmeter, one of the earliest settlers of Grand Prairie 
Township, was an officer in that war. 

Thomas Pugh, deceased, formerly a resident of Prospect, was a soldier 
of 1812. 

Last, but greatest in respect to age, is Robert Cratty, in Prospect Town- 
ship, still living, at the ago of ninety-nine years. 

Soldiers of tho war of ]S12 whose remains now lie buried in the Mar- 
ion Cemetery: A. Sorrick, Heman Scott, Maj. George H. Busby, Josiah 
Copeland, Simon Huggins and Calvin Barnett. 

MEXICAN WAR, 1846-47. 

This war took place under the administration of James K. Polk, a Demo- 
cratic President, at a time when the majority of Marion County's citizens 
were Whigs, and consequently had but little sympathy for that fight. For 
that war, the State of Ohio furnished four regiments of infantry, of ten 
companies each, besides a number of organizations of the cavalry and artil- 
lery arms. There were probably sixty or seventy companies in all, but there 
is only one muster roll on file at the military headquarters of the State. 
Probably no organized scpiad went from Marion County. One man at a 
time volunteered — probably less than a dozen, joining companies raised 
elsewhere. 

Robinson Stevens enlisted from this county in the regular army, and at 
the breaking- out of the Mexican war became a Lieutenant, and served 
through the war. He now lies buried in Green Camp Cemetery. 




HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 445 



CHAPTER II. 



MILITIA. 



PREVIOUS to the last war, many laws were enacted by the Ohio Legis- 
lature for the purpose of organizing and drilling the militia, all of 
which proved ineffectual. The first law proclaimed in the territory north- 
west of the Ohio, was " an act for regulating and establishing the militia." 
"Up to 1833, twenty-two acts for this purpose had been enacted by the Terri- 
torial and State Legislatures, and all of them repealed, amended or super- 
seded. These laws provided for dividing the State into military districts, 
for officering the militia and that all persons subject to military duty should 
furnish themselves with arms and accouterments, and meet at specified 
times, to be drilled in the art of war. There were to be company musters, 
regimental musters, battalion musters and brigade musters. Failure to at- 
tend the muster, or to be properly armed, subjected the offender to a fine. 
Muster days were treated as holidays, and a lai'ge crowd of citizens would 
assemble, the most reckless of whom would get drunk and have a good 
(rough) time generally. 

For the purposes of military drill, the day was worse than useless, and 
it fell into general contempt. 

In 1844, the Legislature wisely abandoned the attempt of enforcing the 
performance of military duty in time of peace, and nothing was left of the 
old muster but a long list of high-sounding military titles — Generals, 
Colonels, Majors and Captains. 

Volunteer and independent companies were organized at various times, 
but they were generally short-lived. They often started out with an energy 
and spirit which carried their members for a time through the whole 
routine of drilling, but a few months produced a loss of interest and laxity 
of discipline. 

The "Marion Guards," commanded by Capt. Ebenezer Peters, was a 
fine company. The uniform consisted of oil-cloth cap and black frock coat, 
with light braid trimmings, metallic buttons, single breasted and buttoning 
to the neck. Pantaloons white. The guns were the old-fashioned flint-lock 
United States muskets. 

Col. Brown afterward organized a company of "Lancers," in Mexican 
style, and drilled them to perfection. 

Those were the days of patriotic impulses. Once a year, the militia 
congregated at the county seat, where a good time was generally had. 
Gens. Rowe, Cherry; Cols. Koons, Messenger; Majs. Thompson, Busby, 
Brady; Capts. Beckley, Armstrong. Fisher, Knowles, and others, would 
appear in full uniform, as gay and fresh as meadow larks. Capt. Arm- 
strong commanded a company made up from the " Big Woods " — Mont- 
gomery and Bowling Green Townships — and it was his custom to parade 
his men in front of Capt. Hardy's store, in Marion, when the non-commis- 
sioned officers of his command would bring out the " commissary," and 
" pass it along the line;" they all tasted. "Lieut. William Daugherty, 
arrayed in his blue swallow-tailed coat, with brass buttons as bright as 



44< *> HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

a new quarter dollar in a. mud puddle, white pants, red sasli and a leather 
hat about the size of a fireman's bucket, decorated with tassels and a four- 
inch feather of green, tipped with red or white, was a conspicuous man in 
that day. He mustered the Big Island Rangers, and felt as happy as did 
his Betsy Jane when she stood at the marriage altar." From the eastern 
part of the county came a light-horse company, uniformed and equipped 
according to law, under the command of Capt. Beckley. 

Now, with the military thus assembled, and the wagon-loads of cider, 
apples, watermelons, gingerbread and pies on sale here and there, there was 
enough to make one feel that he was in the Garden of Eden. For " two 
bits," one could satisfy his hunger and quench his thirst. For the want of 
guns, it is true, some carried a mullein stalk; nevertheless, a regiment of 
men thus arrayed was very imposing. 

In 1857, the militia interests were again revived, and the laws tinkered 
with upon the general plan of the old system, but without any of the 
margins for fun which preserved that system so long. The State was divided 
into divisions and brigades, and a general officer elected or appointed in 
each. In many of these subdivisions not a soldier existed, except the 
brigadier himself! Under these old, inefficent laws, the first two companies 
from Marion County in the last war were enrolled and organized. The 
Legislature was in session at the time, Dr. T. B. Fisher, of Marion, rep- 
resenting this district in the Senate. This body fell to work and substi- 
tuted such regulations as proved efficient during the greatest war the world 
ever saw. 




HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 447 



CHAPTER III. 



THE WAR OF THE REBELLION. 

While the surviving- heroes of the Revolutionary war, the war of 1812 
and the Mexican war have constituted a fair proportion of the citizens of 
the Buckeye State, the militaxy glory of Ohio, as a State, lies wholly in her 
part in the last war — one of the greatest the world has ever seen, and evi- 
dently far greater in moral significance than any within the whole domain 
of history. Like the viper which was warmed to life in the bosom of the 
farmer and then bit him, poisoning him to death, so the cotton States raised 
the parricidal hand of bloody war against the Union which had long fos- 
tered and protected them. History blushes to record the folly of the act — 
the heinousness of the crime. It overtopped the ordinary criminality of 
causeless, aggressive warfare, as Satan, in Milton's great poem, exceeded 
in proportions the other rebel angels. 

' ' He above the rest, 
In shape and gesture proudly eminent. 
Stood like a tower; but his face 
Deep scars of thunder had intrenched, 
And care sat on his faded cheek." 

Without a parallel in the history of the world, all other rebellions dwindle 
into insignificance before that of 1861. The loyal States and General 
Government had given an example of patience and forbearance, which was 
being regarded as weakness. 

But the old Jackson spirit was aroused, with sevenfold intensity, and 
loyal men enough marched forward, under the star-spangled banner, to crush 
the huge serpent, though at terrible cost. 

"The land 
Is never lost that has a son to right her, 
And here are troops of sons, and loyal ones. 
Strong in her children, should a mother be: 
Shall ours be helpless, that has sons like us?" 

With feelings like these grishing from every heart, it is no wonder that 
her able-bodied sons sprang to arms and interposed " fortune, life and 
sacred honor " in defense of the country. In this noble work, the sons of 
Marion County were behind no others in promptness and self -sacrifice. 
The telegraphic news of the bombardment of Fort Sumter was instinctively 
interpreted by every loyal son of America as a call to arms. The news 
reached Marion during a session of the Common Pleas Court, while a case 
of bastardy was being tried, and Judge Lawrence, informally and in- 
stanter adjourned court sine die, and delivered a patriotic speech. J H. 
Godman followed in the same strain. The same day the President's 
call for 75,000 men was telegraphed over the country, and within twenty- 
four hours after that, volunteers began formally to offer themselves, 
and by the 20th of April, or ten daya after the call, two full companies 
were made up from Marion County. On Tuesday evening after the adjourn- 
ment of court, an enthusiastic nieeting was held at the court house, when the 



44N HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

court room was packed to overflowing. Capt. Elisha Hardy was chosen 
Chairman, and S. H. Bartram and H. C. Godman, Secretaries. Eloquent 
speeches were delivered by Judges Lawrence and Bartram, J. H. Godman, 
B. R. Durfee and J. Olds. Party feelings were submerged by the overflow- 
ing patriotism of the people, who formally resolved "That it becomes the 
duty of every lover of his country to free himself from party trammels and 
hold himself and his fortune at the proper disposal of his Government." On 
the 23d, at 1 P. M., according to programme, the two companies and an 
anxious throng of citizens met in front of the Methodist Episcopal Church 
for farewell services; Capt. Albert H. Brown, with his company, on the east 
of the entrance to the church, and Capt. Gndman and his company on 
the west side. Stirring addresses were made by Revs. H. B. Fry and New- 
ton and G. A. Mouser. Patriotic songs and music were interspersed. 
The ladies of Marion presented each company with a beautiful flag, pre- 
pared by their own fair hands; and to each volunteer, wearing as yet only 
a rosette to designate him as such, was presented by the Sunday school 
Superintendent with a copy of the New Testament. In two instances the entire 
classes, with their teachers, had volunteered. At the depot, Rev. Mr. Fry 
delivered a sensible farewell address, the opening passage being: "I entreat 
this large assembly to abstain from all actions and expressions that would 
sadden and depress this band of patriotic volunteers. We do not wish to 
see them departing seemingly with broken hearts. No, soldiers; we wish 
to see you go away cheerful; we wish your countenance to express the ani- 
mation of the lofty sentiments which have inspired you to make such sacri- 
fice on behalf of your country in the hour of her danger." We regret that 
we have not space here for the whole address. This noble band of first 
volunteers went to Columbus, where they were mustered into the Fourth 
Ohio Volunteer Infantry, a full account of which is given a little fur- 
ther on. 

Patriotic meetings, similar to those above described in Marion, were 
held at all the principal points in the county. Men of all parties united in 
encouraging enlistments, and men of all professions and stations in life set 
the example by volunteering as privates. 

Before the close of the month, a relief fund was formed for the benefit 
of the soldiers' families, the subscription paper denoting the receipts con- 
taining hundreds of names, from those of Ozias Bowen and J, W. Bain 
with $500 each, down to a large number with 10 and 5 cent contributions. 
There's patriotism at home for you as well as in the field; and the one is 
as necessary and glorious as the other. Very soon, a county organization 
was effected., with an auxiliary organization in each township, and thus sys- 
tematic beneficence moved on like clock-work. 

In May. 1861, a company of home guards was organized at Big Island, 
with Everett Messenger as Captain. Subsequently, such companies were 
organized elsewhere throughout the county. In Marion all business was 
closed during certain hours every week, for a time, to give every able-bodied 
man an opportunity to drill. 

A GENTLE BREEZE. 

During the summer of 1SGL, Thomas H. Hoddor, editor of the Mirror, 
who was a very " outspoken " man, said in his paper some things against 
the Republicans that created some feeling. The people were more excitable 
than he imagined, and two or three times was violence threatened against 
him. One man knocked him down upon the sidewalk; and within a few 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 449 

days of that time, an indignation meeting was held upoD the public square 
to denounce his sentiments. A resolution was adopted, appointing a com- 
mittee to brin^ Mr. H. from his residence to the meeting and ask him to 
make acknowledgments of error, liev. H. B. Fry, the Presbyterian clergy- 
man, as spokesman for the committee, made the request, but Mr. Hodder 
refused to come to the meeting or make acknowledgments. A rope was 
then brought forth, and preparations were made to hang him. In the mean- 
time, efforts began to be made to enter his office and destroy the type and 
press. Possibly all these things would have been done, had it not been for 
the interference of Pev, Mr. Fry, who, in an address, threw such a wet 
blanket over their excited passions as to cool them down. Other cool- 
headed Republicans, of course, assisted him. Some Democrats who had 
enlisted in the service of the army, collected in the doorway of the office 
and challenged the raobocrats to enlist before entering, and thus outwitted 
them. Some one, however, stole into the office, either ,then or during the 
night, and pied some of the type. A national flag was raised over the office, 
probably by Mr. Hodder's permission, and all went on afterward with com- 
parative calmness. 

Mr. Hodder, being accused of sympathizing too much with secession, 
was asked to express himself definitely upon the point, which such a man 
as he found not difficult to do. He accordingly made the following formal 
but laconic editorial announcement in his paper: "Friend X: I think that 

Jeff Davis and his supporters are a set of d d traitors. Respectfullv 

yours, T. H. Hodder." 

April 8, 1862, the following notice was published in the Republican. 
equally laconic: "I shall publicly horsewhip T. H. Hodder on the 1st day 
of August nest if he appears upon the streets. All good citizens are invited 
to attend." The proper name was signed. 

After the melee of 1861, Mr. Hodder was more subdued in his language, 
was a loyal and benevolent citizen and a good business man, but rather ret- 
icent. After the war, however, he removed to Hamilton, Butler Co., 
Ohio, where, in the conduct of a newspaper, he got into a similar difficulty. 
He finally settled in Columbus, where he engaged in the leather trade on a 
large scale and made money, Indeed, he prospered pecuniarily in all his 
undertakings. His very plainness of speech as an editor enhanced the cir- 
culation of his paper. He is now dead, and for a short biographical notice 
of him see the chapter on the press of this county. 

k. g. c. 

During the first year of the war, rumors were rife that a "camp," "post" 
or " lodge " of Knights of the Golden Circle existed within the bounds of 
Marion County, but some citizens, even to this day, deny that such an or- 
ganization ever existed here. Whether it be a fact or not, it is not appar- 
ent that it reflects upon any political party in this section. In October, 
1861, affidavits and certificates were published in the Republican, signed 
by Samuel Cheney, T. H. Dickerson, J. W. Hood, Daniel Snyder and 
Christian Martin, to the effect that they had seen signs of a lodge of K. 
G. C.'s in Green Camp Township. Mr. Cheney swore that he was initiated 
into it. A. H. Keplar and John Sowers published formal certificates that 
they had been asked by several parties, naming them, to join the K. G. C. 
Mr. Martin was a prominent " detective, " to ferret out the matter, and at 
his instance, supported by others, several of the most prominent citizens of 



450 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

the county were arrested for disloyalty and taken under military authority 
to Cleveland, held awhile and released. 

It was also claimed that a Northern secret political society, in opposi- 
tion to the K. G. C, existed here about that time; but as no names of 
persons or places were given by those making the charge, the matter could 
not be investigated. 

GENERAL CURRENT OF EVENTS RESUMED. 

By the middle of November, 1861 — only seven mouths after the out- 
break of the war — between seven and eight hundred Marion County men 
were in the army, with about a hundred more ready to go, out of a voting 
population of about 3, 100. This was an extraordinarily good record. By 
this time, contributions to the soldiers' relief fund began to come in too 
slow, and special appeals were made. December 2, a petition, signed by 
all the married men from the county at Camp Buckingham, from Compa 
nies B and D of the Sixty-fourth Kegiment, and addressed to all the citi- 
zens, was published iu all the local papers, asking that their families be 
cared for. Directly afterward, similar petitions were published from 
Capts. A. H. and James Brown iu behalf of the same. These appeals 
were most eloquent, and had the desired effect. The aid societies kept 
busy, as their monthly and semi-annual reports show. The first half- 
year's report is lost, but the second half-vear makes the following exhibit, 
April 14, 1862: 

Value of receipts from all sources $369 41 

Total disbursements 3 ;9 40 

Number of members in tbe society 67 

Number of articles donated 391 

Number of articles manufactured 677 

Number of articles distributed 1,168 

Number of boxes of goods shipped to hospitals 10 

The report is signed by Mrs. A. J. Olmsted, Treasurer, and Mrs. H. S. 
Lucas, Secretary. 

The principal regiments in which Marion County was represented were 
the Fourth, Sixty-fourth, Eighty-second, Ninety-sixth and One Hundred 
and Seventy -fourth Infantry; but there were volunteers from the county in 
almost every Ohio regiment, aggregating nearly two thousand. During the 
tedious and gloomy days of 1862, 1863 and 1864, under the increasing 
calls from the President for more men, as the companies were raised from 
time to time, scenes of their parting from home and friends, with the prob 
abilities against their ever returning were repeated with their same heart- 
rending character, unmitigated by frequency of occurrence. These occa- 
sions are too sacred for the pen, for no historian can do them justice. Those 
who have had experience in them know what we mean, and those who have 
not had it could get no true idea of them from any verbal description. 

In the years 1863-1864, some special effort was made to raise the quota 
of the county without resorting to drafting. Some opposition was mani- 
fested here, as elsewhere, against the measure for drafting, especially in 
Richland Township. It was even openly denounced in public speeches in 
Marion. Townships and individuals offered bounties for enlistments. The 
citizens of Mai'ion, for example, raised a large fund for the purpose, a part 
of which was refunded to the contributors after the war closed, as a balance 
not needed. 

When announcement was made for medical examination of all who 
claimed exemption from military duty on the ground of physical disability, 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 451 

it was amusing to see how defective many able-bodied men endeavored to 
make themselves appear to be. Men who had never before been suspected 
of any infirmity quietly presented themselves to Dr. Fisher, the Examining 
Surgeon for thi.s district, and suddenly they had been transformed into 
lame, halt and blind But oh, how the tables were turned when large 
bounties were offered toward the close of the war! Hoping to obtain the 
bounty and be soon afterward discharged by the Post Surgeon or on account 
of the termination of the war, they presented themselves in oppressive num- 
bers to the Surgeon for certificates of ability. Many who were totally unfit 
came to him for certificates, and the Doctor had much greater difficulty 
keeping these surging masses away than in before making the able-bodied 
believe they were subject to military duty. 

This military district then comprised the counties of Marion, Union, 
Delaware, Richland and Morrow, and as Examining Surgeon, Di\ Fisher 
had his headquarters at Mansfield, where, daring the two years he had the 
office, he examined as many as 8,000 men. Not a dollar was charged 
against his office, under the military regulation requiring the expenses of 
uniform and transportation of all incompetent men passed by the Surgeons 
to be charged against them. 

SOLDIERS IN THE WAR OF THE REBELLION IN MARION CEMETERY. 

Francis M. Corn, Martin Corn, Frank M. Scribner, William Hedges, 
George A. Mouser, Isaac N. Mouser, Dr. W. W. Bridge, Thomas F. Zuck, 
Jacob Kise, William Moore, Capt. H. H. Kling, Michael Kling, John 
Chambers, William M. Curly, H. I. Kessler, James Clark, John Kanable, 
Col. B. R. Durfee, A. Cooper, John Kightlinger, Thomas Anderson, Al- 
fred Dunt, Aug Z. Hawkins, John Ketzel, Walter Hammer, A. Shafer, Will- 
iam H. Ballantine, Calvin J. Barnett, George B. Durfee, James S. Elliott, 

Samuel Terpany, Josiah Richmond, Huffman, C. L. Haines, James 

Dewey, D. 0. Cone, Allen Mutchler, John Mackrel, Lieut. J. C. Emery, 
James Inglish, Grassmer, Michael Dwyei\ 

In these few pages the services of the soldiers of Marion County have 
been but briefly sketched, and may they not, in this brief retrospect of a 
few of the great results of the war, be justly congratulated as soldiers that 
have borne a part, however humble their position, in the accomplishment 
of that " great and mighty drama of a nation preserved?" And it is not 
giving them any unmerited honors, either for their patriotism or for their 
services; but we can say truly that the soldiers of this county did their 
duty, honestly, faithfully and patriotically in the day of our nation's 
peril. Almost twenty years have passed away since the close of the war, 
and when peace spread her mantle over the land, the ranks of the army 
melted away like the smoke of battle. The soldiers laid aside their uni- 
forms as quickly as they had donned them when the first drum-beat sounded 
" to arms!" and sonn took their places in the busy marts of industry and 
the peaceful avocations of life. A million soldiers laying down their arms 
after four years of sanguinary war, and quietly taking their places in the 
civil walks of life without any unusual commotion, was a sublime spectacle, 
upon which all civilized nations looked with wonder and admiration. These 
were the volunteer soldiers of a free country. 

The soldiers of Marion County were no exception to this rule, and the 
boys of twenty years ago have become the good and substantial citizens of 
to-day. The " good soldier is the good citizen," and in all the positions 
of life they bear themselves as becomes brave and gallant soldiers of the 



452 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Republic. They are found as farmers, merchants, in the counting-room, 
in the halls of legislation and in places of honor and trust all over the 
land. 

From disease contracted and from wounds received during their service, 
the soldiers are rapidly falling, one by one — falling by the wayside, com- 
rades of all ranks passing away; and time only adds luster to the halo 
around the heroes of the great war of 1861-05. 

BELIEF WORK AND AID SOCIETIES. 

The record of the war is not complete without the history is written of 
the part. borne by our loyal women; but how can it be told? How much is 
due to their love, care and encouragement for all the soldiers achieved; and 
how we strive, in all the laudable ambitions of life, to win their smiles of 
approval! During the long, weary years of the war, those who went to the 
field were not the only sufferers, nor the only persons who devoted their 
services and lives to their country. The heroism displayed by the loyal 
Avomen of the North, as they labored at home, in the hospitals and on the 
battle-field, proved that they were not unworthy their soldiers. Of the vast 
amount of work done by the fortunate ones whose privilege it was to devote 
their means and their services to the care of the soldiers and their families, 
there is no record, save that inscribed in the minds and hearts of a grateful 
and sympathetic people. The real history of their service never has been, 
never can be written. 

Societies were organized in every town, village and hamlet, in which 
the whole people joined in the unofficial efforts in behalf of their stricken 
ones. Allusion has already been made elsewhere to the promptness with 
which the women of Marion flew to the noble and self-sacrificing work of 
sending supplies to the soldiers and their families. 

Ah, the history of this work of love and devotion of the mothers, wives, 
sisters and sweethearts can never be written! We can only get a glimpse of 
it; for who can tell of their anxiety or of the many weary and wakeful 
nights as they watched and prayed for their loved ones, many of whom 
were never to return. The tender, sad memories of the war speak to all 
more eloquently than can be written on the page of history, as they sweetly 
and pathetically remind us how the mothers and women of the land, 
touched by the fires of patriotism, bade their sons gird on the armor of their 
country; how, through the long and bitter years of the war, their faith was 
unbroken and their loyalty was firm; and how, when their dear ones were 
borne home cold and lifeless, they, like the Spartan mothers, " thanked God 
that their boys had died that their country might live." 

"The wife who girds her husband's sword, 

'Mid little ones who weep or wonder, 
And bravely speaks the cheering word — 

What though her heart be rent asunder? 
Doom'd nightly in her dreams to hear 

The bolts of death around him rattle, 
Hath shed as sacred blood as e'er 

Was pour'd upon a field of battle! 

"The mother who conceals her grief 

While to her breast her son she presses, 
Then breathes a few brave words and brief, 

Kissing the patriot brow she blesses, 
With no one but her secret God 

To know the pain that weighs upon her, 
Sheds holy blood as e'er the sod 

Received on freedom's field of honor!" 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 



453 



. DECORATION DAY. 

The first observance of Decoration Day in Marion took place May 30, 
1881, under the auspices of the Washington Camp, No. 42, Patriotic Order 
Sons of America; and it was a complete success, though, owing to the very 
threatening appearance of the weather, the ceremonies were interfered with, 
hurrying the decoration of the soldiers' graves and cutting short the ad- 
dresses, singing, etc. The leading parties in the public services were Rev 
L. A. Belt, Col. J. J. Williams, Rev. S. D. Bates, Rev. J. M. Mills, Marion 
City Band, Huber Silver Band and Apollo Glee Club. 

The day is now observed annually. 

The Ninety-sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry held its seventeenth annual 
re-union in Marion January 11, 1882, when 129 members attended and a 
very enjoyable time was had. Gov. Foster was present, and delivered an 
address. Music and toasts, an original poem, obituary report, resolutions 
on various topics, etc., constituted the programme, in which all present 
took an enthusiastic and satisfactory part. 




454 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY 



CHAPTER IV. 
REGIMENTAL HISTORIES AND SOLDIERS* ROSTER. 



FOURTH INFANTRY. 



"""T^HE Fourth Ohio was organized April 25, 1861. for three months' serv- 
1 ice, under Col. Lorin Andrews, at Camp Jackson, and acting under the 
old militia law of the State, the men proceeded to choose their officers by 
ballot. Lorin Andrews, the well-known and highly honored President of 
Kenyon College, who had volunteered as a private, thus became the 
Colonel. He was one of the first prominent citizens of the State who has- 
tened to tender their services to the Government in any capacity. The 
ranks of this regiment were filled by two companies each from Marion, 
Delaware, Mount Vernon and Kenton, and one each from Canton and 
AVooster. May 2, the regiment moved to Camp Dennison, and on the 4th 
was mustered into the three months' service by Capt. Gordon Granger, U. 
S. A. President Lincoln calling for three years' men a few days afterward, 
the majority of the regiment signified their willingness to Pinter the service 
for that period, and June 5 it was accordingly mustered in. 

June 20, the regiment left Camp Dennison for Western Virginia, arriv- 
ing at Grafton on the 23d. Moving through Clarksburg and Buckhannon, 
it arrived at Rich Mountain July 9, but did not actively participate in that 
engagement, being held as a support for the skirmishers. On the 12th, it 
commenced pursuit of the enemy, and on the 13th six companies, under Col. 
Andrews, moved with the main column of Gen. McClellan's forces to Huttons- 
ville, while the other four companies, under Lieut. Col. Cantwell, remained 
at Beverly in charge of GOO rebel prisoners. On the 14th, the six com- 
panies moved to the summit of Cheat Mountain, but on the 16th returned 
to Beverly. 

September 7, Companies A, F and K, under Maj. J. H. Godman, had 
a skirmish with the rebels at Petersburg. Va., and captured a large quan- 
tity of provisions, animals and some prisoners, taking them into camp at 
Pendleton. Lieut. Col. Cantwell, with six companies, moved upon Rom- 
ney September 24; had a brisk engagement, driving the rebels from that 
place. In that action the regiment lost thirty-two men. October 25, it 
joined Gen. Kelly's command, and the next day moved upon Romney, capt- 
ured it and occupied it until January 7, 1862, when, under Col. John S. 
Mason (successor to Col. Andrews), it moved to Blue Gap, sixteen miles 
from Romney, surprised the rebels and drove them from a fortified position, 
capturing all the camp equipage and two pieces of artillery. January 10, 
Romney was evacuated, and the regiment transferred to Patterson's Creek, 
on the North Branch of the Potomac, and thence, February 9. to Pawpaw 
Tunnel, on the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad. 

March 9, the regiment arrived at Martinsburg, and on the 11th at Win- 
chester, which place the rebels had evacuated the day previous. Making 
Winchester its base, detachments were sent out in different directions until 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 455- 

March 23. It then marched and skirmished around until April 27, and 
then camped five miles from Harrisonburg until May 5. On the 12th, it 
took up a line of march via Luray, Front Royal, Chester Gap, "Warren ton 
and Catlett's Station, for Fredericksburg, Va., arriving on the 22d, to join 
McDowell's corps. Being ordered back to the valley, via Manassas Junc- 
tion, it reached Front Ruyal on the 30th, drove the enemy from that place 
and captured a large quantity of ammunition, supplies and a number of 
prisoners. 

June 7, it reached Luray, and soon afterward, by a forced march, it 
reached Port Republic, in time to cover the retreat of the national forces. 
July 1, the regiment arrived at Harrison's Landing, in the Peninsula, 
where it remained until August 15, being the last to leave Harrison's Land- 
ing on its evacuation by the Army of the Potomac. It was then oi'dered 
around from place to place throughout eastern and northern Virginia, until 
December 13, when it engaged in a desperate charge through the streets 
of Fredericksburg, receiving the first fire of the rebel artillery on the right 
of the national line. The loss of the regiment in this engagement was very 
severe; five officers and forty -three enlisted men, out of 115 engaged, were 
either killed or wounded. The decimated ranks then retired into their old 
camp near Falmouth, where they had been from October 6 to Decem- 
ber 12: 

Col. Mason was made Brigadier General for his conduct at Fredericks- 
burg; but the low reduction of the strength of the Fourth Ohio is charge- 
able to the incompetency of Gen. McDowell, who had marched and counter- 
marched it around so much during the preceding summer and fall. By the 
1st of September, it was reduced to only 185 effective men. The regiment 
then remained in camp until April 28, when it participated in Hooker's re- 
markable movement on Chancellorsville. resulting, May 3, in the capture 
of a stand of colors and over one hundred prisoners, among whom were 
nine commissioned officei\s. In camp at Falmouth from May 6 to June 14. 
when it left for Pennsylvania, the rebels invading that State, and the regi- 
ment participated in that terrible battle at Gettysburg, being one of 
three regiments that drove the rebels from Cemetery Hill after they had 
driven a part of the Eleventh Corps from the field, and had gained posses- 
sion of two of our batteries. The Fourth lost in this engagement three 
commissioned officers and thirty-four enlisted men, killed and wounded. 
The regiment then joined in pursuit of the enemy into Virginia, in which 
State it marched around from post to post until August 20, when it em- 
barked for New York City to suppress the threatened riots there. In Sep- 
tember, it was ordered back to Virginia, where it marched around and 
around from point to point, having two or three skirmishes with the enemy 
and losing twenty-eight killed and wounded, until about December 1, when 
it went into winter quarters near Stevensburg. Va. 

February 6, 1863, it started out again on a round of marches, had a 
skirmish with the enemy near the Rapidan, losing seventeen men, wounded, 
and returned to camp, where it remained until the latter part of August. 
It then engaged with Grant's forces until in September, when, the term of 
enlistment of the main part of the regiment having expired, it was wholly 
mustered out. Those who re-enlisted as veterans were organized into the 
Fourth Ohio Battalion. These served as guard around Washington until 
near the close of the war, when they were mustered out. 

The Fourth Ohio Infantry marched 1,975 miles, and traveled by railroad 
and transport 2,279 miles, making an aggregate of 4.254- miles. Throughout 



456 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

its career the Fourth maintained its reputation for discipline, efficiency in 
drill and good conduct on the held of battle. 

" jack cade. " 
One of the most successful scouts in the ranks of the Federal army in 
Western Virginia, in the summer of 1861, w;is John Cade, of Marion Coun- 
ty, a private in Company K, of the Fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Soon 
after the regiment arrived in that section, he began to develop qualities 
which attracted the attention first of Col. Andrews, his regimental com- 
mander, and finally of McClellan himself. The latter, then issued orders 
lhat "Jack" should be allowed to pass through the Federal lines, day or 
night, whenever he wished. He used the privilege to good advantage, 
several times saving the Union troops from disastrous surprises. As a suc- 
cessful scout did he become so annoying and so well known to the rebels, 
that Col. Ashby, rebel, offered $500 for bis scalp. Jack, being anxious to 
see the man who was so anxious to get hold of his top knot, started out 
toward Petersburg, then held by the rebels, arriving at the house of a 
Union farmer by which Ashby was expected soon to pass. He borrowed a 
suit of clothers, a horse and a scythe, from the farmer and started up the 
road to meet said Ashby. The latter came in sight, and Jack, with the 
scythe swung over his shoulder, stopped him and had a protracted conver- 
sation with him. Several times during the interview, Jack was tempted to 
shoot Ashby with his revolver, but he suffered him to depart in peace. 

Jack learned, during the conversation, that two companies of Ashby' s 
cavalry would soon pass along a certain road, and he collected a party of 
Union' farmers, ambushed them and killed eleven men and two horses. 

When the Fourth Regiment was transferred to Shield's division, and 
the division transferred to Banks' department, Jack went with it, of course. 
He soon won the confidence of his new departmental commander, and was 
again employed in collecting information of the movements of the enemy. 
The last time he was sent out by Gen. Banks, he was accompanied by Rich- 
ard Field, also of Marion, and as brave as Jack himself. They were 
ordered to procure information of the situation of Oen. Ewell's camp. They 
proceeded to a point on the Masanatten Mountain, whence they could, by 
the aid of a splendid field-glass belonging to Col. Godman, obtain a full 
view of the rebel encampment. After making a thorough sketch of it, they 
started for headquarters, Jack having his papers in his cap, with his hand- 
kerchief over them. On their way, they were suddenly surrounded by a 
number of Mississippi soldiers. The officer in command ordered them to 
surrender, which they did; but when ordered to advance, Jack stopped, took 
off his cap, took out the handkerchief, gathering the papers in his hand 
with it, wiped his face, threw the handkerchief back, deftly retaining the 
papers in his hand, and, whilst advancing toward the officer, apparently by 
accident he stubbed his toe, fell down and ran his hand under the leaves 
and rubbish, leaving the papers there, and thus saving himself and comrade 
from being shot as spies. They were then taken to Richmond, treated most 
inhumanly for eight or nine days and finally paroled. 

Following are the officers and privates from Marion County in the 
Fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry: 
Col. James H. Godman. 
Company A — Capt. John R. Pritchard. 
Company B — Privates John Heiner, Jacob Schcenlaub. 
Company C — Corporal Thomas C. Bell. 





<^-/^^s«-*-t 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 459 

Privates John M. Bell, John T. Munsell, E. Sager. 

Company D — First Sergeant J. M. Lee. 

Privates William H. Bonham, Joseph Riclgway. 

Company E — Private Andrew Beckley. 

Company H — Capts. Edwin B. Olmstead, William S. Straub. 

Second Lieut. Theodore H. Dickerson. 

Sergts. Harry L. Boyd. Charles C. Godruan, Charles S. Knapp, George 
H. May, Newton S. McAbee, George A. Mouser (Orderly), George H. 
Smallwood, R. I. Strawbridge. 

Corporals Jonathan S. Brady, C. H. Carpenter, John W. Dutton, Will 
iam D. Drown, James S. Elliott, Hiram Fields, Henry C. French, AVilliam 
M. Gurley, Abraham Halslead, Cornelius D. Jones, Thomas C. Likins, 
Thompson Mount, Henry Saiter. 

Privates John Alexander, Joseph Ankney, Corp. Eber S. Baker, William 
B. Baker, Sergt. Levi Bair, S. E. Ball, Calvin J. Barnett, Paul Blunden, 
Alonzo Blocksom, Henry L. Boyd, David T. Bruck, William R. Byrns, 
Robert Carlyle, Solomon Chambers, John F. Chapman, William R. Clem- 
ents, William H. Cline, J. B. Corbin, Christian Cope, Henry H. Corey, 
Josh M. V. Corbin, Francis M. Corn, Lewis Crusper, Joseph E. Crow, 
John Crawford, John Curran, E. J. Daine, William Z. Davis, John H. 
Dennison, Sanford W. Devore, James Dewey, Livingston Dickinson, Na- 
than Durfee, John Edgar, A. Elkhart, August Erhardt, A. Farren, John B. 
French, Joshua A. Francis, John Gebhardt, John M. Giles, John Grimes. 
Levi Grimes, Alvin Griswold, William P. Hatch, Benjamin Honaker, Will- 
iam S. Hutchinson, John H. Jones, E. J. Johnson, Jasper L. Jones, Will- 
iam H. Johnson, J. M. Kersey, D. H. Kenyon, James M. Kenyon, Will- 
iam Kennedy, Josiah Kelly, John P. Kearfoot, John King, William H. 
Kline, Matthew S. Knapp, John R. Knapp, Jr., O. S. Knapp, Orrin Lane. 
Henry Lane, James H. Lawrence, William H. Leathern, Robert Lurkins, 
P. Lumioe, J. H. Martin, Milton Marsh, James Mannassmith, Matthew 
McGarry, D. McGlarry, Samuel F. Miller, George W. Orth, William H. 
Osborn, John Patterson, William H. Patton, Stephen Payne, William 
Porter, George W. Porter, Frederick Rauch, Benjamin Rainey, John 
Rhoads, Henry G. Sayler, John A. Sappington, H. Seiter, Valentine Selan- 
ders, William T. Selanders, John U. Seymour, Jedediah Sears, Silas Shert- 
zer, William H. Shandollar, John Short, Marquis L. Shoup, J. A. Small- 
wood, George Snider, Martin Stull, Joel Stroub, Joseph E. Stockwell, 
Francis M. Stone, Dexter Stockwell, Abijab W. Sweetland, Thomas L. 
Swanks, George W. Swanks, J. W. Tatman, Charles C. Thompson, William 
H. Towle, C. Thompson, William Yan Brimmer, David Yestal, B. A. Yir- 
den, Charles Warner, Andrew J. Ward, James B. Walker, Jonathan Wale, 
James F. Walker, Jacob Weber, James M. West, Allen Willis, Harvey 
Wilson, Chancev Windsor, Holden Winslow. Joshua Wartman. J. B. 
Wolfe, P. Yeo. 

Company I — Private N. C. Hilford. 

Company K — Capt. George F. Laird. 

First Lieuts. William M. Camp (promoted Captain March 1, 1862), 
Byron Thomas, William Welsh. 

Second Lieut. John N. Dunlap. 

Sergts. John L. Lloyd, George B. Merchant, Frank R. Saiter. Albert 
White, Abner Ustick. 

Corporals Ansano Benvenuti, William I. Boyd. Solomon D. Epley, Asa 
P. Freeman, Samuel E. Hain, Jonathan I. Hale, Jacob Kise, Abner Kirby, 
Reuben Oliver. o 



460 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Musicians Sturgis H. Cooper (Corporal), Alpheus Schrantz, Jacob A. 
Yauger. 

Privates George Adler, Samson Apt, Joshua Armstrong, Joseph K. Ault, 
Thomas Bacon, Corp. Isaac F. Bacon, Michael Bekle, David Bell, William 
Berry, William A. Berry, John Beaver, Daniel D. Booher, Solomon Boyer, 
Samuel Boyer, Elias Boyer, Jacob Boyer, Abel Brockett, Ferdinand Bren- 
neke, Thomas J. Byers, JohnC. Carter, William Cayton, Abel Craig, Peter 
Crowl, Henry H. CunDingham, John Doren, Elam R. Drake, James En- 
glish, Samuel H. Epley, Christian M. Erline, William H. Farnham, Tim- 
othy Fell, Richard T. Fields, Frank M. Filler, James B. Fisher, Charles 
Foss, Wesley Free, Lewis F. Fullmer, Jacob Goodenberger, Charles A. 
Gottshall, Theodore C. Gross, Dennis Hall, S. E. Hain, Joel L. Haskins, 
John Harris, John Hardy, Jr., Joseph M. Harnst, Joseph Hastings, John 
Heiner, Melvin C. Hoxter, William T. Huggins, Simon Huggins, William 
T. Hutchinson, James W. Imbody, Thomas Irey, David Joy, John Johnson, 
Isaac Jones, John J. Kade, Samuel Kise, John Kightlinger, Aaron Kight- 
linger, Anan Kightlinger, John Knabel, Frank M. Koons, Frederick L. 
Kupp, Henry Kohler, Robert Lease, John P. Marquis, Hiram Meiley, 
William McAbee, Thomas McCulloch, William Miller, John T. Mumea, 
John O'Brien, John Rail, Frederick Reed, William M. Robinson, Henry J. 
Shook, Joseph Short, Silas E. Smith, George W. Smith, Alfred E. Smith, 
R. H. Spring, Charles A. Sprague, John O. Studebaker, William H. Strode, 
John F. Uhler, William H. Warwick, John Wade, Isaac Welchhaus, Lafay- 
ette Welchhaus, Wallace W. Wilson, David T. Yager, Philip Yale, Philip 
Yox. 

The company to which the following belonged is not reported: John 
V. Gulp, Josiah Long (Corporal), Luther J. Russell. 

TWENTIETH INFANTRY. 

The Twentieth Ohio organized for three months' service in May, 1861, 
and for three years October 21, under Col. Charles Whittlesey. It served 
in Kentucky until February, 1862, then moved to Fort Donelson, where 
it passed through its first battle. In December, it advanced into Missis- 
sippi, and February, 1863, joined Grant at Vicksburg, and took part in the 
engagements at Raymond, Jackson and Champion Hills. Having re-en- 
listed as veterans, the Twentieth joined Sherman's Atlanta campaign, 
marched to the sea and through the Carolinas, passed in review at Wash- 
ington and was mustered out at Louisville, Ky., July 18, 1865. 

Corp. James H. Cratty, John P. Henry, Joel Lloyd, Sergt. Amos C. 
Mounts, John P. Perry, Josephus Phillips, Joseph Sells, Lyman C. Sher- 
man, Albert Smith, David H. Thomas, John B. Williams. Company F — 
First Sergt. G. C. Allinger. 

TWENTY- SIXTH INFANTRY. 

The organization of this regiment was completed early in July, 1861, 
and was immediately ordered to the Upper Kanawha Valley. It led the ad- 
vance in the movement of Gen. Rosecrans on Sewell Mountain, and on the 
retreat was the rear- guard of the army. In January, 1862, the Twenty- 
sixth was transferred to Kentucky. It was in the winter campaign which 
resulted in the capture of Nashville; was in the forced march to Shiloh, it 
and the Seventeenth Indiana Regiment making a detour to the left, to a 
town about twenty miles, scattering a force that was organizing to attack 
our train, and, joining the main column next day, was in the advance dur- 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 461 

ing the siege and was the first regiment to enter Corinth. During the 
latter part of August, the Twenty-sixth, together with the Seventeenth and 
Fifty-eighth Indiana Regiments, routed Forest's division of cavalry near 
McMinnville, Tenn. In the battle of Stone River, the Twenty-sixth held 
its position, notwithstanding all the army on its right was routed, and its 
line repeatedly charged for hours by heavy columns of the enemy flushed 
with victory, yet they were every time repulsed with terrible slaughter. 

In the advance on Tullahoma and Shelbyville, the regiment took a 
prominent part, and was again actively engaged at Chickamauga. In the 
assault upon Mission Ridge, it fully sustained its former reputation, losing 
on this occasion about one-fourth its number in killed and wounded. The 
Twenty-sixth re-enlisted in January, 1864, and after the furlough home 
joined Sherman's Atlanta campaign, and participated in the battles of Res- 
aca, Kenesaw, Peach Tree Creek and Jonesboro. It pursued Hood north; 
took part in the battle at Nashville, then followed the enemy to the Ten- 
nessee River. 

After the close of the war, the Twenty -sixth served in Texas until 
mustered out of the service on the 21st of October, 1865. 

Company C — Privates George Bensley, Josiah Concklin, Charles Gill- 
ett, Samuel E. Hull, George Miller, William Miller, Andrew Miller, Isaac 
Miller, Charles L. Martin, Adam Moyer, Albert Taylor, Sidney Windsor. 

Company E — Privates W. P. Martin, Mark Norman. 

Company F — Privates George R. Hull, Daniel Hull, Joseph M. Hull. 

Company ? — Privates Andrew Basinger, Orson Bensley, Alex Corwin, 
George Graves, G. Houseworth. 

SIXTY-FOURTH INFANTRY. 

This regiment was organized and recruited at Mansfield November 9. 
1861. About the middle of December it moved by rail to Cincinnati; 
thence by steamer to Louisville; thence, under orders, December 26, from 
Louisville to Bardstown, Ky. , where it was brigaded; thence to Danville 
and Hall's Gap, where it engaged in building corduroy roads to facilitate 
the conveyance of supplies to Gen. Thomas' forces at Somerset, Ky. It 
then joined other forces at Mumfordsville, and marched with them to Nash- 
ville. A week afterward, it started for Pittsburg Landing, and arrived at 
the battle-field of Shiloh at 11 A. M., April 7, 1862. The brigade, com 
manded by Gen. Garfield, moved to the scene of action in double quick 
time, but the brunt of the battle was over, aud ODly Company A succeeded 
in getting into action. 

It next participated in the movement on and siege of Corinth, and there- 
after sent to Iuka, Tuscumbia, Decatur, Huntsville and Stevenson. Here 
it erected Fort Harker, in honor of its brave and talented brigade command- 
er. About August 1, the brigade moved with the national forces toward 
Nashville, and from there pushed on in a race with Bragg's rebel forces to 
Louisville, Ky. At Mumfordsville, a sharp skirmish was' had with the 
enemy, who was driven out of the place and across Green River. After 
remaining at Louisville about ten days, the regiment, with the national 
forces, moved out on the Bardstown Turnpike, to the vicinity of Perryville, 
and had the mortification of witnessing the battle at that place without the 
permission to help their hard-pressed comrades. Much feeling existed at 
the time concerning this battle, and many slanderous stories about Gen. 
Buell were circulated by the partisans of the General who brought it on. 
Following the enemy beyond Wild Cat, the retrograde movement of the 



462 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

national forces commenced. The Sixty- fourth moved, with its brigade, 
through Stamford, Scottsville, Gallatin, and on to Nashville, and then went 
into camp three miles out on the Nolinsville Turnpike. 

The next important event in the history of this regiment was the battle 
of Stone River. In this, tho Sixty-fourth was in Crittenden's corps and 
Wood's division, on the left wing. Its first onset was in the evening, when, 
meeting with overwhelming opposition, it was recalled. It lay on arms 
over night, and in the morning received orders to double quick to the relief 
of the right wing, which it executed promptly and held the enemy in 
check until the national forces were rallied. It then fell back, drawing 
the rebels, until within reach of a prepared line of nationals, who poured 
into the exultant rebels a murderous fire, which drove them back to their 
starting point. The battle closed January 2, 1863, with a loss of seventy- 
five killed and wounded, out of 300 engaged. 

Remaining at Murfreesboro until June 7, 1863, the Sixty-fourth moved 
with the national army, under Gen. William S. Rosecrans, up to Chattanooga 
and out to Chickamauga Creek, on the Tullahoma campaign ; had a successful 
skirmish at Lee & Gordon's Mills, and another directly afterward, without 
loss. On the 19th and 20th, the first two days of the battle of Chickamauga. 
the Sixty-fourth was closely engaged all the time, losing over a hundred 
men, killed, wounded and missing. At Chattanooga until November 25, 
when it participated in the battle of Mission Ridge, losing few men. 

In January, 1864, the subject of re-enlistment coming up, three-fourths 
of the men expressed a willingness to re-enlist, and they were furloughed 
home for thirty days. 

Returning to the scenes of war, they engaged in the charge on Rocky 
Face Ridge May 9, in Sherman's campaign against Atlanta; twenty-one 
were killed aod sixty-five wounded — Col. Mcllvaine among the killed. At 
Rusaca, Juno 14, the regiment lost several men. July 20, it was engaged 
in the battle of Peach Tree Creek. All summer the regiment was almost 
daily under fire. September 3, battle of Jonesboro, with slight loss. 

When Atlanta was taken, September, 1864, the Sixty-fourth returned 
thither, and went into camp for two weeks, and then was dispatched by rail 
to Chattanooga after Hood Here 400 new recruits were received from 
Ohio, and the regiment sent out again after Hood, to a point fifty miles 
south of Chattanooga, bat in vain. Returned to Chattanooga, and almost 
immediately sent by cars to Athens, Ala. ; thence it marched to Pulaski, 
Tenn. , and to Spring Hill, where it engaged with the enemj r and lost a few 
men, killed and wounded. Next, at Franklin, Tenn., it lost severely in a 
fight; next in battles and sorties around Nashville, with slight loss; next, 
it pursued Hood's scattered and demoralized forces across the Tennessee 
River, and then went into camp at Huntsville. Then it was two months at 
Decatur and Athens, then Huntsville again, Strawberry Plains, E. Tenn., 
Nashville, New Orleans three months, where it lost heavily by sickness; then 
(September, 1865) at Victoria, Tex., until December 3, when it was mus- 
tered out. Was paid off and discharged at Camp Chase. 

Company B— Capts. Bryant Grafton, William J. Holden, Alfred A. 
Reed. 

First Lieuts. William A. Dillon, Stephen A. McCollutn. 

Sergts. George M. Hutchins, William A. Lefever, Andrew Lybold, Au- 
gustus Noeltner, Jacob Weist, S. T. Beerbower, Asaph O. Cranmer, Will- 
iam Fields, William Fies, Wilson Fields. George Fisher. 

Corps. John Brinker, John Bunker, Wesley Harris. Thomas J. Sprague, 
Jacob M. Whittle, David J. Wortman. Simon T. Ward. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 463 

Privates Noah Alspaugh, Charles Baker, John Baker, Adam Baker, John 
Baringer, Jacob Baugh, John W. Berry, Joseph E. Berry, AlbertusC. Bowen, 
Ephraim Bohan, George E. Boham, Alson Brady, Peter J. Brady, Will- 
iam Brady, Abram C. Brady, James K. Brady, Thomas G. Briggs, Benjamin 
Burns, William H. Carmine, Riley Clark, Charles N. Clark, Ebenezer 
Corey, William Colenso, William Cullison, I. C. Davis, Stephen Fell. 
Matthew F. Fields, Joseph Fields, William F. Fields, Henry W. Eields, 
Christopher Fies, John R. Frame, Charles Fulton, Richard L. Harris. 
John Herring, Andrew J. Hill, Fer. P. Hiltibiddle, William C. Hopkins, 
Noah L. Huggins, James M. Hudder, Alex P. Irmer, Newton M. Johnson, 
Andrew A. Johnson, Reuben Keran, James B. W. Keran, John B. King, 
James Klinefelter, John B. Lewis, James W. Maddux, Wilmot E. Mack, 
Thomas M. Maynes, George Messenger, Everett Messenger, Jules Monnett, 
George R. Moore, Nelson Myers, George W. Nichels, Leonidas H. Old- 
field, Henry Partridge, Charles Partridge, S. W. Parcell, Joseph Rich- 
mond, Charles Rowe, Samuel Seacord, Samuel Shavers, John Smith. 
George Snyder, Charles Spring, W. S. Stafford, Jesse Stafford, Marcus B. 
Sylvester, Milton Thomas, William Thew, Josiah S. Turner, Jacob Walker, 
John Warwick, Thomas B. Ward, Franklin Weirich, William Witzel, Con- 
rad Wickizer, Casper Zimmer. 

Company C — Privates George O. Bensley, J. M. Smith. 

Company D — Capt. Thomas E. Tillotson. 

First Lieuts. Frank H. Killinger, Andrew Lybold. 

Sergts. Hugh W. Bratton, Andrew S. Culp, Alonzo W. Hancock (First 
Sergt.), Alfred A. Reed (First Sergt.), Joseph Rhoads (Orderly Sergt.), H. 
H. Sharp, Samuel E. Smith, Andrew J. Thomasson, James M. Thomas, 
Charles R. Thomas, William P. Wilkins. 

Corps. William F. Stanard, W. H. Adlesperger, James M. Morrow, 
John W. Palmer, M. H Rhoads, J. M. Rhoads. 

Drummer, D. C. Stafford. 

Privates John F. Adlesperger, Francis Alty, James Anderson, Jacob 
Arni, Aaron Bauchmann, Samuel R. Boxwell, William Borr, Henry C. Brat- 
ton, Daniel Bricker, David Bratton, Luther M. Brown, Nahum W. Brent. 
Noah Christman, Ami Cluff, Jerome V. Conover, John M. Cook, John 
Detrick, Simeon Decker, Robert W. Dick, Andrew Drake, Jeremiah Elli- 
son, John English, Philip Fatchler, Christian Farber, Jasper Gooding, 
Orange B. Halstead, Samuel Harberson, Joseph R. Henderson, T. S. Hen- 
derson, James R. Henderson, Peter M. Hershler, Samuel S. Howdyshell, 
Jacob Holtz, Henry R. Hull, William Ingram, William Johnson, William 
Kersey, Barzillah King, Simeon Landon, Darius Landon, John Like, John 
Mattix, David Messenger, Thomas Miller, Thompson C. Mount, William 
T. Payne, Alfred Palmer, Daniel H. Palinger, James Pryce, William Ren- 
zenberger, Martin Roop, Thomas F. Robinson. William H. Robinson, Will- 
iam C. Roe, John Roberts. James AY. Sexton. Newton A. Short, Jacob S. 
Sheal, John Snyder, William Thomas, A. J. Thomasson, Leroy Tyler, W. 
C. Weaver, Emanuel Wentz, S. M. Wittred, William Wittred, Jacob 
Wilt 

Other companies: 

E — Joseph B. Curtis. 

F— First Lieut, David E. Barrett. 

G— Allen T. Mutchler. 

H — J. S. Brownlee, Joseph Clark, B. R. Clark. John A. Irwin. 

I — John Harmon. J. J. Smith. Frederick Winch. James Wolf. 



464 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

K — First Lieut. Bradford R. Durfee. 
? — Eber D. Baker, F. Southwick. 

SIXTY-SIXTH INFANTRY. 

The Sixty-sixth Ohio was organized at Camp McArthur, Urbana, Ohio, 
October 1, 1861, under Col. Charles Candy, and on the 17th of January, 
1862, moved to West Virginia and imported to Gen. Lander, at New Creek, 
where the first field camp was made. Gen. Shields soon succeeded Gen. 
Lander, and the Sixty-sixth for a few weeks was stationed as provost 
guard at Martinsburg, Wiuchester and Strasburg; then crossed the Blue 
Ridge to Fredericksburg, where it was assigned to the Third Brigade, un- 
der Gen. E. B. Tyler. 

Orders were soon received to counter-march for the relief of Gen. Banks 
in the Shenandoah Valley, and for the protection of Washiugton, then 
threatened by Stonewall Jackson. 

In the battle of Port Republic, June 9, the regiment took an active and 
prominent part in defending a battery of seven guns. The enemy had pos- 
session of these guns at three different times, and as many times were com- 
pelled to abandon them by the regiment. After fighting for five hours 
against overwhelming numbers, Gen. Tyler withdrew his command. The 
regiment lost on this occasion 196 of the 400 men engaged. In July, the 
Sixty-sixth, with its brigade, joined Gen. Pope, at Sperryville, and was 
assigned to the Second Division of the Twelfth Corps. 

The Second Division, under command of Gen. Banks, opened the battle 
at Cedar Mountain, and in the desperate struggle which ensued the regiment 
lost eighty-seven killed and wounded of the 200 men in arms. Its battle -flag 
had one shell and nineteen bulletdioles made through it, and one Sergeant 
and five Corporals were shot down in succession while carrying it. The 
regiment was again actively engaged at Antietam on the 17th and 18th of 
September. 

On the 27th of December, 1862, Gen. Stewart, with 2,000 rebel cavalry, 
made an attack on Dumfries, a small town garrisoned by the Fifty-seventh 
and Sixty-sixth Ohio Regiments — about 700 troops in all. After fighting 
fiercely for several hours, the enemy was forced to retreat. 

In the engagement at Chancellorsville, the regiment held a position in 
front of Gen. Hooker's headquarters, and again its bravery was exempli- 
fied. After participating in the battle of Gettysburg, the Sixty-sixth pur- 
sued Lee to the Rappahannock; and in August, 1863, proceeded to New 
York to enforce the draft. In September, it was transferred to the Army 
of the Cumberland near Chattanooga, and in November took part in the 
battles of Lookout Mountain, Mission Ridge and Ringgold. On the 15th 
of December, the regiment re-enlisted, and at the end of veteran furlough 
returned to Bridgeport, Ala., where it lay in camp about three months. In 
May, 1864, it moved with the First Brigade, Second Division, Twentieth 
Corps, on the Atlanta campaign. At Rocky Face Ridge, the Twentieth 
Corps was repulsed with great loss. At Resaca the Sixty-sixth was actively 
engaged, but with slight loss. On the 25th, it took part in the engagement 
near Pumpkin Vine Creek, and for eight days kept up a continuous mus 
ketry with the enemy. On the 15th of June, the regiment led the advance 
on Pine Mountain, and in the battles of Kenesaw, Marietta and Peach 
Tree Creek fought with conspicuous gallantry. After the capture of At- 
lanta, the Sixty-sixth remained on duty in that, city until Sherman started 
on his " march to the sea.'- From Savannah it moved northward through 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 465 

the Carolinas and on to "Washington, passing over the old battle-field of 
Ohancellorsville, thus, making the entire circuit of the Southern States. 

The regiment was finally mustered out at Columbus, Ohio, July 19, 
1865, after serving in twelve States, marching over 11,000 miles and' par- 
ticipating in nineteen battles, with a loss of 112 killed and about 350 
wounded. 

Company K — Capt. J. H. Van Derman. 

First Lieuts. Watson N. Clark, James Jacoby. 

Sergts. Yelverton P. Barry, Daniel Bower, James H. Corbin, Alva 
Rhoads, William Stokes. 

Corps. Robert W. Boyd, John Hoyt, William F. Justice, David Justice, 
Eatou T. Martin, Adam Mitchell, Benjamin Peak. 

Musician, Thomas Crawford. 

Joseph Alexander, William Anderson, Charles Bekin, Solomon Bailey, 
Solomon Beekman, J. D. Bishop, Samuel Bower, John Book, Silas Craw- 
ford, George W. Crawford, Alexander Dorn, Charles W. French, Daniel 
W. Gibbs, Horace Green, Samuel Hatch, Isaiah Mattix, Robert E. Meeker, 
Daniel Miller, James F. Newhouse, Charles T. Norris, Almond Partridge, 
Philip Phillipi, William Powell, Joseph Rhoads, Henry Secrist, James 
T. Shafer, John Short, Francis E. Shaw, Newton Smith, Elias G. Stock- 
man, Benjamin F. Stokes, H. P. Sweetland, Mark Sweet, James E. Taylor, 
Edward Tedlebaugh, John Van Brimmer, Isaac Williams. 

Other companies: 

C — John Drollsbaugh, James W. Redding, William S. Stone. 

E— Thomas Griffiths. 

H— Michael Click. 

EIGHTY- SECOND INFANTRY. 

This regiment was organized September 31, 1861, under Col. James 
Cantwell, and, in January, 1862, moved into West Virginia and encamped 
near the village of Fetterman. March 16, it was assigned to Gen. 
Schenck's command, and, after exploring the Lost River region in search 
of Harness, the noted guerrilla, moved to the relief of Gen. Milroy, then 
threatened by Stonewall Jackson at McDowell, and participated in the as- 
sault on Bull Pasture Mountain and the retreat to Franklin. May 25, 
Schenck's brigade left Franklin with the army under Fremont, following 
the rebels through Strasburg on to Cross Keys, and was present at the bat- 
tle at that place on the 8th of June, though not actively engaged. It fol- 
lowed Jackson to the Shenandoah, and then returned through New Market, 
Mount Jackson and Strasburg to Middletown, where Gen. Sigel took com- 
mand of the army. 

. In the organization of the Army of Virginia, under Gen. Pope, the 
Eighty-second was assigned to an independent brigade, under Milroy, of 
the First Corps, Sigel' s command. In August, it was again engaged with 
Jackson at Cedar Mountain. A few days later, the two armies met on the 
opposite banks of the Rappahannock River, and for more than a week kept 
up an incessant skirmishing, the enemy making many attempts to gain 
Waterloo Bridge, which was defended by Milroy's brigade. Then followed 
the second Bull Run battle, in which the regiment fought with conspicuous 
gallantry, losing heavily. In this engagement Col. Cantwell was killed, 
and Col. James S. Robinson assumed command. September 3, the First 
Corps proceeded to Fairfax Court House, and the Eighty-second was at- 
tached to Gen. Sigel's headquarters. While here, Sigel's corps was de- 
nominated the Eleventh, and assigned to the Army of the Potomac. It par- 



466 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

ticipated in the advance on Fi'edericksburg, and in December went into 
winter quarters al Stafford Court House. Gen. Howard succeeded Gen. Sigel 
in command of the Eleventh Corps, and the Eighty-second having been 
relieved from duty at headquarters, reported to Gen. Schurz, its division 
commander, and by him was designated as a battalion of sharp-shooters for 
the division, subject to his personal direction. In the movement upon 
Chancellorsville, May 2, the Eighty-second performed good service; and 
from this time until the 7th was engaged in the trenches or on the picket 
line. When the army fell back, the regiment returned to Stafford, and re- 
mained quietly in its old camp until the 10th of June. Then, having been 
assigned to the Second Brigade of the Third Division, it moved on the 
Gettysburg campaign, and so severe was its loss in this sanguinary battle 
that only ninety-two of the 258 men who went into the action remained to 
guard its colors. 

The Eleventh Corps followed in pursuit of the retreating enemy as far 
as Warrenton Junction. At Hagerstown, the Eighty-second had been as- 
signed to tbe First Brigade of the Third Division, and when the Third 
Division was ordered to guard the Orange & Alexandria Railroad, it was 
placed at Catlett's Station, where it performed guard and patrol duty until 
September. On the 25th, the regiment, with the Eleventh Corps, was 
transferred to the Army of the Cumberland, and participated in the battle 
of Wauhatchie October 28, and in the assaults upon Lookout Mountain and 
Mission Ridge. It followed in pursuit of Bragg, then marched to the re- 
lief of Knoxville, but when within a few miles of that city information 
was received that the siege had been raised, and the troops returned to their 
old encampment in Lookout Valley. January 1, 1864, the Eighty-second 
re-enlisted for another'three years' service; on the 10th, started to Ohio, on 
veteran furlough; February 23, re-assembled at Columbus, Ohio, with 200 
recruits, and March 3, joined its brigade at Bridgeport, Ala. Here the 
Eleventh and Twelfth Corps were consolidated, forming the Twentieth, and 
the Eighty -second was assigned to the Third Brigade, First Division of 
this corps. April 30, the regiment entered upon the Atlanta campaign, 
moving toward Resaca. May 14, it assisted the Fourth Corps in repulsing 
an attack by the rebels on the Dalton road. At Dallas, the regiment took 
an active part, holding the center of the line. The entire brigade was ex- 
posed to a heavy tire; by sunset almost every cartridge was gone, and it was 
only by searching the cartridge-boxes of the dead and wounded that a strag- 
gling tire was kept up until night, when the brigade was relieved. On the 
28th, it escorted a supply train for ammunition to Kingston and back, and on 
the 6th of June went into position near Pine Knob, where it remained until 
the 15th. 

It was not actively engaged at Kenesaw, except in skirmishing. July 
20, it crossed Peach Tree Creek, and found the rebels in the woods about 
four miles from Atlanta. The regiment lost in this affair seventy-five 
killed and wounded. During the siege of Atlanta, the Eighty-second oc 
cupied an important but exposed position. On one occasion, the regimental 
colors were carried away and torn to shreds by a cannon ball. August 20, 
it was removed to the Chattahoochie, and Gen. Slocum assumed command 
of the corps. September 2, the national forces took possession of Atlanta. 
and the regiment went into camp in the suburbs. November 15, it moved 
with Sherman's army to the sea. From Savannah, it marched through the 
Carolinas. The regiment took a prominent part in the engagement at 
Aversyboro, losing two officers and eight men wounded, and was again 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 467 

actively engaged in the last battle of the war at Bentonville, in which it 
lost two officers and nine men wounded and fourteen men missing. From 
Bentonville it moved to Goldsboro, and on the 9th of April was consolidated 
with the Sixty-first Ohio, the new organization being denominated the 
Eighty-second. After the surrender of Johnston, at Raleigh, the regiment 
marched to Washington, and having participated in the grand review on 
the 24th of May, went into camp near Fort Lincoln. 

On the 15th of June, it moved to Louisville, Ky., where it remained 
until the 25th of July, then proceeding to Columbus, Ohio, it was dis- 
charged July 29, 1865. 

Company A — Capt. William E. Scofield. 

Peter Anderson, William Cavanaugh, Pat Cavanaugh, James English, 
Pat Fahey, Cornelius Faulkner, Tim Fell, Joseph Gardner, Thomas Hogan, 
Pat Hogan, Daniel Horn, Pat Keating, Tim Kelly, Joseph u. Johnson, 
Thomas Leakey, Lyman Stanley, James Withrow, John Woodr ff. 

Company D — Capts. James Cricket, John S, Rieg. 

First Lieut. Samuel H. Berry. 

Second Lieuts. Thomas J. Abrell, killed May 3, 1863; Charles William 
Dieboldt, killed May 10, 1863, at Franklin, W. Va. ; Henry Jacoby, killed 
at Gettysburg, Penn. 

Sergts. David Cricket, Chris W. Dennig, Henry Hulster, Henry Seas, 
Charles F. Shadel, A. Gable. 

Corps. Nelson C. Ashwell, Michael Baltzle, Milo D. Carpenter, George 
Dietsch, Christian Haller, Thad C. Kennedy, Andrew Leffler, Michael 
Leffler. E. W. H. Thomas, Daniel Zachman. 

Privates John Albright, Henry Albright, Michael Albright, Andrew 
Ault, John M. Augenstein, G. W. Ault, Jacob Barthel, Julius C. Baker, 
John L. Beckley, James H. Bell, Henry Bolander, John Bower, Jackson 
Bolander, Henry Bristol, Richard Brollier, Jacob Burkhart, S. G. Burnside, 
George Cates, Guy Chesser, William B. Clark, Michael Collins, Samuel 
Creglow, William Cupp, Lemont Cupp, John Dietz, Frederick Dietz, Sam- 
uel Dickerson, Sol Dunkelberger, Frederick Felger, Joel Fiant, Jacob 
Fisher, D. C. Foos, William Folk, Frederick Geckle, John Geiger, David 
Gilbert, George Gloumer, Joseph Grumley, John Haberman, Philip Helwig. 
George W. Hess, Peter Helwig, John Hickat, Michael Hill, Ephraim 
Hutchinson, Christ Hutmacher, Martin Jacobs, David E. Jones, Edward 
Justice, Harrison Jump, Christopher Kensler, Christian Kinzler, Matthias 
Klee, Jacob D. Kocher, Jacob Kramer, Christian Leffler, Jacob Leffler, 
Jacob T. Leverton, Martin Leffler, John Likins, George Lutz, William 
Mack, Rolander May, J. L. McCafferty, Peter McGowan, William Munson, 
Charles C. Myers, Isaac Myers, C. G. Myers, John O'Bryan, Levi Owen, 
William Pain, Elisha W. Patton, James F. Quay, Cyrus Reed, Alfred Redd, 
Frederick Ropp, Lewis F. Ropp, Elkin J. Rudacill, Christian Shanlaub, 
John Sherlock, Adam Shrock, William Smith, Daniel Snider, John G. 
Schneider, Christian Solce, John Squires, Henry Straub, John Stafford, 
Joseph Stockwell, Willsrd Stockwell, Guyer Sutton, Godfrey Suttermeister, 
George W. Truitt, William F. Thomas, James A. Tunis, Frederick Ullmer, 
Isaac Uncapher, John Van Buskirk, William F. Waters, George Watson, 
John Whan, Allen Willis, George Wiswpsser, John Wiser, F. X. Zachman, 
Michael Zachman, Solomon Zachman. 

Companv I — Capts. Cyrus Herrick, George H. Purdy, killed at Chancel- 
lorsville May 2, 1863. 

Firbt Lieut. William Ballantine. killed in action. 



468 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Second Lieuts. Hvrnan M. Howard, H. M. Litzenberg, killed at Bull 
Run August 29, 1862. ' 

Sergts. Loe D. Anderson, Wilson F. Cellar, Ralph Davenport, Will- 
iam A. Gray, Nicholas Rader, Charles J. Slough. 

Corps. Isaac Bowersmith, Thomas E. Halley, Isaiah Jones, William A. 
McDonald, James H. Springer, Charles Yancy. 

Musician, Joseph Gilles. 

Privates, William ADdafter, James J, Alexander, George B. Alexander, 
Isaac M. Anderson, Isaac W.Anderson, J. P. Ashbrook, Jacob Ay res, Zachariah 
Barlow, Robert Billingsley, Isaac Browmiller, Samuel S. Brown, Abraham 
Burgner, Albert Carr, L. W. Carpenter, Joseph Chadwick, Jacob Clark, D. 
H. Cunningham, William Driskill, George W. Drumm, Jacob Ebersoll. 
Jacob Eddleblute, Lewis Eddleblute, George Fawn, Ark Freshwater, Otis 
Friend, James Gilliland, John Goare, John Gregg, John Griffin, Sylvester 
Grover, George W. Henry, John T. Hord, John Holloway, Joseph Houck, 
Harvey Humphrey, Josiah Hurd, William Jolliff, Hamilton Johnson, James 
H. Jordan, John Jones, Perc. F. Kauffman, Samuel L. Kelly, Henry C. 
Kelly, John Lake, George Lane, Washington Lacey, Abel Lindsley, Will- 
iam H. Masker, Fletcher D. Marvin, Benjamin W. Masker, Albert H. Mer- 
rill, Robert McCullough, William McNeal, William Moore, Elisha Mor- 
rison, James Moynahan, David W. Oviatt, A. P. Peters, Amos E. Plunkett, 
Alonzo Pope, Robert Pope, Joseph Rader, John Race, John N. Reed, Levi 
Rhodes, William Rhodes, John T. Roche, Artemas Russell, James S. Sco- 
ville, Sidney Skinner, Eli Sloop, Jesse Stanley, Abraham Swartz, Joseph 
Swartz, Dennis Twoomey, Cadmus Walker, William M. W'allace, Thomas 
A. Wattermire, Jonas P. Weaver, Hemy V/elchhans, Christian Weiser, 
James P. Welsh, John AVilson, William C. Winters, W. F. Williams, 
Samuel H. Wooden, Nathan Youell. 

Other companies: 

B — John Stoddard. 

C— Fred Dutt. 

G — William Bain and M. G. Miller, Sergeants; William T. Locker, 
Corporal; S. S. Hoover, Oliver P. Church. 

H — J. W. Bosley, David Click, Michael Click, Joseph Klinefelter, 
James Maxwell, J. C. Porter, L. H. Porter, AVash G. Sutton, William 
AVarner, Jacob Warner. 

K — Adam Shrock. 

Company not reported — J. N. Rogers, Drummer; Edward McLean, 
Abraham H. Kepler, Nelson Bradshaw, Edward Blow, William H. Rogers, 
Henry Seiter, Jacob Seiter. 

NINETY-SIXTH INFANTRY. 

The Ninety-sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry was raised in the Eighth 
Congressional District, comprising the counties of Marion, Union, Dela- 
ware, Knox, Morrow and Logan; and, embracing representatives from vari- 
ous avocations of life, embodied as noble and intelligent a body of men as 
were mustered into the service of their country. 

The regiment was organized at Camp Delaware August 29, 1862, num 
bering 1,014 men, rank and file. Its principal officers had seen service, 
and were well qualified for their respective positions. The field officers were 
Joseph W. Vance, Colonel, of Mount Vernon; A. H. Brown, Lieutenant 
Colonel, of Marion; Charles H. McElroy, Major, of Delaware; D. W. Hen- 
derson, Surgeon, of Marysvillo. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY 469 

September 1, 1862, the regiment left Camp Delaware, b} r way of Colum- 
bus, for Cincinnati; September 8, went into camp three miles back of New- 
port, Ky., and occupied the advance on that part of our line during the 
threatened attack of Kirby Smith upon Covington, Newport and Cincin- 
nati. 

October 8, the regiment, in the brigade of Gen. Burbridge, A. J. Smith 
commanding the division of the Thirteeuth Army Corps, marched to Fal- 
mouth, thence to Cynthiana, Paris, Lexington and Nicholasville. At the 
latter place, they remained in camp two or three weeks; thence marched to 
Louisville, where they remained in the mud on the Ohio River for a few 
days; then embarked for Memphis, Tenn., on the 19th of November, where 
they were encamped about a month. While there they were reviewed by 
Gen. Sherman, and ordered to embark on the steamer Hiawatha and pro- 
ceed down the river with theforoes under his command, the objective point 
being Vicksburg, Miss. The men were blissfully ignorant of the severe 
service awaiting them, but were soon brought to a realization of circum- 
stances that every participant must look back to with horror. The whole 
regiment and its outfit of wagons, teams, etc., together with the Seventeenth 
Ohio Battery, with its guns, horses and mules were packed on this small 
craft. Nearly every member of the battery was sick with the measles. The 
horses and mules were placed on deck, their heads tied on either side, form- 
ing between them a narrow aisle. Only partial rations of hard bread and 
roasted coffee could be had, the only resort being flour and green coffee, 
which required cooking and roasting. It may have been a necessity, but 
certainly it was a bitter fatality. The only facility for cooking was a 
small stove on the after deck, to reach which it was necessary to run the 
gantlet of two hundred pairs of treacherous heels and the filth of such a 
stable. First, the coffee and the meat were cooked and eaten with hard 
bread, but the supply of the latter was soon exhausted, and the men were 
forced to mix flour with water and bake it on the same stove. With the 
best effort possible, it was often 2 o'clock before all had their breakfast 
with the half-cooked material. As if this were not all that flesh and blood 
could endure, cold rain continually drenched all who were not under cover, 
and for want of room many were forced to remain on the hurricane deck, 
famished with hunger and tortured with sleeplessness. All day and all 
night the little stove was occupied by men preparing the unhealthy rations, 
that, while they saved from immediate starvation, were not slow, in connec- 
tion with other causes, in developing diseases that were equally fatal to 
those who were exposed and those who were packed close in the ill-ventilated 
and over-crowded apartments. Everywhere were sunken eyes, thin cheeks 
and tottering steps. Surgeon Henderson, with his assistants, labored in- 
cessantly to check disease and relieve the sufferings of the men, but typhoid, 
measles and erysipelas were masters, everything seemingly rendering them 
aid. Death did a frightful work. 

On its way, the regiment disembarked at Milliken's Bend on the 20th, 
and made a forced march to Dallas Station, La., on the Vicksburg, 
S. & T. Railroad, a distance of twenty-eight miles, over a narrow road 
cut through a dense cypress forest, over stretches of corduroy and thick- 
intervening mud of the low marshes, burning depots and warehouses, de- 
stroying a large amount of railroad property, tearing up the track for miles, 
returning the following day in a pelting storm of cold rain, having marched 
fifty-six miles in less than forty hours. After privations on the boat, this 
work was terribly painful and disastrous. The regiment was taken on down 



470 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

the river to the Yazoo (the River of Death), and up that river to Johnson's 
Landing; there disembarked and marched to Chickasaw Bluffs and partici- 
pated in the first attack on Vicksburg, where the Union forces were de- 
feated. Then proceeding to Arkansas Post, they took an active part in the 
assault upon the works, capturing 7,000 prisoners, losing ten killed and 
twenty -six wounded. After this engagement, it at once accompanied the 
army under Grant in the flank movement to the rear of Vicksburg and took 
part in the siege until the surrender July 4, 1863. Then it marched on to 
Jackson, taking part in the siege until its evacuation on the 17th of July, 
thence back to Vicksburg and from there by steamer to Carrollton, La. 
From that point it made several expeditions and scouts. It was next en- 
gaged in what was called the Teche campaign, and participated in the bat- 
tle of Grand Coteau, November 3. This was a desperate light against 
overwhelming numbers, the regiment losing ] 10 men, killed, wounded and 
missing. 

In December, the regiment was ordered to Texas, where it operated 
against Dick Taylor's forces until March, 1864, then returning to Brashear 
City, La., entered upon the Red River campaign under Gen. Banks. April 8, 
was engaged in the battle of Sabine Cross Roads, losing fifty-six men, 
killed, wounded and missing; among the former were the gallant Col. 
Vance and Capt. Coulter; among the latter was Capt. Evans, who returned 
to his command after an absence of ten months in rebel prisons. Then 
followed the engagements of Peach Orchard Grove, Pleasant Hill and Cane 
River. 

August 1, the regiment embarked for Dauphin Island, in the rear of 
Fort Gaines, and were the first troops to land in rear of that fort, and par- 
ticipated in the siege till the surrender of the fort on the 8th, with 1,000 
prisoners. September 1, it returned to Louisiana, and in November pro- 
ceeded to the mouth of White River, in Arkansas. The regiment was so 
reduced in numbers by continued losses, that a consolidation became neces- 
sary, and was effected by special order November 18. At the request of 
the officers, and as a special honor to the regiment, it was not united with 
any other organization, but was consolidated into four companies, receiving 
one company from the Forty-second Ohio, whose term of service had not 
expired with that of their regiment, making a battalion of five companies, 
called the Ninety- sixth Battalion, Lieut. Col. A. H. Brown commanding. 
Company B of Knox, E of Marion and K of Union were consolidated, 
making Company C, commanded by Capt. Evans. The battalion continued 
to operate in Arkansas until February, 1865, whence it removed to the rear 
of Fort Spanish, the key of Mobile, Ala., participating in the siege of that 
fort, which resulted in its capture on the 8th of April. A few minutes after 
the surrender, the regiment was marching to the assistance of Gen. Steele, 
who had for some days been investing Fort Blakely, fifteen miles north of 
Spanish Fort. Upon the arrival of Gen. Granger's corps on the field. Gen. 
Steele's troop stormed the fort, capturing 5,000 prisoners. This is said to 
be the last battle of the war. After the surrender of Mobile the battalion 
joined an expedition to Nannahubbah Bluff, on the Tombigbee River, and 
also Mcintosh Bluffs. 

The last volley tired by the Ninety-sixth was on April 12. at Whistler 
Station, seven miles above Mobile, in a lively skirmish with Dick Taylor's 
retreating forces. The regiment returned to Mobile on the 9th of May 
where it remained until mustered out July 7, 1865, excepting forty men, 
whose term of service had not expired, and Mho were transferred to the 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 471 

Seventy- seventh Battalion, Ohio Veteran Volunteer Infantry, and served 
as a detachment in that battalion until March, 1866. 

The Ninety-sixth, from the time of entering the held to the close of 
the war, was on continuously active and most of the time hard service. 
It embarked at Mobile for Camp Chase, by way of New Orleans, arriving 
at Columbus the 29th day of July, where they were paid off and disbanded, 
at which time they numbered 427 men, including one company from the 
Forty-second Ohio. The regiment marched 1,683 miles, and was trans- 
ported by boat 7,686 miles, by railroad 517 miles, making a total of 9,886 
miles. 

Lieut. Col. A. H. Brown. 

Company D — Capts. J. M. Godman, resigned November 8, 1864; J. D. 
Williams, resigned March 4, 1864. 

Sergt. R. F. Bartlett. 

Corp. Thomas F. Zuck. 

Privates J. Baltzle, G. W. Blanchard, George Blow, Charles Boynton, 
G. Brown, J. C. Campbell, Nathan Clark, J. Hinaman, George Jones, G. 
H. Jones, Edmund Keller, C. H. Kindle, J. Logsdon, Daniel May, C. R. 
Miles, W. H. F. Parker, A. Pike, W. Roberts, Madison Shields, Henry J. 
Smith, C. A. Virden. 

Company E — Capt. Samuel Coulter, died of wounds April 8, 1864. 

First Lieuts. Val. Lapham, promoted Captain; Minard J. Lefever, re- 
signed July 24, 1863. 

Second Lieuts. James De Wolf, Simon Glessman, Henry T. Van Fleet, 
resigned February 4, 1863. 

Sergts. Thomas Carter, William M. Coulter, Benjamin Little, B. W. 
Martin, Josiah V. Stevenson, William R. Whitmarsh. 

Corps. Collins Blakely, T. D. Bowen, John W Fribley, Henry Gilden, 
A. J. Knapp, J. W. Knapp, Samuel Terpany, John J. Ulsh. 

Musician Philip Plummer. 

Privates Joseph C. Arnold, Charles Baldwin, William H. Ballentine, 
Nathan Betts, James Bratton, M. H. Burt, John F. Burt, J. G. Burt, J. 
H. Bunker, Benjamin Camm, John Chambers, Nathan Corwin, Marion F. 
Corn, W. Z. Davis, John Dickason, Wesley Dickason, S. Dickason, Henry 
Gowdy, Samuel R. Dumble, P. B. Eatherton, Charles W. Fields, David 
Follett, James H. Foster, William Garvin, Charles Gochenour, Henry 
Glenn, Henry S. Goodrich, G. M. Hefflebower, William K. Huff, David J*. 
Humphrey, Michael Huffman, Israel Irey, H. H. Irey, Leander Irey, Ed- 
ward Jeffrey, Matthew Jenkins, S. L. Johnson, John A. Kelly, Charles W. 
Kemper, Albert C. King, Daniel Kibler, George W. Knowles, John Love, 
William McMurray, Robert McWilliams, Richard T. Mills, Andrew J. 
Monroe, Levi Nickson, Alvin N. Nortrup, Anderson Oliver, Henry H. Payne, 
George L. Phelps, Asa Queen, Benjamin Rhoads, Isaac J. Riley, Jonathan 
Rogers, Francis M. Scribner, W. G. Shute, Henry J. Shepher, Charles 
Showers, Stokes Smith, Peter Snyder, Henry Sowers, William W. Squibb, 
George W. Squibb, Joseph Suit, Ralph F. Sykes, W. H. Tucker, Ira 
Tucker, Henry Van Buskirk, Josiah Voorhies, James Walter, James A. 
Watson, John Wade, James M. West, Isaac Wilson, Clark M. Wilson, Ben- 
jamin J. Williams, Chris B. Wilkins, J. G. Wortman. 

Other companies: 

A — J. H. Knode, Sergeant; E. I. Thompson. 

B— Francis M. Corn. 

C — Cyrus W. Devore, Amos Gochenour, Silas E. Idleman, John W. 
Myers, Caleb Underwood, Cyrus W. Wyatt. 



472 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

F — Levi Sigfried, First Lieutenant; Ford Keeler. 
? — Samuel Fink. 

ONE HUNDRED AND TWENTY-FIRST INFANTRY. 

This regiment was organized in the early fall of 1862, under Col. Will- 
iam P. Reed. Company B was mostly from this county; more were from 
Union than from any other one county. Capt. Lawrence was the ranking 
line officer. The regiment went to Covington, Ky., where' it was armed 
with a lot of condemned Austrian rifles, absolutely worthless. Its first en- 
gagement was at Perryville, October 8. The regiment was rushed into 
hard service without any drill or preparation, and some of its toughest men 
succumbed. At Campbellsville, December 31, 1862, the hospital was capt- 
ured by the enemy, and some of the prisoners were paroled. February 1, 
1863, the regiment moved into Tennessee; in the summer it occupied 
Shelby ville a few weeks; then Fayetteville, and September 20 engaged in 
the victorious battle of Chickamauga, being the last regiment to leave the 
field; loss, eleven officers and eigbty-seven men. Then it shared in the 
battles of Lookout Mountain and Mission Ridge. 

May 2, 1864, the One Hundred and Twenty-first started out in the At- 
lanta campaign, and after performing various duties it aided materially in 
the capture of Rome, Ga., being the first Federal regiment to enter the 
city. During this month it was constantly in front, losing men almost 
every day. It engaged at Kenesaw Mountain, losing severely. On the 
evening of the 26th, Col. Durbin Ward relieved the regiment from its 
perilous position, naming the place the " Valley of Hell." The next day 
the regiment lost 164 men, killed and wounded, but it succeeded in secur- 
ing possession of the national dead and wounded. 

During the summer, the One Hundred and Twenty-first did a great deal 
of fighting at various points, as well as tedious marching, and suffered se- 
verely. It drove the enemy from Jonesboro, which ended the Atlanta cam- 
paign. In September, it drove Forrest's rebel cavalry across the Tennessee 
River into Alabama; then joined in a chase after Hood's army; then, join- 
ing Sherman's army at Rome, Ga., marched with it to the sea. On its re- 
turn northward through the Carolinas, it was engaged at Bentonville r 
where it lost twenty-six men. Camped near Goldsboro ten days, until April 
10, 1865, and a day or two afterward, at Raleigh, received news of Lee's 
surrender. After taking part in the grand review at Washington, it was 
paid off and discharged at Columbus, Ohio, June 12. 

Lieut. Col. Jacob M. Banning. 

Quartermaster E. Peters. 

Company B — Capt. Wilson P. Martin. 

Sergts. William B. Patten Lewis M. Phillips, Theodore C. Gross?, 
Samuel S. Walter. 

Corps. G. J. Counterman, J. R. Cratty, Henry N. Mounts, C. L. Pat- 
ten, John H. Boyd, Jonathan L. May. 

Aaron Allen, Samuel Berry, Peter Boger, John Brocklesby, Jesse Brink- 
er, John G. Burback, M. L. Carpenter, John Canouse, Benjamin B. Clark, 
W. Z. Corbin, John Cooper, Riley Concklin, William H. Concklin, Will- 
iam Concklin, Samuel Concklin, George W. Cummins, J. J. Davis, An- 
thony F. Davis, Thomas Dickerson, Alox P. Doren, John Dugan, William 
Eversole, William M. Green, Frederick Kline, H. A. Landon, Choice May- 
nard, Matthew H. Mounts, Henry M. Mounts, John Myers, William Nice- 
wander, Asa Leroy Patten, John M. Phillips, William H Rathell, John A. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 473 

Robinson, William C. Rapp, Joseph Sanford, Peter Shultz, George W. 
Shultz, Samuel Siples, John W. Statler, Peter B. Strine, William Sutley, 
J. H. Treese, Charles Van Houten, Uriah H. Welch, Miles Warrington. 

Company E — Capt. Charles Van Houten. 

Sergts. Jephtha Martin, George W. Williams. 

Corps. Leonard Little, Leroy S. Martin, John Gearhard. 

Privates Henry Counterman, Jesse M. Dean, Peter Harris, Jeremiah 
Jones, Amos Kersey, William Piper, Edward Witheral, John W. Witheral. 
Ezra G. Bartram, Thurston Brown, William H. Kip, Lafayette Smith, 
David P. Watkins, Eph H. Watkins. 

Other companies: 

A— O. W. Weeks. 

C — Garrettson Dulin. 

D — D. H. Clifton, Quartermaster Sergeant; George Graves, Wesley 
Rowe. 

? — John Camm, Elisha J. Bonham, George Snyder. 

ONE HUNDRED AND THIRTY-SIXTH OHIO NATIONAL GUARDS. 

This regiment, organized for 100 days' service, arrived at Camp Chase, 
Columbus, on the morning of the 12th of May, 1864, and on the evening 
of the 13th it was mustered, uniformed, equipped and on board the cars en 
route for Washington City. On the 20th of May, the regiment was placed 
on garrison duty in Forts Ellsworth, Williams and North, a part of the de- 
fenses of Washington, south of the Potomac, and was assigned to the Third 
Brigade, De Russy's division. It remained on garrison duty during its 
term of service, which expired August 20. It was mustered out August 20, 
1864, having lost from disease two officers and twenty-three men. Com- 
pany B was from Marion County. 

Company B — Capts. James B. Brown, John C. Johnston. 

First Lieuts. Samuel D. Bates, Simon E. DeWolfe. 

Second Lieut. J. C. Emery. 

Sergts. John Cook, Quartermaster Sergeant; Samuel Beerbower, J. R. 
Harshberger, John Hood, H. S. Lucas, C. F. Seffner, Ralph Spring. Ira 
Uhler. 

Corps. Joseph J. Boyd, Samuel R. Dumble, Lewis Gunn, Thornton D. 
Ingle, H. Morgenthaler. 

Privates Charles Anselman, John H. Ashbaugh, Henry Bain, Allen D. 
Baker, S. D. Bates, John Baringor, Peter Barker, Harrison G. Beemer, 
Stephen R. Beerbower, Charles P. Bishop, William E. Bowen, John Brat- 
ton, William H. Brown, Silas Burt, Noah Burley, David A. Carter, Lyman 
Church, James Clark, Ebenezer Corey, George W. Cone, George Concklin, 
Wesley Coffey, Albert B. Cooper, Thomas S. Cummin, Jacob Cummings, 
James Culbertson, John Dunlap, Daniel Eastwood, William B. Fisher, 
Christian Gruber, John J. Gruber, Chris Habermann, George Hamilton, 
Edgar Hawkins, William P. Hisey, Samuel Hoover, Abram B. Johns, By- 
ron Enable, Otho Enable, Ed Knapp, Elder D. Lindsay, Melvin Lincoln, 
Albright Mack, Isaac A. Merchant, W. Scott Merrill, James Meek, John 
McClung, William McNeal, Hiram Miley, John Moore, Thomas Munday. 
Frederick Myers, Charles F. Myers, Theodore Oakley, Wilson Peters, 
Thomas Pierson, Joseph W. Ray, James P. Repp, David A. Scott, Chris 
Seiter, David Seas, Van C. Search, Riley Sears, Thad S. Selanders, Barn- 
hart Shade, Henry Schaffner, Onesimus Shearer, Simon Siples, Reuben J. 
Smith, William S. Smith, Robert W. Smith, Daniel Snider, Ezekiel South- 



474 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

wick, Norman Spaulding, John D. Stokes, A. St. John, Noble R. Taven- 
ner, James Throckmorton, William G. Turner, Clark Turney, Benjamin E. 
"Underwood, James F. Valentine, Thomas H. Warner, Sanford Wilson, 
Jesse F. Williams, Jay Williams, George Woolford. 

Other companies: 

A— Chandler R. Smith, Sergeant; Thomas R. McKinley, Corporal; 
James Auld, George Hill, William Kinnaman, John Leathen, John Mat- 
thews. 

E — George B. Durfee. 

ONE HUNDRED AND FORTY-FOURTH OHIO NATIONAL GUARDS. 

This regiment was organized May 11, 1864, under Col. Samuel H.Hunt. 
It reported to Gen. Morris at Fort McHenry. A portion of the regiment 
was in the engagement at Monocacy Junction, and suffered severely. In 
July, it moved toward the Shenandoah Valley, and on the 13th of August 
was attacked by the enemy while guarding a train at Berryville, Va. It 
mustered out August 31, 1864. 

Company G — Sergt. D. J. Bower. 

D. E. Crabb, George Deal, Daniel Hickman, William Hickman, Elijah 
Kennedy, Robert Lindsay, E. H. Rubins, J. S. Rubins, Richard I. Thew, 
James M. Terry, Theodore Uncapher, Charles Van Orsdall. 

Company B — W. A. Butler. 

ONE HUNDRED AND FORTY -FIFTH OHIO NATIONAL GUARDS. 

This regiment was organized May 10, 1864, under Col. Henry C. Ash- 
well. It reported to Gen. Augur at Washington, and was assigned as 
garrison for the southern defenses of that city on Arlington Heights. It 
was mustered out August 23, 1864. 

Company A— Sergt. H. P. Adams. 

Corp. Cyre Field. 

J. H. Thomas. 

Company C— Joseph E. Crow, William W. Glaze, N. C. Hilford, Jacob 
Miller, Alpheus Miller, Isaac Miller, Adolphus Miller, Samuel R. Selan- 
ders, Jacob A. Schaaf, Abijah W. Sweetland, William Van Brimmer. 

Sergt. James B. Wyatt. 

ONE HUNDRED AND SEVENTY-FOURTH INFANTRY. 

The One Hundred and Seventy-fourth Ohio was organized September 21, 
1864, under Col. John S. Jones, and on the 23d left Ohio for Nashville, 
Tenn., to report to Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman, then commanding the Mili- 
tary Division of the Mississippi. On arrival at Nashville, orders were re- 
ceived to proceed to Murfreesboro, which was then threatened by Forrest's 
rebel cavalry. 

The regiment remained at Murfreesboro until October 27, when it moved 
to Decatur, Ala., and assisted in defending that garrison from an attack 
made by Hood's advance. After a movement to the mouth of Elk Creek and 
back again, the One Hundred and Seventy -fourth remained at Decatur, un- 
til recalled to Murfreesboro to participate in the investment of that strong- 
hold. It took an active and prominent part in the battle at Overall's 
Creek, losing two officers wounded, six men killed and thirty-eight wounded. 

After this engagement, the regiment was ordered on dress .parade, and 
complimented in person by Gen. Rousseau for their gallantry. In the battle 
of the Cedars, it again distinguished itself by making a charge on the 



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HISTORV OF MARION COUNTY. 477 

enemy's breastworks and capturing two cannons, a stand of rebel colors be- 
longing to the First and Fourth Florida, and about two hundred prisoners. 
The regiment lost in this engagement one commissioned officer killed and 
seven wounded; four men killed and twenty-two wounded. It was compli- 
mented in general orders for its conduct on this occasion. 

After having participated in all the fighting around Murfreesboro, the 
One Hundred and Seventy- fom'th joined the Twenty-third Army Corps at 
Columbia, Tenn., and was assigned to the First Brigade, First Division of 
that corps. In January, 1865, it moved to Washington City, where it re- 
mained in camp until February 21, then proceeded to North Carolina, and, 
joining the forces under Gen. Cox, took a conspicuous part in the battle of 
Five Forks, at Kingston. 

On the 10th of March, it successfully resisted a fierce attack made by 
Gen. Hoke. It lost two officers wounded, four men killed and twenty-three 
wounded. This was the last battle in which the regiment was engaged. 

It joined Sherman's forces at Goldsboro, and served under Gen. Scho- 
field at Wadesboro, N. C, until mustered out at Charlotte June 28; then, 
returning to Columbus, Ohio, it was paid off and discharged July 7, 1865. 

Chaplain B. J. George. 

Company I — Capt. William H. Garrett. 

First. Lieut. Harry L. Boyd. 

Second Lieut. James S. Armstrong. 

Sergts. Sanford W. Devore, Orderly; William S. Drake, William H. 
Patten. 

Corps. J. B. Corbin, Samuel H. Kemper, Henry Stratton, C. Van Fleet. 

Musicians John H. Eversole, Arkinson B. Owen. 

Privates John Armstrong, Mahlon Baker, David M. Barnhart, William 
H. Bishop, Adam Blue, Abraham Boyer, Adam Boyer, David J. Brady, 
James Carmine, Newton M. Carr, James M. Carter, Wesley P. Clay, Elijah 
Collins, I. B. Cole, Elijah Collins, Wilson S. Coleman, Howard W. Coon- 
rod, David Cratty, Hiram Cratty, George W. Crawford, Eli W. Curran, 
John B. Gulp, Judson N. Davids, Paul Daniels, Justin C. Davis, Lewis W. 
Davis, John De Turk, Lemuel J. Essex, Samuel A. Essex, William Fergu- 
son, Jacob F. Fox, George Francisco, J. A. Francis, Andrew A. Gillett, 
L. D. Harshberger, Aug Z. Hawkins, Frederick Hecker, John N. Hurd. 
Emmanuel Knachel, Samuel M. Landon, Samuel Martin ; Simon Mattix, 
Kufus Messenger, Henry N. Messenger, Norman Messenger, Silas H. 
Miller, David Minnich, William H. Morgan, Samuel C. Mounts, Van R. 
Olmsted, George W. Owen, Robert H. Petry, David J. Payne, Jeremiah 
Parker, Reed S. Palmer, John Price, Isaac Redding, John Renzenberger, 
N. B. Rodgers, Martianus Ross, John Rupp, Orsamus Rutter, I. K. Scott, 
William H. Self, Henry Shannon; James Shaffer, Samuel Shroats, Jacob 
Skelley, William Slattery, Jacob S. Smith, William H Smith,' Henry 
Smith, Samuel Snow, Cory C. South wick, Lemuel Southwick. William 
Sprague, Thomas J. Squibb, C. M. Stockwell, Willard Stockwell, William 
Straw, George Sutley, John Swart, Enoch H. Taylor, James V. Taylor, 
Marshall Vestal, David H. Wyatt. 

Company K — Corp. E. D. Armstrong. 

Privates J. Adams, John Adams, A. Austin, J. M. Dawson, Isaac Den 
man, Hemy Harruff, John Jones, Henry Klinefelter, C. Martin, Albert 
Mitchell, John Ruth, Adam Shrock. W. J. Smith, Lewis R. Squibb, David 
Warner. 

Other companies: 



478 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

A — Albert Anderson, Cyrus Howry, August Stark, G. W. Underwood. 
B — Corps. Robert E. Benson and John Harris. 
C— David D. Little. 
H — Selim Houseworth. 

OTHER REGIMENTS. 

Regiments containing but very few names — five or less — of volunteers 
from Harion County, are, for convenience, grouped together here. 

OHIO VOLUNTEER INFANTRY. 

First.— Company I, W. C. Baker, Sergeant. 

Third.— Company I, Robert Glenn, Henry Coneklin, John Miller; Company C, 
John Duncan; Company E, W. C. Baker; Company D, Solomon Kline, First Lieu- 
tenant; also of Sixty-third Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry. 
'Sixth.— Company C, Merven Crowl, Corporal. 
Seventh. — Company C, J. P. Walterhus. 

Eighth.— Company C, R. M. Blanchard, R. J. Monroe; Company B, Hunter 
Hastings. 

Eleventh. — Company C, G. P. Godding. 
Twelfth. — Company A, James A. Riddle, Sergeant. 

Thirteenth.— Company E, George Beck; Company B, J. A. Schneckenberger, 
Corporal. Company G. Clark Dix. 

Fifteenth.— Company C, James Blair, George Crawford; Company I, C. T. Hard 
ing, Musician; Company D, E. J. Kightlinger, J. W. Corwin, John T. Hickman. 
Peter Blow, no company reported. 

Sixteenth.— Company F, John P. Rodgers, Corporal; Thomas Gallant. 
Seventeenth.— Company A, Amos C. Mutchler. 
Nineteenth. — William L. Irey. 
Twenty-first. — Isaac Miller. 

Twenty-third.— Company E, Henry Fields, Charles E. Warwick. 
Twenty-ninth. — Harvey L. Hall. 
Thirtieth.— Company E, W. H. Huffine. 

Thirty-first.— Company F, S. Harder, Sergeant. David J. Cheney; Company E, 
Benjamin Bickford; Company K, S. H. Henry, Commissary Sergeant, Nathan H. 
Patton. 

Thirty-second.— Company B, G. W. Keyes, Benjamin Corwin. 
Thirty-second Ohio National Guard. — H. G. Cooper. 
Thirtv-third.— Company C. C. Ziller. 

Thirty-fourth.— Company D, Basil R. Ridgway; Company E, John N. Slagle. 
Thirty-eighth.— Company B, Charles Gillespie; Company K, William Everett, 
Robert Haywood, William M. Henderson; company not reported, Jacob Strine, John 
M. Strine. 

Thirty-ninth. — Company G, Lewis Zachman. 
Forty-first.— Company K, George W. Slack, John H. Williston. 
Forty-third.— Company I, Hiram Noddle, Timothy C. Bonham; Company B, Syl- 
vester Walters, Sergeant Major, J. M. Cochran, Quartermaster. 

Forty-fifth.— Company C, John Williams; Company F, John C. Auld. Sergeant. 
Forty-sixth.— George L. Hanawalt, Musician; Company B, William Oberdier. 
Forty-seventh.— Company K, William Underwood; Company B, E. H. Dodge, 
Musician. 

Forty-eighth.— Company B, George Byers, Sr., George L. Byers, Levi W. Byers, 
Sanford Brundige, Corporal, David Hilford. 
Fiftieth. — Company A, Noble Landon. 
Fifty-second. — Company A, S. B. Marshall. 
Fifty-fifth.— Company F, William Rook, Sergeant. 

Fifty-seventh.— Company F, Andrew Ducatt; Company I, F. G. Young, William 
E. Trumbo. 

Sixtieth— Company B, Henry Ledman, Charles H. Lechnan; Company E, Henry 
Bireley. 

Sixty-first.— Company K, J. M. Reynolds. 

Sixty-fifth. — Company G, William J. Withrow, Samuel Selanders. 
Seventy-second. — Company C. W. P. Acton. 
Seventy-ninth. — Company'E. Enos Doughty. 

Eighty-first. — Company K. John Burkhart, John Beach, George Steinhelfer, Jacob 
H. Sulzer, Eli Winters; Company D, John A. Vanorsdall; company not known, 
Jacob H. Sulser. 

Eighty-fourth.— Company I, Moses Williams. 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 479 

Eighty-sixth.— Company B, Charles W. Mathias, Peter Burns, Andrew Mayfield. 

Eighty-seventh. — Company E, W. F. White; Company I, John Lesher. 

Eighty-eighth. — Company B, Cyre Field; Company I, George Bayles, W. S. Aye, 
H. A. Koons; Company K, Henry C. Thew; Company G, Joel B. Taylor, Bugler. 

Ninety-fifth.— Company E, S. W. Poysell; Company I, Thomas M. Robinson, Ed- 
ward S. Robinson, Gideon Scoby; Company G, Clark Dix. 

Ninety-sixth. — Isaac N. Mouser. 

Ninety-ninth. — Company B, James Harruff, G. G. Linn, Second Lieutenant. 

One Hundred and First.— Company C, A. D. Miller. 

One Hundred and Second. — Company H, Thomas J. McMurray; Company D, Thom- 
as B. Keech, Sergeant. 

One Hundred and Seventh. — Company H, E. M. Ritz. 

One Hundred and Eleventh.— Company C, J. M. Cassel; Company K, George 
Briggs. 

One Hundred and Twentieth.— Company C, Daniel Stauffer; Company H, Joseph 
Slagel. 

One Hundred and Twenty-second. — A. Corwin. 

One Hundred and Twenty-third.— Company F, William H. Fisher and Henry L. 
Simons, David T. Terry, Sergeant. 

One Hundred and Twenty-fifth.— Company K, George H. Masters. 

One Hundred and Thirty-second Ohio National Guard. — Company B, W. E. Parker. 
Sergeant. 

One Hundred and Thirty-third. — Company C. Charles W. Smith. 

One Hundred and Thirty-fifth Ohio National Guard. — Company I, Alex Robinson, 
L. Scranton, George P. Sparcklin and B. S. Walters; Company H, William Lindsay and 
Warner Scranton. 

One Hundred and Thirty-eighth Ohio National Guard. — Company H, Thomas R. 
Shinn. 

One Hundred and Forty-third Ohio National Guard. — Company F, J. M. Cochran. 

One Hundred and Forty-fifth. — Company A, H. W. Curren; Company C, J. A. 
Schaff. 

One Hundred and Fifty-first. — Company M, A. F. McCoy. 

One Hundred and Fifty-ninth Ohio National Guard. — Company B, George W. Cone. 

One Hundred and Sixty-third Ohio National Guard. — William Boughton. 

One Hundred and Sixty-seventh Ohio National Guard. — Company G, J. A. Vail. 

One Hundred and Sixty-ninth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. — Company F, Arnold South- 
wick. 

One Hundred and Seventy-ninth. — Company F, Isaac Wynn and John B. Travis. 

One Hundred and Eightieth. — Company C, Henry Logle; Company H, James C. 
Berry, John Kibler, William Markley, David Vestal, James Vestal, Noah C. Barnhart, 
Corporal, Charles Keller. 

One Hundred and Eighty-second. — James A. Ferguson, Samuel A. Selanders, Joseph 
Daniels. 

One Hundred and Eighty -fifth. — Company G, Jacob A. Artz, Orpheus Miller. 

One Hundred and Eighty-seventh. — Company B, Frank Snyder, Joseph Almendin- 
ger, John Rensler, Philip Moyer. 

One Hundred and Ninety-first. — Company F. Alfred Painter. 

One Hundred and Ninety-fourth.— Jesse Underwood and D. H. Wyatt. 

One Hundred and Ninety-sixth.— Company F, H. L. Reynolds; Company G, Frank- 
lin Shrieves. 

One Hundred and Ninety-seventh.— Company C, W. M. Richardson; Company G, 
Philip Alheim, Samuel Snyder. 

One Hundred and Ninety-eighth Ohio National Guard.— Company A, William Hal- 
bedel; Company G, Leonidas Orr. 

OHIO VOLUNTEER CAVALRY. 

Third.— Company M, J. Kreis, William Payne and Robert I. Mouser: M. Harrah 
and Robert Mears, Sergeants. 

Fourth. — Company E. John A. Moore. 

Sixth.— Company D, J. F. Apt. 

Seventh. — Oompanv I, Peter Long, Second Lieutenant. 

Tenth.— Company B. George W. Arthur, Sergeant, Joseph Cope, Farrier, William 
Nickels, Charles Short; Company L, Frank Keller. 

Eleventh. — Companv 1. Jacob F. Apt, Captain. 

Twelfth.— Company A, William Riddle, Corporal. 

Unknown Regiment.— Peter S. Johnson. 



480 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

MISCELLANEOUS. 

The Tenth Ohio Cavalry was organized in October, 1862, under Col. Charles C. 
Smith. It operated with the Army of the Cumberland in Tennessee, participated in 
the battle of Chickamauga, and was actively engaged in all of Kilpatrick's movements 
during the Atlanta campaign. It followed Sherman to the sea, righting at Macon, 
Griswoldsville, Waynesboro, and other places along the route; then moved north 
through the Carolinas. It was mustered out July 24, 1865. 

First Ohio Light Artillery.— Battery D, J. B. Deshong. 

Second Ohio Heavy Artillery.— Company E, J. C. Beaver; Company E, W. F. 
White, Sergeant. 

Fifth Ohio Infantry, Battery A.— Daniel Focht, A. D. Moore. 

Sixth Colored Volunteer Infantry.— Company C, W. M. Kerr. 

Union Light Guard.— D. I). Spaulding, Samuel Culp. 

OTHER STATES. 
PENNSYLVANIA. 

Second Infantry.— Company H, Philip Haybeck. 

Sixth Infantry.— Alfred L. Donithen. 

Fifty-sixth Infantry.— Company F, O. C. Lucas. 

Eighty-seventh Infantry.— Company B, W. J. Evans. 

One Hundred and Second Infantry.— Company A, James Dunlevy. 

One Hundred and Fiftieth Infantry.— Company B, William Booth. 

Ond Hundred aad Sixty-seventh Infantry.— Company E. E. Brownmiller. 

One Hundred and Eighty-fourth Infantry.— Company H, George Young. 

Third Cavalry.— Company H, David L. Stauffer. 

Seventh Cavalry.— Company M, William A. Moore. 

Eleventh Cavalry.— Company M., S. N. Titus. 

Twentieth Cavalry.— Company C, D. S. Grube, Quarter-master Sergeant. 

Twenty first Cavalry.— Company K, John H. Dulabaum. 

Washington Cavalry.— J. M. Klinefelter. 

ELEVENTH PENNSYLVANIA CAVALRY. 
COMPANY M. 

Elijah L. Bowen, Abram B. Cooper, Isaac Crowell, IraA. Denny, Elisha P. Dumm, 
James T. Harnett, Richard Harding, Joseph E. Johnson, W H. H. Johnson, First Ser- 
geant, Barney McCafferty, John Ringle, Francis Rosette, A. C. Runyan, Sergeant, 
Thomas Renzenberger, Cooper K. Sloan, Bugler, Isaac A. Smallwood, Harry Smead, 
Henry C. Spangles George Swisher, W. W. Watson, Harvey Wheeler, James W. Wil- 
son, Frederick Wise, Corporal, John Wish, William R. Wilcox, Josiah Worst. 



Seventh Infantry.— Company C, L. W. Thomas. 

Eighth Infantry.— Company C, M. M. Pixley. 

Sixteenth Infantry. — Christian Gabler. 

Twenty-third Infantry.— Company K, Simon C. Johnson. 

Forty-sixth Infantry.— Company B, George Lobick. 

Forty-eighth Infantry. — Company C, John Bentz, J. L. Patten, Second Lieutenant. 

Seventy-fifth Infantry.— Company A, I. N. McMillan, Captain. 

Eighty-seventh Infantry.— Company B, Spencer Bayles. 

Eighty-ninth Infantry. —Company C, John M. Greek. 

Tenth Cavalry.— Company K, William H. Crawford. 

Third Battalion.— William S. Elliott. 

ILLINOIS. 
Eighth Infantry.— Thomas Squibb. 
Tenth Infantry. —Company K, D. Tedrow. 
Fifty-first Infantry.— Company C, J. Doyle. 
Sixty-third Infantry.— Capt. George W. Baxter. 
Ninety-third Infantry— Company B, John F. Irey. Sergeant. 
One Hundred and Forty-second infantry— Company D, R. Willard. 
Third Cavalry. — Company L, Joseph Cratty. 

WISCONSIN. 

Twenty-fourth Infantry.— Company C. John W. Clark, Captain 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 481 

IOWA. 

Second Infantry. — Company C. R. L. Highly. 

Fifth Infantry.— Company *F, Benjamin F. Fulton. 

Sixth Infantry. — Company F, John Scoville. 

Thirteenth Infantry.— Company B, Charles Deisch; Company H, Jacob Keiler. 

Eighteenth Infantry. — Company G, Washington Clark. 

Twenty-fourth Infantry. — Company C, John Dearry. 

Iowa Border Brigade.— First Lieutenant, James F. Marsh. 

MICHIGAN. 

Third Infantry.— Company B, L. H. Howland. 

NEW YORK. 

Sixth Cavalry. — Charles Smith. 

Ninth Infantry. — Company A, John Witcraft, Sergeant. 
Thirteenth Heavy Artillery.— Company E, J. J. Bentley. 
Fiftieth Infantry.— Company B, W. W. Hines, Captain. 
Fifty-eighth Infantry. — Company G, Lewis Heimlich. 

One Hundred and Fifty-fourth Infantry.— Company K, Adam Herbener; Company 
B, James S. Stafford. 

One Hundred and Forty-ninth Infantry. — Company C, Patrick Lannon. 



Third Cavalry. — Company A, Harvey Boynton and Guy Boynton. 

Third Infantry.— Company C, John W. S*tone; Company G, T. N. Mason. 

MISSOURI. 

Fourteenth Infantry. — Company K, George Patton. 

Twenty-eighth Infantry.— Company C, Ira Gardinier. First Lieutenant. 

KENTUCKY. 

One Hundred and Seventeenth Colored Troops. — Company C, John Shamlan. 

KANSAS. 

Tenth Infantry. — Company C, J. C. Titus. 

UNITED STATES. 

Fifth Infantry.— Second Battery, C. L. Haines, A. J. Mutchler. 
Fifteenth Infantry. — Company F, J. M. Fletcher, Sergeant. 

Eighteenth Infantry.— Company D, Second Battery, Adam Brush; Company H, 
Second Battery, William H. Van Horn. 
Second Battery.— R. H. Thomasson. 
Second Artillery. -Company D, Amzi Totten. 
Fourth Artillery. — Company A, Thomas Moon. 
Fifth Artillery.— Battery H, James F. Mohr and M. M. Mohr. 
Sixth Colored Infantry. — Company C, Andrew Batty. 
Twenty-seventh Colored Troops. — Company H, A. Highwarden. 
First Veteran Volunteer Engineers. — M. V. B. Deter. 
Hospital Steward — Ernst Canzler. 

J. A. Mouser, M. D., Acting Assistant Surgeon of United States of America. 
Navy. — Byron Wilson, Commander, promoted Captain in 1883; John W. Elseroad. 

The following soldiers are also to be credited to Marion County: 
George W. Ault, S. E. Allen, John Burkhart, William W. Boxwell, Hiram Cratty, 
Joseph Cratty (see biography), James R. Cratty, Madison P. Crattj r , Henry Cratty, 
William Crissin#er, William A Cummins (cavalry), Richard E. Folk, James M. Fran- 
cis, Edmund R. Harris, J. Henderson, Isaac Hetrick, Ezra Betrick, Corporal, Company 
S; Isaac Hoffman. Company F. George Hoffstetter, Elias Klinefelter, Alonzo Krause, 
Corporal, Company G: John B. Leathern, William Lee. F. YV. Lee, Second Lieutenant, 
Eighty-second Ohio Volunteer Infantry; Josiah Long, Corporal; George Lemon, James 
B. Miller, W. H. Robinson. Michael Shewev. Charles Smith. Isaac Snyder. Luke A. 
Terry, W. D. Whipps. David Wolf. Miles Warrington. 



482 HISTORY OF MAUI ON COUNTY. 

WAR REMINISCENCES OF JAMES F. MollR. 

James V. Mohr enlisted October 24 L861, in Battery H, Fifth United 
States Artillery, at Marion, Ohio, and from that time on till April 1, 1862, 
nothing of any special notice occurred, except such as all soldiers have to 
endure upon the march or in camp life. "Being with Buell's advance, we came 
to the battle-held of Shiloh on the morning of the second day. While we 
were debarking our battery from the steamboat, the tight commenced, and 
as we forward trot marched, we realized that we were in for it. No one but 
a soldier can realize the thoughts that crowd themselves through the mind. 
' Comrades,' asked poor Jack Monhall, ' how do you like itf ' Oh, I do not 
care as long as it does- not strike:' but later in the day poor Jack had to 
pay the penalty of being a soldier. Being asked if he was badly hurt, he 
replied, ' Oh, I am killed entirely.' One comrade being wounded in the 
arm, commenced rubbing it, saying it was as hot as lire. A shell coming 
over, bursting over our heads, an Irish boy picked up a stick, throwing it 
after it, saying, 'Hi, now! where are you going to now?' I was twice hit 
by spent balls, and at the last charge had my horse shot from under me. 
Casualties of our battery : One man killed, fifteen wounded, fifteen dead 
horses, one gun disabled. Our losses were, for the whole army, upward of 
thirteen thousand killed, wounded and prisoners. 

" Now commenced the march to Corinth, Miss. Was there till after the 
evacuation, realizing the first stampede upon the right of the line after 
night; and while the soldier was taking nis rest, what an awful commotion 
it was! 

" After the evacuation, then commenced the march from Corinth to Iuka, 
Huntsville, Ala., Florence, Tuscumbia, Battle Creek, Tenn.; thence back to 
Nashville, Tenn., Louisville, Ky; from Louisville to Frankfort, Perryville, 
Mumfordville. back to Nashville, Tenn. Through this we had numberless 
set-tos. No soldier who participated in this march will ever forget it 
while life lasts. 

"On Friday after Christmas, we left Nashville for Murf reesboro, Tenn., 
fighting more or less every day, till "Wednesday before New Year; then the 
regular fight commenced. Our brigade of 1,240 men were in the reserve. 
This morning, about 10 o'clock, we were called on for help, and marched 
to the conflict, and soon came under a most murderous fire; in one-half 
hour's time, lost 620 men out of 1,400 in our brigade. I was wounded a 
short time after this, but remained on the battle-field till next morning. 
AVas in battery hospital till able for duty. 

" We camped around Murfreesboro till June 20, 1863, when we took up 
a line of march. On the 21st, we had a tight at Hoover's Gap, with some 
cavalry company, and marching till September 12, we left Tennessee River 
at Bridgeport, crossed the mountains toward Rome, Ga. Being ordered 
to close up the gap in the army, we moved toward the left till Saturday 
morning, September 19, when we arrived upon the field of Chickamauga, 
having marched all day Friday and Friday night. Saturday, at sunrise, 
we marched into the battle line, and from this on till about 10 o'clock, 
when we had a spare moment we would lie down and get a few moments of 
sleep and rest. Being now ordered to move to the left, we were taken away 
from our infantry support. We were in the woods. The gunners commenced 
on our battery. Finally we were ordered into position, and immediately 
ordered to change position, but being then already too late, a whole brigade 
of rebels charged on our battery and took 'it. Four men at the next gun at 
my right were bayoneted. When the ' rebs ' got hold of the muzzle of our 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 483 

gun, I thought it was time to leave; and if ever I ran it was then, for 
about two hundred yards. I thought my tongue was as big as my fist, and 
dry. In a few moments, our battery was re-taken, and I was the first to re- 
turn into the line of battle. Oh, the poor, wounded comrades! how they 
begged for help! 

"Our loss in those few minutes was forty -eight men out of our battery, 
in dead, wounded and prisoners. In our crippled condition, we were or- 
dered back to Chattanooga, getting there Sunday night. Monday after- 
noon we were ordered out to Missionary Ridge, and finally the whole army 
fell back to Chattanooga. Union loss, over 16,000 men, dead, wounded 
and prisoners. 

"And now commenced hard times with the army; being thirty-eight miles 
from Bridgeport, the nearest railroad point, short of rations, hemmed in 
by the Johnnies, it commenced tugging at our bread-baskets. Here I saw 
comrades fighting each other for the possession of food; saw soldiers pick 
up grains of coi'n where horses and mules had been standing for days, and 
eat it; saw horses and mules die by the dozen. After the battle of Chicka- 
mauga, I had nine horses left in my detachment; they all starved but one. 
Getting eleven more, all starved but three. 

" Now came Hooker, from the East, with the Eleventh and Twelfth Corps, 
giving us an outlet. 

" On the 23d of November, I saw Hooker fighting above the clouds at 
Lookout Mountain. On the 24th was the fight of Missionary Ridge, and 
this was my last fight, and I saw that noble regular brigade, who had 
fought so heroically at Stone River, crawling up the Ridge, halting often, 
and as often advancing. How our hearts throbbed with anxiety, fearing 
they would be driven back; but the line of blue still advancing, There! 
the right has gained the crest! Now see the Johnnies run! Oh, what a 
glorious sight for us! Every soldier cheering, encouraging that faithful 
line of blue, and striking dismay into the hearts of the Johnnies. 

" Going now into winter quarters, as the spring campaign commenced in 
1864, we were ordered to Nashville, and remained there till October 24, 
1864, the expiration of term of service. Having during the three years, in 
our battery, 233 men, when I left, there remained 36 men. From this 
county we had enlisted eleven men; out of the eleven, two were discharged 
for disability, one died from wounds, two returned wounded and six were 
not scratched by a bullet." 

Bsp~For the personal sketches of many of the foregoing soldiers, see Index. 




PAET Y. 



TOWNSHIP HISTORIES 



TOWNSHIP HISTORIES. 



CHAPTER I. 



THE VILLAGE OF MARION— MARION TOWNSHIP. 

THE village of Marion is situated near the center of one of the greatest States 
in the Union, in latitude 40° 35' north, and longitude 83° 08' west of Green- 
wich. Its elevation above Lake Erie is 410 feet, and above the ocean 1)77 feet. 
A point two and a half miles southwest of Marion is the highest on the railroad 
grade between Columbus and Toledo. The site of Marion, except the swale along 
Canal street, was covered with timber up to the time the county seat was fixed 
here ; and up to this time the place was known only as 

" Jacob's well." 
Upon the return of certain Commissioners, an incident somewhat memor- 
able occurred. The Commissioners encamped in what is now the south part of 
the town of Marion, and dined on salt bacon and other food, but had no water 
to quench their thirst or moisten their food. About 11 o'clock at night, 
Jacob Foos declared he was thirst}*- and could stand it no longer. Thereupon 
he arose, took an ax, and made a wooden shovel, and. approaching a moist place 
began to dig a well, declaring that he would " dig down to a veiy hot country 
or find water." He dug down about four feet, when abundance of water oozed 
out of the earth. This well was found by the thirst}- army of General Harri- 
son, and was used for many years by emigrants as a watering-place, and in 
honor of Mr. Foos it was ever afterward called " Jacob's Well." The locality 
was south of the original plat of Marion, but is how some distance within the 
village limits, on the east side of Main street, between Canal street and the 
foot of the hill. 

■• WAR ROAD." 

The old " war road " entered what is now the south line of Marion, about 
the west line of Col. Gorton's place ; thence followed very nearly what is now 
Main street, crossed the ditch about where the culvert now is, thence running a 
little west, crossed Center street, very near where McNeal & Wolford's office 
now stands ; thence through the front gate of the Bartram residence, near the 
Presbyterian Church ; thence to a point between the old Simon Pierce property 
and the old brick schoolhouse, where the road forked. One fork passed on 
north toward the lakes, while the other turned west to a point near where the 
old log house on Nathan Peters' old place is standing north of the old fair 
ground ; thence it ran near the sand pit on the old Reuben Smith farm, since 
better known as the "Widow Pettit farm ;" thence to the E. Conley and the 
William McWhorter farms ; thence to Ilillman's ford, where it branched, one 
fork going up by old Mr. Page's, and on to the old Col. Concklin place, and the 
other turning south by Elisha Griswold's farm. Southwick's, Dudley's, Squire 
Messenger's, Big Island, and meandering according to the necessities of the 
settlers. 



488 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

HI! ST SETTLERS. 

It is difficult to ascertain who was the very first man to settle in or near the 
present site of Marion. The known facts are these : John and Ebenezer Bal- 
lantine, Chandler, Edmund Hanford, Alexander Berry and Calvin Barnett 

were all in the neighborhood when Eber Baker arrived in the spring of 1821. 
The Ballantines arrived in the fall of 1820, soon after the land sale of August at 
Delaware. The double cabin, found unoccupied by Mr. Baker on the ground after- 
ward made the original village plat, had been occupied by Chandler and Han- 
ford. The precise locality of this cabin was on the east side of what is now 
Main street, a few doors south of South street. Nearest them was Alexander 
Berry, who owned 1 60 acres of land, embracing what used to be called " Beny's 
Hill," but afterward " Gospel Hill." He was then living with his second wife. 
He followed farming, and occupied this place till his death. It is now within 
the corporation limits. Barnett died but a short time ago, a poor man. 

Alexander Holmes, one of the original proprietors of Marion, never lived 
here; but his sons William, Alexander, Jr., and James, who came in 1821, 
lived here for some time and went further West. Samuel Holmes, another son, 
first settled two or three miles north, and afterward moved into town, where he 
finally died. 

Eber Baker arrived March 4. 1821, bringing with him a family, also a 
brother-in-law, Reuben Smith. See political chapter for further notice of Mr. 
Baker. 

Benjamin Davis came about 1822. He died about 1833, his widow surviv- 
ing him many years. His only son died young. Several of his daughters 
were married to men well and favorably known in Marion — -Louisa, to Rev. 
George W, Baker ; Ann, to Hon. James H. Godman ; Minerva Marion, the first 
white female born in Marion, married J. J. Williams, Esq. 

James Bowen settled here about 1823. and still resides in the log cabin he 
first entered, at the present toll-gate near the cemetery. The house is now 
covered with siding. In front is a locust tree, from the seed planted by Mr. 
B. when he first came, sixty years ago. Mr. Bowen is now about ninety-three 
years of age, still an early riser, and is able to walk to town two or three times 
a week. 

Among the earliest deaths were those of Dr. George Miller, a pltysician here 
during the earliest years of Marion, who died November 15, 1825, aged thirty- 
seven years ; Dr. E. Ballantine (not practicing) died October 7, 1825, aged six- 
ty-eight years; Dr. Simon A. Couch, November 17, 1826, aged thirty-two 3 ? ears; 
Ebenezer Ballantine died in July, 1825; Benjamin Hillman, October 19, 1826 ; 
Thomas Backus, October 24, 1825, in his forty-first year; Elisha Crosby, a mer- 
chant, February 9, 1827, aged twenty-five years. 

GENERAL PROGRESS. 

April 3, 1822, is the date of the acknowledgment of the town plat by Eber 
Baker, who named the place after Gen. Francis Marion, of Revolutionary fame, 
and he lived to see the village he laid out become a place of some 2,500 inhab- 
itants, with a large trade, and with two important railroads running through it. 
During this year, the question of locating the county seat began to be agitated. 
The Legislature appointed Commissioners to select a suitable site for the coun- 
ty seat of the newly created county, whose boundaries had been defined and 
the county named as early as 1820. Of course there were many rival claims 
for the location. Mr. Baker presented his place, pointing out its advantages. 
The Commissioners visited several localities, and finally concluded to report in 
favor of Marion. In lavy, the town had thus been created; in fact, there was 
one house and a patch of ground — perhaps five or six acres — that had been 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 489 

occupied by a squatter; the rest was in a state of nature. Probably the acces- 
sibility of water was the turning point in deciding for Marion. At this time, 
Samuel Holmes seems to have been a practical surveyor, and was employed bv 
Mr. Baker to survey the village plat, when he gave to the county the court 
house square and a lot for a jail, placing thereon a jail at his own expense. He 
also gave to the county the ground now occupied by the Kerr House and a lot 
north of it, and four lots for church purposes, and four for schoolhouses, and 
also a tract of ground for a cemetery, now known as the " Old Cemetery," and 
still under the control of the Township Board of Trustees. 

When the county geat was to be located, an old citizen, William Caldwell, 
who was present, thus describes the scene that accompanied: 

" When we first came to Marion there was but one family living where the 
town plat now is; that was Alexander Berry's. He had a large family, princi- 
pally boys, Abraham and Samuel being the eldest. They lived near Jacob's 
well. After the land was surveyed, Center Township was organized, and the 
first election for township officers was held at my father's house, and Elias 
Murray and David Tipton were elected Justices of the Peace. There were not 
to exceed twenty voters in the township at that time, and we still remained at- 
tached to Delaware County until this county was organized. 

" Some two years afterward, when Commissioners were appointed by the 
Legislature to locate the county seat, and came on for that purpose, they were 
invited to visit several locations, prominent among which were Marion Clari- 
don and my father's place on Rocky Fork. The interested parties of each place 
vied with each other in doing honors, and in giving receptions to the Honor- 
able Board of Commissioners and other visitors, by sumptuous entertainments 
which were accepted by them very gracefully. After viewing the respective 
localities, they stuck the stake at Marion. Then the enthusiasm of the people of 
that place recognized no bounds, and they got up an impromptu jollification; and 
not having any artillery at hand, they improvised a substitute by boring holes 
in seveial large oak trees with a two-inch auger, and putting in charges of pow- 
der, which they fired. Some of the trees were shattered to fragments. The 
next thing in order was the election of officers." 

For this list, see the political chapter, under head of " Election Returns." 

At the first settlement of the town, people experienced great difficulty in 
getting grinding done. There were water mills at Cardington and Delaware , 
but when water was low, traveling was better and the mills more thronged than 
ever. To remedy the difficulty at Marion, Mr. Baker built a horse mill, which 
was run for some time, with great benefit to the people. 

The first tavern in Marion was on the lot occupied by a Mr. Chandler. He 
had built a double-log cabin, and in 1822 Mr. Baker added a one-and-a-half 
story hewed-log house in front — the first building after the town plat was laid 
out. It was about twenty feet square. These structures soon proved too 
small, and the next year he added a frame building. The boards were sawed 
out with a whip-saw by Mr. Baker's sons, Lincoln and Charles. The clapboards 
were rived with a frow and shaved. The next hotel here was started by a Mr. 
Hodd}', in a hewed-log house, about one mile north of the court house. About 
the same time, Squire Davis kept hotel at the corner of Main and South streets. 
Mr, Hoddy next built a large brick tavern on the west side of Main street, 
south of where the C, C, C. & I. Railroad now crosses it. This building was 
used for a number of years by John Merrill for a tailor shop, and by Curley 
Drake for a chair shop, till the old house was ready to tumble down. It disap- 
peared long ago. Mr. Tootle built a two-story frame hotel at the northeast cor- 
ner of Main and South streets. This house was called for many years the 
" Catch-all." It was torn down in 1852. 

William and James Holmes erected a brick building on Main street, next 



490 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

north of where Campbell's block now stands. The original building was only 
eighteen feet deep, and forms part of the present structure. 

Elisha Crosby started the first dry goods store on the original town plat. 
It was situated at the corner of Main and South streets, which locality at one 
time became the business center of the town. William and James Holmes 
had a small stock of goods in a cabin. John and Ebenezer Ballantine had a 
small store about two miles north of town. In 1828, and afterward, there were 
general stores under the firm names of John E. Davidson & Co., and R. Lamb 
& Co. In the latter company were Caleb Howard and Richard Patten. 

The first house of any pretensions in Marion was built by Samuel Holmes. 
It is now standing next west of R. S. Fisk's. The Indians came in considerable 
numbers to see it. On the occasion of the death of one of their chiefs, a man 
of large size, Dr. Holmes, a brother of Samuel, " raised " the remains and hid 
them in the cellar of the house. The Indians, infuriated at the removal of the 
body, came to Marion on suspicion, to search the place. By this time the Doc- 
tor had carried his Indian into the woods west of town and boiled out the bones 
in a soap kettle. The Indians searched the Doctor's premises, but in vain, and 
they retired to their native wilds disappointed. The skeleton of the chief hung 
up in Dr. Holmes' office for many a year afterward. 

Samuel Holmes first settled on the farm now owned by E. Brewer and 
known as the " Pettit place." He built the large hewed-log house in which Mr. 
Fitzhugh afterward lived, and preserved the native grove which renders the 
place so beautiful. 

Mr. Holmes' daughter, Mrs. J. S. Reed, remembers, when a child, seeing 
deer playing in the woods around the house, Indians passing along the trail r 
and seeing her sister drown in the spring east of the house, on the banks of 
the Rocky Fork. 

Mr. Holmes surveyed the " New Purchase " for the Government, laid out 
Marion, and afterward surveyed Michigan Territory. 

A large frame barn which stood on the rising ground nearly opposite the 
Holmes house, was one of the original meeting-houses of the place; and many 
a sermon and exhortation was delivered here by the early preachers upon a 
congregation half of whom were " lolling " sleepily upon the hay and straw. 

MARION in 1825. 

Marion in 1825 comprised seventeen families, to wit: Those of Eber Baker? 
George Baker, Benjamin Davis, David Tipton, Jr., Dr. George Holloway, Z- 
HiggTns, John Baker. John O'Harra. James Withrow, Samuel Fish, Mrs. Dr. 
Miller, Col. H. Gorton, A. C Priest, Eber Smith, Elder Bradford, James Jen- 
kins and Dr. Simon A. Couch. 

There were three taverns. Eber Baker kept a kind of aristocratic house, 
where all the Judges, lawyers, etc., " put up." He, however, had no tavern sign 
out. Hotel business must have been the chief industry, as about one-fourth of 
the population were engaged in it. Tavern rates in 1825, in Marion, were 6£ 
cents for lodging, 12£ cents (New York "shilling") for feeding a horse, and 18f 
cents for a meal of victuals; and to movers a large discount was made from 
these rates. 

The three stores were kept by Crosby & Co., W. & J. H. Holmes, and a Mr. 
Will. There were two blacksmith shops, one kept by Henry Peters in the 
north part of town, and the other by Benjamin Williams at the south end of 
Main street. Rev. George W. Baker had a horse-mill that would grind four 
bushels of corn per hour; toll for corn, one-fourth; for wheat, one-sixth; and 
Baker was an honest miller, not taking even what was due him. James Lam- 
bert afterward purchased this mill, and remodeled and enlarged it tosomeextent. 
It went down in comparatively early times, but the frame-work about the wheel 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 491 

remained until it was torn down in the fall of 1871. The wheel was about forty 
feet in diameter. A. C. Priest had a tan yard, J. L. Withrow a shoe shop, and 
John O'Harra a chair and bedstead shop. The foregoing are all the manufactur- 
ing establishments that Marion had in 1825. There were also two doctors — 
George Hallo way and Simon A. Couch; one lawyer, Charles L. Boalt: one min- 
ister, Elder Bradford; one jail, and at times it was pretty well filled. 

MARION in 1827. 

The town in 1827 differed but little from the foregoing picture ; but an old 
resident, who came to the place that year, adds the following particulars : 

Large trees still existed upon the court house square and all through what 
is now the business center. Main street and the swales were the only parts 
clear of timber. A swale existed back of the site of the Magruder Novelty 
Saddle Works, crossing Main street near the Sarles stone building, where Sam- 
uel Kraner now lives, running around near the west end of Bennett's Block, 
where the post office now is, crossing Center street, and meeting another swale 
from the court house square at or near the rear end of Leonard's Block, and 
then running west through the rear end of J. H. Reed's lot and the front of 
Judge Bennett's, John J. Hane's, F. P. Seffner's, the schoolhouse and other lots, 
and where Center street now is, to the line of the present ditch not far from 
the New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio Railroad track. Near where Samuel 
Kraner now lives, there was a tree, turned out of root, that was used by pedes- 
trians to cross the swale at that point ; and where the old " war road " crossed 
this swale, on what is now J. H. Reed's lot, was a puncheon bridge to cross the 
swale. 

Calvin Barnett lived in a double log cabin, on the west side of Main street, 
between Mr. Mintzenberg's and Mr. Prosser's. In the fall of 1827, his cabin 
was partially destroyed by fire. He moved to the Schall farm, and afterward 
built a house not far from where George H. Kling's new residence stands, on 
the east side of Main street. 

Going north on Main street (west side), the next building was Widow Ber- 
ry's log cabin, nearly where Jacob A. Snyder's residence now stands. Abra- 
ham Kline lived in a frame house on or near where Edward Durfee now lives. 
He had a tanner}- on his premises. Benjamin Davis kept tavern in a hewed- 
log one-and-a-half-story house, on the lot where John Hardy now lives. On 
the David Mouser lot, Elisha Davis had a hewed-log house of one room, ad- 
joining the tavern, and used in connection with it by the latter for an office. 

Next north was Dr. Couch's office, but occupied in the fall of this year 
(1827) by Col. Gorton as a Count} 7 Auditor's office. This little frame was 
really on South street. It was afterward removed to the lot on the west side of Main 
street, where T. C. Hoxter resides. The next building was a little frame built 
by William Crosby, and used b}' him for a store ; afterward by William Bain 
for the same purpose. The latter had a hewed-log house of one story on the 
lot where his widow afterward resided, now occupied by Salter's stove store. 
It stood some distance from the street. 

No building then existed between the last-named point and the premises 
now occupied by Moore Brothers and Yake & Uhler's stores. This building 
was a two-story brick, with two rooms above and two below, with an " L " at 
the north end. It was then both a store and a dwelling. 

Next north, where Bartram's Block now is, there was a one-story frame 
building, about sixteen feet wide, running north to the alley. It was used by 
Jared Bartram for a tailor shop, and afterward by Richard Wilson for a chair 
shop. 

The next building was a one-story hewed-log house, on the ground now oc- 
cupied by Gregory's grocery, twenty-eight feet from the street, owned by Peter 



492 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Mark, who sold it to Judge Bartram, and the latter used it for a dwelling. 
Where Conrad's brick block now stands was a two-story log house, which afte 
man}' years was used for a shoe shop by William Cronk. The ne xt was th 
Hoddy tavern, on the Conrad lot, next to the C, C, C. & I. R. R. This must 
have been quite a pretentious house in its day, as it was a two-story brick, 
20x66, with an " L," etc. 

The house now occupied by Widow Clark, immediately north of the C, C, 
C. & I. R. R., was occupied by John B. Salmon as a residence; it was built 
by Dr. George Miller. The little brick building next north was used in 1827, 
by Nathan Peters for a cabinet shop. Nathan Peters resided in a hewed-log 
house on the lot where Philip Dietrich now lives, but back some distance from 
the street. Where the two- story brick north of the Kerr House (formerly Mar- 
tin Miller's) now stands, was an old round-log cabin owned by Hugh O'Harra, 
" Old Hood," as he was then called. 

John B. Salmon's cabinet shop was a frame building on the south lot of the 
Catholic parsonage property. Noah Kimple lived in a double log house on the 
Conover property. The Holmes Brothers had their first store in this house. 
One-half this building was of round poles, and the other scutched. Mrs. Hill- 
man lived in a frame house on the lot where Mrs. Snider now lives, which was 
formerly known as the " Corn property." Judge William Holmes resided in a 
one-and-a-half-story frame on the ground where William Koontz's residence 
now stands. On the east side of Main street, going south, the following was 
the order of buildings: 

A two-story hewed-log building used by Dr. Mills for a dwelling, on the 
twelve-acre lot now owned by Jacob Blaich. Where Mrs. Kent's house now 
stands was an old round-pole cabin used " promiscuously." Next was a two- 
story hewed-log house in which James Jenkins, the first Treasurer of Marion 
County, died. 

Elder Bradford, a Baptist minister, had a two-story log house north of the 
present McMurray & Fisher's carriage factory. Alvin C. Priest lived on 
ground now partly occupied as a lumber yard by Mr. Huber. Priest had a 
one-and-a-half-story hewed-log house, a bark house and a tannery. The brick 
house north of«the railroads was next south of Priest's. This house was built 
by Col. Hezekiah Gorton for a residence. South of this, William Norris had a 
little frame shoe shop. Samuel Calvert lived in a small frame house adjoining. 
Where the Huber Machine Works now stand, Maj. George H. Busby built a 
small one-story brick residence, which was also used for the County Clerk's 
and Recorder's offices, which he then held. Richard Wilson's chair shop in 
1828 was a small one-story frame on this lot. The two-story brick residence 
now known as the Hudson House, was built by Daniel Musser. 

Adam Uncapher built a two-story frame dwelling on the lot where the 
Kerr House stands. This dwelling had one room and a hall on the first floor. 
It was afterward incorporated into the American House. 

Samuel Calvert, saddler, had a little clapboarded frame building on the 
court house lot, toward the southwest corner. Dr. Couch's residence was on 
the Thew corner, a one-story brick building with attic. The John Tootle tav- 
ern, the old " Catch-all," was the next, standing on the corner of South and 
Main streets. The old stone house south of Leffler's grocery was the residence 
of John Ashbaugh, who had a pottery back of it on the same lot. Next was 
Eber Baker's tavern. Where Kowalke's residence is, Judge Thomas J. Ander- 
son had a one-story brick dwelling. Benjamin Williams had a little one- 
story stone house where Charles Inner lives, and near the same place, Mr. W. 
had a blacksmith shop. 

In other parts of town were the following: 

Alexander Berry, Justice of the Peace, resided near the southeast corner of 




" % 






■■•'" 



i^L^/l^J^UL^^J 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 495 

the village. Charles Baker lived in a frame house where J. S. Reed's residence 
is now. The old horse mill stood nearly opposite the present residence of John 
J. Williams. The latter place was occupied by a large hewed-log house, built by 
Rev. Baker,- the most of it being erected by himself alone. The Sheriff occu- 
pied a building adjoining the jail. John Baker lived in a hewed-log house, 
where McNeal & Wolford's office now stands. The latter is in fact the same 
building, turned around and re-modeled by Judge Bowen. John O'Harra 
lived on the corner of Center and West streets. The Methodist parsonage was 
on Dr. Sweney's west lot; it was of hewed logs. Near the corner of West and 
Silver streets, Jacob Rice had a little distillery and horse-mill, and a residence 
a short distance south. Dr. Holloway's frame dwelling was where Henry True 
now resides. Mrs. Baughman lived in a log house where Mr. Painter was liv- 
ing a few years ago, and her son Michael in a small cabin near the east line of 
what was Judge Bennett's pasture, south of Mr. Ryan's. 

MARION in 1828. 

In the Independent of February 13, 1879, an old resident published some 
reminiscences concerning the western portion of Marion as it existed in 1828, 
and for a short time afterward. We cannot do better than to quote the article 
verbatim : 

" While we had no churches [buildings] in Marion in 1828, we had the pri- 
mary frontier convenience, a schoolhouse, which in the liberality as well as ne- 
cessities of pioneer inhabitants, were always open to the gathering of the 
people, be they religious, political, mental, moral, or fun-loving and farcical. 
Our schoolhouse was of brick, situated on Lot 142 of the original town plat ; 
or, that those who ma}' have not traced the numbers of the lots may know, it 
was situated upon tbe lot and present site of the large one-story brick just north 
of the residence of John O'Regan. It was burned down in the year 1832, if I 
remember rightly, during a term of court, and with it also a portion of the 
county records ; and the present main building, eight feet longer than the for- 
mer one, took its place until; we adopted the union school system [in 18-42.] 
You will readily discover that the house of 1828 was of quite limited capacity, 
and yet it was our court house, meeting house for the different religious de- 
nominations then among us (not quite as many as we now have), elections of 
all kinds ; and, let me say, the first political caucus ever held in Marion was 
at that schoolhouse, to nominate a candidate for Representative to the State 
Legislature. 

" Here was convened the meeting for the organization of the Presbyterian 
Church of Marion, presided over by Revs. Yan Deman and Jenks, both from 
Delaware County. The house being found too small, as well as inconvenient, by 
reason of the construction of seats and writing desks, and this being an unusu- 
ally large assemblage for the organization of the church and administration of 
the sacrament, the people withdrew to the ' Grove,' which was a nice, clean 
shady part of the same lot and adjoining woods, open, though well shaded with 
massive oaks, the primitive occupants of the soil. 

" My impression is that there are some others in the county who participat- 
ed in the ceremonies of that da}*, though perhaps not now members of this 
church. There is the sister of Mrs. Busby (deceased in January, 1879), Mrs. 
Isabella Clark, nee Kennedy, who was present, but whether then a member and 
partook of the sacrament. I do not remember ; my recollection was she did. 
There were some, indeed a large portion of the members in that day residing in 
the country. I cannot recall to mind any that are now living, unless Mother 
McElvy be one. * * * 

" There was no improvement on West street south of the schoolhouse, un- 
less a brick yard and shed upon the lot where Mr. Linsley now lives should be 

Q 



496 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

considered such. On Center street, on the lot lately belonging to Col. Busby r 
John O'Harra had a long, one-story log building, composed of three cribs or 
divisions, living in the east and middle ones, and using the west one for a chair 
shop. Opposite to that, and upon the north side of Center street, where the 
pine tree stands in the front yard of Mr. Howard Copelaud's residence, stood a 
low, one-story log cabin, composed of logs of a larger size than the usual little 
buildings first erected along the line of the old war road, but with clapboard 
roof, and in true pioneer style. It was occupied in 1828 by John B. Salmon as 
a cabinet-maker's shop. Northwest of it and near the place where the east end 
of Mr. Copeland's little wood-house stands, was still remaining the little bridge 
or culvert used by the soldiers of the war of 1812, with its puncheon covering, 
over which was drawn the cannon that went to the North, and maybe those that 
told so well upon the enemy at Fort Stephenson. Upon the west lot, now 
owned by Dr. Sweney, was situated the Methodist Episcopal parsonage ; but 
the lot where the Doctor's house stands, and all west of the parsonage to Mr. 
Holmes' orchard, was unimproved. 

" I caught a fine swarm of bees upon a hickory bush near where the east 
wing of the Doctor's house now stands, in 1828. This was a prize to me then. 
At that time, we had no bee-moth in this country, and my bees in a few years 
counted more than forty swarms ; but the terrible destroyer came and soon di- 
minished the number. 

" Dr. Holloway bought three acres, situated between Center and South 
streets and west of the town plat, and extending to where the street east of the 
residence of J. E. Davids now is ; and W. Bain bought seven acres next to that, 
and extending to a line west from the south line of the town ; and Judge Ben- 
nett bought where the school lot now is, or all lying between his lots where he 
lived and the east line of the Henderson lot, now Campbell's, and I think all com- 
menced clearing up in 1828. The lots where Judge Bennett lives, and those 
north of them, and the lot where the Presbyterian Church now is were in the 
brush. The two north of where the church now is had been cleared, and 
a garden was cultivated on one, and a small nursery of fruit trees was on 
the other. Judge Bennett, I think, purchased and improved the lots where he 
resides, in 1829. That beautiful but mammoth oak, now spreading its lofty 
branches with so much grandeur, was deprived of its top in the spring of 1829> 
when the tree was perhaps six to eight inches in diameter at or near the 
ground. Little did I then expect ever to see such a tree as the present one in 
its place. 

" And now let me describe, for the present residents, the location of the now 
so-called chair factory lots at the time we speak of. 

CHAIR FACTORY LOTS. 

" All that location north of the schoolhouse above mentioned, or north of 
the alley on the north side of that lot, was composed of Outlots 6, 5 and 4 of 
Holmes' Addition, extending to the north line of the Scott orchard. But there 
was a comfortable log house standing a little west and north of the present res- 
idence of Mr. Diegle. 

" North of that, and on the line of the ditch, still flowing, there was a build- 
ing, of huge hewed logs, ycleped a 

DISTILLERY. 

" This distillery was of the old copper-worm order, and west of and at- 
tached to it was a horse mill, to aid in the preparation of the mash, and on the 
north that other necessary appendage, a hog pen. Within and in close prox- 
imity to the ditch, but separated from it by an open stone wall, was the well 
from which was obtained the water for the mash. This well was about five feet 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 497 

wide and four feet deep, and atforded the necessary amount of water for all 
practical purposes, as it was regularly replenished from the ditch. This estab- 
lishment was under the supervision of the same John O'Harra that carried on 
the chair shop above mentioned, on Center street, but by another man as de 
facto operator, by the name of Randall Tyler, the memoiy of whom, doubtless, 
still lingers in the minds of some citizens. 

"In the spring of 1829, our old pioneer friend, Jacob Rice, from Shepherds- 
town, Va., succeeded to the possession and control of those premises, and con- 
tinued for several years, when he left and went West, to ' grow up with the 
country,' and that was an end to the distillery businesss in that location. But 
the dwelling house remained and formed a residence for W. G. Johnson for 
several years, and the main building of the distillery remained standing until 
1847, when the writer of this paid $3 for it, took it down and converted a part 
of it into lintels in the erection of a brick house, and disposed of the rest for 
divers purposes. * * * 

OTHER OLD LANDMARKS. 

" There was a road, or what the Yankees call a ' path,' leading from the 
Kenned}' tavern, where the Conrad Block now is, past the schoolhouse ; and a 
small cabin built by Jacob Nichols, an Englishman, in the hollow east of where 
John Diebold's garden now is ; thence across that knoll, then thickly covered 
with small brush, and thence to Abel Tompkin's, now Gorenflo's ; thence to 
Reuben Smith's, now Kling & Wallace's; near Smith's stone quarry, then Bow- 
dish & Ballantine's, now Mr. Conley's ; thence to Hillman's Ford. It was 
mostly used for horsemen and foot passengers, but wagons also passed over it. 

" Time has obliterated the last traces of most of those things, but a few 
pioneers will recall them to mind, and with them those singular men, Jacob 
Nichols and Johnnie Appleseed, the leather stockings of Marion, who, many 
long years ago. went West to plant their nurseries and ' grow up with the 
countr}'.' " 

George M. Koons, one of the earliest blacksmiths of Marion, used to make 
business for himself, when Indians brought their guns to him for repairs, by 
stealing an opportunity, when the Indian's back was turned, to fracture the 
spring a little, and then calling the red man's attention to the fact that his gun 
needed a new spring or a new lock-, as the case may be. Many an extra coon- 
skin he is said to have " earned " off the " poor Indian " in that wa}\ 

SUNDRY BEGINNINGS. 

The first physician who located in Marion was Dr. Simon A. Couch. To 
build an office for him Eber Baker set his sons Lincoln and Charles to work, 
cutting down a tree and sawing out some lumber with a whip-saw, and they 
soon had the little structure completed. 

The first dentist was Dr. Barnhart, although a Mr. Garwood had practiced 
in this line a little before his day; then Theodore H. Dickerson, E. C. Throck- 
morton and William S. Drake. 

The first daguerrean artist was Maj. Magee, from Georgia, a jolly man; then 
Mr. Frary, W. H. Moore, Moore & Green, Moore & Reynolds and Prentice & 
Vail. 

The first marble works were run by Milo Lumbard. The first livery stable 
was probably kept by Wallace Hoxter and W. J. Clugston. 

Jacob Rice ran the first horse-mill. 

The first warehouse was established by Ault & Gorton; it is now owned by 
S. E. DeWolfe. 

Peter Mark mamufactured the first brick in Marion. 

John Hudson started the first butcher shop. 



498 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

The first menagerie and circus show in Marion was in 1831, which was ex- 
hibited on the lot now occupied by the Conrad store, corner of Main and Rail- 
road streets. 

The first piano was brought to town by Mrs. Catharine Wagen, and many 
of the citizens eagerly rushed to see the musical wonder. 

John Wildbahn was the first to introduce instrumental music in the church, 
which he did by means of a bass-viol, that " great, ungodly fiddle," as many 
considered it. 

The first carding-mill in Marion was started into operation about 1835, first 
by Michael Coon, then Stokes, William H. Wallace and finally Toven. The lat- 
ter brought to Marion the first steam engine ever set up in the place, and in 
the above establishment carried on also a linseed-oil factory, a screw press being 
used. This was on the corner of Railroad and East streets. A prosperous 
business was done here for many years, both in wool carding and oil pressing, 
until about 1855, when it was discontinued. 

In 1835-37, a steam grist and saw mill at the south end of the village was run 
by Olney R. Stone, whose engineer was one Winterhalter, and afterward 
" Steam Mill " Wheeler. Thomas M. Sloan had a carding-machine at the north 
end of the village, run by horse-power and engineered by the Merrits. 

James Gillespie erected a saw-mill on West street, which afterward passed 
into the hands of John Kanable, then W. E. Clark, O. Kanable, etc. 

The first foundry and machine shop in Marion was started in the southern 
part of town by Samuel Tillotson. He afterward sold out to Levi Bair, and 
he to Messrs. Rice. About thirty years ago, John Gurley ran a foundry and 
manufactured steam engines, machinery, fixtures of all kinds in the line of 
iron and steel, stoves, etc. 

The first chair shop was run by John C. Harrow, on the Baker lot. Richard 
Wilson was assistant workman. 

REMINISCENCES OF MARION* 

The first stores opened in Marion were branches from other towns, unless 
the Holmes firm formed an exception. The village was laid out iu 1822. In 
1824, when the county was organized, there were three stores, three taverns 
and several workshops and cabins. The stocks of goods were small and con- 
sisted of whisky, tobacco, powder and lead, cotton cloth and calico. These 
were the staples, and there was no money in the country. Every one wanted to 
buy, but no one had anything to pay with. Coon, mink and deer skins were 
legal tender, and great quantities of them were gathered in by traders. Credit 
was freely given to the people, and as a large part of them were transient and 
single, there were many Sittings, and loans were about equal to gains. Occa- 
sionally an exceptionally mean transaction was advertised, and the office of 
Judge Lynch was threatened in plain terms by the people, to deter a repeti- 
tion of similar outrages. 

Business of all kind was conducted on a small scale. In 1829, the entire 
receipts of the County Treasurer amounted to but $696.30, and the county was 
in debt $842.95. In" 1834, the receipts were $3,583.82. Wolf scalps were paid 
for to the extent of $7.75. In this, or the previous year, the Commissioners 
sold off the office lots, on Main street, at public sale, and announced to the pub- 
lic that the new court house was done, and would be occupied August 31, 
1833. The first barber who regularly opened out to stay was Simon Pierce, 
who announced himself in a fearful deliverance of poetry, ending with, " Hon 
esty carries a smooth skin." Simon was a tough shaver ; was religious by 
spells, and was a very Samson in strength, both physical and noseographical. 
He settled in 1834, and for many years was a landmark on our streets. In 

* Contributed by J. S. Reed, Esq. 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 499 

1828, the late Judge 0. Bowen made his appearance in Marion. He taught 
school, practiced law, sold goods, got married, became rich, died and left a 
large estate. June, 1835, Dr. T. B. Fisher made his professional bow to the 
Marion public. He has outlived a generation of patients, and enjoyed an exten- 
sive and, it must be said, successful practice. He is a generous, liberal, pub- 
lic-spirited man, full of good works, and known as the poor man's friend. Sep- 
tember 5 of that year, a meeting was called at Calvert's tavern to take under 
consideration the mode of a " regular forced graveyard." This year Summun- 
dewat, and two other chiefs of the Wyandots, advertised for proposals for a 
grist mill near Upper Sandusky, for the use of the Indians. January 2, 1836, 
an effort was made to have the streets graded and paved. A meeting was held 
in the court house and $700 subscribed to be expended on Main street. 

With slow growth the village made its way up to 1839. Goods were sold 
at enormous prices, and credits were the rule. But little money entered into 
trade. The merchants bought cattle, horses, hogs, grain, furs, etc., and turned 
them into money. Very few made both ends meet ; no one made anything 
beyond a living. As an illustration of the independence of the old regime 
merchants, we mention an instance that occurred on the lot now occupied by 
Moore's grocery, where Joel D. Butler kept a store. Butler came from Dela- 
ware and established a branch store for a firm in that place. Everything was 
kept neatly in place, and no crowd could induce him to wrinkle and tumble his 
goods. A lad}' came in one day and was a little hard to please, as ladies are, 
once in awhile, nowadays. After what would be called a brief showing by 
modern clerks, Butler left the lady, came round the counter and filled and lit 

his pipe, and sat down, saying, " You don't want a d cl thing, and you had 

better clear out — the sooner the better." With all his brusqueness the man 
managed to own his store and the room next north, which he afterward sold to 
J. S. Reed & Co., who occupied it for a long term of years. He did, however, 
fail, having adhered to old methods of business until he used himself up in the 
unequal contest. He took money of the farmers, paid them interest by the 
year, kept no regular account of his indebtedness, made no provision for pay- 
ment, and by and by, when his creditors called for money, failed. 

In this year, the need of a bell for funerals, meetings and court purposes was 
felt, and as the Commissioners declined to go to this expense, the people raised 
money and bought one. By agreement, it was placed on the court house, and 
was to be used by the several churches, the public and the county. All 
expense was met by subscriptions, not a dollar by taxation or the count)* 
treasury, and the bell belongs to the donors, the county having no right to 
sell or dispose of it. 

As this bell was the first one ever brought to the county, the citizens natur- 
ally desire it to be kept as a relic of olden times. In an eastern town its sale 
or removal would cause a riot. Rut in newer sections reverence and history 
are comparatively unknown factors. We introduce the old bell because its pur- 
chase was made by the old merchants and citizens, now nearly all dead. When 
the money was raised, a dollar was equal to twenty now, and man}- a contrib- 
utor felt the loss of his donation. Should it be disposed of, when too late it 
would be regretted. Marion would then regret that coming generations could 
have no relic of the old time. By all means save the old bell for the future 
library and memorial hall. 

In 1839, T. M. Sloan kept a store where Patten's grocer}* now is ; Richard 
Patten, where Fahey's store is kept ; G. H. Busby, where J. Strelitz & Son have 
their store ; J. S. Reed & Co. had store and bank where Yake & Uhler now is ; 
J. D. Butler, where Moore's grocery now is ; Hardy & Spalding, where Haber- 
man's hardware store is ; E. Hardy, where Eckhart's clothing store is ; Kimble 
& Kendrick, where Oppenheimers and Barretts do business ; Bain ami Will- 



500 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Lams, where J. Fribley & Co. hold forth ; G-odman & Williams, where Wyatt 
is ; Search iV Miller, where Ilarshberger and Terpany & Rlioads do business ; 
II. & lv Peters, where Mrs. Walter's harness shop is; Davidson, where 
Kleinem's clothing store is, and Ault & Gordon, where Matthews' grocery was, 
east of court house. Of all this long list there survives but the following, 
viz. : IT. and E. Peters, William Hardy. B. H. Williams and J. S. Reed. 

About this time, a Yankee merchant opened out, and cut down the old 
system, by selling for cash at small profits. The old traders, who had taken up 
the business without training, were shocked. Every effort was made to drive 
off the Yankee, but in vain ; he had come to stay. Gradually, the business of 
the count}- changed into better shape. Farmers prospered, for they saved half 
their expenses ; merchants prospered, for the}' ceased to lose their profits in 
bad debts. In place of stocks of goods amounting to $2,000 or $3,000, stocks 
of 120,000 or more began to be common. 

Wheat was hauled by wagon to the lake, and the teams loaded back with 
goods. We give a sample of the receipts given by the teamsters on these occa- 
sions : 

Received Marion, Ohio, October 2, 1842, forty-two bushels wheat in good order, 
to deliver in like order to Townsend & Henderson, Sandusky City, Ohio, at 20 cents a 
bushel, payable in goods. I agree to haul back load at 31 i cents per hundred, also pay- 
able in goods. Received on account $2 in cash. 

John Griffith, 
D. R. Griffith. 

The old book from which the above is taken contains hundreds of receipts, 
signed by the farmers of the day. Among them we notice John Thompson, 
Adam Sherman. M. Brown, N. Stoneberger. Jacob Baker, John Downs, Thomas 
Bloxam, Nathan Rayl, William Griswold, Jacob Retterer, John Downs, Adam 
Fink, James Lambert and Thomas Slick. 

It was a great undertaking to get off the wheat taken in for goods during 
the winter, and to sell and re-invest in goods, and get them back into store 
again. There were so many changes in value, so many expenses and risks, 
that but few merchants succeeded. The statistics of Marion Count}- mercan- 
tile business establish failure as the rule, and success as the exception. 

Railroads gave Marion the go-by for many years after they were introduced 
into Ohio. Bucyrus, Kenton. Delaware and Mansfield had received an impe- 
tus from rail long before Marion had any hope of hearing the steam whistle. 
But when once the county was crossed by the old B. & I., others soon fol- 
lowed, and now Marion can count more routes than any of them. Railroads 
banished the old style of business. 

The long string of covered wagons, frequently fifty in one line, loaded with 
grain for the lakes, each with bed and lunch box. which slowly and patiently 
toiled over the long distance, with its night encampment, its camp fires and 
pleasant groups of story tellers, have disappeared, and is now known only by 
tradition. The old-fashioned store with its scant stock of staples ; its handy 
whisky bottle and tin cup ; its ample day book and its ledger ; its quaint 
salesman with few words and plain dress, and meager pay ; its fearful prices 
with Noah's ark fashions — all these have gone to the death to be seen no more! 
Young America with its " make or bust," its plate glass windows, its expensive, 
fashionable goods, dandy-dressed clerks, diamonds, and lavish salary, and 
the woman of the period equal in fashionable extravagance — all these have 
come in, and the cost and expense of the modern machine would have shocked 
the old-timer, and driven him into suicide. 

The first attempt at banking came in as an incident of mercantile business 
as early as 1839. J. S. Reed & Co.. lent their receipts to cattle dealers, who 
paid interest on the money, and repaid in exchange on New York. The lat- 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 501 

ter was worth two to ten per cent premium. From small beginnings they 
grew, until the concern opened an office for banking alone. The nearest bank 
was in Columbus, and people found it convenient to be able to do this business 
at home. The present Marion County Bank is the succession to this first bank- 
ing venture, and it is under the same ownership and management. Later, the 
Deposit Bank and the Farmers' Bank came in and succeeded. Since banking 
has been introduced with regular capital and organization there have been no 
failures or suspensions. The men engaged in the business have actual capital 
and are not adventurers, and there is no count}' in the State where money can 
be procured more conveniently than in Marion. It is the money center for the 
counties adjoining. Other county seats show more handsome buildings, more 
display and more style, but they also show meager bank balances and plenty 
of mortgages on their big blocks and fine houses. The absence of these latter 
ornamental plasters upon Marion real estate, forms one of the most pleasing 
features in an examination of the county records. 

BUSINESS ESTABLISHMENTS. 

The oldest business house that is still operating, without change of firm, is 
that of T. J. Magruder's Novelty-Saddle Works, which were established January 
2, 1854. William Rutan was with him the first year. Mr. M. has added some 
improvements to the business, among them a style of pad trimmings and a mil- 
itary saddle-tree, for which latter he received a diploma from the Ohio State 
Board of Agriculture in 1866. 

MANUFACTORIES. 

Chair Factory. — The principal chair factory that has been in existence in 
Marion was located on the corner of West and Silver streets. A small building 
was first erected here many years ago for a button factory, by H. Scott & Son, 
but before it was started into operation as such, additions were made to it and 
the whole establishment converted into a carding mill by Nyrum Rundle and 
wooleu factor}- by the Longe brothers, and as such was run by them during the 
war and afterward. 

The building was next converted into a chair manufactory, about 1372. 
and a flourishing business in this line was carried on by a company consisting 
of Capt. Elisha Hardy, H. Copeland. J. R. Paddack and M. J. O'Brien, until 
.July 25, 1876, when an incendiary fire swept it all away, Capt. Hardy losing 
the building. Total loss, about $16,000. The same fire burned down George 
Diegle's house ; loss, $2,500. The main building in this establishment was 
50x100 feet in dimensions. Since then no factory has been rebuilt upon the 
premises. 

The Ruber Manufacturing Company. — In the spring of 1866, nine years 
prior to the organization of the present company, Mr. Edward Huber became 
a member of the firm of Kowalke, Hammer &" Co., in the proprietorship of a 
planing mill. In 1870. that firm was changed to Huber. G-unn & Co., who 
manufactured the Huber Revolving Hay Rake. The present coin pan v. as 
named at the heading of this paragraph, was incorporated in January, 1875. to 
carry on the business of manufacturing and selling agricultural implements and 
machinery, and virtually succeeded to the business and good will of Huber, 
G-unn & Co. and Holmes & Seffner, consolidating the property of the two 
firms. The incorporators were Edward Huber, E. Durfee. J. J. Hane. Lewis 
Gunn and M. W. Haines. 

The capital stock of the present company was originallv 875,000; but this 
was soon found inadequate to the business, and in 1881 it was increased to 
$150,000, with a surplus of $20,000, making $170,000 capital activelv em- 
ployed. The only specialty manufactured by this company at the start was 
the Huber Revolving Rake, the invention of Mr. E. Huber.'to which was soon 



502 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

added the Huber Revolving Steel Road Scraper and Steel Dump Scraper, fol- 
lowed by the Huber Farm Engine, all the product of Mr. Huber's inventive gen- 
ius. Later on, the Huber Grain Thresher, the joint product of Mr. Huber and 
Mr. F. Stroble, was brought out, and proved as successful as those that supersed- 
ed it in the market. 

The product of the company is being sold in nearly every State in the 
Union, and some little is being done in the way of export to other countries. 
The company employ in the aggregate about 150 men in all the different de- 
partments, and manufacture per annum 150 engines — plain, locomotive and 
straw-burning ; 150 grain threshers of all sizes, from the smallest commonly 
used to the mammoth machine used in the Northwest ; 2,000 revolving steel 
scrapers, 3,000 steel dump scrapers, and 6,000 revolving hay rakes, besides 
other work incident to the trade, and each succeeding year increases these fig- 
ures. 

The working force is divided into departments, as wood workers, painters, 
blacksmiths, boiler-makers, sheet iron workers, molders and machinists ; and 
each department is presided over by a foreman, who is in turn responsible to 
the Superintendent for the management of his particular department. The 
whole is so thoroughly systemized that all parts move along with perfect har 
mony. 

The present officers of the company are as follows : E. Huber, President 
and Superintendent ; A. J. Brockett, M. D. (Cleveland), Vice President ; S. 
E. Barlow, Treasurer, and J. Swinnerton, Secretary ; who have the man- 
agement of the whole business in connection with the present Board of Direc- 
tors as advisory. The board comprises E. Huber, M. W. Haines, E. Durfee, 
J. J. Hane, G. H. Kling, T. P. Wallace, J. C. Titus and A. J. Brockett. 

Mr. Huber has perfected and brought out " The Huber " straw-burning en- 
gine, which has taken its place at the front in the Northwest, and held it to the 
exclusion of all others, while " The Huber " locomotive has kept it company, 
and invaded the other territory, being used largely by contractors in building 
pikes and roads in nearl}' every section of the country, as well as by farmers 
to thresh their crops and move them to market. 

The company occupy about five acres of ground, with their shops, offices, 
lumber yards and shipping arrangements, and pa} r out annually in wages to 
employe's about $60,000. 

The building used as a wood working shop was originall}' a church, and 
used as such for a long time, and afterward as a school, and then converted 
into a sash and door factory, and finally remodeled and added to and converted 
to its present use. The building used as a machine shop was originally built 
for a grain elevator, and by Messrs. Holmes & Seffner converted into a machine 
shop, and as such it has since been used. The company have added some fine 
buildings since, and will continue as the business increases from year to year. 

PETER LA TOURRETTE'S FOUNDRY AND MACHINE WORKS. 

This extensive foundry and machine shop is located near the C. & T. 
depot, and is one of the busy establishments of Marion. The main shop 
is 35x56 feet, and two stories. The foundry is 30x50 feet, with melting 
house attached, and an engine house 15x30 feet. A specialt} r here is the man- 
ufacture of a drain-tile machine, of which Abram La Tourrette is the inventor. 
It weighs 4,500 pounds, is made wholly of iron and steel, of the best material. 
It will make tile from two to nine inches caliber. It is probably the best tile 
machine in use. Mr. La Tourrette has the honor of having made the first tile 
machine ever made in the United States. He was then doing business in 
Waterloo, N. Y.. and constructed the machine after models from England, add- 
ing many improvements of his own. 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 503 

m'murray & fisher's carriage works. 

This institution was established in the year 1866, by the firm of Moore & 
McMurray. The building was consumed by fire in March, 1868, when Mr. 
Moore retired from the firm, and J. W. McMurray succeeded him in the com- 
pany, which now became T. J. & J. W. McMurray. These gentlemen imme- 
diately rebuilt the works. In 1870, W. B. Fisher became a partner, and the 
firm name was accoixhngly changed to McMurray, Fisher & Co. In 1874, J. 
W. McMurray retired, and the firm name has since been McMurray & Fisher. 

Their building is a brick structure, 66 feet in frontage and 166 feet deep, is 
two-stories high, and cost $11,000. In this establishment the firm employs 
from eighteen to twenty-eight men, turning out annually about 300 carriages, 
buggies and spring wagons, and the business amounting from $30,000 to 
$40,000. Their buggies find a sale in the States and Territories all the way 
from the Atlantic to the Pacific, including the largest cities, as New York, Bal- 
timore, San Francisco, etc. This business was begun on a very small scale by 
Messrs. Moore & McMurray in 1866, but they have built up an extensive trade 
and earned an enviable reputation in their line of business. 

bieber's flouring mill. 
This is the old academy, raised from a two to a three-story building, of 
brick, and furnished and run as a first-class flouring-mill. It is 45x65 feet 
in dimensions, contains four runs of buhrs, emploj'S three hands, and has a 
capacity of sixty barrels per day, doing both merchant and custom work. In 
1867, Mr. Bieber, in company with Mr. Keiler, purchased this mill, aud con- 
ducted the business under the name of Keiler & Bieber about eighteen months, 
when L. C. Haines purchased Keiler's interest, and the firm of Haines & 
Bieber continued one jear ; then Mr. Haines sold to his son, Monroe W., and 
one 3-ear afterward Mr. Bieber bought his partner's interest, since which he has 
been sole proprietor and manager. 

JACOB keiler's planing-mill. 
This mill was built in 1875 or 1876, by the present proprietor, at an 
expense of $4,000. It is 24 by 100 feet in size, and is devoted to the manu- 
facture of doors, sash, blinds and all kinds of building material, employing on 
an average eight men. 

CLARK DIX'S TILE FACTORY. 

This factor}' was started in 1869, on East Center street, near the eastern 
limit of the corporation. At this place is manufactured first-class drain tile of 
all diameters, from two to eight inches inclusive, averaging about 14,000 rods 
of tile annually. 

HENRY SHAFFNER'S FURNITURE FACTORY. 

This factory is situated between South Main and East streets, was built in 
1877. Mr. S. employs four men, and manufactures all kinds of furniture. 

STONE QUARRIES. 

Marion is a city situated " upon a rock," and has thus not only a solid 
foundation as enduring as the •' everlasting hills," but is as convenient as pos- 
sible to the best material for the construction of walls, foundations of buildings, 
abutments, etc., both as to stone and lime. Below are noticed three of the 
principal quarries now being worked at Marion : 

Habermaris Stone Quarry. — This is located three or four squares northeast 
of the court house, and was discovered in 1857, in the following manner : Mr. 
Christian Haberman tracked a rabbit that had been gnawing his 3 T oung apple 
trees, to where it entered the ground between two rocks. In attempting to dig 



504 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

it out, he found he had struck a fine quarry of stone. He immediately pur- 
chased half an acre, paying $150, which has returned him thousands of dollars. 
It is blue limestone, and excellent for building purposes. He still works this 
quarry, contracting and building, having in his employ twenty men. 

The Marion Stone Company comprises C. E. & G. E. Smith, whose quarry 
is situated about a mile northwest of Marion, on the C, H. V. & T. Railroad, 
and office in the Campbell Block. They commenced May 1, 1878, and now em- 
ploy ten to thirty men, shipping blue and gray limestone, crushed stone and 
stone for walling, bridges, ranges and furnaces. 

Norris & Christian commenced partnership in 1882, and work the largest 
limestone quarry in Central Ohio, having steam hoisting machines, etc. They 
also quarry and ship good building stone from the same place. They contem- 
plate the production of 1,000 bushels of lime per day. 

ELEVATORS. 

The " Marion Elevator," on the C, C, C. & I. Railroad, toward the eastern 
part of the city, was built in 1852 by Ault & Gorton. It is 40x80 feet on the 
ground, and two stories high. Ever since the fall of 1854, it has been owned 
by Simon E. De Wolfe, who is now canying on an extensive trade. 

Gregor3''s Elevator was built by John Gregory in 1874, on the northwest 
corner of West and Railroad streets. It is 26x76 feet on the ground, and 74 
feet high, and has a capacity of 70,000 bushels. It cost $20,000. 

HOTELS. 

The earliest hotels or " taverns " have already been referred to. John 
Tootle's, about 1830 and afterward, became Isaac Kellar's, with the sign of the 
rising sun. 

In 1837, four hotels were kept in Marion : Father Edward Kennedy's, in a 
brick building at the corner of Main and North streets, kept for a time by a 
German named Gx'oll ; Fred Byerly's, half a square south ; the Marion Hotel, 
kept by Cyrus B. Mann, a good landlord, and the Mansion House, on the 
corner of Center and East streets, built by Eber Baker and kept by Father 
Parish. The Byerly Hotel was subsequently kept b} r Michael Coon, Joseph 
Stokes, the Messrs. Shaubs and J. E. Sands. It was rebuilt by Benjamin Kerns, 
and kept by Gen. Clark, who died of cholera in 1854 ; then by C. B. Mann, Mr. 
Davis and Philip Loebrich. While the latter was in possession in 1859, the 
property was burned down. 

In the Marion Hotel, Mr. Mann was succeeded by Mr. Young, John Search . 
(who died of cholera in 1854), Fred Freese (who added another story, and 
changed its name to American ; A. H. Brown, architect and builder), Freese, 
Smith & Davis, Sheriff Mann, Mr. Conrad, etc. The Kerr House now occupies 
the site. 

The Exchange was kept by Sergeant, Priest, Seitz, Clugston, Ferris, Mann, 
Runyan, Moore, etc. 

The Marion House was once kept by George Smith, who, in 1859, ran away 
in debt to man}'. This was afterward changed to American House, and con- 
ducted by A. Paxson, A. Germain, C. B. Mann & Son, etc. P. Loebrich kept 
the United States House before the war. R. Gray had Gray's Hotel. 

Kerr House. — This imposing four-story brick structure was built in 1873, 
on the site of the old American House, by Robert Kerr, who still owns it, and 
was opened as a hotel April 14, 1874, by J. Cochran, who kept it until 1877, 
when the present landlord, Mr. Johnston, took possession. It is 60x120 feet, 
and cost about $60,000. 

Hotel Marion. — This modern hotel building was erected in 1882-83 by A. H. 
Kling, George H. Kling and J. J. Hane, at a cost of 640,000 to $50,000. Its 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 505 

walls are made of pressed brick, with Amherst stone trimmings, while inter- 
nally the wood work is of Georgia and white pine, not painted, but tastefully 
finished in the natural wood. 

The main structure is four stories high, not including the basement, which 
is fitted up for a barber shop, laundry, etc. On the first floor is located the 
hotel office, 18x45 feet. Off from it is the ladies' reception room, reading 
room, sample rooms and a conveniently fitted wash room. In the rear of the 
office is a large and well-lighted dining-room, complete in all its appointments. 
On the second floor are large, double parlors. The rest of this floor and the 
two upper floors are divided into sleeping apartments, and all of them are well 
lighted, pleasant rooms. The house is fitted with an elevator, fire escape and 
bath rooms, while in the third story is a tank of 100 barrels' capacity to sup- 
ply soft water for the use of guests. The whole number of rooms is sixty-one. 

The building on the ground covers an area of 70x100 feet. It was com- 
pleted in the summer of 1883, and rented to Mr. E. D. Ely, of Akron, Ohio, 
who, after newly furnishing it throughout, opened it for the accommodation of 
the public August 15, 1883. Mr. Ely is a gentleman well and favorably known 
throughout the country as a thorough hotel man, and also as a courteous land- 
lord, and since the evening it opened the Hotel Marion has been overflowing 
with guests. 

C. & A. Railway Hotel. — This neat and commodious two-story frame build- 
ing, just completed, fronts the Chicago & Atlantic and the New York, Pennsyl- 
vania & Ohio tracks, just west of the Columbus, Hocking Valley & Toledo 
track. Lunch and dining rooms are the specialty. 

X. Herman has also a small hotel near the Columbus, Hocking Valley & 
Toledo depot. 

BANKS. 

Prior to 1840, the entire money business of the county was done at Columbus, 
Delaware and other adjoining places. Now Marion has a larger actual capital 
in its banks than any of its neighbor count}- towns, and is entirely independ- 
ent in money matters. Large amounts are constantly on loan in Union, Har- 
din, Wyandot, Crawford and Marion Counties. Almost any reasonable 
amount of money can be raised in Marion, at short call, on good security. Ex- 
cept one suspension some twenty years ago, which entailed no real loss to any 
one, the banks in Marion have stood sound and firm, enjoying the entire con- 
fidence of the people. The}' are owned and managed by actual money lenders, 
who, lending their own means, are not liable to be shut up by every panic. No 
interest is paid by any Marion bank upon deposits. Any good man, with 
good paper, can at all times get the money for his paper at a uniform rate, 
without being shaved. The banks are all unincorporated, private organiza- 
tions, there being no national bank or other incorporated institutions in the 
county. The count}* and village municipal treasuries are also always in sound 
condition, carrying in the opinion of many entirely too large balances of money 
on hand. The same sound, conservative condition characterizes the merchants, 
traders and farmers of the county. Failures are rare, and success and thrift 
the rule among them. 

Marion County Bank. — This bank was organized in 1839 by J. S. Reed, Dr. 
H. A. True and R. H. Johnson, under the firm name of J. S. Reed & Co., with 
a capital of $30,000. J. S. Reed was made President, and H. A. True Cashier. 
The bank was re-organized in 1843-44, under the name of " Marion County 
Rank." In 1856, R. H. Johnson succeeded Dr. True as Cashier, and has 
since held that relation with the bank. This bank issued the first certificate 
of deposit that was given in Marion County, and at the present time has it in 
its possession. The present owners of the bank are : J. S. Reed, President ; 
R. H. Johnson, Cashier ; Henry True, Assistant Cashier ; and J. H. Reed. 



506 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

The bank now has a capital of $100,000, and, although not incorporated, 
each member is individually responsible for the liabilities of the bank. This 
institution has been conducted by the original owners, and is kept in the 
family, according to the old English system. It is the oldest banking house 
in Marion, and for forty years had a standing bank account with a bank in 
New York Cit} r . The Marion Count}' bank has passed through all the 
financial panics without suspending business an hour, and has always been 
prompt in meeting its obligations. 

Marion Deposit Bank. — This monetar} 7 institution was formed June 10, 1854, 
by Orren Patten and T. P. Wallace, under the firm name of Patten & Wallace, 
with Mr. Wallace as Cashier. The firm started with a small capital, and by 
careful, judicious management, in time became strongly established. The real 
stability of the bank was shown in 1857, when, in common with nearly all of 
such establishments, a run was made upon it, but only to establish it more 
firmly in the confidence of the depositors, as every engagement was promptly 
met. It was successfully conducted through every subsequent revulsion of 
business, without ever dishonoring a check. The deposit bank has pursued a 
verj T conservative course, never dealing in options or business that was at- 
tended with any risks ; and as a result it has enjoyed a larger deposit busi- 
ness, for the last twent} 7 years, than any bank in Marion County. The firm 
continued without change till the death of Mr. Patten, October 31, 1872. 
Since 1875, Mr. Wallace has been the sole owner and manager of the bank. 

The Farmers Bank. — The Bank of Marion was chartered and organ- 
ized in 1851, with a capital of $50,000, the principal stockholders being 
O. Bowen, W. W. Concklin, E. Hardy, William Bain, C. Brady, John 
Ballantine, etc. The first Directors were. O. Bowen, W. W. Concklin. E. 
Hard}', C. Brady and William Bain. The Bank of Marion continued 
in business until March, 1864, as a State bank. The various Presidents 
were Ozias Bowen, John Ault, W. W. Concklin, T. B. Fisher and A. 
Monnett. The Cashiers were W. W. Concklin, S. Moore, John Ault and 
John J. Hane. The Bank of Marion discontinued business in March, 1864, 
and in its place was organized the First National Bank of Marion, with 
a capital of $125,000, with Robert Kerr, A. Monnett, C. Brady, N. Peters, J. J. 
Hane, L. C. Haines, F. Gooding, etc., as the principal stockholders. The first 
Directors were K. Kerr, A. Monnett, N. Peters, C. Brady and John Merrill. 
The officers elected : A. Monnett, President ; John Merrill, Vice President and 
John J. Hane, Cashier. A. Monnett, President, and John J. Hane, Cashier, 
served during the entire existence of the bank. In 1869, the First National 
Bank of Marion gave up its charter, and B. Kerr, A. Monnett, John J. Hane, 
L. C. Haines, George Snyder, Nathan Peters and F. Gooding organized the 
present Farmers' Bank of Marion, with a capital of over $100,000, A. Mon- 
nett being the President, and John J. Hane the Cashier. The Farmers' Bank 
has continued in business from 1869 to this date, with a capital stock of $100,- 
000. John J. Hane has served continuously as Cashier from 1860 to this 
date (1883) in the Bank of Marion, First National Bank and Farmers' Bank. 

Fahey s Bank was established by T. Fahey in 1872, and since that time 
he has conducted a regular banking business. A. C. Edmondson is Cashier. 

MARION GAS-LIGHT COMPANY. 

This compan}' was formed during the autumn of 1861, with the following 
stockholders : Thomas Harvey & Co., $4,000 ; T. B. Fisher, $2,000 ; J. W. 
Bain. $1,300; Timothy Fahey, $400; A. H. Kling &Bro., $300 ; Patten & Wal- 
lace, $250 ; Lucas & Seffner, $200 ; J. Hood. William H. Searles. H. Peters, 
John Iv Davids, C. M. Seibert, John K. Hammerly and J. Merrill, $200 
each ; J. E. Leonard, H. Thomas, P. 0. Sharpless, Samuel Saiter, T. J. Ma- 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 507 

gruder, C. M. Seibert (again), E. B. Olmsted, D. Jameson, A. Kraner, John- 
son, Uhler & Co., James H. Godman, James French, Ault & Gorton, Will- 
iam Culbertson and J. W. Bain, $100 each ; and some others, with smaller 
sums, making a total of $11,450. The rest of the stock, $550, was soon taken 
by the citizens, the amount required being $12,000. 

These men, during the fall, formed an incorparated company, and, Novem- 
ber 29, 1861, elected A. H. Knowles, John E. Davids, J. W. Bain, H. Peters 
and A. H. Kling as a full Board of Directors. Mr. Bain was then elected 
President, A. H. Knowles, Secretary, and A. H. Kling, Treasurer. 

May 23, 1862, tbe capital stock was increased to $16,000. Since then, it 
has been increased to $25,000, and there is a surplus of $5,000. 

The present Directors are T. B. Fisher, T. P. Wallace, R. H. Johnson, 
George H. Kling and J. J. Hane. Officers : R. H. Johnson, President ; T. P. 
Wallace, Treasurer ; and D. J. Humphrey, Secretary and Superintendent of 
the Gas Works. Factory at the southwest corner of West and Canal streets. 

The gas factor}- has nine retorts, or three benches of three each. The proxi- 
mate annual amount of gas manufactured is 2,500,000 feet. In the city are 
sixty-five street lamps lighted with gas, besides forty or more furnished with 
coal oil. The streets were never lighted with any species of lamps prior to 
the establishment of the gas works in 1861. 

MISCELLANEOUS ENTERPRISES. 

The Building and Savings Association was organized in 1871, as a stock 
company, with shares at $100. Thomas W. Prosser, President ; E. Durfee, 
Secretary ; J. J. Hane, Treasurer ; John J. Williams, Solicitor. The com- 
pany dissolved in 1881, by limitation of term. 

The Merchants and Mechanics' Building and Savings Association was 
started about 1873. and continued business for six or seven years. 

Another effort was made last winter (1882-83) to organize a similar com- 
pany, but failed. 

Masonic Block. — After the disastrous fire, described on a subsequent page, 
had destroyed the old Masonic building, the present magnificent block was 
erected on the same site, b}' True, Johnson & Co., at a cost, when labor and 
material were very cheap, of nearl} r $25,000. The upper, or third, story is 
owned by the Freemasons, and was dedicated by them June 24, 1878, with im- 
posing ceremonies. 

Wigwam. — This is a large, new and neatly built frame building, 54x96 feet in 
dimensions, erected in 1883, on the northwest corner of West and South streets, 
by a company of which George B. Christian is President, C. C. Pettit, Secre- 
tary and G. R, James, Treasurer. It is the theater for Marion, having stage 
and scenery equal to that of a first-class theater in the cities. Entertainments 
and public meetings of all kinds are held here. 

Telephone. — This was established here about the 1st of July, 1882, by H. 
G. Reiser, who is Superintendent. Fort}'-five instruments are used in the city. 
No connection is yet made with other towns. 

MUNICIPAL. 

The original plat of Marion, made in 1821, extended from a line sixteen 
rods north of the present New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio Railroad to thirty 
rods south of South street, and from the alley west of West street to that east 
of East street. Since then, nearly half a hundred additions have been made, 
until now the territory of the corporation is ten or twelve times as large. In 
the original plat, all the lots fronting east or west are 4x10 rods, while those 
fronting north or south are 5x8 rods, each containing one-fourth of an acre. 
Main and Center streets are five rods wide, and the others four. Alleys one 



508 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

rod wide. The alleys in Marion are straighter, neater and more symmetrica 
than those of towns and cities generally. 

Additions to the Town of Marion. — Below is a list of the additions which 
have been made to the town plat of Marion from time to time, in chrono- 
logical order, comprising the grantors' names, the date of filing for record, 
the number of lots or acres and the locality: 

Alexander Holmes, November 26, 1824, thirty-one lots just north of the 
railroad, on each side of Main street. 

Eber Baker (First Addition), December 3, 1830, fifty- four lots, north 
of the railroads, on each side of East street. 

Bain, Butler & Powell, October 11, 1845, fourteen lots, south side of 
Center street, opposite the Union School building. 

Henry Peters (First), July 31, 1846, thirty lots, north side of Canal 
street, from East to Pearl. 

Henry Peters (Second), October 22, 1846, eleven lots in the southern 
portion of the town. 

T. M. Sloan (First), November 11, 1846, south of South street, on each 
side of Pearl. 

Eber Baker (Second), called " Third, " November 8, 1848, twelve lots 
adjoining the original plat on the east, and both sides of Center street. 

Eber Baker (Fourth), July 26, 1851, twenty-six lots on the south side 
of Center street, and from Vine street to Ballentine avenue. 

John Dumble, November 6, 1851, fourteen lots east of Main and south 
of Canal. 

Thomas Henderson, March 24, 1852, twenty-four lots joining south of 
the Rily road. 

J. W. Bain, June 16, 1852, forty-eight lots, southern extremity of the 
village. 

Bellefontaine & Indiana Railroad Company, December 31, 1852, sev- 
enty lots east of the old cemetery ground. 

John R. Aronbalt, May 14, 1853, twenty-eight lots, four to five squares 
north of the railroads. 

Rodney Spaulding, October 10, 1853, three lots, northern portion of 
town, on the west side of West street. 

R. Patten, January 26, 1854, twelve lots, three to four squares north of 
the railroads, on each side of West street. 

Simeon S. Starr, February 20, 1854, twenty -two lots northeast of the old 
cemetery. 

Patten & Wallace, February 20, 1854, thirty-six lots, at the northern 
extremity of the village. 

John Aronhalt (Second), March 1, 1854, seven lots, four to five squares 
north of the railroads, west of Main street. 

C. & C. Martin, September 25, 1854, eight lots, southwest corner of 
West and Canal streets. 

Bradford R. Durfee, October 6, 1854, forty-seven lots, south side of 
South street, near the Mount Vernon road. 

Rodney Spaulding (Second), May 30, 1855, ten lots. 

Bunker & Runyan, subdivision of Sloan's Second, August 1, 1853, three 
lots. 

Sloan's Second, April, 1861, thirteen and seven-eighths acres, south- 
western portion of the village. 

George W. Charles and Lincoln Baker, April 18, 1865, twenty- six large 
lots, East Marion. 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 509 

Jonb Cunningham, August 29, 1868, sixteen lots, southwestern extrem- 
ity of the city. 

John E. Davids (First), December 17, 1868, four luts (eleven acres). 

W. E. Clark (First), April 7, 1871, four lots, south of Canal and west 
of Pearl streets. 

John Ballantine (First), March 22, 1872, twenty-one acres in the north- 
ern portion of the village. 

John W. Bain (Second), June 14 1872, twenty-two lots. 

John Uncapher, June 24, 1872, six 8x1 2 -rod lots. 

John Ballantine (Second), April 24, 1873, twenty-two and one-fourth 
acres. 

T. Fahey, August 2, 1873, three and a half acres, northwestern portion 
of the village. 

Wallace & True, August 9, 1873, twenty-two lots, from Center to South 
streets and from Orchard to Garden streets, being southwest of the Center 
Street School building. 

George H. King (First)^ December 6, 1873, six lots. 

John Ballantine (Third), January 7, 1874, northeastern part of the city, 
31.18 acres. 

Jacob Blaich, May 8, 1874, eight acres, or twenty-two lots. 

Wallace & True (Second), May 16, 1874, four and five-eighths acres, 
southeast of the western depot. 

Wallace & True (Third), July 18, 1874, twelve and three-fourths acres 
adjoining the last. 

Harriet E. Barnhart, July 27, 1874, sixteen lots, between South and 
Mount "Vernon streets. 

John Ballantine (Fourth) February 10, 1875, two and a half acres. 

D. Jameson, April 22, 1875, fourteen acres on Moun t Vern on street, in 
the extreme southeastern part of town. 

Henry M. and John E. Barnhart (Barnhart Bros.), May 6, 1875, three 
and half acres near the western depot. 

Bobert Beatty, August 14, 1875, four acres in the northern part of the 
village. 

A. P. King, September 4, 1875, seven and one- fourth acres, northern ex- 
tremity of town. 

B. H. Hopkins and Dallas Day, March 8, 1877, five lots, southern ex- 
tremity of town. 

William P. Hazen and Amos H. King, March 8, 1877, forty-nine lots. 

Edward Huber and H H. Sherbondy, June 9, 1877, sixteen lots, north 
of the North schoolhouse. 

Wallace & True's Fourth, October 6, 1877, twenty-two lots. 

Martin Miller (First), October 13, 1877, seven acres (twenty lots). 

Christian Haberman, February 16, 1878, five and three-fourths acres, 
north of the old cemetery. 

Mary Holm, May 14, 1878, two and a half acres. 

Wallace & True (Fifth), January 3. 1882, eighteen lots. 

J. E. Davids, January 19, 1882, eleven and one-fourth acres, West 
Marion. 

G. A. Keener and B. Tristram, subdivision of Ballantine's Third, April 
14, 1882, twenty- four lots. 

v Godfrey and Charles W. Leffler, May 4, 1882, forty- four lots. 
' G. T. Harding, May 5, 1882, seventeen lots. 

H. N. Love, June 1, 1882, nine and one-fourth acres. 



510 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Samuel H. Bartram, February 15, 1883, fifteen lots, or ten lots with 
half of them double size. 

Diebold & Pendergast, twenty-two lots, northwestern part of town. 
Bennett & Fisher's, adjoining east of the Center Street School grounds. 

MARION AS AN INCORPORATED TOWN. 

During the winter of 1829-30, the Legislature of Ohio passed an act 
incorporating the village of Marion as a town. The first entry in the rec- 
ord of the town reads as follows: 

Be it remembered that on the 15th day of March, A. D. 1830, an election was 
held at the court house in the town of Marion, County of Marion, and State of Ohio, 
for the purpose of electing a Town Mayor, one Recorder and five Town Councils [coun- 
cilmen] (trustees) ; and according to the returns of said election it appears that the fol- 
lowing persons were duly elected to office, to wit: Nathan Peters, Mayor; Benjamin 
Davis, Recorder. Trustees— Benjamin Williams, Eber Baker, Samuel Calvert, David 
Jenkins and Edward Smith; as certified by George Holloway and Benjamin "Williams, 
Judges of said election, and attested byG. H. Busby, Clerk, who, according to the poll - 
book, were duly sworn according to law previous to their entering on the duties of their 
respective offices. 

The first business transacted by the Council is entered as follows: 
Henry Peters, present, pleaded to be excused from serving as Marshal, on account 
of his brother Nathan's being Mayor. J. A. Pomeroy was appointed to the office of 
Marshal, in place of Henry Peters. 

Then follow affidavits and bonds of officers, by-laws, etc. The amount 
of corporation tax, at 3 mills on the dollar, for 1830, is given in the record, 
from which it appears that the heaviest tax-payers were in order as follows: 
O. &. S. Crosby & Co. , Bennett & Hardy, John E. Davidson, William Bain, 
Eber Baker, Joel D. Butler, Alvin C. Priest, Abraham Kline, S. S. Bennett, 
George H. Busby, R. Lamb & Co., James Swan, Alexander Holmes, 
William M. Holmes, Edward Kennedy, etc. 

OFFICERS OF THE TOWN OF MARION FROM 1830 TO 1843. 

1830 — Mayor, Nathan Peters; Recorder, Benjamin Davis; Trustees, 
Benjamin Williams, Eber Baker, Samuel Calvert, David Jenkins and Ed- 
ward Smith. 

1831 — Mayor, George H. Busby; Recorder, John Bartrum; Trustees, 
Edward Smith, Nathan Peters, Adam Uncapher, Sanford S. Bennett and 
Ozias Bowen. 

1832 — Mayor, Hezekiah Gorton; Recorder, John Bartrum; Trustees, 
James Clark, Adam Uncapher, Richard Wilson, Sanford S. Bennett and 
James H. Godman. 

1833 — Mayor, John Wick; Recorder, James H. Godman; Trustees, J. 
Clark, John Bartrum, Nathan Peters, Joseph Durfee and Thomas J. Ander- 
son. 

1834 — Mayor, David T. Fuller; Recorder, James H. Godman; Trustees, 
same as for preceding year. 

1835— Mayor, Frederick Byerly; Recorder. G. A. Moore; Trustees, 
John E. Davidson, Eber Baker, Zephaniah Fullon, Richard Wilson and 
David Epler. 

1836 — Mayor, Curtis Allen; Recorder, G. A. Moore; Trustees, J. D. 
Butler, S. S. Bennett, E. Hardy, G. H. Busby and H. PeWs. 

1837 — (No election.) Mayor, Curtis Allen; Recorder, Peter Beerbower; 
Trustees, same as for 1836. 

1838 — Mayor, Curtis Allen; Rocorder, E. G. Spilman; Trustees, Rich- 
ard Patten, S. S. Bennett. William C. Johnson. Nathan Peters and Thomas 
J. Anderson. 







« 



s 



*9- 




* 








'fi^nn/^ 




MARION TOWNSHIP. 513 

1839 — Mayor, Curtis Allen; Recorder. E. G. Spilman; Trustees, Rich- 
ard Patten, Richard Wilson, C. K Watson, William C. Johnson and Na- 
than Peters. 

1840 — Mayor, Curtis Allen; Recorder, John Merrill; Trustees, S. S. 
Bennett, Elisha Hardy, William Bain, Richard Wilson and Joseph Bond. 

1841 — Mayor, Curtis Allen; Recorder, John Merrill; Trustees, Joseph 
Bond, John G. Clark, Gardner Durfee, Robert King and Nathan Peters. 

1842 — Mayor, John Merrill; Recorder, Gideon P. Bardwell; Trustees, 
John G. Clark, N. Peters, R. King. G. Durfee and R. Patten. 

The session of 1843 of the Legislature of Ohio repealed the charter of 
the town of Marion, and the only entry which appears on record concern- 
ing or in connection with the resolution is the following: 

March 6, 1843. 

Settled with Mayor, Treasurer and Recorder of the corporation of Marion as fol- 
lows: 

Balance in Treasury $ 4 62 

Due corporation in notes of hand 9 72 

Due corporation on duplicate 51 79 

Due in notes of hand for graveyard 24 00 

Due in accounts for grave lots 105 00 

Settled March 6, 1843, before the subscribing trustees: 

G. Snyder, ) 

Marcus Williams, [■ Trustees. 
Jacob Ulsh, ) 

It seems that there was not corporate business sufficient to justify the 
people for the trouble and expense of keeping up a distinct organization 
from that of the township. During the year ending March 17, 1841, there 
is not a single entry in the journal of proceedings. But by the year 1847, 
the growth of the village was such as to justify a renewal of the charter. 
Accordingly, Marion was again incorporated as a town, February 8, 1847, 
by a special act of the Legislature, describing the boundaries as follows: 
" So much of the territory of the township of Marion in the county of Mar- 
ion as is included in the following boundaries, to wit: Beginning at the 
northeast corner of Holmes' Addition to the town of Marion, thence south 
three degrees east to the half section line dividing Section 22; thence north 
eighty-seven degrees east, to the center of said Section 22; thence continu- 
ing on said half section line, crossing the line dividing said Section 22 
from Section 21, to a point in the half section line dividing said Section 
27, so that a line running south eighty-seven degrees west will strike the 
most southern line of Sloan's Addition to the town of Marion; thence south 
eighty-seven degrees west to the southwest corner of said Sloan's Addition; 
thence north three degrees west on the west line of said addition, to the 
section line between Sections 21 and 28; thence to the southwest corner of 
a lot owned by James H. Godman, Esq.; thence north three degrees west 
to the northwest corner of said Godman's lot, in the center of the road lead- 
ing from Marion to Big Island; thence west with the center of said road to 
the southwest corner of a lot owned by Thomas Henderson, on which he 
now resides; thence along said Henderson's west line north three degrees 
west to the northwest corner of said lot; thence north eighty-seven degrees 
east, on said Henderson's north line, to a lot belonging to G. H. Busbv: 
thence north three degrees west, on a line dividing lands belonging to 
heirs of Samuel Holmes from lands belonging to said Busby, J. Bartrum. 
J. G. Clark's heirs, Joseph Bond and F. Raichley, to a point on the south 
line of lands belonging to the heirs of Peter Mark, at the northwest corner 
of said Raichley's lot; thence north, eighty-seven degrees east, on the south 
line of said Mark's land, to the place of beginning." 

R 



514 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

The act provided that all additions thereafter made should be included 
in the corporation. 

The substance of Section 2 of the act is as follows: " It shall be lawful 
for all white male inhabitants of said town, having the qualification of 
electors of members of the General Assembly of this State, who have re- 
sided within the limits of said corporation for the term of twelve months 
next preceding any election, to be held under this act, to meet at the court 
house in said town of Marion, on the third Tuesday of April next, and at 
such time and place annually thereafter as may be designated by the Town 
Council, and there proceed by plurality of votes to elect one Mayor, one 
Recorder and five Trustees, who shall be residents of said town, and other- 
wise possess the requisite qualifications of electors at such election; and 
said Mayor, Recorder and Trustees shall constitute the Town Council, any 
five of whom shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business; pro- 
vided no tax shall be levied at any time except by a vote of the majority of 
the whole Council." 

Sections 3 and 4 provide for sidewalks. Sections 5 to 7 provide for the 
levy and collection of taxes; Section 8 makes it the duty of the County Au- 
ditor to report finances to the County Treasurer. Section 9 declares that 
the schools shall remain under the control of the Township Trustees as be- 
fore. Section 10 provides for fire companies. Section 11 for taxing shows. 
Section 12 transfers the property of the old town to the Council of the new 
corporation. As this section contains some important dates, it is given 
below entire: 

" The Mayor, Recorder and Trustees of said town of Marion, in their 
corporate capacity as aforesaid, are hereby invested as the lawful owner or 
proprietor, with all the real and personal estate heretofore held and owned 
by the Town Council of the town of Marion in their corporate capacity, un- 
der an act of incorporation passed February 22, 1830, repealed by an act 
entitled ' An act to repeal the act entitled " An act to incorporate the town 
of Marion, in the county of Marion, and for other purposes," passed Febru- 
ary 29, 1843;' provided all acts done or contracts made by the Trustees of 
Marion Township under the last-named act shall continue in force the same 
as if this act had not been passed." 

Sections 13 and 14 conclude the act by reference to the general law for 
further powers and privileges; and the act is signed by William P. Cutler, 
Speaker of the House of Representatives, and Edson B. Olds, Speaker of 
the Senate. 

According to the provisions of the act of incorporation, an election was 
held April 20, 1847, which resulted in the choice of the following officers: 
Mayor, "William Brown; Recorder, Robert King; Trustees, William Bain, 
John Ault, John Merrill, James H. Godman and David Epler. The last 
named, however, declined to serve as Trustee. At the meeting on May 7, 
Messrs. Brown, Merrill and Godman were appointed a committee to draft a 
set of ordinances for the government of the town. Their report, made May 
14, was adopted. 

July 22, Mr. Brown resigned the office of Mayor and John Bartram was 
appointed in his stead: but the latter declined to accept the office, and Pe- 
leg Bunker was appointed July 30. 

OFFICERS OF THE TOWN OF MARION FROM 1847 TO 1883. 

1847 — Mayor, William Brown; Recorder, Robert King; Trustees, Will- 
iam Bain, John Ault, John Merrill, James H. Godman and David Epler. 



MARION TO WIN SHIP. 515 

1848 — Mayor, William L. Kendrick; Kecorder, William H. Wallace; 
Trustees, James H. Godinan, William Bain, Levi H. Randall, John Ault 
and John Mem 11. 

1849 — Mayor, William L. Kendrick; Recorder, William H. Wallace; 
Trustees, James H. Godman, William Bain, Levi H. Randall, John Ault 
and John Merrill. 

1850— Mayor, William Hull; Recorder, Robert King; Trustees, Will- 
iam Bain, John Ault, Peter Beerbower, Nelson Jones and John Warner. 

1851— Mayor, G. R. Knapp; Recorder, T. P. Wallace; Trustees, Will- 
iam Bain, H. A. True, J. C. Norton, R. Patten and E. Steckel. 

1852 — No record of an election. April 23, William Bain resigned as 
Trustee and Bradford R. Durfee was appointed in his place; T. P. Wal- 
lace resigned as Recorder, and James H. Barker was appointed in his stead; 
Edmund Steckel resigned as a Trustee, and John Gurley was appointed in 
his place. R. Patten resigned as Councilman (Trustee), and Benjamin H. 
Williams was appointed in his place. 

1853 — Mayor, John R. Knapp; Recorder, J. H. Barker; Trustees, B. 
H. Williams, H. A. True, John Gurley, J. D. Gailey, and J. R. Knapp, Jr. 

1854— Mayor, J. R. Knapp; Recorder, S. A. Griswold; Trustees, E. 

D. Lindsey, Nelson Jones, John Merrill, L>. Jameson and C. Mintsenberg. 
1855 — Mayor, James H. Anderson; Recorder, S. A. Griswold: Trus- 
tees, T. B. Fisher, J. E. James, D. B. Krause, Harvey Peters , and Charles 
Smith. 

1856- Mayor, T. B. Eisher; Recorder, Peleg Bunker; Trustees, B. R. 
Durfee, C. Smith, T. J. Magruder, John I.Williams, John E. Davids. 

1857— Mayor, T. B. Fisher; Recorder, Peleg Bunker; Trustees, J. E. 
Davids, C. Smith, E. D. Lindsey, H. Peters and John Gurley. 

1858— Mayor, J. E. Davids; Recorder. T. B. Fisher; Trustees, Har- 
vey Peters, E. D. Lindsey, C. Smith, John Merrill and Hiram Ault. 

1859 — Mayor, T. B. Fisher; Recorder, Isaac Young, Trustees, C. Smith, 

E. D. Lindsey, J. Havens, M. H. Sarles and John Hood. 

1860— Mayor, John E. Davids; Recorder, H. M. Ault; Trustees, F. 
P. Seffner, Milton Pixley, John Bowen, David Jameson and William 
Hesse. 

1861 — Mayor, John R. Garberson; Recorder, H. M. Ault; Trustees, 
Harvey Peters, John Bowen, D. Jameson and C. Smith. 

1862— Mayor, T. B. Fisher; Recorder, H M. Ault; Trustees, S. E. 
DeWolfe, J. Merrill, D. Jameson, David Mouser, Ira Uhler; by appoint- 
ment during the year, to fill vacancies, William Hesse and Turney. 

1863 — Mayor, John C. Johnston; Recorder, H M. Ault; Trustees, M. 
P. Shields, Ira Uhler, J. E. Coffy, and John Bowen Hock. 

1864 — Mayor, John C. Johnston; Recorder, H. M. Ault; Trustees. A. 
H. Kling, L. Fite, John Bowen, J. J. Hane and H Thomas. 

1865 — Mayor, John C. Johnston; Recorder, H. M. Ault; Trustees, P. 
O. Sharpless, J. J. Hane, C. B. Smith, Ira Uhler and W. B. Lewis. 

1866 — Mayor, George Gray; Recorder, H. M. Ault; Trustees, J. J. 
Hane, A. H. Kling, F. Campbell, J. Merrill, and Ferris. 

1867— Mayor, H. C. Godman; Recorder, H. M. Ault; Trustees, T. W. 
Prosser, S. E. DeWolfe, B. W. Davis, John Merrill and L. C. Haines. 

1868— Mayor, T. B. Fisher; Recorder, H. M. Ault; Trustees, John 
Merrill, T. W. Prosser, Edward Jeffry, Isaac Young and John Cull. 

1869— Mayor, John F. McNeal; Recorder. H. M. Ault; Trustees, John 
Bartram, John Cunningham, T. W. Prosser. John Cull and F. P. Seffner. 



516 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

From this date to the present, the Mayor, Clerk and six or eight Coun- 
cilrnen have been elected for two years, half of the Councilmen in 1870 be 
ing elected for one year only, so that half the Council would be renewed 
every year. 

1870 — Mayor, John McNeal: Clerk, H. M. Ault; Trustees, J. J. Hane, 
B. Tristram, George A. Keener, James Gregory, H. S. Lucas and John 
Kehler. 

ftg 1871 — Mayor, John C. McNeal; Clerk, H. M. Ault; Counfiilmen, J. 
J. Hane, B. Tristram, George A. Keener, T. W. Prosser, Julius Strelitz 
and William Fies, Jr. 

1872 — Mayor, W. H. Mohr; Clerk, Edward Durfee; Councilmen, 
Thomas McMurray, George Diegle, Lewis Gunn, Michael Stoll (to fill va- 
cancy), T.W. Prosser, Julius Strelitz and William Fies, Jr. 

1873 — Mayor, W. H. Mohr; Clerk, Edward Durfee; Councilmen, 
Thomas McMurray, George Diegle, Lewis Gunn, John J. Hane, James C. 
Walters aud Timothy Kelly. 

1874— Mayor, W. H. Mohr; Clerk, Arthur L. Clark; Councilmen, J. 
J. Hane, James C. Walters, Timothy Kelly, John Hood, C. W. Dennig 
and F. R. Saiter. 

1875— Mayor, W. H. Mohr; Clerk, Arthur L. Clark; Councilmen, 
John Hood, C. W. Dennig, F. R. Saiter, John W. Alsop, James P. McMur- 
ray and James C. Walters. 

187G— Mayor, W. H. Mohr; Clerk, Arthur L. Clark; Councilmen, John 
W. Alsop, James P. McMurray, J. C. Walters, C. W. Dennig, John Hood 
and William Fies, Jr. 

1877— Mayor, W. H. Mohr; Clerk, Arthur L. Clark: Couucilmen, C. 
W. Dennig, John Hood, William Fies, Jr., John Merrill, Sr., Amos F. 
Lapham and George H. May. 

1878 — Mayor, W. H. Mohr; Clerk, William Fies; Councilmen, M. 
Stoll, Dallas Day, F. M. Scribner, John Merrill, Sr., Amos F. Lapman and 
George H. May. 

1879 — Mayor, W. H. Mohr; Clerk, William Fies, Jr.; Councilmen, 
M. Stoll, Dallas Day, F. M. Scribner, Peter S. Bieber, James L. Bell, and 
James D. Gregory. 

1880— Mayor, E. M. Ritz; Clerk, William Fies; Trustees, S. Wilson, 
L. Gunn, J. L. Bell, James D. Gregory, J. C. Markert, O. W. Weeks, P. G. 
Harvey and John Diebold. 

1881 — Mayor, E. M. Ritz; Clerk, William Fies; Trustees, Lewis 
Gunn, J. S. Riley, O. W. Weeks and John Diebold. 

1882 — Mayor, C. P. Gailey; Clerk, A. L. Clark; Councilmen, Sanford 
Wilson, Timothy Kelly, Clark Turney and S. H. Rupp. 

1883 — Mayor, C. P. Gailey; Clerk, A. L. Clark; Councilmen, Lewis 
Gunn, A. B. McMurray, O. W. Weeks and Harry Weaver. 

The town of Marion is divided into four wards by Main and Center 
streets, each ward electing a Councilman annually to serve two years. 

The following is a list of Postmasters, with dates of appointment, from 
1821 to 1881: 

John Ballantine, January 30, 1821; William M. Holmes, July 29, 1822; 
Eber Baker, March 12, 1825; Elisha H Crosby, January 9, 1827; Heze 
kiah Gorton, Februarv 28, 1827; Samuel Calvert, March 10, 1830; John S. 
McDonald, December*22, 1830; John Bartram, July 20, 1832; Robert 
Kennedy, December 18, 1834; Richard Wilson, March 10, 1836; John 
Bartram, May 8, 1837; Curtis Allen, July 24, 1841; John R.Tvnapp, June 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 517 

7, 1845; Samuel A. Griswold, June 23, 1849; John R. Knapp, June 23, 
1853; Albert H. Brown, January 16, 1854; Philip Dombaugh, January 10, 
1856; John B. Dumble, January 26, 1857; Peter Beerbower, September 
21, 1858; Charles B. Smith, June 18, 1861; Samuel T. Beerbower, April 
21, 1869; Valentine Lapham, December 20, 1881. 
The office became "Presidential" March 12, 1865. 

MARKET HOUSE, CITY HALL, ETC. 

In July, 1852, the Town Council established a meat and vegetable 
market on Lot 37, being the northeast corner of Center and East 
streets. This served until the summer of 1857, when the present city hall 
building was erected, 35x80 feet and two stories high, on the northeast cor- 
ner of South and West streets; contractors, William Garberson and John 
Venning. It was used as a market house only three or four years. The 
lower story is now the engine house and city prison, and the upper is still 
the place of public meetings. 

FIRE DEPARTMENT. 

The first fire engine was purchased April 10, 1848, of McMillan, Irish 
& Co., of Middlebury, Summit Co., Ohio, for $950, including all appur- 
tenances. It was a good hand or brake lire engine, with two brass pumps 
of nine-inch diameter each, which, with sixteen men, would discharge a 
stream of water through a two -and -three-quarter- inch hose horizontally to 
a distance of 160 feet, and perpendicularly 100 feet. 

Since that time, various changes have marked the department. To day 
it is in good condition, consisting of three companies and nearly seventy 
members, with a fine steam fire engine, engine house, hook and ladder de- 
partment, etc. 

The department is officered as follows: William Fies, Chief. Excelsior 
Fire Company: James A. Knapp, Foreman; John Glick, Assistant. Sev- 
enteen members, not counting the engineer, chief, etc. The engine is a 
Silsby rotary, costing $6,500, Sidney Moore, engineer. Huber Fire Com- 
pany: E. D. Barlow, Foreman; James Fairbanks, Assistant; twenty-five 
members. Hand engine, purchased many years ago. Hook and ladder 
Company organized in 1876; twelve members; H. F. Snyder, Foreman. 

WATER WORKS. 

A movement was made in the fall and winter of 1881-82 for the estab- 
lishment of Holly water works in the town of Marion. On January 2, 
1882, a popular vote was taken to authorize the Council either to levy a tax 
of 2.5 mills yearly or issue bonds not to exceed $75,000, for a fund to build 
the works, and the result was 442 yeas and 391 nays. But, on account of 
certain defects in the proceedings, the enterprise failed. It is the inten- 
tion, however, soon to go forward again with the work. 

CHURCHES. 

Methodist Episcopal Church. — The first Methodist class in Marion was 
formed by Rev. Erastus Felton in the winter of 1824-25, consisting of 
John Ashbaugh and wife. Benjamin Williams, wife and two daughters 
(Sarah and Elizabeth), Sarah Hillrnan, Henry Peters, and one or two others. 
Soon others were added, as Thomas J. Anderson and wife and Andrew 
Kinnear, Harvey Clark and Horace Strong and their families. All the 
above are now deceased except Henry Peters, now living in Upper Sandus- 



518 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

kv. The circuit then extended from Bucyrus to Wortbington. For the 
characteristics of pioneer pleaching and religious life, see the chapter en- 
titled " Pioneer Life." There was preaching in Marion once in four weeks, 
the services being held in the old brick schoolhouse on West street, and in 
the evening. "Quarterly meetings" were held about once a year in Marion. 
It was not uncommon for people to go twenty or thirty miles to attend these 
meetings. 

The oldest. date in the " Trustees' book" is September 25, 1830, and it 
contains a rude pen sketch or picture of the old stone church, the first 
building owned by the Methodists as a house of worship in Marion. The 
account represented it as a one-story house, with three windows on each 
side; nothing is said about the front and rear appearance. The seats had 
no backs. The Trustees in 1830 were Andrew Kinnear, Chairman; William 
Godman, Secretary; Henry Peters and Thomas J. Anderson. They resolved 
to purchase In-lot No. 2 on East street, which was north of the present 
railroads, near where the Lutheran Church now stands. Messrs. Peters & 
Anderson superintended the quarrying and hauling of the stone for the 
building, which edifice was not completed until 1842, although used since 
1833; and in 1845, the building was sold to Josiah S. Copeland for $175, 
to pay a claim of Thomas M. Sloan against the society for $20. 

Prior to this, however, in 1842, a " Centenary Committee" had been ap- 
pointed, who made arrangements to build a " chapel," 45x08 feet, on the 
northwest corner of East street and Railroad street (old North street). It 
was built and used until the railroad, constructed by it in 1852, became so 
noisy as to be intolerable, and at the same time the society outgrew the size 
of the building, and determined to build another and a larger structure. 
The old stone church is now a part of the Huber Machine Works. 

Their first pastor after organization was Rev. James Gilruth, a large, pow- 
erfully built man, weighing about 240 pounds, who once threw a threaten- 
ing bully over a fence in the presence of a crowd assembled to witness a 
fight. The bully had boasted that he was going to whip that Methodist 
preacher. Mr. Gilruth was a man of sterling good sense, a deep thinker, a 
fine speaker, social, and beloved by saint and sinner. He went to Iowa 
about 1833, where he prospered and enjoyed good health to an extreme old 
age. After Mr. Gilruth, Rev. Mr. Stoddard was pastor; but it is not 
known precisely what year. Then follow A. M. Lorain, 1831-32; John O. 
Havens, 1832-33; E. Felton, 1833-34; Harvey Camp, 1834 to 1836; 
Uriah Heath, 1836 in 1838; John Blaupead, 1838-39; JohnG. Bruce, 1839 
to 1841; Peter Sharp, 1841-12; H. E. Pilcher, 1842 to 1844; George W. 
Howe, 1844 to 1846; Henry Whiteman, 18 6 to 1848; L. B. Gurley, 1848 
to 1850; H. S. Bradley, 1850 to 1852; John Graham, 1852-53; Joseph F. 
Kennedy, 1852 to 1855: J. A. Kellam, 1855 to 1857; T. H. Wilson, 1857 
to 1859; J. F. Burkholder, 1859-60; Isaac Newton, 1860 to 1862; Thomas 
Parker, 1862-63; L. J. Dales, 1863-64; George Mather, 1864-65; J. M. 
Holmes, 1865 to 1867: William Deal, 1867 to 1869; L.A.Beit. 1869 to 
1871; William Jones, 1871 to 1873; I. R. Henderson, 1873 to 1875: L. C. 
Webster, 1875 to 1878; T. L. Wiltse, 1878 to 1881; Leroy A. Belt, 1881 to 
1883. 

The oldest living resident member of this church is Peter Beerbower. 

At present there are 317 members with the following class-leaders: J. 
M. Heller, R. Branson, W. H. Moore, G. E. Lawrence, James Fribley, A. 
D. Busard, Jacob Fribley. J. A. B. Wyatt and J. D. Bishop. The local 
preachers are A. D. Matthews, J. M. Heller aud James Fribley. 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 519 

The present church edifice on the southeast corner of Center and East 
streets, was erected in 1854, at a cost of about $9,000, with a seating ca 
pactiy of about 600. Toward the construction of this building. Gen. James 
H. Godman gave §3.500. 

A flourishing Sunday school is kept up in connection with this church, 
of which Daniel Uncapher is now Superintendent; average attendance. 146, 
with six officers and fourteen teachers besides the pastor. 

German Methodist Episcopal Church. — On the southwest corner of South 
and West streets, where once stood Duncan's brewery, afterward J. B. Sal- 
mon's residence, there now stands the most beautiful church edifice in liar- 
ion; it belongs to the above-named society, who held their first meetings in 
the court house, Dr. J. Kindler being the first preacher, in 1845. At that 
time, J. H. Saner and wife, who had belonged to the church in Cincinnati, 
moved to Marion and took hold with the minister. Rev. John Bier suc- 
ceeded Dr. Kindler and did good work. The first converts were Peter 
Schweinfurth and his brother John, the latter now being a prominent min- 
ister in the denomination. Rev. Bier's successors preached in the base- 
ment of the Methodist Episcopal Church till 1868, when the society resolved 
to build a church of their own. They were but few in number, and it 
looked like a large undertaking. However, they bought a desirable, well- 
located lot, and commenced to build under the supervision of Rev. J. 
Fleiner. The edifice was completed in 1869, under Rev. Charles Nachtrieb. 
It cost over $9,000, and was paid for and dedicated free from all debt. It 
is 38x58 feet in size, with a tower about 1 20 feet high. 

Ther > is now a membership of about eighty, with two class- leaders, 
namely, William Graceley and Adam Schweinfurth. There are also two 
local preachers, William Graceley and Charles Myers. J. C. Markert is the 
Superintendent of the Sunday school, which has an average attendance of 
about eighty. Commencing with about 1855, the pastors have been : Con- 
rad Bier, two years; John Hurst, two years; Frederick Diether, two years; 
V. Jahraus, one year; A. Warns, two years; John Schweinfurth, two years; 
John Kopp, two years; J. Fleiner, two years; C. Nachtrieb, three years; 
John C. Egley, three years; J. S. Schneider, three years; Dr. J. Braun, 
three years; and J. G. Herzer, since the fall of 1882. 

Givinn Chapel, African Methodist Episcopal Church. — The first meet- 
ing was held December 20. 1872, and the church organized about a week 
afterward, at the city hall, by the Rev. Emanuel Cumberland, with the 
following membership: A. P. Henderson, Henrietta Henderson, Harriet 
Highwarden, Matilda Day, Mrs. Jones, David Fields and George Davener. 
The first officials were A. P. Henderson, David Fields, George Davener and 
Matilda Day. Meetings were held at Mr. Henderson's residence and in the 
basement of the Methodist Church until their own church was erected in 
1873-74, 35x48 feet in size, on Park street, and costing about $3,000, Mr. 
Henderson footing a large portion of the bill. 

The pastors have been Revs. E. Cumberland, M. M. Smith, H. A. 

Grant, Rich, N. M. Mitchell, Montgomery and C. R. Green. 

the present incumbent. The principal revival was under the Rev. Grant's 
administration. Present membership, ten; officers, I. Mendenhall, Stew- 
ard; James Allen, Bruce Peyton and John Shepherd, Trustees. 

Methodist Episcopal Church, Colored, was organized in 1879, with fif- 
teen or twenty members, under Andrew J. Scott, pastor. Rev. Payne suc- 
ceeded him, and Rev. Brown is the present pastor. The society meets in a 
small log cabin in the northeastern portion of the citv. 



520 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

The Free-Will Baptist Church of Marion was organized in 1824 by Revs. 
David Dudley and Samuel Bradford. It was the first church organized in 
the town. Its first members were Hezekiah Gorton, a Mrs. Higgins, a Mr. 
and Mrs. Smith, Alvin and Betsey Priest, John and Betsey Tompkins, and 
a few others. The organization took place in a schoolhouse on "West street, 
where the stated meetings were afterward held. During the first twelve 
years, the church had the labors of Revs. D. Dudley, S. Bradford, A. 
Hatch and J. Wallace. In 1827, Rev. George M. Baker professed religion, 
was baptized and admitted to the church. He soon after commenced to ex- 
hort, then to preach, and on May 28, 1837, was ordained by Revs. D. Dud- 
ley, Wyatt and others. He preached more or less for this church. In 1838, 
Mr. Baker moved to Licking County, other ministers were called elsewhere, 
and the church, left destitute of pastoral care, became much reduced. In 
1841, Rev. Isaac Datson came, collected the scattered fragments, held a 
series of meetings just out of the town, in the barn and house of Jacob 
Ulsh, resulting in a revival and the growth of the church from about a 
dozen members to ninety. In 1842, the church built a meeting house, but, 
unfortunately, out of the town three-quarters of a mile. In 1850, Rev. G. 
W. Baker returned, took charge of the church, encouraged the i*emoval of 
the church house into the town, which was done, and located upon Lot 367 
of Baker's Fourth Addition, was repaired and a small bell placed upon it 
by the efforts of the ladies of the congregation. The removal was not 
agreeable to all the members, more or less of whom withdrew, which, with 
the death and removal of others, and irregularity in pastoral care, again 
much reduced the number and strength of the church, only twenty members 
remaining. In the spring of 1S57, Rev. Samuel D. Bates became pastor. 
The house was again repaired, a Sunday school organized and the congre- 
gation and church steadily built up. In 1865, the pastor and people de- 
cided to build a new and better house, upon a better site — the east half of 
lot 11. The new house was dedicated in the fall of 1867, having cost, with 
site, $16,000. Continued prosperity attended the labors of pastor and peo- 
ple. In April, 1876, Mr. Bates resigned, having served the church as pas- 
tor nineteen consecutive years, and was succeeded by Rev. J. W. Parsons, 
who remained three years and resigned to be succeeded by Rev. Addison 
Jones, who, on account of ill health, remained only one year; was succeeded 
by Rev. O. D. Patch, who also left at the close of one year, on account of 
ill health of the family. During the pastorate of Mr. Parsons, the church 
built a good parsonage on South street. Rev. Oscar E. Baker became pas- 
tor, April, 1881, and is pastor at this date, August 3, 1883. During 1882, 
the church house was again thoroughly repaired, at considerable cost. The 
pastors have all been reputed as worthy men, and each has done good. The 
largest accessions to membership have been revivals, first under Rev. I. 
Datson, next during the pastorate of Rev. S. D. Bates, and during the past 
two years, within which one hundred have been added. The church now 
numbers 232. The distinguishing feature of the church and denomination 
may be indicated in a few words: Free will, free salvation, free communion, 
free church government, or government by the people, free speech and free 
men. 

First Presbyterian Church of Marion, Ohio. — The first meeting of this 
people was held at the brick schoolhouse on West street, September 1, 1828, 
and on the 9th of that month, at the same place, the church was organized 
by Rev. Henry Vandeman, with the following forty-five members: Simeon 
Wyatt, Adam Uncapher, John Uncapher, Yvllliaui Bain, James Carr, John 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 521 

McElvy, Humphrey Mounts, Joseph Boyd, John Myers, Shubael W. Knapp, 
John Waddell, Daniel Oborn, Mary Wyatt, Susannah Uncapher, Jane Har- 
per, Elizabeth Groover, Mary Uncapher, Hannah Uncapher, Lydia Couch, 
Maria S. Williamson, Eliza G. Busby, Mary Tootle, Margaret Tipton, Mary 
Hume, Mary Ballantine, Anna Ballantine, Jane Carr, Mary McElvy, Nancy 
Kelly, Hannah McCompsey (?), Elizabeth Smith, Mary Miller, Susan 
Mounts, James Boyd, Martha Mogren, Anna Myers, Mary H. Knapp, Mar- 
garet Waddel, Jane Oborn, Johnny (?) McWilliams, Susannah Jones, 
Mary Uncapher, Margaret King, Elizabeh Findlay and Susan Kennedy. 

Mrs. Isabella Clark, who joined this church in 1831, is the oldest living 
member. 

The first Elders were Joseph Boyd, Shubael W. Knapp and Adam Un- 
capher: and the Elders since then have been: Daniel Oborn, 1831; Thomas 
Henderson and John Ballantine, 1833; Joseph Strawbridge, 1840; Benja- 
min H. Williams and Henry A. True, 1843; James Reed, William Bain 
and Thomas Johnson, 1848; Ira Uhler, 1863; S. E. DeWolfe, F. P. Seff- 
ner and T. P. Prentice, 1871. The ministers have been the'Revs. H. Van- 
deman, 1828-29; E. Barber, 1829 to 1832; Thomas Cratty, 1832 to 1836; 
John A. Dunlap, 1837 to 1841; Joseph A. Murray, 1841-42; Enoch S. Shep- 
herd, 1842 to 1845; Peter R. Yanatta, 1845 to 1847; Bloomfield Wall, 
1847 to 1849; M. Shepherd, 1851 to 1858; H. B. Fry, 1858 to 1868; J. 
H. Pratt, 1868 to 1872; D. D. Waugh, 3872 to 1878; Alexander Sinclair, 
1878 to 1881; E. B. Raffensperger, 1881 to the present. 

The present membership numbers 250, with a prosperous Sunday school. 
Elders, Ira Uhler, S. E. DeWolfe and F. P. Seffner. 

The first church edifice was erected in 1834 of brick, but in 1849 it was 
partially demolished by a storm, and the present structure, also of brick, 
was erected on the same site, 1849-51. It is 45x80 feet in size, with base 
ment and auditorium, and cost about $8,000. It is in a good state of pres- 
ervation. Upon the same lot is a fine brick parsonage, recently built, at a 
cost of $5,000. 

Lutheran and Reformed. — In 1841, Rev. J. Van Linger came to Marion 
and preached for the Lutheran and the German Reformed societies, hold- 
ing services in the court house and other places, for two or three years. Ste- 
phen Neidhart and Henry Koon were Elders; Karl Mintsenberg and Philip 
Dietrich, Deacons, and John Uncapher, Treasurer. In 1843, the two so- 
cieties united in building a brick church, the corner-stone being laid Au- 
gust 8 of that year. Rev. Joachim Schladermund was at that time their 
preacher. The next preacher was Rev. J. E. Schneider, Lutheran, who 
was opposed to the two denominations worshiping in common, so they be- 
gan to hold services alternately, each having their own preacher. 

Salem Church, German Evangelical Lutheran and Reformed, was or- 
ganized May 13, 1850, at their meeting house, Charles Munzenberg, Chair- 
man; and C. A. Bodeman, Clerk. The first members numbered thirty- 
seven. The church now comprises eighty-five families, or about 200 com- 
municants, worshiping in the building above referred to, on the east side 
of East street, just north of the railroads. Godfrey Lefiler is President of 
this congregation and Frederick Staub Secretary. Rev. John Heiniger is 
pastor, and also Superintendent of the Sunday school. 

St. Matthew's English Mission Evangelical Lutheran Church. — This 
was commenced under Rev. Humberger, in 1870, who then lived at Prospect, 
for the purpose of retaining the young members in the church. The next 
minister was Rev. P. H. Mueller, and in 1877 Rev. J. J. Sutter, the present 



522 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

pastor, took charge of the mission. Public services are now held both in Ger- 
man and English. The following are substantial members of this church: P. 
Retterer, D. Yake, John Lust, A. Lefner, J. Gugel, J. Schmelzer, Jacob 
Schoenlaub, George Schoenlaub, and J. Piper. The total membership is 
twenty-six. 

First Reformed Church of Marion {German). — This society dates its or- 
igin in July, 1850, but was in some sense united with the two preceding 
churches until February 18, 1854. At first, it numbered fifty members, who 
were organized under the superintendency of Rev. J. G. Ruhl, their pastor 
for about eleven years. Their first Elders vvere Dr. E. F. Gross and Ste- 
phen Neidhart; Deacons, Peter Fogler and Peter Dorn. The pastors have 
been Revs. J. G. Ruhl, 1850 to 1860; J. Winter, 1861-62; H. Eschmeier. 
1863; J. Kester, 1864 to 1870; D. F. Scrhroth, 1871 to 1882; Frederick 
Schaad, November, 1882, to the present time. Present Elders, J. W. 
Fischer and Michael Brigel; Deacons, Philip Ebert and Ernest Zeller. 
This church has a Sunday school and a Young People's Society of Chris- 
tian Endeavor. Standard of doctrine, the Heidelberg catechism. 

Meetings have always been held in the old brick church on North East 
street; but this year (1883) they sold their interest in that church to the 
Lutheran congregation, and are now erecting a house of worship on South 
West street, to cost, with lot, about $2,500. 

Parish of St. PauVs Church, Protestant Episcopal. — This was organ- 
ized April 25, 1849, with the following Board of Wardens and Vestrymen: 
Eber Baker, J. C. Norton, S. S. Bennett, J. J. Williams, P. Bunker, W. 

A. Turney and J. Barnhart. These men were also constituted a Board of 
Trustees, and J. J. Williams was elected Clerk, both of tue Vestry and of 
the Board of Trustees. This parish has been kept alive ever since its or- 
ganization, and is now in good financial condition. Present number of 
communicants, sixty-four; Vestrymen, J. S. Reed and W. A. Turney; 
Wardens, C. C. Fisher, John Cunningham, J. R. Harshberger, D. Dor- 
ward and George Smith. At the Sunday school there is an average attend- 
ance of about thirty- six; number of scholars enrolled, forty- eight; teach- 
ers, six. The rector is the Superintendent. All the ladies of this parish 
are also organized into a mite society, which is now active. There is also 
a ladies' missionary society of about twenty members. For the last eleven 
years, Rev. J. E. Julian has been the rector. The present church edifice, 
a neat brick structure, 40x60 feet, was built in 1852-53. 

The Church of Christ at Marion, Ohio. — This church was oi'ganized in 
1876, at the city hall, where they held their first meetings. T. D. Garvin 
was the minister, and the first members were A. and Louisa B. Boynton. 

B. J., Phebe and George Camp, L. Fite, Olive Brocklesby, John and Mary 
Weish, John, Sarah and Charles Uncapher, Stephen Norris, Dr. T. Martin, 
F. J. Sutton, John N. Matthews, Mary Simpson, A.manda and Susan Cofi'y, 
Esther Zimmerman, Lavina Keys, Margaret Allen, Harriet Turney, 
Mrs. Blackburn, A. M. and Helen Barney. The official members were L. 
Fite, B. J. Camp, George Camp, A. Boynton and A. M. Barney. Elders, 

C. Ghent, nine months; Davies, one year; W. H. Scott, one year; 

W. Dowling, since 1880; present membership, eighty-six, the increase be- 
ing mainly since they occupied their house of worship, May 23, 1880. They 
have now a flourishing Sunday school. 

Their fine church edifice is on North Main street, is 38x65 feet in di- 
mensions, built of brick and cost $7,000. It has a magnificent spire. 

The United Brethren Church was organized in 1837, by a small society 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 523 

in a private house — the home of Mr. Gruber, two miles east of Marion. 
This society gradually inci*eased in membership until 1848, when a large 
proportion of the members, who resided in and near Marion, organized a 
class within the incorporated limits of the town, and worshiped in a pri- 
vate dwelling. In 1850, this people accepted a proposition that had been 
made by the original proprietor of the village plat, namely, that any 
denomination first oocupying Lot No. 120 with a church building should 
have and hold the same as the property of said denomination. A frame 
structure, 53x38, was commenced in the spring of that year, and in August 
it was completed and dedicated to the worship of God. Revs. P. Flack, J. 
Davis. S. Lindsay, C. Briggs, B. W. Day and A. Berry were the preachers 
in charge of these societies up to 1859. Since I860, Revs. W. Martin, 
Samuel Coulter, T. D. Ingle, F. Clymer, C. L. Barlow, I. Grouse, D. R. 
Miller, A. Orr and J. M. Crim have had the pastoral charge. Present 
pastor, Rev. A. E. Davis. From the organization to the present, the average 
number of members has been eighty-two; the greatest number at any time 
was 150, and the lowest number fifty-five; it is now 107. In 1866-67, 
under the supervision of Rev. I. Crouse, the congregation built a very neat 
parsonage, at a cost of $900, upon Lot No. 119, purchased for $300, which 
amount was left by will of Abram Young for that purpose. 

In 1870, under the superintendence' of Rev. D. R. Miller, pastor, the 
church house was refitted and improvements made upon the parsonage at a 
cost of $920. Present Class-Leader, Abraham Myers; average attendance 
at Sunday school, about sixty-five, with seven or eight teachers; J. B. 
Bolander, Superintendent. 

St Mary's Roman Catholic Church. — The name " Roman" is probably 
a mistake. The house of worship, a substantial brick structure, on North 
West street, about 45x60 feet in dimensions, was erected in 1862. Father 
Burns is the present priest. A flourishing school is kept in a building be- 
longing to the church on North Main street, directly across the square from 
the church. 

FIRST SUNDAY SCHOOL. 

The first Sunday school in Marion was a " union" school under the re- 
gime of the American Sunday School Union, and was organized in 1828. 
The first Superintendent was probably J. Wildbahn. Richard Wilson was 
an active teacher. In course of time, the Methodist and other denomina- 
tions established Sunday schools of their own, and for many years past 
each church has a Sunday school for itself. 

CEMETERIES. 

The first burying ground in Marion was " down on the hill," on a lot 
belonging to the Beiry family, on East street, near Canal, now occupied by 
John Gurley. Very few, however, were buried there before a regular pub- 
lic cemetery was started, just north of the present New York, Pennsylvania & 
Ohio depot, on land donated for the purpose by Eber Baker. This ground 
has been enlarged by additions, and is still kept sacred as a burying 
ground, although a few remains have been removed to the new cemetery. 
The original plat and accompanying papers were lost, but a re-survey is on 
record. 

THE MARION CEMETERY. 

The old burial grounds in Marion were not large enough; they were not 
properly located; they were not under the care or control of any one who 



524 HISTORY OF MARION OOUNTY. 

would or who could see that they were properly cared for, nor had any one the 
means to improve or even keep in repair the burial grounds of the village. 
Besides all these difficulties, the grounds chosen were not lit for the purpose 
of burial, and feeling the force of these combined difficulties in the way of 
the old burial grounds, a number of public-spirited citizens inaugurated a 
movement for the purchase of suitable new grounds for burial purposes. 

Following is a short sketch of this movement which resulted by the 
purchase of the grounds now owned by " The Marion Cemetery Associa- 
tion," now one of the best improved and most beautiful cemeteries to be 
found in this or any other section of the country, owned by the citizens of 
a town or city no larger than Marion. The names of the parties engaged 
in this commendable work are also given that they may receive the honor 
they so well deserve from their fellow citizens of Marion County. 

Public attention was first called to the condition of the old graveyard, 
its crowded lots, its flat surface, the water-holding qualities of its soil, and 
the many adjacent railroads and saloons, by an anonymous correspondent of 
the Independent, whose communications, signed " Israel Fishbones" pictured 
in graphic style, funerals interrupted by passing trains, or by almost tragedies 
in the saloons adjoining the outgrown graveyard. 

As a result of these communications, a meeting was called July 3, 1857, 
at the banking house of J. S. Reed & Co., to take into consideration the 
acknowledged necessity existing for a suitable cemetery. Pursuant to no- 
tice, the meeting was held and the "Marion Cemetery Association" made its 
preliminary organization. The following persons signed the original arti- 
cJes: 

John Ault, J. S. Reed, S. S. Bennett, H. A. True, J. J. Williams, B. H. 
Williams, Patten & Wallace, John Ballantine, J. B. Dumble. E. Peters, J. 
W. Bain, Bowen & Beerbower, J. H. Godman, W. H. Sarles. 

The association encountered great opposition, and for years s truggled 
hard to maintian itself. The members loaned it money and gave, gratu- 
itously, their time and labor toward its development. Many respectable 
persons believed that it was only a speculation entered into for gain, and, 
though invited to join and become conversant with its workings, held aloof 
for want of proper information. The struggle with adversity continued till 
the spring of 1873, when the association was free from debt, had a bal- 
ance in its treasury, and the way for much needed improvements was open 
and unobstructed. 

The grounds occupied by the cemetery were selected by a committee ap- 
pointed at the second meeting of the association, namely, J. S. Reed, John 
Ault and E. Peters. 

They spent considerable time examining lands adjacent to town, testing 
the character of the soil, accessibility, natural adaptation to the purpose of 
burial, ease of improvement and price of lands. But little of the ground 
is strictly level; beautiful slopes and finely shaped ridges add to the beauty 
of the place and enhance its value for the purpose designed. On much of 
the grounds were then (and are yet) standing forest trees of many kind^ 
common to the country, many of them noble specimens of their various 
kinds. Under the system of improvement adopted and carried out, all the 
land owned by the association can be used for burial purposes, though 
many years will elapse before the level portions will be needed, and these 
portions, by contemplated improvements, will not remain level, but will be 
broken into such shapes as will add vastly to their beauty, value ai d use 
fulness. 



., 




MARION TOWNSHIP. 525 

The association and its cemetery are no longer experimental, but both 
are acknowledged successes, and but few ever think of burying their dead 
in the "Old Graveyard," while from the country, for miles around, the as- 
sociation gathers in lot-owners. The cemetery is the most beautiful and 
inviting grounds open to the public in the vicinity, and in pleasant weather 
are visited by multitudes of people, who wander under the trees and along 
the beautiful, well-kept avenues. 

The lands purchased were from the following-named persons, with the 
number of acres purchased from each: James Bowen, 12.3 acres; Nathan 
Peters, 13.0 acres; H. Gorton, 21.2 acres; and S. S. Bennett, .5 acres; to- 
tal, 47.0 acres. The original cost of these forty-seven acres was $4,347.50. 
Marion Township Trastees purchased from the association five acres of 
land, for the sum of $500, and on May 3, 1858, nearly three acres were 
sold to the Roman Catholic Church of Marion, for burial purposes, at $125 
per acre, all sold subject to the rules and regulations of the Cemetery Asso- 
ciation. In 1873, the association re-purchased from the Marion Township 
Trustees three acres of the grounds held by them, so that the association 
now holds forty-two acres of land. 

The cemetery grounds were dedicated Thursday, November 4, 1858, by 
religious services. 

The association, in 1857, elected Dr. H. A. True to superintend the 
laying-out of lots, avenues, lawns, paths, etc., and platting the same, and 
to make all maps, plats, etc., needed. The work was done to the entire 
satisfaction of the association, and with but a few alterations his plans 
are in use to this time. 

For many years there were but few improvements made. The association 
was so burdened with debt, and their enterprise met with such opposition, 
that it was difficult to sell burial lots to raise money to either pay off debts 
or to make needed improvements. But at last, by adopting the policy of 
making constant efforts to sell burial lots to persons who expected to re- 
main citizens of Marion and the vicinity, and thus to enlist them with their 
influence, in working for the association, money enough was raised to can- 
cel the entire debt, and in 1873 the association became free to use its 
money obtained from selling burial lots to improve and beautify the 
grounds. 

The services of Mr. I. Kessler, were secured to act as Superintendent, 
and he was employed constantly upon the grounds, which rapidly assumed 
a new appearance. Brush and weeds took their departure. Cleanliness 
and order assumed sway, and from that time on improvements have been 
made of a lasting and beautifying nature. A comfortable frame dwelling 
was erected upon the grounds in 1875, for the use of the Superintendent. 
The avenues were, to a large extent, graded and graveled, such portions of 
the avenues being in constant use, and are now in very fine condition, be- 
ing smooth, clean and solid. A double artificial lake, which was begun as 
an experiment, has been dug, which contains water the year round, pure 
and sweet, so that fish live in it and increase rapidly. Tile drains have 
been put down in many portions of the grounds. All open ditches, except 
one, have been supplied with large tiles and covered, adding much to the, 
sightliness of the grounds. 

A number of assistants are employed during the spring, summer and fall 
of each year, working upon the grounds, under the direction of the Superin- 
tendent, putting in order the cemetery and aiding in making improvements. 
The association has all needed implements of its own, to do its work, includ- 



526 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

ing derrick for putting up large monuments, and has its own horse, wagon, 
mowers, etc. A neat, substantial barn has been put up the past fall. A 
good tool house is also on the grounds. In fact, all the buildings now 
needed upon the cemetery are now upon it and paid for. 

The Receiving Vault. — As early as 1878, a resolution was passed by the 
association that a receiving vault should be built at as early a date as pos- 
sible, but as the matter was left discretionary with the Trustees, nothing 
was done until the money was on hand to pay for the building of it. In 
1879, a feeling that the time had come for action, the Trustees, A. H. 
Kling, P. O. Sharpless and George Crawford, after receiving all the infor- 
mation they could in reference to such structures, and after examining 
plans offered for their iuspection, decided in favor of a plan, with specifi- 
cations furnished by D. W. Gibbs, architect, Toledo, Ohio. The materials 
used in its construction are brick for the double arch of the vault proper, 
limestone with Berea stone trimmings for the front walls; the vestibule 
is floored with black and white tile and is ceiled with ash; the vault is 
floored with cement, and has, for use on funeral occasions, a fine carpet, 
curtains, etc. , taking from it the gloomy appearance often seen in recepta- 
cles for the dead. A glance at the building will show that it is a beautiful 
vet massive structure, and upon examination it will be found to be as nearly 
perfect as a building of the kind can be, being almost perfect in ventila- 
tion, free from dampness, darkness and gloom. The vault proper is pro- 
vided with solid iron doors, with a fine combination lock, the combination 
of which is only known to the proper officers of the association. The ves- 
tibule is provided with a heavy grated iron door, with strong Scandinavian 
lock. 

The bodies of the dead placed in this vault are free from danger of the 
desecrating hands of the resurrectionist, and are safe till they are of no 
further use for dissection, when they are buried. The construction of this 
vault has rendered the employment of watchers at graves unnecessary. 

The cost of this beautiful and safe receiving vault, including the grad- 
ing of grounds in its immediate vicinity, and the construction of a grav- 
eled avenue thirty-two feet wide in its front, was $2,500. This vault has 
proved to be not only an object pleasing to look at by the association, but 
it has proved to be what the people at large wanted, and they now commit 
the bodies of their friends to its keeping, feeling sure they are safe from 
the hands of the spoilers. It has also stimulated the sale of burial lots, 
especially to parties from the country and from the villages in the county,, 
so that we feel that our cemetery is not for Marion alone, but for the coun- 
ty at large. 

Burial Lots. — The burial lots are laid out in various sizes, so that all 
persons can be suited in the quantity of ground, as well as in location. 
The price is uniform for all grounds in proper shape, fifteen cents per 
square foot being the price charged at this time — 1880. Grading and 
putting lots in shape, will, as far as possible, be done by the association, 
so that the grade may harmonize with the general features of the particu- 
lar locality. Those who desire to secure but a single grave can do so, 
without purchasing more ground, as the association has set aside good, 
eligible ground for that purpose, situated on the south hill. The associa- 
tion assumes the care of lots, so far as keeping them free from weeds, briers 
and brush or long grass are concerned. If the lawn mower is used upon a 
lot, a small charge is made. 

In 1873, soon after bhe association was free from debt, a resolution was 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 527 

passed that 10 per cent of all the moneys realized from the sale of lots 
should be set apart and put on interest, the proceeds of such loans to be 
applied to keep the grounds in order for all future time, when necessary to 
use such proceeds. That fund is already respectable in size, and in a few 
yeara will be abundantly ample of itself to keep in fine order the entire 
cemetery grounds. Aside from this permanent fund the ability of the as- 
sociation to improve and keep its grounds in order will not be questioned 
by any one at all acquainted with its plans and working. 

The association will put in foundations for all monuments, having the 
work done by an experienced workman, with the best materials to be ob- 
tained, at a very moderate cost, the object being to secure permanent and 
firm foundations so that monuments erected thereon will stand erect. 

While the Marion Cemetery contains no very costly monuments at pres- 
ent, yet there are quite a large number of very fine ones, many of granite, 
many of marble of various kinds, and a few of zinc bronze, a new material 
for monumental purposes, beautiful in appearance and claimed to be very 
durable. In the styles of monuments, there is great variety, thus affording 
a pleasing effect to the eye, not at all monotonous and uninteresting as too 
much sameness in style would produce Granite is rapidly taking the 
place of less costly material for monumental purposes, lot-owners taking a 
commendable pride in erecting good, substantial and stylish monuments, 
partaking of the spirit of improvement manifested by the Cemetery Asso- 
ciation and seconding the efforts to render the cemetery a beautiful and at- 
tractive spot. 

Those who became members of the association at the first meeting were 
John Ault, J. S. Eeed, S. S. Bennett, H. A. True, J. J. Williams, B. H. 
Willams, Patten & Wallace, John Ballantine, J. B. Dumble, E. Peters, J. 
W. Bain, Bowen & Beerbower, J. H. Godman and W. H. Sarles. Since 
then the following have become members: D. Jameson, T. B. Fisher, J. 
Hood, John Gurley, E. D. Lindsey, A. H. Kling, P. O. Sharpless, H. S. 
Lucas, J. J. Hane, John Merrill, O. Bowen, George Crawford, E. Hoch, C. 
Smith, S. E. DeWolfe, W. Z. Davis, Henry True and W. P. Hazen. 

The officers have been S. S. Bennett, President from July 25, 1857, to 
April 14, 1879; J. J. Williams, President from April 14, 1879, to the 
present; Dr. H. A True, Secretary and Treasurer from Julv 25, 1857, to 
April, 1859; J. W. Bain, from April 4, 1859, to April 7, 1862; Dr. H. A. 
True, from April 7, 1862, until his death in 1876; J. J. Hane, from Janu- 
ary, 15, 1877, to the present. H. I. Kessler was Superintendent froml873 
uutil his death in 1880; then A. B. Allen until April, 1882, when the.pres- 
ent Superintendent, John Dairy, was appointed. The present Trustees 
are P. O. Sharpless, George Crawford and A*. H. Kling. 

The total number of interments from the organization of the present 
association to January 1, 1881, was 736. 

SECRET SOCIETIES. 

Marion Lodge, No. 70, F. & A. M. — Under dispensation issued by M. 
W. Grand Master William James Reese, of the Grand Lodge of Ohio, dated 
Lancaster, Ohio, July 18, 1840, the following Master Masons met in Mar- 
ion on September 19, 1840 (tradition says in one of the offices of the court 
house), and organized by opening a lodge of Master Masons, with the fol- 
lowing brothers in the chairs and stations: John G. Bruce, W. M. ; John 
Bartram, S. W. ; Elisha Hardy, J. W.; Greenville P. Cherry, S. D. ; San- 
ford S. Bennett, J. D. ; Joseph W. Larrabee, Secretary ; Richard Wilson, 



528 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Treasurer; Olney R. Stone, Tiler; and George H. Busby, member, and 
William Trago, of Amity Lodge, No. 5, visitor. After adopting by-laws, 
certain officers were elected, so that the board stood as follows, the three 
first being named in the dispensation: J. G. Bruce, W. M. ; Moses H. Kir- 
by, S. W. ; Elisha Hardy, J. W. ; Richard Wilson, Treasurer; Joseph W. 
Larrabee, Secretary; Greenville P. Cherry, S. D. ; Sanford S. Bennett, J. 
D.; Olney R. Stone, Tiler and Steward. A charter was granted October 
21, 1841, and the following were the first officers thereafter: John Bart 
ram, W. M. ; Richard Wilson, S. W. ; B. Warner, J. W. ; George Gray, 
Treasurer; Joseph W. Larrabee, Secretary; J. J. Garwood, S. D.; Henry 
Bretz, J. D. ; John Wildbahn, Tiler and Stewai-d. 

The lodge held its meetings in the Bartram building on Main street 
from the time of its organization to 1855, when, the lodge growing too 
large for the room, they rented and used the Odd Fellows Hall, on Main 
street, to June 27, 1856, when they rented Apollo Hall, on Center street, in 
Bennett's block, of Messrs. Fisher & Reed. Here they remained until 
1871, when they contracted for the right to build a trflrd story on a build- 
ing on Center street, erected by Messrs. Johnson, True, and others, and 
which was a fterward known as the Masonic Block, and on June 30, 1871, 
occupied said Masonic Hall for the first time. On May 4, 1877, the Ma- 
sonic Hall, used by Lodge, Chapter and Council, was destroyed by fire. 
The Council and Chapter lost everything, and all the articles belonging to 
the lodge which were saved were the charter and record books and papers, 
the seal, the jewels, the three great lights (the Bible was found June 4, 
1877, in a bookstore), the low twelve bell, sixteen volumes of the library 
and three gavels. By an arrangement with Kosciusko Lodge, No. 58, I. O. 
O. F. , and under a dispensation issued by C. A. Woodward, M. W. Grand 
Master of Ohio, Marion Lodge met at Odd Fellows Hall from May 25, 
1877, until March 15, 1878, when they met for the first time in their new 
hall, rebuilt and furnished. 

On June 24, 1878, "St. John's Day," the lodge room was publicly dedi- 
cated by Past Grand Master A. H. Newcomb, Deputy of Most Worthy 
Grand Master, with the solemn and impressive ceremonies of the ritual. 

The first Masonic funeral in Marion was that of James Clark. 

Marion Council, No. 22, R. & S. M. — This lodge was organized under 
a dispensation dated February 26, 1856, with twenty-three members and thb 
following officers: T. B. Fisher, Thrice Illustrious Master; J. A. Kellam, 
Deputy Illustrious Master; J. S. Reed, Principal Director of the Work. 
There are now about thirty members, who meet in Masonic Hall, the first 
Wednesday after the second Tuesday of January, March, May, July, Sep- 
tember and November. The OouDcil is in a sound financial condition. 

Present officers: Philip Dombaugh, T. I. M. ; Jacob R. Harschberger. 
D. I. M.; F. C. Ruehrmund, P. D. of W.; Henry True, Treasurer; W. H 
Eckhart, Recorder; J. Strelitz, Captain of the Guard, Charles E. Smith, 
Conductor of the Council; Charles Smith, Steward; P. Dietrich, Sentinel. 

Marion Chapter, No. 62, R. A. M. — The records of this lodge were de- 
stroyed by fire in 1877. Dispensation was received from the Grand Lodge, 
December 5, 1854. The first members were'T. B. Fisher, George H. Bus- 
by, James S. Reed, John Bartram, Charles Smith, James H. Godman, 
Richard Wilson and J. Rice. The following were officers under the dis- 
pensation: T. B. Fisher, High Priest: George H. Busby, King; J. S. 
Reed, Scribe; Philip Dombaugh, Captain of the Hnst; John Bartram, 
Principal Sojourner; Charles Smith, Royal Arch Captain; James H. God- 




Jrtfh*7 /fit. 



6&Z^7 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 531 

man, Grand Master of the Third Veil; Samuel H. Bartram, G. M. of Sec- 
ond Veil; T. H. Dickerson, G. M. of First Veil; John T. Merchant, 
Treasurer; J. S. Reed, Secretary; Philip Dietrich, Guard. The lodge was 
organized in 1855, and has been active ever since. The first meetings were 
held in Bartram' s building; next in Bennett's block; then in the Masonic 
Hall, which was burned in 1877; then temporarily in Odd Fellows Hall, 
until the new Masonic Block was finished, since which time it has met there. 
Thore are now ovar a Imndred members, who meet the second Tuesday in 
each month. The lodge owes no debts, and has money in the treasury. 

Present officers — John A. Wolford, H. P. ; E. E. Henry, K. ; James A. 
Knapp, S.; J. Strelitz, C. of H ; C. Smith, R. A. C; Elmoe Smith, G. M. 
of the Third Veil; William Bland, G. M. of the Second Veil; J. W. Hinds, 
G. M. of the First Veil; S. E. DeWolfe, Treasurer; W. E. Moore, Secre- 
tary; P. Dietrich, G. 

Marion Commandery, No. 36, Knights Templar. — The dispensation for 
this lodge was granted May 25, 1880, and the charter September 16, 1880. 
The first officers were: T. B. Fisher, Eminent Commander; Sidney Moore, 
Generalissimo; F. R. Saiter, Captain General; J. E. Julian, Prelate; 
George Williams, S. W.; J. F. McNeal, J. W. ; James H. Reed, Treasurer; 
W. H. Eckhart, Recorder; J. W. Alsop, Standard Bearer; S. R. Dumble, 
Sword Bearer; Charles E. Smith, Warder; Isaac Uncapher, Sentinel. The 
original number of members was thirty- three ; there are now about 105, and 
the Commandery is in an excellent financial condition. Meetings, the sec- 
ond Thursday of each month, in Masonic Hall. 

Present officers— J. F. McNeal, E. C; W. H. Eckhart, Gen.; F. R. Sai- 
ter, Capt. Gen.; Sidney Moore, Prelate; Charles E. Smith, S. W. ; George 
McGuire, J. W. ; Henry True, Treasurer; James Jacoby, Recorder; A. W. 
Diller, Standard Bearer; D. S. Miller, Sword Bearer; O. W. Weeks, War- 
der; George W. Crouse, Sentinel. 

Kosciusko Lodge, No. 58, I. 0. O. F. — This society commenced under a 
dispensation granted in 1846, with T. P. Wallace, J. P. Gray, William 
Robbins, J. Seitz, G. W. Howe and R, F. Gray. J. P. Gray is still a 
member. The lodge was organized also in 1846, by Albert S. Day, G. M.. 
with Rev. G. W. Howe, N. G. ; Mr. Knapp, Secretary; and J. P. Gray. V. 
G. Meetings were at first held iu Bartram's block and Bain's building un- 
til about 1852; when the third story was added, they began to meet there. 
Present membership, about ninety-five. Present officers — S. T. Beerbower, 
N. G. ; John F. Young, V. G. ; William Fies, Per. Secretary; John Dairy, 
Recording Secretary; Charles Stose, Treasurer. In treasury, S3, 592. 
Lodge meets every Monday evening. 

The first funeral in this order in Marion was that of James J. Williams, 
when the service at the grave was read by Judge John Merrill. 

Mizpah Encampment, No. 50. — Dispensation was received May 14, 
1851. First members, J. M. Horton, H. S. Camp, R. C. Kirk, J. Ullman. 
M. T. Mills, J. R. Gooding, J. E. Davids and J. Naylor. On the first night, 
Messrs. Peters, Reed and Knapp were initiated. The Encampment was or- 
ganized at the above date, by P. Pat. W. T. Slater. The society has al- 
ways been in active operation, holding their meetings now in their own 
lodge room, the first and third Tuesdays of the month, and having about 
$1,800 in the treasury. Present number of members, seventy-three; offi- 
cers, William Burns, "C. P.; J. N. Matthews, H P.; J. Kedd, S. W,; M. 
Keil, J. W. ; J. Dairy. Scribe; C. Stose, Treasurer. 



532 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Canby Lodge, No. 51, Knights of Pythias. — This was organ ized 
April 24, 1874, with the following as charter members: John E. Davids, 
J. C. Johnston, A. C. Bowen, P. O. Sharpless, H. Ackerman, O. Frazer, 
M. L. Cunningham, James E. Bryan, Clark Turney, Nathaniel Green, H. F. 
Snyder, W. S. Drake and S. J. Snyder. The organizing officer was Adam 
Emerson, P. G. C. , of Wooster, Ohio. First officers — A. C. Bowen, C. C. ; 
N. Green, V. C. ; C. Lederman, P. C. ; J. E. Davids, K. of R's.; H. Ack- 
erman, M. of F.; S. J. Snyder, M. of Exchequer; O. Frazer, I. G. ; H. F. 
Snyder; O. G. The lodge has ever since constantly increased in strength, 
having now 105 members. Present officers — George Keg, P. C. ; George 
Webber, C. C. ; T. J. Moore, V. C. ; M. F. Snyder, K. of R's. ; Clark Tur- 
ney, M. of F.; W. C. Rapp, M. of Exchequer; W. S. Drake, Prelate; W. 
W. Koons, ;M. at Arms; H. W. Culbertson, I. G. ; J. Keller, O. G. ; S. A. 
Court, D. D. G. C. About $800 in treasury and no debts. Meets Friday 
evenings in the Bartram Block, on the third floor. 

Marion Lodge, No. 1,767, Knights of Honor, was organized by J. B. 
King, August 28, 1879, with the following charter members and officers: 
W. S. Drake, Dictator; H. W. Riley, V. Dictator; John Diebold, Sr., A. 
Dictator; H. Morrill, Guide; S. D. Myers, Chaplain; J. A. Knapp, Reporter; 

B. S. Runyan, F. Reporter; T. J. McMurray, Treasurer; N. Stoll, Guard- 
ian; H. J. Kessler, Sentinel; A. B. McMurray, M. Examiner and Past 
Dictator; F. R. Saiter, B. Tristram, J. Kishler, J. B. Dutton, J. Sauer, C. 

C. Pettit, Charles Terpany, James Jacoby, James Swinnerton, Frederick 
Diebold. A. B. Allen, S. Fogleson, D. L. Stouffer, C Turney, J. B. Wyatt, 
J. W. Shumaker, J. B. Lutz. Present number of members, thirty-six. 
Financial condition, good. Meet first and third Thursdays of each month 
in the Williams Block. Since organization, H. T. Kessler and John Die- 
bold, Sr., have died, and their families received the full benefit, $2,000,. 
within sixty days. 

Present officers— O. A. Busard, D; W. D. Whipps, V. D.; M. A. 
Bever, A. D. ; J. W. Shumaker, R. ; S. Fogleson, F. R. ; T. J. McMurray,. 
Treasurer; M. Stoll, C; A. B. Allen, G. ; H. D. Morrill, Gen.; William 
Leeper, S.; A. B. McMurray, Med. Examiner; J. B. Lutz, H. D. Morrill, 
M. Stoll, Trustees; H. W. Riley, J. W. Shumaker and H. D. Morrill, 
Auditing Committee. 

Olentangy Council, No. 355, Royal Arcanum, was organized July 17,. 
1879, by H. E. W. Campbell, Deputy Grand Regent of Ohio, with the fol- 
lowing charter members and officers: J. E. Julian, Regent: A. H Hord, 
Vice Regent; H. G. Welty, Orator; Henry True, Past Regent; T. C. 
Bowen, Secretary; O. W. Weeks, Collector; Julius Strelitz, Treasurer; E. 
B. Crouse, Chaplain; M. Barnhart, Guide; Samuel R. Dumble, C. H. 
Martin, J. L. Bell, D. G. Felty, U. F. Seffner, T. H Linsley, J. E. Crow r 
Ira Uhler, L. Denison,W. H. Moses, William Muntsinger, Robert W. Burns, 
J. B. Gottshall, H. M. Barnhart, P. E. Dombaugh and James D. Gregory. 
Since organization there has been but one death among its members — that 
of Dr. J. M, Christian. The Council meets in the third story of Fahey's 
block, the first and third Monday evenings of each month. Financial 
standing, excellent. There are now seventy-two members. 

Present officers — O. W. Weeks, Regent; C. A. Moore, Vice Regent; Ira 
Uhler, Orator; Henry True, Past Regent; B. F. Waples, Secretary; W. H. 
Schaffner, Collector; J. E. Crow, Treasurer; T. H. Linsley, Captain; N. A. 
Showen, Guide: William Smith, Warden; H. H. Cunningham, Sentry. 

Washingto)t Camp, No. 42, Patriotic Order Sons of America, was or- 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 533 

ganized September 10, 1878, by George M. Bricher and W. P. Clark. 
First officers and members: AY. B. Dorward, P. P.; W. P. Clark, P.; H. 
R Young, V. P. ; George M. Bricher. M. of F. and C. ; W. E. Scofiold, 
Recording Secretary; H. R. Bunker, Financial Secretary; Frederick Hab- 
erman, Treasurer: W. R. Garberson, Conductor; James Williams, I. G. ; 
Frank Linn, O. G.; H. C. Haberman, W. F. Hammer, B. F. Bryant, 
George Meily, J. N. Jones, Cass Wilson, T. J. Moore, W. Silverthorn, 
John Leffler, G. W. Turney, Camden Stone, Sidney Young, A. H. Kling, 
Jr., F. H. Tristram, C. F. Grouse, C. H. Martin and F. B. Barrett. Pres- 
ent membership, sixty-one. The Camp meets Thursday evenings, the Coun- 
cil (Excelsior), the second Thursday, and the Commandery, the first Thurs- 
day of each month, in the P. O. S. of A. Hall, in the Cummin Block. 
Financial condition, good. 

Present officers— James H. Richards, P. P.; John Cocherl, P.; William 
Dairy, V. P.; George L. Phelps, M. of F. and C. ; H. M. Mumford, Re- 
cording Secretary; Hiram Uncapher, financial Secretary; Frederick Hab- 
erman. Treasurer: Herman "Uncapher, Conductor; M. J. Mackey, I. G. ; J. 
W. Crawley, O. G. 

Marion Lodge, No. 2, Prudential Order of America. — Organized Feb- 
ruary 24, 1882, by John Blanchard, Supreme Ruler, with the following 
membership: A. B. McMurray, M. Stoll, R. T. Smith, M. V. Payne, G. L. 
Phelps, J. Thompson, J. B. Lutz, E. R. Shook, J. T Shadaker, J. W. 
Shumaker, T. H. Dickerson, G. T. Harding, A Longenbaugher, C. Hober- 
man and P. E. MeClaun. Present number of members, fifty-one, who 
meet in Williams Hall. This is a mutual insurance association for both 
sickness and death, and is in good financial condition. Present officers — 
M. Stoll. Past R. ; George L. Phelps, E. R, ; C. Hoberman, V. R.; J. B. 
Lutz, Recorder and Treasurer; R. T. Smith, F. R. 

Cooper Post, No. 117, G. A. P. — This was organized August 12, 1881, 
by Col. A. H. Brown, of Toledo, with about forty ex- soldiers as charter 
members, in the hall of the Royal Arcanum in the Fahey Block. The 
following were the officers elected: Valentine Lapham, Commander; 
George B. Christian, S. V. C; T. H. Dickerson, J. V. C; William Rapp, 
Adjutant; Dr. O. W. Weeks, Surgeon; F. R. Saiter, Q. M.; John J. Will- 
iams, Officer of the Day, Charles Showers, Officer of the Guard; S. Fogle 
son, Sergeant Major; T. 0. McMurray, Commissary; S. R. Dumble, Assist- 
ant Inspector of the Post. The Post was named after Burt and Edward 
Cooper, brothers, both of whom lost their lives in the war. Burt was the 
tirst from Marion County to receive the blood baptism, and Edward was 
shot and killed after the war had virtually closed. Two other brothers also 
served in the war, one of whom lost his arm and the other's days were 
shortened by disease. 

Cooper Post meets the second and fourth Wednesday of each month. 

The number of members in August. 1883, was fully eighty, and it is 
rapidly increasing. The present officers are: W. C. Rapp, Post Command- 
er; O. A. Busard. Senior Vice Commander: A. B. Allen, Junior Vice Com- 
mander: Charles Showers, Quartermaster: John Cocherl, Chaplain: Dr. R. 
L. Sweney, Surgeon; M. V. Payne. Officer of the Day; John Shumaker, 
Adjutant; F. M. Whipps, Officer of the Guard; George Crabb, Quarter- 
master Sergeant; Samuel Harberson, Sergeant Major. 

Marion Grove, No. 27, U. A. 0. D. (Druids). — The dispensation was re- 
ceived April G, 1870. at which date the lodge was also organized, with the 
following members: J. Diebold. G. Leffier, Jacob Blaich. Frederick Die- 



534 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

bold, John Stengel, Jacob Weber. J. Keller, L. Drollinger, John Schneider, 
H. Akerman, F. Bausinger. Frank Eberle, Christian Kuertzler, M. Brigel, 
M. Albrecht, William Kraner and others. The organizing officers were: 

E. G., E. Heinz; U. E., H. Hanz; Secretary, H. Weizel; I. W., J. Grau, and 

F. G. Brand, all of Columbus, Ohio. The first officers were: John Diebold, E. 
E. ; G. Leffler, U. E. ; Jacob Weber, Secretary; John Stengel, Treasurer; 
Ferdinand Bausinger, I. W. ; J. Blaich, R. H. D. E. E.; H. Schaffner, 
L. H. D. E. E. ; F. Diebold, R. H. U. E. ; P. Fetter, L. H. U. E. j L. 
Drollinger, F. ; Frederick Kowalke, Ae. W. Meetings were held at Beh 
ner's Hall until May 1, 1872, then at Bennett's Hall until May 1, 1878, 
and since that time in the Masonic Block. Present number of members, 
thirty-five: present officers, G. Leffler, E. E., who is also Representative 
and District Deputy; F. Eberle, U. E.; J. Blaich, Secretary; J. Stengel, 
Treasurer; A. Kraner, I. W. ; J. Glick, Ae. W.; M. Albrecht, F. The lodge 
has $1,500 in the treasury; meets Wednesday evenings. 

The Good Templars first organized in Marion July 29, 1858, at the 
office of Dr. Maxwell, with the following officers: W. B. Merriman, W. C. 
T. ; Miss Sallie Randall, V. W. C. T.; W. H. King, W. Secretary; J. S. 
Dudley. W. Marshal; Miss Lou Hoxter, W. I. Guard; W. Lindsey, W. O. 
Guard; S. R. Green, W. Treasurer; W. B. Williams, W. Chaplain; C C. 
Godman, W. Financial Secretary. This organization was effected under 
the presidency of the Deputy, George Towne, of Crestline. The order 
llourished well for a time, but went entirely down. It was revived again 
after the war, but died the second time, and there is now no lodge of that 
order in Marion. For a sketch of the cause of temperance in Marion and 
the county, see Chapter IX. 

Sons of Temperance, Marion Division, No. 78. — Older organizations of 
this order are noticed elsewhere. This division was established about 1878, 
under the supervision of Rev. Collins, State Deputy Grand Worthy Patri- 
arch, and State Lecturer and Organizer, the first officers being J. W. Clark, 
W. P. ; S. D. Myers, John Cocher), J. P. McClinton, John Dairy, Dr. J. M. 
Christian and others. For three years they met in MeWilliams' Block, and 
lately in the P. O. S. of A. Hall m Cummin Block. There are now thirty-six 
members and the present officers are John Cocherl, D. G. W. P. ; L. B. Gur- 
ley, P. G. W. P. ; B. J. Camp, W. P.; Mrs. M. R. Payne, W. A. ; William 
Eastgate, R. S. ; Rosa Ketzel, A. R. S. ; M. R. Payne, F. S. ; Belle Sosey, 
Treasurer; W. G. Harding, C. ; Anna Hoberman, A. C. ; W. H. Gilbaugh, 
I. S. ; J. L. Wilson, O. S. ; George L. Phelps, Chaplain. 

Financial condition, fair. Regular meetings Wednesday evening of 
each week. 

A LODGE MEMBER IN ARREARS. 

" There is in Marion an excellent old gentleman who is a little delin- 
quent in attending his favorite lodge. Indeed, he is in arrears for dues 
about $20. The lodge, unwilling to expel him, appointed a committee to 
advise with him. They visited him, talked nicely to him about the beauties 
of the order, and explained how necessary it was for him to be in good 
standing in case he should be suddenly called away. Said one of them : 
'If you were to pass in your checks now, the lodge wouldn't be permitted 
to attend your funeral in a body, and oh! what a mortification it would be 
if such a calamity should overtake us! And, do you know, brother, we 
have the nicest new funeral regalia you ever saw, and during our long exist- 
ence as a lodge we never were so well prepared for a corpse. Now, pay up 
your arrears, be in shape for a close call, and don't deprive your brothers 
of the pleasure of attending your funeral." 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 535 

" The old fellow began to wilt. He seemed to see the tinsel and gold 
prancing around his hearse, and how proud his friends were of the funeral, 
and with a half sob he uttered, ' Pard, how much do I owe the lodge?' 
' Why, its only $20.' '$20! Well pards, just as soon as I can raise the 
money I'll pay it; but in the meantime, if I should be taken away kind o" 
sudden before them dues are paid, come anyhow and view the remains, and 
if you can't wear your regalia, bring along your umbrellers.' " — Mirror. 

EDUCATIONAL. 

As soon as there was a sufficient number of children in Mar- 
ion to justify the hiring of a school teacher, a school was started: 
and before the village was seven years old, a brick schoolhouse was erected 
on West street, which, as before mentioned, was used for many years as a 
schoolhouse, church, court house, etc. ; indeed, school was kept there until 
about 1850 or a little afterward. The buildiug is now occupied as a dwell- 
ing. In addition to the regular public school, sometimes a small select 
school would be kept for a time, altogether supported, of course, by sub- 
scription. 

Marion Academy. — This, the first institution of the kind in Marion 
County, was opened January 5, 1841, by John J. Williams, Esq,, with 
thirty-five pupils, in Masonic Hall, over what is now Krause's store. All 
the higher branches preparatory to the college course were taught, and in 
connection with the school was a faculty, consisting of Ozias Bowen, Pres 
ident; Drs. H. A. True and T. B. Fisher, Rev. Bruce, etc., who delivered 
lectures in their respective departments. The first term comprised five 
months. The ensuing fall the institution was opened with 115 pupils, and 
Mrs. Williams was employed as assistant teacher. This year the academy 
was kept in a stone building on Main street, now owned by Mrs. W 7 alters 
and occupied as a saddle and harness shop. Some of the pupils were from 
a distance, having heard of the excellence of the school. Among the emi- 
nent men educated here were Dr. John Davis, Rev. W. D. Godruan, a dis- 
tinguished clergyman, now residing in Mississippi ; Dr. Thomas Boyd, now 
of Beaver, Penn., aDd several others. Witnessing the prosperity of the 
institution, the citizens purchased a lot and erected upon it an academy 
building, and Mr. Williams going into the law practice, Solomon Shep- 
herd, a graduate of the Ohio University, was employed as Principal. He 
was succeeded by W. L. Terrill a short time, but the school began to decline 
on account of free schools coming up, and in 1853 the building was sold. 
It is now Bieber's flouring mill. 

Mr. Terrill was afterward Principal of the public schools, and then went 
West, and has since died. 

William L. Uleyate started a private school at the same time on a 
back street, but at the end of about two months he died. 

Public Schools. — These coming into existence, of course absorbed the 
support of private schools. In Marion, as well as in the State generally, 
the free school system was of early but slow growth; and not until about 
the time the present State Constitution was adopted did it come to full 
maturity. In the original plat of Marion by Mr. Baker, Lots Nos. 119 and 
142 were given for school purposes. The former of these was sold, and is 
now occupied by the United Brethren church and parsonage; on the latter 
was erected the famous brick schoolhouse, elsewhere described. About 
1843-44, the forementioned academy was built, which was the principal 
school building for several years; then the old stone church (Methodist), 
now occupied by the Huber works, and finally the " Center " building. 



53(3 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

The first entry on the journal of the Marion Board of Education is the 
following: 

Pursuant to public [notice] given according to an.actofthe Legislature passed Feb- 
ruary 81, l s li>. entitled, "An act for the better regulation of schools in towns, cities." 
etc., the legal voters of the town of Marion, Marion Co., Ohio, met in the court house 
in said town on Saturday, the 19th day of April. L851, and organized by appointing J. 
R. Knapp, Chairman, Jacob Burger, Assistant Chairman, and E. Peters, Clerk. 

Whereupon, the meeting proceeded to vote by ballot for and against the adoption 
of said above mentioned act, the result of which ballot was sixty votes for and nine 
votes against the adoption. Whereupon said act was declared duly adopted. 

Whereupon the meeting adjourned. 

John R. Knapp, Chairman. 

E. Peters, Secretary. 
April 19, 1851. 

A regular election notice was then issued by J. K. Knapp, Chairman, 
and E. Peters, " Clerk," dated April 23, 1851, calling the voters together on 
the 3d day of May ensuing, " for the purpose of electing six Directors in 
conformity to" the act of the Legislature. The election was duly held, 
with the following result: 

Directors. — John Bartram, one year, 11 votes; J. R. Knapp, one year, 11 
votes; John J. Williams, two years, 11 votes; R. Patten, two years, 11 
votes; B. H. Williams, three years, 13 votes; W. W. Concklin, three years, 
13 votes. 

On the evening of the same day, Mr. Bartram was elected President of 
the Board, Mr. Concklin, Clerk, and B. H. Williams, Treasurer. Rev. G 

Sturgis was appointed School Examiner for one year; Peter for 

two years, and H. A. True for three years. On May 10, Mr. Concklin re- 
signed, and John J. Williams was appointed Secretary in his stead, and L. 
H. Randall, a member of the board to fill the vacancy. A resolution was 
adopted at the first meeting to notify the Directors of the several district 
theretofore composing this district of the organization of the new Board. 

For comparison with what is required of teachers at the present day. 
the reader may notice that by resolution this board determined not to em- 
ploy any teacher unless qualified to teach reading, writing, arithmetic, En- 
glish grammar and geography. James McCoy was employed to teach in 
the schoolhouse in the northwest portion of the district, at the rate of $22 
per month, " for such a length of time only as this board may think fit and 
proper. " 

Mr. Bartram resigned, and two days afterward, E. Peters was appointed 
to fill the vacancy, both as member and as President. The term " quarter" 
was decided to be sixty-six. days. May 13, Timothy Chase was employed as 
teacher for three months, at $22 a month, and Miss L. A. Baker at $12 a 
month. May 16, resolved to open school in the schoolhouse in the north 
east part of the district. 

July 31, John Gurley was appointed to fill he vacancy occasioned by the 
death of L. H. Randall. W. L. Terrill was employed as Principal of the 
Union Schools for one year, from October 1 ensiling, at the rate of 
$500 a year, " if he and the board can so long agree." Some time after 
ward — no date assigned — the board employed Miss Hoft, Mrs. Johnson, 
Mrs. Sarah Clark, Miss L. Busby, Miss Geiger and Miss E. Wildbahn as 
teachers— all at the rate of $12 a month, except Miss Hoft. who should re- 
ceive $350 a year. 

Since then the teachers, according to the pay roll, have been as fol- 
lows: 

1853— W. L. Terrill, T. Chase, Mrs. R. Johnson, Miss M. Gooding, 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 537 

Miss L. A. Baker, Miss Hoft, Miss Geiger, Mrs. Durfee aad Mrs Ran- 
dall. 

1854 — W. L. Ten-ill, Harriet Randall, Ann Geiger, Louisa Epler, R. 
A. Johnston, Miss Conover, Miss Pratt, J. M. Heller and Miss Bell. 

1855— W. L. Terrill, J. M. Heller, Ann Geiger, R. A. Jobnson, L. 
Epler, S. B. Bell and Miss Mclntyre. 

1856 — G. H. Hampson, Superintendent; J. M. Heller. The others not 
named. 

1857 — Dr. Catlin, Superintendent, and Mrs. Catlin, Principal of High 
School. 

1858 — E. B. Olmsted, Superintendent; Mrs. A. J. Olmsted, Princi- 
pal; J. M. Heller, Rev. S. D. Bates, Miss C. Beardsley, Anna Geiger. 
Miss A. Powers, Miss A. Cooper, Miss M. P. Hoxter, Mrs. R. A. Johnson 
and Miss L. Adams. 

1859 — E. B. Olmsted, Superintendent; Mrs. A. J. Olmsted, Princi- 
pal; Mrs. C. Fisher, Mrs. A. Powers, Mrs. R. A. Johnson, Mrs. M. P. 
Hume, Miss H. N. Angel, Miss I. Peterson, Mrs. L. Mann, Miss L. Adams, 
J. M. Heller, J. L. Marquis, Miss R. E. Brockett, Miss E. Shepherd, L. 
Hoxtor, Miss A. E. Smith and W. B. Raymond. 

1860— E. B. Olmsted, Superintendent; Miss C. J. Case, Prof. U. 
Glasser, Dr. H. A. True. D. S. Jones, Mrs. M. P. Elliott, Mrs. M. P. 
Hume. Miss A. Conley, Miss M. B. Williams, Miss A. Geiger, Mrs. R. A. 
Johnson. 

1861 — S. A. Cravath, Superintendent; Mrs. M. R. Cravath, D. S. 
Jones, Mrs. L. Bates, Miss Belle De Wolfe, Miss Ann Conley, Miss Maria 
Smith, Miss A. E. Cameron, Miss Ann Geiger, Mrs. R. A. Johnson. 

1862 — S. A. Cravath, Miss Cornelia Branch, Miss Annie Conley, MissE. 
A. Cameron, Miss Mary B. Williams, Miss Annie Geiger, D. S. Jones, Mrs. 
R. A. Johnson, Mrs. A. J. Olmstead, Mrs. M. P. Hume. 

1863 — A. H Lowrie, Superintendent; G. H. Bombaugh, J. J. Robin- 
son, Miss Virginia Sharp, Mrs. A. H Lowrie, Miss Eliza A. Cameron, Miss 
Mary B. Williams, Mrs. R. A. Johnson, Miss Annie Geiger, Miss C. 
Branch. 

1864 — A. H. Lowrie, Superintendent: Mrs. A. H. Lowry, Miss Mary 
McFadden, Miss Anna Geiger, D. S. Jones, Miss E. A. Cameron, Miss C. 
Branch, Mrs. R. A. Johnson, Miss S. D. Adams, Miss M. B. Williams. 

1865 — J. Hanson, Superintendent; Miss H. N. Angel, Miss P. Zuck, 
Miss A. L. Gilmer, Miss S. A. Hoover, Miss E. A. Cameron, Miss S. Press- 
ley, Miss Laura Hardy, Miss Mary McFadden. 

1866— W. Watkins, Superintendent; Mrs. T. W. Cuscaden, L. W. 
Day, Miss Emma F. Potter, Miss Mary McFadden, Miss E. A. Cameron, 
Miss Mary E. Searles, Miss Augusta L. Gilmer, Miss Anna Geiger. Miss 
Laura Hardy, Miss R. A. Thompson. 

1867— W. Watkins, Mrs. T. W. Cuscaden, Mis E. A. Cameron, Miss 
A. M. Morris, W. A. Phillips, Miss Norton, Ella Burrill, Louisa Cope, 
Mrs. R . A. Johnson and Miss Laura Hardy. 

1868 — Louisa Cope, E. Burrell. Mrs. T. W. Cuscaden, Miss Laura Har- 
dy, Alice Hill, Retta McLain, J. M. Johnson (penmanship), Alice M. Tur- 
ney, M. E. Uncapher and S. Burrell. • 

1869— Mattie McLain, Retta McLain, Alice Hill, Alice Turney, Ella 
Irmer, Mrs. Bean, Mrs. Cuscaden, Louisa Cope and Ella Burrill. 

1870-71 — Dr. Henry A. True. Superintendent; Miss Annie E. Mower, 
Miss Retta McLain, Miss Alice Hill, Miss Ella Irmer, Miss Mattie McLain, 



538 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Miss Lizzy Blanpied. Miss Alice M. Adams, Mrs. H. J. Emery, Miss Ro- 
salie Strelitz, Mrs. Elis. Bean, Miss Cora Reynolds. 

1871-72— W. S. Eversole, Superintendent; Mrs. Clara Dewey, Albert 
Setzepfend, Miss Mattie McNeal, Kate Phelps, Ella Irmer, Iva Brocket, 
Louise M. Heil, B. E. Rubins, Laura A. Swinnerton, Rosalie Strelitz, 
Mrs. H. I. Emery, Mrs. E. Bean. 

1872-73— W. S. Eversole, Mrs. Clara A. J. Dewey, Albert Setzepfand, 
Miss Lou M. Hyle, Miss Kate Phelps, Miss E. B. Rubins, Miss Ella Irmer, 
Miss Lizzie S. Ruehrmund, Miss Rosalie Strelitz, Miss Princess Scott, Mrs. 
H J. Emery, Miss Hattie Hudson and Miss Elis. Bean. 

1873-74 — W. S. Eversole, Superintendent; Mrs. Clara A. J. Dewey, 
Mr. A. Setzepfand, Miss Emma Sayre, Miss Lou M. Hyle, Miss Lizzie 
Ruehrmund, Miss Ella Irmer, Miss Eva Gailey, Miss Rosalie Strelitz, Miss 
Augusta Strelitz, Mrs. H. J. Emery, Miss E. L. Geiger, Miss Princess 
Scott, Miss Hattie Hudson, Mrs. E. Bean. 

1874-75— W. S. Eversole, Superintendent; Mrs. C. A. J. Eversole, 
Albert Setzepfand, Emma Sayre, Louise M. Hyle, Lizzie Ruehrmund, Ella 
Irmer, Evelyn Gailey, Mrs. H. J. Emery, Miss Clara Sauer, Miss Jose- 
phine Dietrich, Mrs. Mattie Elliott, Annie M. Granger and Mrs. E. Bean. 

1875-76— W. S. Eversole, Superintendent; Mrs. W. S. Eversole, A. 
Setzepfand, Emma Sayre, Miss J. E. McLain, Miss Lizzie Ruehrmund, 
Ella Irmer (Caddy), Evelyn Gailey, Mrs. H. J. Emery, Miss Emma Mc- 
Cann, Miss Josephine Dietrich, Mrs. Mattie Elliott, Mrs. Annie M. Gran- 
ger, and Mrs. Elis. Bean. 

1876-77— G. F. Mead, Superintendent; Mrs. M. A. Mead, Alwin Mul- 
ack, Miss Emma Sayre, Miss Lizzie Hanby, Miss Lizzie Ruehrmund, Miss 
Carrie L. Couch, Miss Evelyn Gailey, Mrs. H. J. Emery, Miss Emma Mc- 
Cann, Miss Josephine Dietrich, Mrs. Mattie Elliott, Mrs. A. M. Granger, 
Mrs. E. C. Bean. 

1877-78— H G. Welty, Superintendent; Mr*. M. A. Mead, A. Mulach, 
Miss S. D. Kyle, Miss Lizzie Hanby, Miss Lizzie Ruehrmund, Mrs. A. M. 
Granger, Miss Rebecca Wise, Mrs. H. J. Emery, Miss Nellie M. Miller, 
Miss Carrie Scofield, Mrs. Mattie Elliott, Miss Flora L. Ruhrmund, Mrs. 
E. C. Bean and Mrs. Pauline Gregg. 

1878-79— H. G. Welty, Superintendent; Miss Julia Wheatley, A. E. 
Gladding, A. Mulach, Miss S. D. Kyle, Miss Lizzie Ruehrmund, Miss Eva 
Gailey, Mrs. A. M. Granger, Mrs. H. J. Emery, Miss Bessie Wise, Mrs. 
Mattie Elliott, Miss Carrie Scofield, Miss Flora L. Ruehrmund, Mrs. 
Mary L. Dairy, Mrs. E. C. Bean, Mrs. Paulina Gregg. 

1879-80— H. G. Welty, Superintendent; Julia Wheatley, A. Mulach, 
H. L. Dumble, S. D. Kyle, Lizzie Ruehrmund, Eva Gailey, A. M. Gran- 
ger, C. Scofield, Helen Vose, M. Elliott, Flora Ruehrmund, Mary Dairy, 
Helen Jones, E. C. Bean, J. H. Emery, Bessie Wise, Stella Bunker, P. S. 
Gregg. 

1880-81— H. G. Welty, Superintendent; H. P. Ufford, A. Mulach, H. 
L. Dumble, S. D. Kyle, Lizzie Ruehrmund, Eva Gailey, A. M. Granger, 
Carrie Scofield, Helen Vose, Mattie Elliott, Flora Ruehrmund, Mary L. 
Dairy, Ada A. Jones, E. C. Bean, H. J. Emery, Bessie Wise. Stella Bun- 
ker, S. P. Gregg. • 

1881-82— S. E. Shutt, Superintendent; Alvin Mulach, Abby J. Adams, 
Delia S. Kyle, Lizzie Ruehrrnund, Evelyn Gailey, Mrs. A. M. Granger, 
Carrie A. Scofield, Helen A. Vose, Clara Bunker, Flora Ruehrmund, Mary 
L. Dairy, Maggie Jones, Mrs. E. C. Bean, Mrs. H. J. Emery, Bessie 
Wise, Stella Banker. Mrs. S. P. Gregg. 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 539 

1882-83— E. E. Henry, Superintendent; Rev. J. E. Julian, Miss 
Marian A. Perkins, Miss Lizzie Ruehrmund, Mrs. Hannah J. Emery, Miss 
Flora Ruehrmund, Mrs. Anna M. Granger, Miss Carrie A. Scofield, Miss 
Clara Bunker, Miss Emma Sutter, Miss Susie L. Moore, Miss Jennie Jame- 
son, Miss Princess Lutz, Mrs. E. C. Bean, Miss Helen A. Vose, Miss Stella 
Bunker, Miss Mary L. Dairy, Mrs. S. P. Gregg. 

1883-84— Central Building: Miss M. A. Perkins, Principal of High 
School; Rev. J. E. Julian. Assistant, High School and Languages; Miss 
Lizzie Ruehrmund, A Grammar Department; .Mrs. H. J. Emery, B Gram- 
mar Department; Miss Flora Ruehrmund, first C Grammar Department; 
Miss Stella N. Bunker, second C Grammar Department; Miss Carrie A. 
Scofield. D Grammar Department; Miss Clara Bunker, A Primary Depart- 
ment; Miss Emma Sutter, B Primary Department; Miss Jennie M. Hord, 
first C Primary Department; Miss Letta R. Reichert, second C Primary 
Department; Miss May Harshberger, first D Primary Department; Mrs. E. 
C. Bean, second D Primary Department; F. M. Hostetter, Janitor. North 
Building: Miss Helen A. Vose. D Grammar Department; Miss Flora Will- 
iamson, A Primary Department; Miss Mary L. Dairy, B Primary Depart- 
ment; Mrs. S. P. Gregg, C and D Primary Department; James Smith, 
Janitor. 

For the year ending August 31, 1882, the total receipts, including bal- 
ance from the preceding year, were $22,165.51; total expenditures, $14,- 
706.03; leaving a balance of $7,459.48; $5,616 were paid to Primary 
teachers and $2,389.44 to High School teachers. The amount paid for su- 
pervision, exclusive of teaching, was $482.50. Fuel and contingent ex- 
penses. $6,218.09. Value of school property, $55,000, of which $15,000 
was in the First Ward and $40,000 in the Second. 

The total number of rooms used for school purposes, exclusive of recita- 
tion rooms, was 18. Total number of teachers employed, 18 — 16 ladies 
and 2 gentlemen. The average number of weeks the schools were in ses- 
sion was 36. Superintendent's salary, $1,350. Enrollment for the year, 
366 girls and 380 boys. Average daily attendance, 647. The Catholic 
school had 163 scholars. 

The school census for 1882 gives the following results: Between six 
and twenty-one years of age, male, 693; female, 644; total, 1,337; colored, 
male, 7; female, 12; grand total, 1,356. Number between sixteen and 
twenty-one, 451. Number of seats in the schoolrooms. 854. Total en- 
rollment during the winter, 840 — about two-thirds of the census. 

The " Center " school building was erected in 1857-58, at a cost of 
about $25,000. The "North" school building in 1877, costing about 
$12,000. 

Prof. Sanford E. Shutt, Superintendent of Marion Schools, died at his 
residence, on Mount Vernon road, October 24, 1881, of typhoid fever. He 
was a fine scholar and an efficient educator. He came here from New Lon- 
don, Ohio, with the highest recommendations and the good wishes and 
friendship of all who knew him. By his decease he left a widow to mourn 
his loss. He was buried under Masonic auspices. 

MISCELLANEOUS SOCIETIES. 

Aid Societies. — Marion has always been "up and at it," as quick as the 
quickest, whenever an appeal comes from those in suffering, as in yellow 
fever and cholera times, seasons of flood, conflagrations like the Chicago 
fire, periods of famine like those in the West, or even away over in Ire 



540 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

land. Public-spirited men, and women, too, immediately start a contribu- 
tion paper, call a meeting, appoint canvassing committees, collect and for- 
ward without delay the necessaries required by the suffering. Besides, the 
people of Marion now have a systematicallv organized body, called 

The Marion Belief Association. — This was organized in February, 1882. 
Mrs. H. C. Fribley was elected President; Mrs. H. S. Lucas, Secretary, 
and Mrs. C. H. Norris, Treasurer. Two Vice Presidents, ladies, were elect- 
ed for each ward, whose duty it should be to examine every case of want 
reported to them, and supply the necessities of life to those found worthy. 
They have the authority to do this, by having an order signed by the Presi- 
dent and Secretary, to draw from the stores of the association whatever 
might be necessary. Besides the above officers, there was appointed an 
Executive Committee of gentlemen. The object of the association is to pro- 
vide relief to the worthy poor and prevent imposition by unworthy beggars 
denominated " tramps," etc. 

Tho association has done a great deal of good work. It publishes a 
semi-annual report of its proceedings. During the half-year ending March 
6, 1883, fourteen families were relieved. The winter season has the great- 
est number of needy persons, and the colored population furnish the great- 
est number of cases that need attention. Fuel is the principal article 
called for. 

The association meets the first Tuesday of every month, and some por- 
tions of the year, when there is occasion, it meets every two weeks. The 
present officers are: Mrs. Harvey Peters, President; Mrs. Eliza C. Dicker- 
son, Secretary; Mrs. Yake, Treasurer, besides the Vice Presidents and Exe- 
cutive Committee as before mentioned. The policy and methods of the 
society continue the same as above described. 

Music Bands. — The first instrumental band in Marion to make music 
on public occasions was organized in 1837, with fifteen members, compris- 
ing Philip Dietrich, still a well and favorably known resident: John Wild- 
bahn, violinist; George Sprung, flutist, and Alexander Sprung, George 
M. Koons and Maj. Spaulding, clarionet players. Between that time and 
1844, some of the prominent players were Ed B. Thompson, with his long 
clarionet, T. P. Wallace and Percy Copeland. The instructors were Augus- 
tus Machold, from Columbus, Mr. Tuttle, from Springfield, and others. 
Mr. Wildbahn, who had come to Marion in 1828, died March 9, 1878, aged 
over seventy-eight years — an exemplary citizen of this place for just half a 
century. 

In 1844, the band was engaged to play at a Democratic meeting in 
Mount Gilead, and after the fatiguing labors of the day the members 
stopped overnight in that place, at a hotel south of what was then the pub- 
lic square, where they were, of course, kept out of their sleep until after 
midnight. One of the members of the band, Ed B. Thompson, who was 
the butt of jokes, was placed, with two or three others, in a room on the 
ground floor facing the public square. During the night some scalawag 
entered the room and abstracted therefrom the Major's (Thompson's) pan- 
taloons, leaving the contents of the pockets on the stand. The Democracy 
had a beautiful flag-staff on the square, and before the break of day some 
mischievous fellows procured two small pigs, and placing one in each leg 
of the trowsers, attached the latter to the halliards and drew them up the 
pole some forty feet from the ground. 

About the time this was going on, a hard-hearted wretch crept through 
an open window into the Major's room and threw a pailful of water over 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 541 

him while asleep. The Major jumped up, as mad as the circumstance 
compelled him to be, and hopped around, making terrible threats. His 
appearance was ludicrous enough —a wet shirt clinging "conformably" to 
an awkwardly -shaped body. After seeking in vain for some time for his 
buff-colored trousers, he chanced to look out upon the public square, when, 
behold! they were flitting in the breeze from the Democratic flag-pole, 
with the pigs in them, squealing most piteously. Whereupon occurred a 
storm, bordering on a small hurricane, made by the excited Major. The 
Democrats were also wroth, at seeing some one hung in effigy upon their 
flag-staff. The old sow was wooh-wooh-ing around in search of her young, 
and the owner of the swine was swearing a streak of blue blazes, to think 
the " Locofocos " should run his grunters up their pole. 

This farce was soon ended, after which there was considerable more 
laughing than lawing. 

The Marion Cornet Band was organized in 1857; Harry Gribel, leader. 
Mr. Tuttle, above-mentioned, was employed as instructor, and afterward 
E. G. Allen, who was the teacher until about 1870. 

The Marion Silver Band was organized about 1871, with Arthur L. 
Clark, leader, and James Porter, of Galion, as teacher. Mr. P. was a thor- 
ough and efficient instructor. In 1880, a re-organization was effected, un- 
der the name of 

The Huber Silver Band, taking their name from the proprietor of the ' 
machine works. As leader, Richard Wissler succeeded Mr. Clark, and for 
the last two years Charles Mader has been leader. In January, 1883, the 
name was changed f .o 

The Citizens' Band. — At present the members are Charles Mader, E flat 
cornet: Busby Sweney, B flat cornet; John Hague, B flat cornet; Christ 
Fies, solo alto; Rollie Shutes, first alto; John St. Germaine, second alto; 
Edward Clark, tuba; M. H. Pinyard, baritone; Harry Conrad, first tenor; 
Warren Harding, second tenor; Lon Barlow, drum major; George Meily, 
bass drum; J. Matthews, snare drum. M. H. Pinyard is President and 
Lon Barlow, Secretary and Treasurer. 

This band received the third prize at a State band tournament at Find- 
iay, Ohio, June 7, 1883. 

At the State fair in Columbus, in 1877, a serious accident happened to 
the Marion Band. While they were playing, a runaway team plunged into 
their midst, and wounded Harry Conrad and E. K. and Arthur L. Clark 
severely, several others more slightly and smashed up the instruments to a 
considerable extent. Mr. Conrad, indeed, had a narrow escape with his 
life, and it was wonderful how much mischief that runaway accomplished 
in a minute's time. 

Besides the cornet bands, orchestras have been kept up, to attend theat- 
rical and other entertainments. A philharmonic society was organized and 
drilled in 1874, by Prof. Rhu, and was kept up for several years, either 
contimiously or by re-organization, Rev, Mr. Hummer (in his day) and 
Ed Durfee have done much to aid the cause of vocal music in Marion. 
Miss Hummer, an excellent pianist, is now in Columbus. Prof. Rhu is 
studying medicine. 

The Ladies' Library Association was in existence some years ago, man- 
aging the nucleus of a public library; but since it was burned, in 1877, the 
cause has not been successfully revived, though there is a fund of over $100 
now on hand fur the purpose. 

Literary and Debating Clubs. — A debating society was organized in 



542 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Marion as early as 1828, which was conducted successfully for several win- 
ters, discussing questions of public interest which really seem modern in 
their nature. Ozias Bowen was the first Secretary. Since then there have 
been a great number, under various names, as the " Philosophian," organ- 
ized in June, 1852, with a Board of Trustees, and S. H. Bartram, Secre- 
tary; the "Philadelphians," in 1876-77, with L. O. Miller, President, 
and C. M. Idleman, Secretary, and several others. 

Besides, associations here have secured lectures from nearly all the 
eminent men of the nation; and Marion has been and is still occasionally 
visited by many of the best dramatic and musical companies in the United 
States. 

Henry Rifles. — This military company was organized by Prof. E. E. 
Henry in the spring of 1883. Its members were pupils of the Marion 
High School. The company now numbers eighteen, all neatly uniformed 
and properly equipped. Officers are George H. Uhler, Captain; Victor 
Dombaugh, First Lieutenant; V. H. Kling, Second Lieutenant; Philip 
Ruehrmund, First Sergeant; Robert Allen, Second Sergeant; William 
Beatty, Third Sergeant; Willis P. Hume, Fourth Sergeant and Color-Bear- 
er. The company meets every Friday evening for drill. 

Base Ball. — Associations for playing base ball in Marion have existed 
for many years, re-organizing from time to time with increasing interest, 
until it has now become a popular entertainment for the Marion people, 
both young and old. In 1874, and for several years afterward, the players 
were known as the " Stars," being members of the " Marion Star Base Ball 
Association," comprising such men as, in 1874, Mel Dice, President, W. G. 
Lucas, Secretary; in 1875, T. C. Bowen, President, R. Fahey, Treasurer, 
A. C. Bowen, Secretary, J. H. Reed, J. J. Hane, G. B. Christian, S. R. 
Dumble and T. C. Bowen, Directors; M. Dice, Captain. 

Mohawk Base Ball Club. — This is the name of the present base ball 
club of Marion. It was organized in July, 1882, with W. G. Lucas, Pres- 
ident; W. E. Scofield, Secretary; John Ryn, catcher; J. Mack, pitcher; 
P. Short, short stop; Walter Lannon, first base; Samuel Fulton, second 
base; Jacob Keller, third base; W. Dee, left field; Pat O'Donnell, center 
field; W. E. Scofield, right field. This club has a good ground in the 
southeastern portion of town, and is in good financial condition. It has 
engaged in contests with the " Buckeyes," of Columbus, the "Red Stock 
ings," of Cleveland, and with clubs from Dayton, Gabon, etc. During the 
summer of 1883, just past, it had two to five contests a week, winning in 
the largest share. 

The '"''Marion Navy. "—A company of canoe men was formed in 1880. con- 
sisting at first of T. P. Wallace, Harry True and Frank Saiter, to whose 
number have since been added S. A. Court and Prof. E. E. Henry. These 
have each a nico canoe, ranging in cost from $50 to $75. Mr. Wallace is 
" Commodore." Mr. True's canoe is a finely finished one, and is furnished 
with jointed oars, so that the rower faces the bow — a great advantage. The 
company have also fishing tackle, tents, etc., and make annual excursions 
to the Scioto and Ohio Rivers or Lakes Erie, Chautauqua, etc., thus enjoy- 
ing the highest order of recreation. 

Izaak Walton Club. — This was organized in July, 1883, with thirteen 
members, the limited number, as a corporate body, with a capital stock of 
$1,000. P. O. Sharpless is President and William Fies Secretary and Treas- 
urer. The object of the association is to improve and stock two certain 
ponds with fish at Peters' quarry, in the eastern portion of the city — one 
pond with carp and one with bass. 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 543 

TWO GREAT FIRES. 

September 22, 1865, a fire broke out in the rear of Johnson, Uhler & 
Co.'s store, on Main street, and did not cease its work until it had caused a 
damage of about $30,000, the principal losers being T. Fahey, Johnson, 

Uhler & Co., Lucas & Seffner, Campbell & Co., A. H Kling & Bro., 

Leonard, R. H. Johnson, Judge Bartram, Capt. Hardy, etc. 

The Masonic Block was burned May 3, 1877, between 10 and 11 o'clock 
at night. Total loss, $38,000 to $40,000. Insurance $27,000. The prin- 
cipal losers were the Masonic Lodge, H. True & Co., H. A. Love, Mr. Whit- 
marsh, Dr. Throckmorton, Mr. Burckel, R. H. Johnson, etc. 

ANECDOTAL. 

A Ghost Story. — The following story is published as true, by " Index," 
in the Independent of December 17, 1874: 

A part of Marion in early day was known as "Sloan's Orchard." At 
one time it was quite a resort for young ladies and gentlemen, during pleas- 
ant evenings, to talk love, etc. A " chap " conceived the idea of having 
some fun by playing spook, having his eye on a certain couple. Knowing 
the tree which was their favorite resort, he prepared himself with a false 
face, a skull cap as white as snow and a sheet equally white, and perched 
himself one night up in the tree. He looked perfectly like a spook, sure 
enough. He had not been there long before this loving pair entered the 
orchard, seated themselves under the tree and began to talk of the future. 
Meanwhile, Mr. Spook remained patiently quiet. By-arid- by, the gentle- 
man undertook to take one sweet kiss, when the lady threw her head back 
and face upward, and espying that frightful figure overhead, sent forth an 
unearthly shriek. " Joseph " was astonished, for he had never known his 
lady to " carry on " so before on similar occasions. She ran a short dis- 
tance, and pointed back to " that awful specter on that apple tree!" 

"Zounds! let's run," whispered Joe; and away the loving couple ran 
until they reached the house, where they rested and theorized over the mat- 
ter. They concluded to feel spunky and brave enough to interview Mr. 
Ghost with a double-barreled shot-gun the next evening, should he appear. 
The next morning, the chap who had personified the ghost took special 
pains to throw himself into Joseph's presence, and by conversation he 
learned, unaware to Joseph, the programme for the next evening. 

The evening came, and the couple, with gun in hand, sallied forth to 
the "sacred" (scared) spot, when lo! there was the ghost, sure enough. 
"Bang!" went barrel No. 1 of the shot-gun. The ghost kept its position, 
only its ghastly habiliments trembled a little. This was one corroborative 
evidence that the thing was a spirit. Says Myrinda to Joseph, "Fire the 
other barrel; aim at his breast." Bang! went barrel No. 2, with a perfect 
aim, with the same effect as before. Away ran Joseph and Myrinda, fright- 
ened as much as ever. On looking behind them, they beheld the specter 
on the ground, making toward them! At break-neck speed the frightened 
pair made their way to the house, where pantingly they began to adopt new 
theories with reference to the awful subject. There could be no doubt now 
about its being a true ghost, for the marksman was near enough to " knock 
the stuffing out of a roasted chicken," and yet nothing moved save that ter- 
rible winding-sheet, which seemed to wave at Joe as much as to say, " Peel 
away, with your old blunderbuss!" The more they talked, the more ner- 
vous they became, so that Joe was almost afraid to go home alone. 

Of course the man of the winding-sheet had no notion of being shot 



544 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

at, and he suspended the articles in ghost form up in the tree, while he 
secreted himself behind a stump not far distant, to enjoy the fun. The 
paraphernalia he suspended in such a mauner that he could slip them 
down readily upon his person, which he did during the moment of the first 
run by the young couple, and made toward them with solemn step, as be- 
fore stated. 

The solution of the mystery some time afterward, reached Joe's ears, who 
has ever since then done a sufficient amount of scientific swearing whenever 
that experience has been alluded to. 

Profane Money. — One day, in the early career of Marion village, a 
half-drunken, wicked chap happened to drop into the office of good old 
Squire Davis, and shocked him beyond measure by his profanity. He was 
told that such language was unlawful, and unless he desisted he would be 
fined 25 cents for each profane word. This only incensed the reckless fel- 
low the more, when the Justice fined him a " quarter. " He handed the 
Squire a Spanish-milled dollar to pay the fine, but change could not be 
made. So the heathen let loose again, with more profanity, saying to the 
Squire as he left, " There's your change. " 

That was not what might properly be considered a legal tender, yet 
the dignity of the law was maintained by the assessment of the additional 
75 cents fine. 

Hydrophobia. — Some time about 1838 or 1839, two colored women — 
one a "servant" of Judge Bowen — attended a negro dance at the house of 
" Old Black Henry," as he was familiarly called, and on the following day 
were taken with symptoms of hydrophobia, which in a few hours assumed 
the most aggravated form. They were then at the house of Simon Pierce, 
who procured physicians and rendered every assistance possible. To see 
them raving, biting and foaming at the mouth, teeth snapping and eyes 
glistening, and tbe features in all imaginable contortions, was enough to 
shock the sensibilities of even the strongest hearted. By careful treatment, 
they recovered. Imagine two cases of hydrophobia in a town of the size 
of Marion at that day. and you may readily imagine how eager every one 
was to see the " horrid sight." Some of the real old Virginia people 
called it "spells," insisting that one of the colored race had the power to 
" put a spell on another " whom they disliked. Others insisted that it 
was caused by something placed in a bowl of water from which they drank 
the previous night at the dance. 

The Long Fiddle. — J. R. Knapp relates the following: "About 1839, 
there was one of your good old-fashioned singing schools in Marion, under 
the superintendence of Prof. Micah Spaulding. His entr) into the village 
on the afternoon previous to his night schools caused the most pleasant 
emotions to fill the bosoms of the beaux and belles. His little old mare, a 
trifle larger than a mule, with Micah and his big ' hoss fiddle ' on its back, 
was a sight wonderful to behold. I do declare the aforementioned fiddle 
was at least ten feet longer than the mare or its rider, and when in the 
schoolroom it (the fiddle) was tuned, oh, Jericho, what music! He was a 
good man, and for a small sum of money made many a one believe he or 
she could sing like a nightingale. He told me, however, very feelingly, 
that one great drawback I experienced in learning to sing was the size of 
my mouth, saying I had mouth enough to go around a good sized family. 
This was so kindly spoken that I could not get mad; besides, I attended 
school more on account of my Susan Mariar, and to hear that delicious old 
fiddle, than with the expectation of ever becoming a Jenny Lind." 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 545 

First Dancing School. — When Mr. first came to Marion, and gave 

out that he was master of the Terpsichorean art, obtained a sufficient number of 
patrons for a school, and secured the dining-room of the old Kennedy Hotel, on 
the present Conrad corner, the occasion was considered a gay and high-toned 
one. The height of fashion and good manners must then be observed, the 
females dressing as follows: Commencing at the top of the head, it was 
adorned with a conical (or comical) cap of gauze and ribbons; the hair was 
tied up on top, and kept from falling back by means of a comb about six inches 
long and back three inches wide (seen lately at the loan exhibition); five or six 
beautiful puffs in front (the reader may laugh along here if she wants to), en- 
circling beautiful faces, devoid of paint except what the magic brush of 
nature touched them with. The low-necked dresses showed the swan-like 
necks and wavy outlined shoulders to the best advantage. The short- waist- 
ed dress was encircled at the waist by bits of fancy colors, and the sleeves 
were as large as a fair-sized pumpkin, being tilled with feathers, or any 
light substance, so as to produce the proportions required by style. The 
skirts were as ample as starch and cords could make them. Slippers, of 
delicate material encased delicate feet, and with narrow, fancy ribbons 
laced in Grecian style around the ankles, finished the costume. 

The gentlemen had their hair as smooth as bear's grease could make it: 
face clean and collars of the purest white, whose corners reached a line hor- 
izontal with the nose, giving it no chance to meddle with the affairs of 
others. Below this was a dickey of fine linen, beneath which beat hearts 
with honest emotions of the simple pleasure to be participated in. Next 
came the cut-away, swallow-tailed coat, with its huge brass buttons and ca 
pacious pockets — filled with candy and kisses for the girls. The trowsers 
liked their owner well, for they clung so tightly as to interfere materially 
with some of their most graceful movements; and "pumps" (slippers) com- 
pleted the gentlemen's equipment. 

The dance begins. Manners to partners — and such bowing and scrap- 
ing! Balance all! one, two, three, and every one was on tiptoe. No gen- 
eral was viewed with more respect than the dancing master, as he flourished 
the rattan and gave the orders. And thus passed the pleasant hours 
away. 

Court of Renegades. — From John B. Knapp, the following humorous 
account is obtained: 

" In olden time, when the good people of Marion wished to rid the town 
of any objectionable character, a 'court of renegades' was convened, who 
administered justice in a summary manner. I well remember one good- 
natured, half-witted sort of hard-working customer, known as ' Long Island 
Sound,' who supported a wife and mother-in-law by teaming. The wife 
was as good-looking and attractive as the mother was vicious and ugly. 
They were of French extraction, and you may well imagine when they 
' took a notion ' to do anything, it was 'did.' They soon became a nuis- 
ance to the better portion of the community, and to transfer them to some 
other locality it was necessary to convene a ' court of renegades.' This 
was done in the court room, Gen. Bowe and Dr. Johnson acting as Judges, 
and sometimes Justice Williams with them. William Bobbins, William 
Fisher and others officiated as attorneys. 

" It was a rule, in a court of this kind, first to examine the plaintiff 
and defendant as to witnesses, to ascertain whether there were reasonable 
grounds for a suit. After impaneling a jury — the court room thronged 
with spectators — the wife was put on the witness stand, who proceeded to 



546 HISTORY OF MARION COUNT?. 

relate all her private grievances. Among thern she gave, as a reason for 
kicking ' Long Island ' out of bed and driving him out of doors in the 
night, that he smelt too strong of horse-flesh. What the wife, old lady and 
the husband did reveal to the court and jury would not be the clean thing 
in print. The next witness called was 'Black Henry,' Judge Bowen's 
hired man, who was as black as the ace of spades. He was asked to testify 
as to his 'color.' With a look at the Judge's bench, and rolling out the 
whites of his eyes like balls of candle wicking, he exclaimed, ' No, sah ; 
you can't fool me; Judge Bowen ain't up dah,' pointing to the Judge's 
bench. It was found expedient to hustle this too intelligent witness out 
of the room. 

" After examining many innocent witnesses, going to show the charac- 
ter of the parties at loggerheads, the case was summed up by the attorneys 
and the charge given to the jury, who retired for a verdict. In less than 
thirty minutes, the verdict was rendered that the parties should leave town 
within four hours, under a penalty of being hung, should they be found 
thereafter within the bounds of the corporation. The scheme worked like 
a charm. In less than one hour, ' Long Island ' might have been seen in a 
sulky, making his way toward Big Island a little faster than was permitted 
by the ordinance of the corporation. The women gathered up their 'traps ' 
and followed suit, and the village was once more restored to peace and 
quiet, being rid of those who were introducing a state of morals not in 
keeping with propriety and decorum. 

" To say that there was a vast amount of real, genuine fun mixed up 
with the ridiculous, would not convey even a faint idea of what transpired in 
that court room that afternoon. ' The length and breadth thereof ' can 
only be known by those who heard and saw what was said and done on 
that occasion. 

"At another time, the boys, to have some fun, took possession of a scis- 
sors-grinder's machine and placed it on top of the old market house. The 
man of the machine was fresh from Switzerland, and therefore unaccus- 
tomed to the ' boyish pranks of American youth,' and, besides, he was un- 
able to speak a word of English. When he missed his machine, he hunted 
the town over, never once thinking to look on the top of so large a build- 
ing. Before he was informed of its whereabouts, he proposed to try the 
virtue of law. Wherefore, a ' court of renegades ' was organized, and after 
much swearing on the part of 'my Switzer,' and all manner of fun by 
those in attendance, he was taken to the door, and his coveted prize pointed 
out to him. In due (?) time, it was restored to him, and he left the place 
utterly disgusted, as almost any one in his situation would." 

This renegade court had several other cases before it, out of which 
they and the spectators — and the court room wafi always packed — obtained 
as much sport as they could hold. 

MARION TOWNSHIP. 

When Marion County was organized, the territory now comprising 
Marion Township was named Center Township, and retained that name 
until 1827, when, by reference to the Commissioners' records, is found the 
following order: 

" Wednesday, December 5, 1827 — Ordered, that the name of Center 
Township be and is hereby altered to the name of Marion Township, and 
shall hereafter be known and designated as such;" which name this division 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 



547 



o- ! the county has retained to the present. Its territory is best described as 
Township 5 south, Range 15 east. It contains thirty-six full sections, 
and is bounded on the north by Grand Prairie Township, on the east by 
Ciaridon Township, on the south by Pleasant and Green Camp Townships, 
and on the west by Green Camp and Big Island Townships. 

Marion Township was originally covered with fine timber, except the 
low grounds, or swales, which were covered with grass, and would be so 
covered to this day were it not for the art of drainage, which the agricult- 
ural community have so assiduously cultivated of late years, with the hope 
that soon these low grounds will become permanently more fertile and prof- 
itable than the uplands. As a single tract of land, this township is the 
highest between Columbus and Toledo, according to the railroad survey, 
and is drained by natural water-courses toward all points of the compass 
except eastward, and in that direction ditching has been done to so great 
an extent within a few years that the land is, as it were, being raised up 
many feet above water level. 

An inexhaustible supply of good building stone exists in this township, 
and even within the corporate limits of Marion Village, for an account of 
which see geology in the first chapter, and a sketch of the quarries in the 
chapter on Marion. 

Agriculturally, this part of the county is finely developed, as the fol- 
lowing account will show: Wheat, acres sown, 2,990; bushels produced. 
41,601; number of acres sown for harvest of 1883, 2,333. Rye, acres 
sown, 4; bushels produced, 100. Oats, acres sown, 478; acres sown for 
crop of 1883, 339; bushels produced, 12,329. Corn, acres planted, 3,747; 
acres planted for crop of 1883, 3,769; bushels produced, 143,610. Meadow, 
acres, 1830; tons of hay, 2,216. Clover, acres, 614; tons of hay, 729; 
bushels of seed, 352. Potatoes, acres planted, 85^, bushels produced, 
7,687. Butter, 32,550 pounds. Bees, 41 hives; pounds of honey, 350. 
Eggs, 29,950 dozen. Apples, acres occupied, 145; bushels produced, 
3,695. Peaches, bushels produced, 214. Pears, bushels produced, 68. 
Lands, number of acres cultivated, 6,349; number of acres pasture, 4,275; 
number of acres woodland, 1,458; total number oE acres owned, 12,120. 
Wool, 24,452 pounds. Milch cows, 306. Dogs, 93, Sheep killed by dogs, 
43; value, $144; injured by dogs, 45; value, $131. Losse3 by floods: 
Grain, etc., value, $150; fences, etc., value, $220, 

FISCAL. 

The following table exhibits the present financial condition of Marion 
Township : 



FUNDS. 


AMOUNT ON HAND 
MARCH 1, 1882. 


RECEIVED DURING 
THE YEAR. 


DISBURSEMENTS 
DURING THE YEAR. 


BALANCE ON HAND 
MARCH 0, 1883. 


Township 


$1,633 16 

263 36 

1 08 


$1,576 90 
419 18 
158 74 


$1,508 44 


SRI 701 fi2 


Iioad 


292 63 | 389 91 


Ditch 


1 08 1 158 74 






Total 


$1,897 60 


$2,154 82 


$1,802 15 ! .«2 250 27 









EDUCATIONAL. 

The number of subdistricts in this township is eleven, each with a 
schoolhouse. One schoolhouse was erected within the past year, at an 



548 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

expense of $1,344.50. The total value of school property at present is 
$9,805. Enrollment of pupils within the past year, 426, of whom 210 
were boys and 210 girls. Average monthly enrollment, 325; 156 boys and 
169 girls. Average daily attendance, 274; 132 boys and 142 girls. Per- 
cent of last on enrollment, 81. Pupils enrolled between sixteen and twen- 
ty-one years of age, 97: 42 boys and 55 girls. Of the foregoing, 15 
pupils were in the alphabet classes, 410 in reading and spelling, 376 in writ- 
ing, 384 in arithmetic, 297 in geography, 167 in English grammar, and 99 
in United States history. 

The Treasurer's report shows, of receipts: Balance on hand September 
i, 1882, $5,658.94; State tax, $645; irreducible school fund, $13.36; town- 
ship tax for school and schoolhouse purposes, $5,073.81; miscellaneous 
sources: $40.45; total, $11,431.56. Of expenditures: Amount paid teach- 
ers, $2,819.70; for schoolhouse and lot, $1,344.50; for 'fuel and contingent 
expenses, $720.45; total expenditures, $4,884.65. Balance on hand Sep- 
tember 1, 1883, $6,546.91. 

During the past year, twenty -two teachers were employed — eleven 
gentlemen for the winter season and eleven ladies for tbe spring term; 
average wages for the former, $40 a month; for the latter, $25. Average 
number of weeks the schools were in session, thirty-six. 

CEMETERY. 

The old Marion Cemetery, just north of the present New York, Penn- 
sylvania & Ohio depot, is still under the control of the Trustees of Marion 
Township, and is still reserved as a burying- ground, though but little used 
if at all. Some of the remains have been removed to the new cemetery. 
This old cemetery is now a neglected place. 

i 

TOWNSHIP OFFICERS. 

Following is a list of the Trustees and Clerks who have served this 
township since and including the year 1834: 

1834— Trustees, Samuel Holmes, Alexander Berry, J. J. Riley; Clerk, 
John Wick. 

1835 — Trustees, Nathan Peters, Alexander Berry, George Snyder; 
Clerk, John B. Salmon. 

1836— Trustees, George Snyder, James Clark, N. G. Hord; Clerk, J. A. 
Moon. 

1837 — Trustees, George Snyder, John Ballantine, J. T. Hardy; Clerk, 
Peter Boerbower. 

1838— Trustees, George Snyder, Joseph Hardy, John Ballantine; Clerk, 
E. G. Spelman; Treasurer, Edmund Smith. 

1839 — Trustees, George Snyder, John Jones, Charles Search; Clerk, 
George Geiger; Treasurer, Edmund Smith. 

1840 — Tustees, John Ballantine, Benjamin Myers; Clerk, John Zuek; 
Treasurer, Samuel Thomas. 

1841— Trustees. George Snyder, Jacob TJlsh, Benjamin Myers; Clerk, 
George Geiger; Treasurer, John G. Clark. 

1842— Trustees, George Snyder, Jacob Ulsh, Marcus Williams; Clerk, 
George Geiger; Treasurer. John G. Clark; Assessor, John Uncapher. 

1843— Trustees, Christian Young, Marcus Williams; Clerk, H. B. Dur- 
fee; Treasurer, John G. Clark; Assessor, John Uncapher. 

1844 — Trustees, William Riley, Isaaf. Mouser, John Zook; Clerk, 
Orren Patten; Treasurer, John Gurley; Assessor, Samuel Scribner. 

1845 — Same. 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 549 

1846-48— Trustees, John Zook, John Ballantine, John Anderson; Clerk, 
Orren Patten; Treasurer, John Dumble. 

1848 — Assessor, Samuel Soribner. 

1849— Same, except Treasurer, O. R. Stone, and Assessor. William M. 
Baker. 

1850 — Same, except Treasurer, John Gurley. 

1851— Same. 

1852 — Trustees, John Zuck, John Anderson, Simon Huggins; Clerk, 
Orren Fatten; Treasurer, John Gurley; Assessor, William M. Baker. 

1853 — Same, except Assessor, Mial Burrill. 

1854 — Same, except CJerk, Richard Sergent, and Assessor, Walter 
Williams. 

1855 — Trustees, John Zuck, John Anderson, George Miller; Clerk, 
Richard Sergent; Treasurer, John Gurley; Assessor, James Gillespie. 

1856 — Trustees, John Anderson, George Miller, Daniel Hane; Clerk, 
Richard Sergent; Treasurer, John Gurley; Assessor, William B. Lewis. 

1857 — Trustees, John Anderson, George Miller, Abraham Gruber; 
Clerk, Richard Sergent; Treasurer, John Gurley; Assessor, Isaac Mouser. 

1858 — Trustees, John Anderson, Sanford Wilson. Edward Conley; 
Clerk, Richard Sergent; Treasurer, John Gurley; Assessor, Isaac Un- 
capher. 

1859— Trustees, J. T. Merchant, William F. Harvey, John Hood; Clerk, 
John Young; Assessor, Isaac Uncapher. 

1860— Trustees, J. T. Merchant, William F. Harvey, Harvey Peters; 
Clerk, R. Sergent; Treasurer. John Gurley; Assessor, William B. Lewis 

1861 — Same. 

1862 — Trustees, John Anderson, Simon E. De Wolfe, Edmund Conley; 
Clerk, R. Sergent; Treasurer, T. J. Magruder; Assessor, Richard Wilson. 

1864 — Trustees, John Anderson, Isaac Mouser, Henry Thomas; Clerk, 
S. D. Bates; Assessor, Isaac Uncapher. 

1863- -Trustees, John Anderson, John Zuck, D. H. Harvey; Clerk, R. 
Sergent; Treasurer, T. J. Magruder; Assessor, John Uncapher. 

1865 — Trustees, John Anderson, Harvey Peters. Henry Thomas; Clerk, 
S. D. Bates; Treasurer, T. J. Magruder; Assessor, Isaac Uncapher. 

1866 — Trustees, Harvey Peters, Henry Thomas, Jacob L. Smith; Clerk, 
Samuel D. Bates; Treasurer, T. J. Magruder; Assessor, Norman Spaulding. 

1867 — Trustees, Harvey Peters, Henry Thomas, Jacob L. Smith; Clerk, 
S. D. Bates; Treasurer, T. J. Magruder; Assessor, Norman Spaulding. 

1868 — Trustees, Harvey Peters, Henry Thomas, Abram Gruber; Clerk, 
Samuel D. Bates; Treasurer, Robert Beatty; Assessor, Norman Spaulding. 

1869 — Trustees, John Anderson, John Hood, Lemuel C. Haines: Clerk. 
F. M. Scribner; Treasurer, Robert Beatty; Assessor, Henry Thomas, 

1870 — Trustees, Lemuel C. Haines, Peter Showen, P. B. Thew; Clerk, 
John Hood; Treasurer, Isaac Young; Assessor, Norman Spaulding. 

1871 — Trustees, Peter Showen, John Barnhart, James M. Harvey; 
Clerk, Dallas Day; Treasurer, Isaac Young; Assessor, Norman Spauldim*. 

1872 — Trustees, James M. Harvey, Frank R. Saiter, John Barnhart; 
Clerk, James H. Barker; Treasurer. Isaac Young; Assessor, Richard Wilson. 

1873— Trustees, F. R. Saiter, P. G. Harvey. John Barnhart; Clerk, J. 
H. Barker: Treasurer, Isaac Young; Assessor, Richard Wilson 

1874— Trustees, F. R. Saiter, G. P. Harvey, H. H Cunningham; 
Clerk, J. H Barker: Treasurer, Isaac Young; Assessor, Richard Wilson. 



550 HISTORY OF MARION OOUNTY. 

1875 — Trustees. Frank R. Salter, P. G. Harvey, Jerry Darmody; Clerk, 
Jamos H. Barker; Treasurer, J. C. Walters; Assessor, Richard Wilson. 

J 876— Same. 

1877 — Trustees, John Anderson, Charles Showers, Clark Turney; 
Clerk, Joseph A. Vail; Treasurer, Harvey Peters ; Assessor, Richard Wilson. 

1878 — Trustees, Clark Turney, Joseph Court, H. H. Cunningham; 
Clerk, J. A. Vail; Treasurer, H. F. Snyder; Assessor, Richard Wilson. 

1879— Trustees, Joseph Court, H. H. Cunningham, F. R. Saiter; Clerk, 
George Bull; Treasurer, W. C. Rapp; Assessor, Richard Wilson. 

1880— Trustees, F. R. Saiter, Giles Foster, P .G. Harvey; Clerk, Jere- 
miah Clark; Treasurer, H. F. Snyder; Assessor, Isaac Uncapher. 

1881— Trustees, F. R. Saiter, P. G. Harvey, E. B. Gorton; Clerk, Cass 
Wilson; Treasurer, H. F. Snyder; Assessor, Martin Uncapher. 

1882— Trustees, Giles Foster, B. Tristram, F. R. Saiter; Clerk, George 
S. McGuire; Treasurer, H. R. Young; Assessor, Martin Uncapher. 

1883 —Trustees, F. R. Saiter, B. Tristram, C. B. Merchant; Clerk, G. 
S. McGuire; Treasurer, H. R. Young; Assessor, Martin Uncapher; with 
four other Assessors for the city. 



BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 

rping very important branch of the township and village history must com- 
L mend itself to every one. That it contains much interesting and valuable 
information, and an account of a series of events more or less historical, must be 
acknowledged. Therefore it is considered just that anything which pertains 
directly to the men who were the founders of the town, and whose lives were 
instrumental in its growth, should be passed lightly over in the pages of the 
o-eneral history, so that it might be treated more extensively here, repetition 
avoided, and the more precise facts intermingled with biography: 

HENRY ACKERMAN. The subject of this sketch was born in Germany, 
on February 2, 1815. He was the son of George H. and Margareth Acker- 
man. The father died in 1858. Henry, with his mother and one brother, 
emigrated to this country in 1867, settling at Crestline, Ohio; they came to 
Marion County in 1868. His mother still resides at Crestline, in her seventy - 
second year. * He took advantage of the common schools of Germany, and 
since coming here has acquired a good practical English education. He con- 
summated his marriage December 26, 1867, with Elizabeth Mathes, a lady who 
came to America in the same vessel with him. Their children numbered six, 
only one of whom is living, William H, born May 11, 1870. Elizabeth, Henry 
Albert, Catherine, Caroline and an infant are deceased. His wife was born 
in Germany May 18, 1847, and her people still live there. Mr. Ackerman 
learned the barber's trade when fifteen years of age, in the fatherland, and, 
after settling in Marion, followed this business eleven years. Since 1879, he 
has been engaged in the sale of pianos, organs and sewing machines, which 
business he has successfully conducted, and at present his is the only place of 
the kind in town. He also has a similar establishment at Delaware, Ohio. 
He is an energetic and industrious business man, meriting the patronage of the 
public. Politically, he is a Democrat, and, with his wife, a member of the 
Lutheran Church. 

CURTIS ALLEN, deceased, one of the pioneers of Marion, was born in 
Connecticut. He emigrated to Ohio in 1832, and settled at Marion, then a 
small town in the primitive West. He was elected Justice of the Peace, and 
by consecutive elections he rilled the office for twenty-one years. He was ap- 



MARION TOWJNSHIP. 551 

pointed Postmaster in 1841, under William Henry Harrison's administration, 
and served four years. He established a book and stationer}- store on Center 
street, and continued to follow that business until his death, which occurred 
September 10, 1853. He was several times Mayor of Marion. He married 
Miss Alma Ashley, a native of Vermont, by whom he had three children ; of 
these, two are living — Cory don, of Hamburg, Iowa, and E. G. Mrs. Allen 
now resides with her youngest son. E. G. Allen, the youngest son, was born 
in Marion, Ohio, November 10, 1834. He was reared in his native town, and 
was educated in the Marion Academy. In 1852, he was appointed Deputy 
Clerk of the Courts, and served two years. He then took the position of 
Teller in the Marion Deposit Bank, and subsequently that of Assistant Cashier, 
which relation he still holds with the bank. June 5, 1860, he was married to 
Miss Mary Anna, daughter of Charles Baker, one of the oldest pioneers of 
Marion. Four sons are the children by this anion, viz.: Charles H., Herbert 
E., Robert G-. and Tracy R. 

JOHN ANDERSON is a native of Hampshire County, Va., and born 
March 4, 1803, the son of James and Priscilla (House) Anderson, of German, 
English and Scotch lineage, but natives of Virginia. Having married in 1800, 
they moved to Fairfield County, Ohio, in 1806, April 6, where they resided 
until 1833. They then removed to Clinton County, Did., where they remained 
until death. The}- had eleven children, five surviving — John, Mahala, Eliza- 
beth, James M. and Hiram. The deceased were Samuel, Rebecca, Ruth, Pris- 
cilla, Thomas J. and Devi H. The father was born February 17, 1768, and 
died October 25, 1844 ; the mother was born in 1778, and died August 15, 
1847. Our subject, having obtained a pioneer education, married, January 20, 
1829, Martha Roult, a daughter of James and Abigail (Parks) Roult, of Prot- 
estant Irish lineage, and nine children were born in this family, five living — 
Francis M., born February 12, 1830; Minerva J., November 24, 1831; Susan R., 
September 29, 1S37; Nancv E., October 1, 1844, and Margaret A., October 14, 
1846. Charles W. was born August 8, 1833, and died February 25, 1840; 
John M. was born Angust 29, 1839, and died April 25, 1859; Devi R. was born 
February 17, 1842, and died December 28, 1863; Thomas J. was born Septem- 
ber 20, 1835, and died January 2, 1865; he was the Captain of Company E, 
Twelfth Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry, serving in the late war over three 
years. He was one of 110 men selected to enter and do special duty in Missis- 
sippi. John Anderson's grandfather, Thomas Anderson, was a Revolutionary 
soldier; his son, James Anderson, was a Captain under " Mad " Anthony Wayne. 
Mrs. Anderson's death occurred August 29, 1847. Mr. A. married again, Mary 
Kinnear, February 14, 1849, and one heir, Mary M., has been born to them. 
She was born April 22, 1850, and died July 24, 1854. This wife died April 
23, 1850. His third marriage was consummated April 24, 1851, with Fannie 
N. Hunter, the widow of Zadoc Hunter, and the daughter of Cornelius and 
Hannah (Holmes) Kortwright. of German and English descent respectively, 
but natives of Pennsylvania and Connecticut severally. She is the mother of 
five children, two living — Saloma, wife of I. B. Etherton, and Hannah K., wife 
of Henry Fulwider. The subject of this sketch, having learned the cooper's 
trade, plied it during the winter months for many years. He owns 131 acres 
of fine land and two valuable town lots in Marion, where he has been a resi- 
dent since 1836. For twenty years he was Trustee of his township. He pos- 
sesses a great deal of vitality and freshness for a man of his years, being 
probably one of the youngest-looking men for his age in the State. They are 
members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, he for sixty years, and she for 
forty years. He is also a stanch Republican. 

CHARLES BAKER, one of the oldest residents of Marion, and son of Eber 
Baker, was born in Lincoln County, Me. He came to Marion County with 



552 • HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY . 

his parents in March, 1821, and settled where the town now stands. He and 
his brother, George \V. Baker, sawed lumber with a whip-saw, and with it 
constructed the first house on the original town plat. He resided in this rude 
pioneer house with his parents for seven years." The land forming the site of 
the present prosperous town of Marion was then covered with woods, and Mi- 
Baker aided in clearing a good portion of it. In 1824, he took charge of a 
tanner}', a part of which his father had bought of A. C Priest, and, in 1826, 
erected one of his own, near where J. S. Reed's residence now stands, up 
to 1830. Two years later, he removed to Lima, Allen County, and engaged in 
the mercantile business for five years. He was appointed Postmaster of Lima, 
in 1833, by Postmaster General Barry, and served during Andrew Jackson's 
administration. In 1835, he was elected Treasurer of Allen County, and filled 
the office one term. By appointment, in 1839, he assumed the duties of Clerk 
in the office of Register of the United States Land Office, and served in that 
capacit}' two years. He laid out an addition, called " Baker's Addition," to the 
town of Lima, in 1848, and the following } r ear returned to Marion and again 
engaged in merchandising, but retired after one year. He clerked for Ault & 
Gorton four } r ears, J. Hood two years, and Reed & Johnson one year, and since 
that time has devoted his attention to his farm. March 20, 1828, he was united 
in marriage with Miss Mary Anderson. She was born January 11, 1809, and 
died at Lima, Ohio, August 2, 1838, leaving three children, two of whom are 
now living — Lucetta. wife of Grimes McConahy, of Van Wert, Ohio, and Lydia 
A., wife of Elijah Copeland, of Lucas County, Iowa. Alonzo W. died Sep- 
tember 9. 1878. Mr. Baker's second marriage took place January 10, 1839. 
with Mrs. Tacey T. Anderson, widow of James A. Anderson, and daughter of 
Abel Thomas. She was born November 25, 1809, and died November 5, 1882. 
Of four children born to this marriage, three are living — Mary Anna, born Feb- 
ruary- 29, 1840, and married E. G. Allen June 5, 1860 ; Sarah E., born August 
11, 1842, and died February 13, 1848; Charles E., born March 15, 1845, and 
married November 10, 1869, Susan H Stevenson, and now resides in Chicago ; 
El wood T., born July 13, 1853, and married April 7, 1880, Sallie Wilson, and 
resides in Eransville, Ind. In politics, Mr. Baker is a Republican, and he is 
an old and respected citizen of Marion. 

GEORGE F. BARKS was born in Marion Township February 25, 1855. 
His father, Joshua Barks, was born March 26, 1809, in Fairfield County, Ohio 
and his mother October 13, 1810, in Cumberland, Penn., who were married in 
this county in 1832. The father died June 4, 1876, and the homestead, con- 
sisting of eighty-nine acres, fell to George F., the youngest of the sons, who 
also received ten acres in Pleasant Township. He obtained a fair common 
school education, and May 9, 1878, married Emma J. Eple}-, who was born in 
Claridon Township June 22, 1860, a daughter of David and Sarah Epley. They 
have two children — Orlando E. and Zoa M. At present Mr. Barks owns 101 
acres, and keeps a large number of farm animals. Politically, he is a 
Democrat. 

S. H. BARTRAM, attorney, was born in Marion, Ohio, December 22, 1828. 
He is the son of Judge John Bartram, whose history is given elsewhere in this 
work. He was reared to manhood in Marion, and educated in the Ohio Wes- 
leyan University at Delaware, and Washington College, of Washington, Penn. 
In the fall of 1846, he was compelled to quit college on account of ill health. 
He read law with his father until the spring of 1849, when he went to Lan- 
caster, Ohio, and continued his legal studies with Hon. John T. Brasee. He 
took a course in the Cincinnati Law College, and graduated in the spring of 
1850, and soon after formed a partnership with his father, under the firm name 
of J. & S. H. Bartram. He took a reviewing course in the Cincinnati Law 
College in 1852-53, and in 1859-60 practiced in New York City. At the expi- 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 553 

ration of this time, he returned to Marion, and continued his profession with 
his father till the death of the latter, and since then has practiced alone. He 
served as Prosecuting Attorney of Marion County two terms. September 3, 
1857, was married to Miss Harriet R. Kline, daughter of Peter D. and Esther 
(Randolph) Kline, and has had six children; of these, five are living, viz.: Emily, 
Katie, Jennie, Reune R. and John H. Mrs. Bartram is a member of the Pres- 
byterian Church. 

REV. SAMUEL D. BATES, the subject of this sketch, was born near Utica, 
N. Y., October 13. 1828. He is a son of Daniel and Harriet N. (Hungerford) 
Bates, the former a native of Hartland, Conn., and the latter of Madison 
County, N. Y. They married in Oneida County, and in the fall of 183-1 moved 
to Ohio, and settled in Trumbull Count}', where Mrs. Bates died in February, 
1875, at the age of seventy-one years. Mr. Bates removed to Wooster, and. in 
1881, to Richmond, Ind. They had four children, viz.: Samuel D., Ira H. 
Edward P. and Lyman M. Mr. S. D. Bates was reared on a farm, and educated 
in Geauga Seminaiy, now a part of Hillsdale College, Mich. He engaged in 
teaching in 1847, and in the winter of 1848-49 he had charge of a school in the 
" Boynton District." where Gen. Garfield's mother lived. Garfield had just 
returned from the towpath, and a part of that winter he attended Mr. Bates' 
school. The following spring Mr. Bates induced young Garfield to return with 
him to Geauga. This was an important crisis in the career of Garfield, for up 
to this time he had cherished no ambition save that of following the lakes, and 
from this decision he rose step by step to the brilliant scholar and statesman. 
During the Fitz-John Porter court-martial trial, Mr. Bates called upon Gen. 
Garfield, and after being introduced to his staff. Gen. Garfield said, "To this 
man I owe more than to any other living man for what I am to-day." Mr. 
Bates and Gen. Garfield were fellow-students at Geauga for two years, until the 
former completed his course in 1851. and were warm friends until his tragic 
death. Mr. Bates continued to teach till the spring of 1851, when he entered 
the ministry of the Free-Will Baptist Church. He settled in Green Township, 
Trumbull Co., Ohio, where he was pastor of a church six years, during two of 
which he taught a select school. In the spring of 1857, he came to Marion, 
and took charge of the Free-Will Baptist Church, over which he presided 
as pastor for nineteen years. He organized the Grand Prairie Free-Will 
Baptist Church, February 22, 1867, and the Claridon Church in 1870 ; 
for nine years he was pastor of the Green Camp Baptist Church, and 
has had charge of the Claridon Free-Will Baptist Church since the forma- 
tion of that societ}', and of the Grand Prairie Church for nine years. He 
has now the following appointments in his pastoral work : Claridon. Grand 
Prairie and Morral Churches. Mr. Bates has been President of Ridge- 
ville College, of Ridgeville, Ind., since 1872, and was for fifteen years Trustee 
of Hillsdale College, of Hillsdale. Mich. In October, 1851, Mr. Bates was 
united in marriage with Miss Lodeeury, daughter of Alanson and Maria 
Brockett, of Trumbull County, Ohio, where Mrs. Bates was born February 10, 
1830. They had three children, two of whom are living — Elbert A. and Harley 
A. Harriet M. is deceased. In 1864, Mr. Bates was Chaplain of the One 
Hundred and Sixty-third Ohio National Guards. During the years 1865 to 
1867, he solicited the funds and superintended the erection of the Free-Will 
Baptist Church edifice in Marion, costing $16,000, more than half of which was 
donated outside of the society. He has also been connected with the erection 
of five other church edifices in the county. He taught one year in the Union 
Schools of Marion, and has been one of the Board of Examiners of the teachers 
of these schools for over twenty years, and is such at the present time. 

J. BATTENFELD, late of the firm of J. Battenfeld & Co.. was born in Frank- 
lin County, Ohio, July 29, 1846. His parents. Lewis H. and Elzabeth Batten- 



554 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

field, were natives of the Province of Hesse and Wurteraberg respectively 
They came to the United States with their parents when eighteen years of age. 
The subject of this paragraph is the third of a family of four children. When 
he was three years of age, his parents died, and he was taken by his mater- 
nal grandfather, Conrad Beber, of Crawford County, by whom he was reared 
till seventeen, when he went to Columbus and served an apprenticeship at 
the tinner's trade, with Scott St. Clair. In 1865, he came to Marion, and after 
working a year and a half for S. & F. R. Saiter, he entered the employ of Ja- 
cob Fribley, and remained with him till August, 1882, when the late firm of J. 
Battenfeld & Co. was formed ; in September, 1883, Mr. B. retired from this 
firm. December 5, 1861, he married Miss Sarah, daughter of Henry and Eliza- 
beth Morgenthaler. Mrs. Battenfeld, a native of Philadelphia, Penn., was born 
Julv 26, 1848. To them were born two children — William H. and Carrie B. 
Mr. Battenfeld is identified with the I. 0. 0. F. and K. of P. 

PHILIP BAUER, grocer, was born in Richland Township December 14, 
1847. His father, Croft Bauer, was a native of Germany, and emigrated to 
America with his parents, Philip and Riga Bauer, who settled in Richland 
Township, where Mr. Bauer entered ninety-six acres of land, on which he died 
in 1870. His wife died prior to the late war. Croft Bauer went to Crawford 
County, where he married Ragina Miller, and afterward settled in Richland 
Township, where he died from the cholera in August, 1854, leaving three chil- 
dren — Angeline, wife of Christopher Gracely, Philip and Croft. Mrs. Bauer 
now resides in Big Island Township. Philip Bauer was brought up to farm- 
ing, and followed that vocation in Richland till 1873, when he removed to 
Big Island, and in 1877 to Marion. He was employed in the Huber works 
till January 1, 1879. when he embarked in the grocery and provision trade. 
He makes a specialty of shipping butter and eggs. August 20, 1867, he mar- 
ried Mary, daughter of Cunrad and Catharine Neidhart. Seven children were 
born to them ; of these six are living, viz. : Amelia L., Mary A., Adam, Philip, 
Frank and Willie. John Wesley is deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Bauer are mem- 
bers of the German Methodist Episcopal Church, and he also of the Royal 
Arcanum. Mr. Bauer's father and grandfather walked all the way from Buf- 
falo. N. Y., to Marion, to purchase land. They were among the early pioneers 
of Richland. His grandfather was a soldier in the French Revolution two 
years, 1806-7. 

FRANCISCO C. BECKLEY, Deputy Sheriff, is the youngest son of Capt. 
George and Eliza (Miller) Beckley, born in Bucyrus, Crawford Co., Ohio, Sep- 
tember 13, 1848. Having obtained a practical business education, he married, 
December 24, 1871, in Springfield, Mo.. Miss Ann Hileman, adopted daugh- 
ter of J. B. and M. L. Sharp, of Marion. He commenced to learn the trade 
of machinist when aged sixteen years, and followed that successfully until 
1873 ; was elected the first Mayor of Caledonia, Ohio, in 1874 ; one year 
later, he resigned this office. January 1, 1880, he was appointed Deputy 
Sheriff of this county, in which capacity he continues to serve acceptably. 
This season (1883), he is nominated for Sheriff, which position he will probably 
obtain. He is an energetic young man, a stanch Democrat, and a member of 
the Knights of Honor. 

PETER BEERBOWER is among the living pioneers of Marion County, 
aged at present (1883) nearly seventy-five years ; came from near the village of 
Hancock, Washington Co., Md. He arrived in Marion July 22, 1834, where 
he continues to reside. His parents, two brothers and one sister, followed 
about ten years later. March 12, 1835, he married Miss Eliza P. Geiger, whose 
widowed mother, brothers and sisters arrived in Marion in the spring of 
1834. That same autumn our subject was employed as clerk in the offices of 
Clerk of Common Pleas and Supreme Courts and County Recorder, with 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 555 

Col. George H. Busby, who held those offices at the time. He continued in 
those offices until the fall of 1837, when he was elected County Recorder, 
holding the same one term, and was succeeded by Robert King. He re- 
mained in this office as Deputy until 1842, when he was elected County Au- 
ditor, which office he held for three successive terms. Most of the time there- 
after he was employed in the Clerk's office under Capt. W. L. Kendrick, the 
son-in-law of Col. Busby, whom he succeeded. About 1851-52, he became in- 
terested in railroad enterprises with Capt. Kendrick, Hon. J. H. Godman 
and many other citizens. He assisted in the preliminaries, such as aiding and 
preparing charters, making surveys, etc., and subsequently employed as assist- 
ant in the office of the Secretary and Treasurer of the B. & I. Railroad Com- 
pany, which road extended from Gabon, Ohio, to Indianapolis. He contin- 
ued there some two years or more. Some time in 1858, Mr. Beerbower took 
charge of the Marion Post Office, John Durnble holding the same at the time. 
In 1859, he was appointed Postmaster and held that office until 1861. For a 
year or more after this, he was engaged in the management of the Marion 
Gas Works, at a moderate salary. He then formed a partnership with his 
brother Samuel in the marble business ; this company was dissolved a few 
months later, and Mr. Beerbower continued that business until the fall of 
1875, when he was elected County Treasurer. He was re-elected in 1877, thus 
holding the office two terms. Since retiring from office, Mr. B. has been engaged 
in clerical and collecting business, which has afforded only a moderate re- 
muneration. He holds, among other trusts, the treasurership of the Marion 
Count}' Bible Society, and has maintained an uninterrupted membership in 
the Methodist Episcopal Church for more than fifty years. Though hale and 
active, he confesses with sadness that so few of his early associates survive- — 
not more than eight or ten are living. He recalls the names of a long list of 
his early and valued friends, among professional gentlemen and the entire 
citizenship of the county as well ; and though nearly all are now insensible to 
praise, yet he desires to record, with the warmest gratitude, his appreciation 
of remembered kindnesses of so many generous-hearted friends. 

SAMUEL T. BEERBOWER was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, Novem- 
ber 10, 1842. His parents, Eleazer J. and Matilda L. (McKelvey) Beerbower, 
were natives of Maryland and Missouri respectively. They moved to Delaware, 
Ohio, in 1849, then to Marion, in 1850, where he worked as a saddle and har- 
ness maker, which trade he had learned when a young man. He continued this 
until 1866, when he went to Indianapolis, Ind., taking his family one year later. 
His business there was to upholster palace cars in the C, C, C. & I. R. R. 
shops. He was chief of this department until within a } r ear of his death T 
which took place October 24, 1882, aged sixty-six years and six months ; his 
widow still resides in Indianapolis. Samuel T. is the eldest of nine children. 
He spent his j r outh in Marion, and was educated in the public school. Octo- 
ber 23, 1861, he enlisted in the civil war, in Company B, Sixty-fourth Regiment 
Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was nineteen years of age at the time, and served 
in the Army of the Cumberland, fighting at Penyville, Stone River, Chatta- 
nooga, Chickamauga and Mission Ridge ; at the storming of the latter, he' was 
struck by a ball in the right shoulder, which came out at the right side of the 
spine, near the shoulder blade. This confined him in the hospital at Chatta- 
nooga and Nashville three months ; the wound caused a paralysis of his right 
hand and arm. He was honorably discharged March 23, 1864; he was pro- 
moted as First Sergeant of his company. Having recovered from his wound. 
he, in 1865, became cashier in the store of Lucas & Seffner, and occupied that 
position two years : he then clerked for Reed & Yake a }*ear. In 1868, he was 
appointed Postmaster by Gen. Grant, re-appointed by him in 1872, and also by 
President Hayes in 1876 ; having served thirteen years in this office, he retired. 



556 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

January 13, 1867, he was united in marriage with Miss Irene L. Peters, daugh- 
ter of Nathan and Mary Peters ; she is a native of Marion, and was born Feb- 
ruary 19, 1846. They had two children — Wilson (died, aged one } r ear and four 
days); Cornell R., survives. Mr. Beerbower owns a residence, with two acres, 
two other town lots, and a business room adjoining the People's Store, which 
he built in 1881 at a cost of $4,000. He is a respected citizen, a member of 
the I. 0. F. and of the G. A. R. Lodges. Mrs. Beerbower's grandmother, 
Lucia Russel, resides with her, at the advanced age of eighty-eight years ; she 
came here in 1838, from the State of Connecticut; she has one great-grand- 
child, aged sixteen years. Mr. Russel was a Captain in the war of 1812 ; he 
died November 4, 1872. Mrs. Russel has a house and lot in the city, 160 acres 
of land adjoining the town, and 600 acres located in Big Island and Marion 
Townships. 

J. L. BELL, whose parents were among the early pioneers of Claridon 
Township, was born in Delaware County, Ohio, December 12, 1824. His father, 
Benjamin Bell, was born in Orange County, N. Y., October 22, 1786, and his 
mother, a native of New Jersey, was born September 14, 1787. They married 
and moved to Claridon Township in the fall of 1822. Mr. Benjamin Bell 
entered 160 acres of land, to which he made subsequent additions until he 
owned a large farm. He reared a family of eight children, viz., Israel C, Sarah 
J., John H, William J., Alexander L., Martha E., J. L., the subject of this 
sketch, and Kezia ; Martha E. is the wife of William Wyatt, of Williams Coun- 
ty, Ohio. Of these all are deceased but the last three. Mr. Bell died October 
29, 1853, and his wife October 20, 1837. Mr. Bell served as Justice of the 
Peace a number of years. J. L. Bell, the subject of this biography, was reared 
on the old homestead in Claridon Township, and educated in the common 
schools. He followed farming until 1853, when he engaged as clerk for S. V. 
Harkness, of Caledonia, and latterly with F. C. Ruehrmund, whose stock he 
and H. Hunter purchased in 1862. Bell & Hunter continued in mercantile 
business till the fall of 1875, when the former was elected Auditor, and moved 
to Marion ; he was re-elected in 1877, serving two terms. February 1, 1881, 
he started in the grocery business, from which he retired March 15, 1883. Mr. 
Bell served as Clerk of Claridon Township four years, and as Postmaster at 
Caledonia from 1855 to 1862. In 1867, he was elected a member of the Board 
of Infirmary Directors, and served one term. He was City Councilman three 
years, and he rilled other local offices. November 18, 1847, he was joined in 
marriage to Miss Matilda, daughter of Adam and Samantha Hipsher. Mrs. Bell 
was born in Scott Township April 24, 1829, and died March 18, 1869, leaving 
two children — James M., who married Caroline Foster ; and Charles L., who 
married Clara Clayton. Mr. Bell married the second time, April 5, 1871, Anna, 
daughter of William P. and Susan Thew. By this marriage, there were two 
children — Harry T. and Tom C. Mr. Bell is identified with the Masonic order 
and Royal Arcanum, and in politics is a Democrat. 

JONATHAN BELL was born in Mill Creek Township November 1, 1826, 
the son of Jesse and Margaret (Sanders) Bell, the former of Washington Coun- 
ty. Ohio, and the latter of Bourbon County, Ky. Jesse Bell was born August 
15, 1801, and Mrs. Bell February 17, 1804. His grandparents, Daniel and 
Hannah (Underbill) Bell, were natives of New Jersey, coming to Wahington 
County about 1800, or even earlier. Soon after the war of 1812, in which he 
was a soldier, he removed to Delaware County, thence to Holmes County, and 
in 1840 to Union County, where the parents died, Mrs. Bell in Jackson Town- 
ship in 1840, and her husband in Mill Creek Township. Our subject's grand- 
father, Samuel Sanders, also participated in the war of 1812. Jesse Bell was 
reared principally in Washington and Delaware Counties, and was married in 
the spring of 1822 to Margaret Sanders, by whom he had nine children, seven 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 557 

of whom are now living — William, Samuel, Jonathan, Nancy (wife of Job 
Beardsley), Hannah (widow of Wesley Hinton), Elizabeth (wife of G-. S. Rob- 
ertson), and Mary (wife of J. H. Sifrit). In February, 1831, they moved to 
Bowling Green Township, entering fifty acres, thus becoming the first land 
holders in that township. They remained there but one year, when they 
returned to Union County. In 1863, they went back to Bowling Green Town- 
ship, purchasing forty-eight acres, where the father, a member of the Disciples 
Church, died Ma}- 5, 1873 ; his widow continues to reside upon the homestead. 
Mr. Jonathan Bell's youth was entirely passed upon the farm. He taught two 
terms of school, commencing in his nineteenth year. In the spring of 1848, he 
went to Bowling Green Township, and bought fifty acres of land, which he has 
increased to 210 acres ; he has put this in a good state of cultivation, and 
while living upon it he reared good stock, such as French horses and graded 
cattle. In March, 1882, he moved to Marion, where he continues to reside. 
He was joined in matrimony November 13, 1847, to Miss Sarah Harraman, who 
was born in Fremont, Ohio, July 2, 1823, the daughter of David and Elizabeth 
Harraman. Six of their nine children are living — Lewis C, La Fayette, Mar- 
garet (wife of Charles Kersey), Samuel, David and Jesse ; Elizabeth, Samilda 
■J., Charles and Mary E. are deceased. The following record demonstrates 
that Mr. Bell is a worthy and influential citizen : He was the Assessor of his 
adopted township three years, Town Clerk four or five years, Land Appraiser 
in 1880, Trustee six years, and Magistrate twelve years ; he has also been Di- 
rector of the County Infirmary six years. He is a member of the Masonic 
order, of the I. 0. 0. F., and, with his wife, of the Baptist Church. 

SAMUEL BELL, County Surveyor, the third son of Jonathan and Sarah 
(Harraman) Bell, was born in Bowling Green Township March 23, 1858. Hav- 
ing acquired a good knowledge of the common branches, he chose to gratify 
his love for mathematics. He accordingly sought instruction of Hon. Hylas 
Sabine, of Richwood, Ohio, and later of Prof. Park, of Ada, Ohio. When aged 
eighteen years, he commenced teaching, continuing five winters. Having ob- 
tained a knowledge of civil engineering, he was elected in 1881 Surveyor of the 
county, which office he still holds acceptably to the public. He is young, ener- 
getic and industrious, and consequently a man of promise. He is an official 
member of the K. of P., and is also a Freemason. Politically, he is a Demo- 
crat. 

WILLIAM BLAND, contractor and builder, was born on the Island of 
Jerse}', in the British Channel, July 28, 1849. He is a son of James and Julia 
(Wilkinson) Bland, the former a native of Norfolk County, England, and the 
latter of County Galway, Ireland. Mr. James Bland served twelve }'ears and 
128 days in the Fifty-fourth Regiment of British Infantry. He was discharged 
when in the rank of Sergeant in May, 1856, at Kingston. Ontario, having emi- 
grated to British America in March, 1852. He was engaged in railroading in 
Ontario till 1863, when he came over to the United States, settling at Akron, 
Ohio; in 1864, he came to Marion and followed his former vocation on the A. 
& G. W. and N. Y., P. & 0. Railroads till his death, June 10, 1874. Mrs. B. 
died September 10, 1868. They were the parents often children, of whom the 
subject of this sketch is the eldest son. He came to Marion in 1864, and 
worked two 3'earson the N. Y., P. & 0. Railroad; then two years for Godfrey Leff- 
ler, after which he learned the mason trade. He was a member of the firm of 
Culbertson & Bland and Bland & Seibert six j-ears. June 24, 1881, he became 
a member of the firm of Leffler & Bland, which partnership still continues. 
Mr. Bland was married, November 19, 1874, to Miss Belle Treese, and has two 
children — Charles H. and Carrie E. Mr. Bland is a member of the Masonic 
order and K. of P. 

ROBERT A. BOYD, senior partner in the " Rock-Bottom " grocery, was 
born in Coshocton County, Ohio, March 10, 1847, the son of Robert R. and 



558 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Mary A. (Johnson) Boyd, of Scotch-Irish lineage. His father was a native of 
Ireland, but his mother of Ohio. His father emigrated with his parents to 
America in 1820, settling for a short period in Jefferson County, Ohio, but 
came to Coshocton Count} r , about 1823, where his father entered land, upon 
which Robert R. has since resided, adding many acres to the original tract. 
He owns at present 700 acres of valuable land. He is a prominent farmer 
and a highly respected citizen. Our subject obtained a good education at the 
Athens University, and entered the sophomore class at the Ohio Wesleyan Uni- 
versity in 1871, hoping to complete a scientific course, but was obliged to 
abandon this project on account of failing health, and he taught school one 
year. September 20, 1875, he married Jane A. McMurray, born July 12, 1846, 
a daughter of James and Eleanor (Virtue) McMurray, of Scotch ancestry. By 
this marriage two children were born, Maud V., born September 15, 1876, and 
Eleanor, August 28, 1878. Three years subsequent to marriage, Mr. Boyd en- 
gaged in agricultural pursuits upon his father's farm. He removed to Marion 
in the spring of 1880, engaging in the grocery and provision business with J. 
M. Heller, under the name of Heller & Boyd. They did a successful business, 
Mr. Heller retiring at the close of one year, and George Brown purchasing his 
interest. This firm has a thriving and profitable trade, and are known as the 
" Rock Bottom " grocery. Mr. B. is a member of the I. O. O. F., of the Beta 
Theta Pi of Delaware College, of the Republican party and of the official board 
of the M. E. Church. 

MICHAEL BRIGEL, senior member of the firm of Brigel & Eibling, har- 
ness-makers, is a native of Wurtemberg, German} - . He was born January 9, 
1833, and is a son of Michael and Christina Brigel. He came to the United 
States in the fall of 1854, and began the trade of saddler and harness-maker 
with T. J. Magruder; he worked until 1859, when he formed a partnership with 
Lucas Klingle, under the firm name Brigel & Klingle. This firm dissolved 
soon after, and in 1866 he admitted F. Everly as a partner, and continued five 
years, when J. C. Walters bought Everly 's interest; then Walters & Brigel did 
business until January 1, 1872, and Brigel continued alone until 1882, when 
the present firm was formed. July 4, 1862, Mr. Brigel married Miss Frederica 
Eibling, b} T whom he has had six children; of these five are living, viz.: So- 
phronia. John M., Mary, Willie and Lewis; Henry is deceased. Mr. and Mrs. B. 
are members of the German Reformed Church, and Mr. B. is also connected 
with the V. A. 0. D. 

GEORGE BROWN, one of the proprietors of the " Rock Bottom " store, 
was born in Galena, Delaware Co., Ohio, April 29, 1846. His parents were of 
English extraction, and natives of the Buckeye State. Our subject is the first 
son of Ezekiel and Harriet (Hance) Brown, who were united in marriage at the 
above place, residing there from 1842 or 43 to 1874. They then removed to Del- 
aware, where the wife died, in December, 1878, aged about fifty or fifty-one 
vears. Mr. B. still survives, a resident of the same town, aged (1883) sixty- 
four years. He was a pioneer in his adopted county. The subject of this 
sketch obtained the rudiments of an education in the common schools at Ga- 
lena, attending two terms at the Belleville High School, closing his literary pur- 
suits when nineteen. His nuptials with Almeda Carhart, a daughter of Isaac 
and Rosy (Peckham) Carhart, were solemnized June 28, 1871. She was born in 
September, 1848. Effie, their only child, was born May 9, 1873, and died 
February 12, 1875. Mr. Brown applied his attention to various vocations in 
his native county until 1870. when he began manufacturing horse hay-rakes 
and hand corn-planters, doing a successful business, under the firm name of 
Brown & Hughes. He reth'ed in 1874. entering as clerk the mercantile trade 
at Galena. In 1880, he purchased in Marion a store of diy goods and notions, 
which he carried on ten months: then with R. A. Bovd. he enara^ed in the sjro- 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 559 

eery and queensware trade, doing business at No. 20 Main street. They are 
prosecuting a driving trade. Mr. Brown served two years as Trustee of his 
native township. He is a stanch Republican, and belongs to the I. 0. 0. F. 
He has been officially connected with the M. E. Church for nearly twenty years. 
Mrs. B. is also a member. 

JAMES E. BRYAN is a native of Marion, born December 28, 1850, to 
Thomas E. and Elizabeth (Bowen) Bryan, the former a native of Maryland, and 
the latter of Virginia. The Bowens originated in Germany, but came to Vir- 
ginia in 1650. His paternal grandfather is a resident of Marion, aged (1883) 
ninety-five years. His father's family consisted of four children — James, 
Mary (teacher in the public schools at Prospect), Arthur (telegraph operator at 
the C. & T. depot), and Martha (deceased). His father of Scotch extraction, 
also lives in town, a carpenter by trade. James E. received a good education 
at the Marion schools, completing his literary career by taking a commercial 
course at Prof. Sharp's Business College, at Delaware, Ohio, graduating in 1871. 
When eighteen years of age, however, he entered the Huber establishment as a 
common laborer ; but upon his return from Delaware College, he became fore- 
man of the rake department, which position he still holds. He has under his 
charge from twelve to forty men continually. He makes all the hay-rakes pat- 
ented by Mr. Huber, from 6,000 to 8,000 annually. He also superintends the 
wood machinery for the scrapers, separators and engines. Mr. Bryan became 
a stockholder in the Huber Manufacturing Company in 1872, entering $3,600. 
June 8, 1873, he was married to Miss Emily Shur, daughter of John and Mary 
Shur, descendants of German ancestors. To them have been born two chil- 
dren — Charles and Harry, aged six and three years, respectively. He has just 
completed an inviting residence on North East street at a cost of $2,000. He 
also has two other town lots. Politically, Mr. Bryan votes the Democratic 
ticket. He belongs to the K. of P., and to the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

B. J. CAMP was born in Delaware (now Morrow County) July 18, 1829. 
and is a son of Benjamin and Sarah (Shaw) Camp, natives of New York and 
Pennsylvania respectively. They were married in Morrow County, to which 
place Mr. Camp had come prior to the war of 1812. Mrs. Camp's parents. 
John and Sarah Shaw, emigrated to Delaware County, Ohio, in 1804. They 
afterward moved near Cardington. on Shaw's Creek. Benjamin and Sarah Camp 
were married in 1826. and in 1834 removed and settled in Scott Township, 
where Mr. Camp purchased land. He died February 14, 1837, and his widow 
February 8, 1861. They were the parents of three children, of whom only B. 
J. Camp is living. He was married the first time to Rachel Merwin, by whom 
he had seven children — Truman, Olive (widow of John Allen), and Eliza, wife 
of Daniel Welch, are living. Mr. Camp was brought up on a farm, and learned the 
carpenter's trade, beginning when sixteen. He came to Marion in 1845, and fol- 
lowed his trade up to 1863, since which time he has been engaged in manufact- 
uring scroll-work and in stair-building, employing two men. and doing a good 
business. May 27, 1852, he married Miss Phebe J., daughter of Frederick 
Court. Mrs. Camp was born in Pleasant Township, July 25, 1827. To them 
have been born six children. Of these four are living — George T., William B., 
Mary E. and Joseph E. Sarah and au infant son are deceased. Mr. and Mrs. 
Camp are members of the Christian Church, of which he is a Deacon. He is 
connected with the Sons of Temperance, and in politics is a Prohibitionist. He 
owns a commodious residence, situated at the south end of South Main street. 

FRANCIS CAMPBELL, one of Marion County's pioneers, was born in 
County Donegal, Ireland, July 12, 1808. He is a son of Thomas and Cathar- 
ine (Case) Campbell, natives of the same county. His father died at the age 
of ninety-four years, and his grandmother on his father's side lived to be one 
hundred and fourteen years old. Of eight children, Fraucis Campbell is the 



560 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

youngest. He was reared <>u a farm and educated in the high schools ; emigrat- 
ed to the United States in 1829, and settled on laud two and a half miles west 
of Marion. He purchased a tract of 1.70(1 acres, 120 of which were located in 
Pleasant Township. All was woods, and Mr. Campbell cleared a site for a log 
cabin, which he erected and occupied until 1835, when he built a brick house. 
This was one of the first brick residences in the township, outside of the city. 
Mr. Campbell cleared and improved a large portion of his extensive lands, and 
made many valuable improvements. Soon after he settled in the county he en- 
gaged in buying and driving cattle over the mountains to Eastern markets ; fol- 
lowed driving and shipping for over forty years, and was one of the leading 
stockmen of Marion County ; also dealt in real estate for a number of years. 
He has been an industrious, hard-working man, and has acquired a large and 
valuable property. In April, 1864, he removed to Marion, and now lives re- 
tired. February 15, 1834, Mr. Campbell was married to Miss Elizabeth Mc- 
Whirter, daughter of Henry and Margaret McWhirter, who were natives of 
Bath County, Va. They were married in Virginia, and prior to the war of 
1812, removed to Pickaway County. Ohio, and in 1820 to Marion, now Wyan- 
dot County. They subsequently removed to Hancock County, and in 1829 came 
and settled in Marion Township, where Mr. McWhirter died, in June, 1864, at 
the age of sixty-five years. Mrs. McWhirter died May 2, 1835, at the age of 
fifty-two. Mrs. Campbell was born in Pickaway County, Ohio, September 28, 
1815. Mr. and Mrs. Campbell are the parents of eight children ; of these four 
are living— Sarah E., wife of P. Geddes Harvey ; Thomas H. ; Catharine A., wife of 
John S. Riley ; and Ida M., wife of William C. Rapp. William J., Margaret J., 
Mary E. and Francis J. are deceased. William J. died November 23, 1882, 
while on his way to Ireland. He married Emma Bunker, who died Februar}' 25, 
1876, and left one son — Edson F. Margaret J. was the wife of Samuel Mahaf- 
fey, and died, leaving one child — Francis J. Mary E. was the wife of William 
MahafFey. Francis J., the youngest, died at the age of five years. Mr. and 
Mrs. Campbell reared one grandson, Edson F. Mrs. Campbell is an earnest,, 
consistent member of the Presbyterian Church. 

DR. J. M. CHRISTIAN, deceased, was born in New Kent County, Va.. 
March 21, 1821, where his ancestors had resided since the immigration of the 
Huguenots from France, and the eighteenth century migration of the Mauks. 
The family at that date was numerous, and possessed extensive land estates and 
large holdings of slaves, and were powerful after the fashion of Virginia. En- 
joying the prestige of the early colonial people, the family became connected 
by intermarriage with many of the noted personages of the Old Dominion. 
'• Dolly " Madison, wife of President Madison, was of the connection, as then 
styled ; and the first wife of John Tyler was Letitia, daughter of Robert Chris- 
tian, of New Kent. Dr. Christian, reared with the advantages thus secured to 
him. after the fashion of young Virginians of the time, was ill prepared for 
the adverse fortune of shattered estates, and left him to a life struggle alone. 
He was educated at Rumford Academy, and afterward graduated at Athens 
Universitv. Ohio. He moved to Ohio in 1843, and was married, in 1846, to 
Pauline, daughter of George H. Busby. Save a period from 1847 to 1854. 
Dr. Christian resided al Marion, practicing his profession of medicine. He be- 
gan the practice at Lawrenceburg, Ind.. after an arduous preparation, under cir- 
cumstances that must have seemed discouraging to one reared with all the com- 
forts of wealth. On the first day of his career as a physician, he secured two 
patients, and to the day of his last sickness was in active and successful prac- 
tice. He died March 29, 1882. His children — George B., Carrie (wife of John 
M. Garberson, residents of Marion County) and Mary (wife of Francis Kent, of 
Boone County, Mo., survive him. After the death of the above-men- 
tioned wife. I >r. C. contracted a marriage. September 12, 1867, with Josephine 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 561 

Norris, who was born in Delaware County, Ohio, July 7, 1843, the daughter 
of Daniel and Florenda (Wood) Norris, natives of Ohio, and of Scotch and 
English descent respectively. Her parents were early settlers in Marion Coun - 
ty. There were born to the above union three children ; they are Daniel N., 
born August 17, 1868 ; Hettie M., December 25, 1869 ; and Berenice J., Janu- 
ary 13, 1876. His- widow is left in comfortable circumstances, carefully rear- 
ing and educating her children. 

JOHN G. CLARK, deceased. The subject of this sketch was a native of 
Pittsburgh, Penn., born in 1799. While he was a boy, his parents moved to 
Trumbull Count}-, Ohio, and, having acquired a knowledge of the blacksmith 
trade in early life, he, unmarried, came to Marion in 1826 and built a shop, in 
which he followed his trade the rest of his life. When he first located here, he 
exercised a good deal of skill as a gun and silversmith. In 1828, he was mar- 
ried to Miss Isabella Kennedy, daughter of Edward and Susanna Kennedy, 
natives of Harper's Ferry, Md., and who emigrated to this county in 1826. 
Mr. Kennedy kept the tavern situated where Conrad's block now stands, for a 
Dumber of years. He died about 1860, and his wife May 18, 1829. Mr. and 
Mrs. Clark had seven children, three of whom survive — John W., Arthur L. 
and Susan E., wife of C. F. Seffner. The deceased were James R,, George E., 
Thomas A. and Robert 0. Mr. C. died October 11, 1846. Mrs. C. resides 
with — \ 

ARTHUR L.J who lives in the town of his birth, which took place August 
11. 1842! "He' lias" a Common school education, and from 1863 to 1866 he was 
in the employment of the Government as book-keeper, in the ship yards at 
Nashville, Tenn., and as clerk in the Ordnance Department. Returning home, 
he, in 1867, took up the sculptor's trade with James M. Beerbower, under the 
firm name of Beerbower & Clark. This company continued three years, when 
he formed a partnership with Edward K. Clark for one }"ear, known as A. L. 
Clark & Co. In September of 1877, he admitted Levi Benedict as partner, and 
Clark & Benedict did business until February of 1880, when A. L. con- 
tinued it for himself. His particular business is dealing in marble, but, with 
T. R. Roberts, he handles sewer pipe, cemetery vases, etc. They are doing a 
successful business. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church, and of the 
K. of P. and Uniform rank. He is at present serving his third term as Cor- 
poration Clerk. 

J. W. CLARK was born in Marion, Ohio, September 22, 1830, and is a son 
of John G. and Isabella (Kennedy) Clark. From the age of eighteen until of age, 
he worked in the Mirror office; he then learned the blacksmith trade, and in 
1855 went to Dodge County, Wis., where he worked at his trade until May, 
1861, when he enlisted to serve in Company F, First Wisconsin Volunteer In- 
fantry. He re-enlisted in Company F, Twenty-fourth Wisconsin Volunteer In- 
fantry; having recruited that compan}', he was appointed its Captain. He 
participated in the battle of Stone River, after which he was taken and sent to 
Nashville, Tenn. After his recovery, he was appointed Captain of Ordnance, 
under Capt. E. F. Townsend, and served in that capacit}' until his discharge at 
the close of the war. He went to Louisville, Ky.,and in 1867 came to Marion. 
Since 1875, he has had charge of the blacksmith department of the Huber 
works. He married Elizabeth H.. daughter of Joseph and Margaret Turnej', 
and a native of Delaware, Ohio. They had eight children, six of whom are 
living, viz.: Edward K, Turney W.. Cora B., Gertrude L., Susie M. and Ethel 
L. Mr. Clark is a member of the Masonic order, P. 0. S. of A. and G. A. R. 

ROBERT T. CLARK was born in Delaware County, Ohio, September 7, 
1822, the son of Harvey and Nancy (Travis) Clark; the former was born in 
Windham County, Conn., June 1, 1797. and the latter in Rockingham County, 
Va., June 26, 1 804. Robert's grandfather. Israel Clark, came to the above 



i 



562 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

county (Delaware) in 1815, and removed to Richland Township in 1823. where 
lie died, in 1827, aged seventy-six years. He served three years in the war of 
the Revolution. Robert's parents moved to Marion Township and entered 240 
acres in the fall of 1829; here they lived until 1864-65. They had twelve chil- 
dren, Robert T. being the oldest son and second child. They then moved to 
Marion, and the father died in the spring of 1873, while the mother survives. 
Mr. R. T. Clark, having secured a fair education, remained with his parents till 
nearly of age. In 1847, he bought his present farm of 200 acres, moving upon 
it. He has made all the improvements, and is engaged to a considerable ex- 
tent in stock-raising. February 9, 1843, he married Harriet Clark, daughter 
of John F. and Patience (Mittin) Clark. She was born in Pickaway County, 
Ohio, May 1, 1823. They have had fifteen children, seven living — Nancv E.. 
wife of H. Jumf ; Flora L., wife of E. Burt; R.Franklin; Callie E., wife of G-. 
W. Hiamon; Minerva E., wife of H. Foos; Harry E. and James K. Mr. Clark 
is a member of the I. 0. 0. F., of the Republican party, and, with his family, of 
the Methodist Episcopal Church. He contributes to every benevolent and 
charitable purpose, and is a respected citizen. 

MICHAEL CLARY, blacksmith, was born in County Queens, Ireland, 
in September, 1843. His parents, Timothy and Mary (Reed) Clary, natives of 
the same county, removed to Fifeshire, Scotland, when he was but six years old. 
His mother died in 1847, and his father still resides in Scotland. Michael was 
reared on a farm until fourteen years of age, when he was apprenticed to the 
blacksmith's trade, at which he served four years. He then followed journey- 
man work till 1869, when he embarked for America, landing at New York on 
New Year's Day, 1870. He went to Akron, Ohio, thence to Sidney, and April 
1 came to Marion, where he has since pursued his trade. He removed to his 
present shop in 1871, and now employs from two to three men. October 19, 
1868, he was married to Margaret Haxton, daughter of James Haxton, and a 
native of Fifeshire, Scotland. To them were born four children — Thomas, 
John, Margaret and Timothy. Mr. Clary and family are members of St. Mary's 
Catholic Church. 

J. Q. CODDING, attorney, is a native of Summit County, Ohio, and was 
born May 20, 1848. His parents, R. F. and Betsey M. Codding, were respect- 
ively natives of New York and Vermont, and were married in Summit County. 
Mr. Codding now resides in Bucyrus, his wife having died April 10, 1879. 
Mr. Codding, the subject of this notice, was reared in his native place, and edu- 
cated in Ohio Central College. He graduated in the class of '72, and immediate- 
ly began the reading of law in the office of J. F. McNeal ; completing his studies, 
he was admitted to practice at the bar April 7, 1876, and has since been en- 
gaged in the business of his profession. In addition to his legal business, 
he is engaged also in insurance, and represents the following standard com- 
panies, viz.: Insurance Company of North America, Continental, Glens Falls, 
Mercantile of Cleveland, Franklin of Columbus, iEtna, California, Firemen's of 
Dayton, and a number of others. Mr. Codding is the leading insurance agent 
of Marion, a fact attested by his large business; and he is a reliable man. His 
marriage occurred May 31, 1877, to Miss Sadie M. Roe, daughter of Joseph 
and Martha Roe. and a native of Richland County, Ohio. They have had born 
to them four children — Zoe, Paul R., Mildred and Mabel, the two latter being 
twins. Mr. and Mrs. Codding are members of the Presbyterian Church of 
Marion, Ohio. 

JAMES COFFY, a native of County Fermanagh, Ireland, was born De- 
cember 25, 1813. He is a son of William and Mary (Gordon) Cofly, who 
were natives of the same county. They emigrated to the United States in 
1817, making the voyage on a sailing-vessel, which occupied nine weeks. When 
at a point about sixty miles south of St. John, Newfoundland, the vessel was 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 565 

wrecked. From there the}" sailed to Philadelphia, and Mr. Coffy with his 
family settled in Cumberland County, Penn., where they resided till 1834, at 
which date they came to .Marion County, settling in Pleasant Township. Mr. 
Coffy died in March. 1835, and Mrs. Coffy July 3, 1838. They had eleven 
children, nine of whom grew to maturity, viz., Alice (deceased), John, James, 
Priscilla (deceased), Thomas Gr., Mary A. (wife of Aaron Kellogg), William R. 
( deceased), Amanda R. (deceased) and Stephen K. Mr. Coffy, the subject of 
this notice, was reared on a farm, and at his father's death became the owner 
of the homestead, which he sold in 1840, and purchased a farm of eighty acres 
of Frederick Court. To this original purchase Mr. Coffy made additions till 
he now owns 506 acres. He resided on his farm till March, 186-4, when he 
moved to Marion. In 1862, he made a trip to Europe, and visited England, 
Ireland, Scotland and Wales ; he made a second trip in 1867. and after attend- 
ing the Paris Exposition, traveled through France, Wales, England and Ire- 
land. He has been a member of the Marion Count}- Importing Company since 
its organization in 1868, and has made five trips to France — in 1868, 1870, 
1881, 1882 and 1883 — in the interest of the company. He also attended the 
Paris Exposition with his son in 1878. Mr. Coffy devotes his whole attention 
to fine horses, and in that respect he is one of the leading men of Marion Coun- 
ty. September 30, 1839, Mr. Coffy was married to Miss Amanda, daughter of 
Frederick Court, an early pioneer of Marion Count}'. Mrs. Coffy was born in 
West Virginia August 6, 1817. Of six children born by this marriage, three 
are living, viz., Mary (wife of John Simpson), Susan E. and Stephen A.; Will- 
iam R. died January 5, 1877, aged twenty-five years ; James and Jane died in 
childhood. Mrs. Coffy is a member of the Disciples Church. Mr. Coffy is a 
member of the Masonic order. Politically, he is a Republican, formerly a 
Whig. 

W. W. CONCKLIN, one of the oldest residents of Marion, was born Decem- 
ber 14, 1799, in New York City, where he was brought up and was in mercan 
tile business until 1822 ; coming to Marion County, he entered from 2,500 to 
3,000 acres, mostly in Salt Rock Township. This land was then entirely wild ; 
not more than fifteen or twenty families in the township, nor more than 300 in- 
habitants in the county. He commenced improving his land, and succeeded 
after three years in fencing it in. He then devoted it to grazing purposes, past- 
uring cattle for various stockmen throughout the State. He dealt to some ex- 
tent in cattle himself, his farm being known as the Concklin farm. It is nearly 
all in one body, and is the largest in the county. He resided upon this place 
until the spring of 1839, when he moved to Marion to take charge of the Audi- 
tor's office, to which he had been previously elected. He was re-elected in 1840. 
and when he retired from office he engaged in the mercantile business with his 
brother, Charles W. Concklin, under the firm name of Charles W. Concklin & 
Co. He thus continued until the death of his brother, in the fall of 1852. He 
also had large banking interests ; was a stockholder in the Bank of Marion sev- 
en years, serving as Cashier and President a good portion of this period ; he 
was one of the founders of that bank. In 1844, he was a Presidential Elector 
for this Congressional district, and he has been more or less identified with the 
public growth and improvement of Marion and the county. 

EDMUND CONLEY was born December 20, 1829, in Huntingdon County, 
Penn., the son of Henry and Sarah (Kerr) Conley ; having received a common 
school education, he served an apprenticeship at the carpenter's trade three years ; 
came to Marion County in 1850, and worked at his trade several years, two 
years with John Naylor. November 9, 1852, he married Jane A. Ballantine, 
daughter of John and Marietta Ballantine. who came here about 1820. entering 
a large tract of land, and building one of the first frame houses outside the vil- 
lage of Marion. Mr. and Mrs. Conley have had ten children, three dying young; 

D 



566 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

The names of those who grew up are Harry B., killed by a stroke of lightning 
at the age of twenty-two years ; Ellen M., wife of James B. Riley ; John B. r 
Anna L. and Edmund, twins ; Frank D., deceased, and Charles. Mrs. Conley in- 
herited their farm of 195 acres from her grandfather Bowdish, who was in the 
war of 1812, and who came to Marion County at an early day. This farm is 
underlaid with limestone for building material, and $100 per acre is a very low 
estimate of its value. Mr. Conley rears fine stock, and has in his possession a 
registered Durham and Jersey. He is a Democrat, and his family have been 
members of the Presbyterian Church for the past fifteen years. 

GEORGE W. CONRAD was born in Pickaway County, Ohio, June 3, 
1825. He is a son of David and Margaret (Dean) Conrad, the former a native 
of Pendleton County., W. Va. and the latter of Sussex County, N. J. Mr. Con- 
rad's parents removed to Pickaway County, Ohio, in 1801, and Mrs. Conrad's 
parents about 1815. David and Margaret Conrad were married February 21 r 
1822 ; they lived and died in the same county. Mr. C. died Mav 11, 1835, and 
his widow January 18, 1842. They are the parents of nine children, of whom 
the subject of this sketch is the third. He lived till sixteen on a farm, at which 
time he went out into the world to care for himself. About 1846, he engaged 
in buying and driving cattle over the mountains to Eastern markets — Philadel- 
phia, New York and Baltimore — and followed it twelve years. He moved to 
Marion in 1857, and in 1862 bought a bakery, which he ran one year. In 
1877, he erected the Conrad building. December 21, 1857. he was mar- 
ried to Mrs. Catharine Corn, widow of Solomon Corn, and daughter of 
Martin Miller, of this count}*, formerly of Maryland. This marriage was 
blessed with one son, Harry. Mrs. Conrad had four children by her for- 
mer husband ; of these, two are living, namely, Lizzie, wife of S. R Dumble 7 
and Susie, wife of Clark Turnev. 

HARRY CONRAD was born in Marion January 29, 1859 ; learned his 
trade with Clark Turney, serving three years, from 1875 to 1878 ; took charge 
of the business while the firm was George W. Conrad & Son, which dissolved in 
1881. Mr. Conrad carries a full line of jewelry, silverware, etc. July 27, 1879, 
he was married to Miss Anna, daughter of Mrs. Sarah Ball, and a native of La 
Rue, where she was born July 18, 1864. Mr. C. is an efficient member of the 
Marion Band. 

ELKANA COON, who lives in one of the finest residences in Marion 
County, about three miles from Marion, upon the Sandusky & Marion road r 
was born February 17, 1833, son of Jacob and Susanna Coon, who came from 
Vermont in 1819, settling in the Sandusky Plain, near a little place called 
Little Sandusky. They entered 160 acres of land, which in time they increased 
to 500 acres. Their children numbered seven, all of whom are farmers. The 
father died in 1882, aged eight} T -three years, but the mother's decease took place 
ten years earlier, aged sixty years. Elkana, having obtained a limited educa- 
tion, purchased and inherited, in 1871, his present farm, then 540 acres, now 
620 acres, in good repair, having 5,000 rods of tile draining it. This farm is 
valued at $80 per acre. Mr. Coon is devoting his attention to fine stock, all 
registered, principally Durham cattle, of which he has twent}- head of full- 
blooded and eighty head of grade, and two very fine specimens, aged three and 
four years respectively, weighing 2,300 and 2,400 pounds. He usually receives 
the first premiums at the count}' fairs, and has been fortunate at the State fair. 
February 5, 1862, Mr. Coon married Miss Ellen McBeth, daughter of Thomas 
and Jennie McBeth, and born September 3, 1843, in Washington County, Penn. T 
of Irish ancestry. The name of their one child is Francis E. Mr. Coon's 
grandfather was in the war of 1812. Prosperity has attended the labors of 
this family, and their $10,000 home is an ornament to the county. Mr. Coon 
estimates his wealth at $50,000. 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 567 

JOSEPH COURT, an old and respected pioneer of Pleasant Township, 
was born in Hard}- County, Va., May 11, 1812. His father, Frederick Court, 
a native of Germany, emigrated to the United States in 1806 and settled in 
Baltimore. A year or so later, he moved to Hardy County, Va., where, in 1808, 
he married Ozilla Cuherly. the mother of Joseph, next mentioned. They emi- 
grated to Ohio in 1814. settling in Ross County, in Frankfort. February, 1825. 
they came to Pleasant Township, this county, where Mr. Court purchased 160 
acres of land, a part of which, forms the site of Owen's Station. Mr. Court 
was Trustee and Treasurer of Pleasant Township for a number of years. He 
died in November, 1841, aged sixty-eight years. Mrs. C. departed this life July 
2 5. 1826, at the age of forty-three years. Of their eight children, seven are 
now living — George, Joseph, Amanda (wife of James Coffy), William (of 
A lien County), Elizabeth (wife of John Decker), and Phebe (wife of B. J. 
Camp). Mary, who married William Riley, is deceased. Mr. Court married 
for his second wife Mrs. Rachel Pomroy, who died near La Rue. Mr. Court, 
the subject of this sketch, was reared on a farm and secured such an 
education as the primitive schools of the day afforded. He spent his 
e arly manhood till of age in clearing up the homestead. He entered, in 1834. 
eighty acres of land, of which he cleared forty acres. Selling this, he bought 
e ighty acres near Owen's Station. He made additions to this original purchase 
u ntil he owned about 500 acres of well improved and highly cultivated land. 
He disposed of much of his real estate among his children, till he now owns 
but 166 acres. He lived on the farm and followed its pursuits and stock and 
grain raising until his removal to Marion in the fall of 1875, since which time 
he has lived retired. Mr. Court was married, June 29, 1834, to Miss Maria, 
daughter of Wheeler and Jane Sherman. Mrs. Court was born in Vermont 
October 1, 1814. By this marriage there were ten children, nine of whom grew 
to maturity, and are now living— George W.. William F., Sarah J. (wife of 
Caleb Almendinger). Mary (wile of Byron Folk). Louisa (wife of F. J. Folk). 
John I.. Joseph N., Stephen A. and Benjamin F. Mr. Court has tilled a num- 
ber of places of public trust in his township and county, as Trustee and Clerk 
of Pleasant Township, holding each office three years, and Treasurer ten years. 
Justice of the Peace nine years. County Commissioner six years, and Infirmary 
Director for the same length of time. Since his residence in Marion, he has 
filled the office of Township Trustee two years, and various other local offices. 
Mr. Court embarked in life a poor man, but by perseverance and energy he 
succeeded in acquiring a goodly portion of this "world's goods," atone time 
owning about 500 acres of valuable land. He has borne his part in all public 
enterprises and improvements of his county that Mere intended to contribute 
to its growth and development. As a representative pioneer of Marion County, 
we give the portrait of Mr. Court in this work. 

STEPHEN A. COURT, Prosecuting Attorney, was born in Pleasant Town- 
ship May 11, 1855. He is a son of Joseph and Maria (Sherman) Court, 
whose history is given in this chapter. He attended the Northwestern 
Ohio Normal School at Ada. and graduated in June, 1877. He engaged 
in teaching at fifteen, and followed it winters for several years He read 
law with J. F. McNeal. beginning his studies in 1875. His admission to 
the bar was in January, 1878 ; 1879-80, he was a member of the firm of 
Abston & Court, and 1881-82, of the firm of Codding & Court. In 1880, he 
was elected City Solicitor, and re-elected in 1881, and, in 1881, was chosen to 
the chair of Prosecutor, the position he now occupies. September 20, 1877, 
he married Miss Olive F. Inskeep, daughter of James J. and Maria Inskeep. 
Mrs. Court was born in Delaware County, Ohio, July 7, 1857. Two children 
were born to them, of whom one. Arthur B . is living ; Clvde C. is deceased. 
Mr. Court is identified with the I. O. O. F.. K. of P. and I. 0. of R. M.. and 
politically is a Democrat. 



568 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

JAMES CULBERTSON is another of Marion's successful, enterprising 
citizens. His people were Scotch, but he was born in County Tyrone, Ire- 
land, August 1, 1824, where he followed agriculture until he came here in 
1850, whither his brother William had preceded him ten years. In 1862, 
he purchased his present home, consisting of a house and two lots. He 
also owns the store room occupied by Davis & Gates, and thirty-eight acres 
of land, located in the western part of the corporation, and 240 acres of 
wild land in Iowa Mr. Culbertson is well known throughout the county 
as a mason and contractor; and as a monument of his labor stand the Bar- 
tram, Campbell, and the Masonic Blocks of Marion, and the Prospect and 
Newman Bridges over the Scioto River. He has plied his trade here indus- 
triously for thirty-three years, being associated with his brother William a 
number of years. January 31, 1860, Mr. Culbertson married Miss N. C. 
Haldeman, daughter of Henry Haldeman, at one time editor and proprietor 
of the Independent, then known as the Buckeye Eagle. This union has 
been crowned with five childre l, one dying an infant. Their names are 
Harry W., Jennie (deceased), Grace and Mary. This family have been 
members of the Presbyterian Church for years, Mr. Culbertson for all his 
adult life. He is also an Odd Fellow. Mrs. Culbertson's people we're from 
the East, but were married in this county in 1833. 

JOHN CULL is a native of Richland Township, born December 20, 
1837; he is the son of Charles and Anna (Kile) Cull. Both Mr. and Mrs. 
Charles Cull's parents came from Germany, locating in f he above township 
about 1830. Our subject's people were married in 1836, and they have 
had four children, three of whom are living — John, Margaret (wife of 
Jacob Klingel) and Jacob; Callie (wife of Samuel Kraner) died in the sum- 
mer of 1881; Charles Cull died August 24, 1844, aged thirty-three years. 
Mrs. Cull is a resident of Claridon Township, aged (1883) sixty-seven years. 
She married Jacob Kaufman, and is the mother of his five children. Mr. 
John Cull was reared upon the homestead and educated in the district 
schools. Having assisted in the clearing-up of his farm, he, when eighteen, 
took up the blacksmith's trade, in Marion, with William Cull, serving three 
years. He followed his trade until 1870, whe i he engaged in the bakery 
and restaurant business. He was wedded, in 1856, to Mis9 Margaret Stoup, 
born also in the Fatherland, Atril 4, 1844. Her parents were Henry and 
Susan Stoup. Of their four children, three are living — Alice, Agnes and 
Vevena. Mr. Cull owns th > Cull Block, built in 1875, at a cost of $3,'»i»0, 
the adjoining block and one and a half acres on East Center street. He i 
an energetic citizen, a Democrat in political sentiment, and is connected 
with the I. O. O. F. and Encampment. 

T. S. CUMMIN, one of Marion's old retired merchants, was born in 
Perry County, Penn., June 13, 1834. His father, Dr. William Cummin, 
was twice married, and was the father of six children, viz., T. S. (the sub- 
ject of this sketch), Mrs. Rebecca J. Beatty, Mrs. Margaret S. Leonard (of 
Marion, Ohio), Hon. H H. Cummin (President Judge of the Twenty-ninth 
Judicial District, Lycoming County, Penn.) and Mrs. Mary A. Watson, all 
of Williamsport, Penn.; and R. I. Cummin, merchant, of Dayton, Ohio. 
Early in life, Mr. Cumm n, the subject of this sketch, began the career of 
a clerk at Duncannon, Penn., and followed it for six years; in 1855, he 
came to Marion and after clerking a short time for J. S. Reed &Co., he 
became a member of the firm of Johnson, Uhler & Co., which succeeded 
the former firm. He remained a partner till 1874, when the firm dis- 
solved; but Mr. Cummin continued in the mercantile business up to 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 569 

the spring of 1880, when, on account of il! health, he was compelled to 
retire. He was a successful merchant, and was identified with the public 
interests of the town. He erected, in 1872-73, his residence o i East Cen- 
ter street, which is the most expensive residence in Marion. In 1881-82, he 
erected the Cummin Block, an imposing three-story brick, on the corner of 
Main and South streets. Mr. Cummin was married on the 24th of Septem- 
ber, 1867, at Wooster, Ohio, to Miss Lavinia R. Hart, a daughter of Will- 
iam and Prudence Hart. Mr. Hart died in Juniata County. Penn., in 1855, 
an i in 1867 his widow moved to Wooster, Ohio, where she now resides. 
Mrs. Cummin was born in Juniata County, Penn., July 26, 1843. Mr. and 
Mrs. Cummin have one daughte — Winifred. They are both consistent 
members of the Presbyt. rian Chruch. 

H. H. CUNNINGHAM is a native of this county, is forty-three years 
of age, and the son of James and Nancy J. (Barks) Cunningham, who came 
from Berkeley County, Va., with their parents to Fail-field County, Ohio; 
the former was born in 1803, and the latter in 1805. His mother's father, 
John Barks, kept as a pioneer the old Blue Ball Tavern, south of town. 
His parents came to Marion County in 1826, entering forty acres, and clear- 
ing in his time 120 acres of forest land. He brought up ten children, five 
of whom are dead. He died in 1860, aged fifty-seven years, and the mother 
died in 1849, aged forty- four years. His grandfather, Robert Cunningham, 
was a Major in the war of 1812, and died from a wound received in service. 
The Barkses formerly originated in Germany. H. H. having received a com- 
mon school education, enlisted April 19, 1864, in Company K, Fourth Reg- 
iment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was engaged at Rich Mountain, Romney, 
Winchester, Port Republic, Malvern Hill, Fredericksburg, Chancellors- 
ville, Gettysburg, Bristow Station, Martin's Ford, Mine Run and the Wild- 
erness; was wounded at Spottsylvania Court House, and honorably discharged 
after a service of three years. In 1882, he visited England, and imported 
some fine Clydesdale and English draft horses. In 1864, Mr. C. married 
Miss Mary A. Fncapher, daughter of George A. Uncapher, one of Marion 
County's early pioneers. This union has resulted in five children — Zoe 
(deceased), Louesa, Grace, Hortense and Inez. Mr. Cunningham has been 
Trustee of his township several t© rm s, and 1868-72 was Sheriff of the 
county. He is a stirring man in business. In politics, he is an avowed 
Democrat, voting for Vallandigham and fighting in two battles the same 
day. 

' BARTHOLOMEW CUSICK was born in County Mayo, Ireland. August 
15, 1832, the fourth child in the family of Michael and Mary (Burk) Cusick, 
natives of the same county. The mother died in the old country in the spring 
of 1849, aged forty-five years, but the father came to America in 1880, and 
now resides with his children. B. Cusick sailed for the " land of the free" 
in his eighteenth year, the voyage requiring two months, in the sailing ves- 
sel Siddens. He first worked by the month in Luzerne County, Penn., for 
two years; he then went to Cleveland, Ohio, working his passage from 
Buffalo on board the vessel. He engaged there as a laborer upon the 
Cleveland & Erie Railroad, saving $500 in thirteen months. Having a 
limited education, he attended night school at Erie, Penn., laboring dur- 
ing the day. He thus passed two years, and then returned to Cleveland 
and was hired again by the same company for eight years, as night yard- 
master in Cleveland; then laid tracks for the Cleveland & Mahoning Rail- 
road Company one year; next want to Wellsville and became foreman and 
conductor on the Cleveland & Pittsburgh Railroad for seven years. At this 



570 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

time he married, and moved to Cleveland, taking charge of the C. & P. 
yard for one year. Thereupon he went to Akron and worked upon the A. 
& G. W. Railroad from 1863 to 1874, serving in the capacity of Track- 
master ten years of that time. In 1866, he bought 130 acres here, adding 
in 1870 seventy acres, in 1876 160 acres, and in 1882 forty-five acres, mak- 
ing in all 405 acres of land, which he keeps in a fine state of cultivation. 
In 1859, he married Eliza V. Welch, a daughter of Jacob Welch, of War- 
renton, Jefferson County, Ohio. Eleven children have been born in this 
family, nine now living — Anna M., Agnes, Patrick H., Charlotte. John. James, 
Eliza, Joseph and Bartholomew Thomas B. and William are deceased. 
He is a Republican, and, with his family, members of the Catholic Church. 
JOHN E. DAVIDS, the oldest member of the Marion County bar. was 
born at Radnor, Delaware Co., Ohio, September 4, 1816. His parents, 
William and Magdalena (Jenkins) Davids, were both natives of Wales, 
the former of Montgomeryshire, and the latter of Carmarthenshire. His 
paternal grandparents, Thomas and Isabel (Morris) Davids, emigrated from 
Wales in 1803, and settled in Pennsylvania, where they resided two years, 
and then, in 1805, came to Ohio and settled near Radnor, Delaware County, 
where Mr. Davids died in 1810, of typhus fever. His maternal grandfather, 
Evan Jenkins, came from Wales with his family in 1802, and settled in 
Frankiinton, Franklin Co., Ohio, from where they removed in 1808 to Rad- 
nor, Delaware County, where they both died. In 1822, William Davids 
removed and located in Pleasant Township, this county, where he entered 
160 acres of land. He cleared up and improved this land, and occupied it 
till his death, which occurred April 20, 1870, at the age of seventy-seven. 
He was a private in Gen. Hull's army in the late war with Great Britain, 
and served one year, 1813. He was Trustee of Pleasant Township, and 
and also filled other local offices. Mrs. Davids died November 26, 1866, 
aged seventy- three years. They had born to them eleven children, six of 
whom are living. John E. Davids, the subject of this notice, is the second 
son and child. He was brought up on the homestead, in Pleasant Township, 
and educated at the common log cabin schools and in Granville College, at 
Granville, Ohio, and at Delaware Academy. At the age of sixteen, he en- 
gaged in teaching, and followed it winters ten years. In 1838, he took up the 
study of law in the office of Gen. James H Godman. He was admitted to 
the bar by the Supreme Court of the State July 2, 1842. He practiced law 
three years, and engaged in merchandising, which he followed till Septem- 
ber, 1867, when he sold out and resumed the law business. In October of 
the same year, he was elected Justice of the Peace, and has since filled 
that office. He was appointed Notary Public in 1848, and has served as 
such to the present time. He was Mayor of Marion from 1858 to 1861 ; 
member of the Union School Board six years, and two years as its Presi- 
dent; member of the City Council five years, and has been Secretary of 
toll pikes in the county for fifteen years. During the war, he was active 
in filling out the quota of the county and in furnishing supplies for sol- 
diers' families. July 22, 1814, Mr. Davids was married to Charlotte Bain, 
daughter of William and Mary Bain. Charlotte was born in Franklin 
County. Ohio, July 19, 1826. To them were born eight children; of these, 
six are living, viz.: William B., of Fremont County, Colo.; Henry L., of 
N. Y., P. & O. Railroad; John H., of Minnesota; Chauncey N., of Saiida, 
Colo.; Libbie M. and Jennie M. John J. and Mary C. are deceased; the 
former died at the ago of two years, and the latter March 20. 1870, aged 
twenty-one years. Mr. and Mrs. Davids are members of the Presbyterian 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 571 

Church. Mr. D. is also connected with the I. O. O. F., K. of P. and tem- 
perance organization, and up to this date he has never drank a glass of 
lager beer or ale, and for fifty- five years not a drop of any intoxicating 
drinks. He owns a residence on West Center street, where he has resided 
since 1845, and twelve acres in West Marion, and other real estate in the 
city. 

B. W. DAVIS, M. D., was born in Loudon County, Va., February 6, 
1813. He is a son of Zephaniah and Mary (Irey) Davis, natives of the 
same county, in Virginia, the former of Welsh and the latter of English 
descent. John Irey, the father of Mrs. Davis, was also a native of Loudon 
County, Va. He was a soldier in the Revolutionary war, and was serving 
under Gen. La Fayette at the time of the surrender of Lord Cornwallis at 
Yorktown. He came to Marion County in 1830, and settled in Claridon 
Township, where he died in 1838. and was buried in the old Caledonia 
Cemetery. In April, 1830, Zepbaniah Davis removed with his family to 
Marion County, ami settled in Claridon Townsnip, where he had entered 
land. He sold this land, and purchased another farm, to which he added 
by entry eighty acres. The same year (1830), Mrs. Davis had four brothers 
— Samuel, John, Enos and Stephen Irey, who came and settled in 
Claridon Township. Mr. Davis died on the homestead in March, 1858. 
His widow resided here till 1866, when she removed to Marion County, 111., 
at which place she died in 1871. Her remains were brought back, and 
interred in the Claridon Cemetery. Mr. and Mrs. Davis had six children ; 
of these only the subject of this sketch is now living. John, since 1850, a 
resident of Dayton, Ohio, and for many years the most prominent physician 
of that city, died June 10, 1883, and was buried in Marion Cemetery; 
Samuel died in 1830, aged fourteen; Emeline A. died in 1837, aged twenty- 
two; Susan married William P. Thew, and died August 6, 1852, aged thirty- 
two, leaving live children, and Abel, who married Matilda Merritt, 
and had five children. He died in Hamilton County, Ohio, May 6, 1875. 
Dr. Davis, the subject of this sketch, was reared to manhood on the home- 
stead farm, and received his education in the common schools. At the age 
of fifteen, he engaged in teaching in Columbiana County. He remained in 
Marion County most of the time till 1835, when he went to Belmont County. 
He followed the profession of teaching till 1819. During this time, he 
read medicine with Dr. William Estep, of Loydsville, and entered upon his 
practice in Belmont County in 1849, where he followed his profession till 
1855, when he removed to Osborn, Greene Co., Ohio. He remained at that 
place until 1857, when he came to Caledonia, and in 1860 to Marion, where 
he has since successfully practiced his profession. Dr. Davis was one of 
the organizers of the Marion County Medical Society, and served as its 
President two years, and as Secretary for the same length of time. He is 
also a member of the Ohio State Medical Society. In 1862, he was ap- 
pointed by Gov. Tod as Examining Surgeon, to examine persons subject 
to draft. In 1872, he received from Wooster University the honorary degree 
of Doctor of Medicine. He is now a member of the Board of Examiners, 
to examine pension applicants. November 23, 1837, he was united in mar- 
riage with Miss Harriet Hatcher. Of their four children since born, two 
are living — William Z. and Ellen. Laura F. died November 16. 1881, 
aged thirty-six, and Mary A. died in infancy. Mrs. Davis was born in Bel- 
mont County, Ohio, April 13, 1819, and departed this life April 27, 1871. 
She was an active and useful member of the M. E. Church for many years 
Dr. Davis has been a member of the M. E. Church since 1839, and most of 
the time in an official relation. 



572 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

WILLIAM Z. DAVIS, attorney, was born inLoydsville, Belmont Coun- 
ty, Ohio, June 10. 1839. His early life, till sixteen years of age, was 
passed in the villages of Loydsville and Somerton, in his native county. 
In 1855, he went with his father, Dr. B. W. Davis, to live at Osborn, in 
Greene County, and attended school at Dayton and Miami City till the re- 
moval of his father to Caledonia in 1857. He came to Marion in 1859, 
and after attending the high school he entered the office of the County 
Clerk as assistant. While in this situation, he commenced reading law, un- 
der the preceptorship of Gen. James H. and H. C. Godman. In 1860, he 
turned his whole attention to law, and devoted himself assiduously to his 
studies, except while in the three months' service, till February, 1862, at 
which time he was admitted to the bar by the Supreme Court of Ohio. 
While preparing himself for his profession, Mr. Davis, in response to the 
first call for troops, in April, 1861. enlisted as a member of Company H, 
Fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. At the expiration of his term of service, 
he returned to Marion and resumed his legal studies. August 5, 1862, he 
again entered the ranks of the army, this time in Company E, Ninety-sixth 
Regiment. He served in his regiment till seized with a sickness that dis- 
abled him from further military duty. He participated in the engagements 
of Chickasaw Bayou and Arkansas Post, and was honorably discharged at 
Columbus, Ohio, in March, 1863. After recovering from the illness he had 
contracted in the service, he entered upon the practice of law with Messrs. 
West & Walker, of Bellefontaine. He had charge of the office of this firm 
while Judge West was in the State Senate and Mr. Walker was attending 
to his duties as United States Internal Revenue Assessor. In April, 1864, 
Gen. James H. Godman having been elected Auditor of State, Mr. Davis 
was admitted to succeed him in the law firm of J. H. & H C. Godman, which 
was changed to "Godman & Davis." In succeeding Gen. Godman, Mr. 
Davis took the place of one of the oldest and most successful practitioners 
at the Marion County bar. The law firm of Godman & Davis enjoyed an 
extensive practice during its existence, which terminated on the removal of 
Mr. Godman to Delaware in October, 1871. Mr. Davis has, since his en- 
gagement in the law business, devoted himself exclusively to its pursuits, 
and has advanced to the front ranks of the bar. He is an honorable, up- 
right man, an excellent lawyer, and has established a large civil practice, 
extending into all the courts of the State and of the United States. He- 
has frequently been solicited to become a candidate for important offices, 
and, although being in Senatorial and Congressional Districts that would 
insure his political success, he has hitherto declined political honors, pre- 
ferring the profession of law, in which he has acquired a worthy reputation. 
Mr. Davis is a Republican in politics, and has always taken an active part 
in the leading campaigns since 1860. December 3, 1868, he celebrated his 
marriage with Miss Harriet M. Search, daughter of Thomas Search, Jr., of 
Marion. Their three children are Griselda, Ernestine and Helen L. 
Mr. and Mrs. Davis are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of 
Marion. 

L. DENISON, of the drug firm of L. Denison & Co., was born in 
Youngstown, Penn., August 9, 1836, and is a son of Andrew and Sarah 
Denison. He came to Marion in September, 1851, with Dr. Gailey, for 
whom he clerked three years. At the latters death, in September, 1856, he 
entered the drug store of H. Peters as clerk. He subsequently became asso- 
ciated with P. O. Sharpless, remaining with him till October, 1871. He was 
then employed by H. True, and H. True & Co., druggists, from that time to 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 573 

November 7, 1881, when the present firm was organized. Mr. Denison is 
probably the oldest druggist in Marion. October 22, 1861, he was married 
to Miss Sarah L. Pancoast. daughter of Hezekiah Pancoast, and a native 
of Pennsylvania. 

WILLIAM C. DENMAN, M. D., was born in Piqua, Ohio, January 
29, 1851. His parents were Nathaniel and Catherine Denman. The Doc- 
tor grew to manhood in his native city, graduated at the high school at that 
place, in the class of 1870, and the same year went to Huntington, Ind., 
where he was connected with the First National Bank of the place for five 
years. He commenced reading medicine in Cincinnati in 1875, and after 
prosecuting a regular course, graduated at the Medical College of Ohio, 
with honors, in 1878, after a competitive examination by its staff, he was 
theo House Physician and Surgeon in the Good Samaritan Hospital of Cin- 
cinnati, for one year, thus acquiring a thorough knowledge of surgery. Since 
then he has performed a number of important operations. In August, 1880, 
he came to Marion and formed a partnership with Dr. T. B. Fisher, the old- 
est physician in the county, with whom he continued ti 11 April, 1882, when 
the latter retired, and since that time the Doctor has had no partner in his 
practice. He has an extensive and increasing patronage, enjoying the con- 
fidence of the people, and is successful in his treatment. Dr. Denman 
is Secretary of the United States Board of Examining Surgeons for exam- 
ining pension applicants ; a member, by invitation, of the American Medi- 
cal Association since 1883 ; a member also of the Ohio State Medical So- 
ciety, of the Marion City Board of Health, and is Vice President of the 
Marion County Medical Society, of which he has also been Secretary two 
years. He is prominently identified with the material interests of the cily, 
and is an enterprising and public spirited citizen. 

WILLIAM C. DENNIG, born in Baden, Germany, February 2, 1829, 
is the son of George A. and Mary (Daub) Dennig, natives of the same 
place. Mr. Dennig was born February 23, 1805 ; Mrs. Dennig in 1804. 
They were married in 1828, and came across the Atlantic in 1849, settling 
in Northampton County, Penn. Mr. Dennig died in the spring of 1851, 
and Mrs. Dennig passed away in 1861. They had six children, of 
whom William C. is the eldest. His father was a stone-cutter by trade ; so, 
while a boy, he learned the art, finishing an apprenticeship at fifteen. He 
went with his father to work before they left the old country, and so contin- 
ued in this country some two years. He then found employment on the 
B. & O. R. R., nine months ; thereupon he went to Chillicothe, Ohio, and 
labored there until November of 1852. He then returned to Pennsylvania 
for two years. Having married he moved to Cincinnati, and thence to 
Marion, where he has since resided. He followed his trade all the time ex- 
cept an interval of three years, when engaged in packing and shipping but- 
ter and eggs, handling tin, and the last year keeping a provision store. He 
was united in marriage February 21, 1854, with Miss Margaret Boyer, who 
was also a native of Baden, Germany, born February 23, 1828. Her par- 
ents were Christian Boyer (who resides with them, aged eighty-two years), 
and Christina Boyer, who died in 1879. Being compelled to retire from 
stone-cutting, he has been representing, since 1868, the Am-ora Fire Insur- 
ance Company. He owns a residence with one and a half acres, and a Lot 
ance Company. Politically, he is a Republican. Mr. and Mrs. Donnig 
belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

JOHN DIEBOLD (deceased) was born in Baden, Germany, December 
7, 1829, the son of George F. and Margaret (Fies) Diebold. They had 



574 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY, 



four children — John, Fred, Charles (a Lieutenant, killed in the late war), 
and Margaret (deceased). John Diebold married, May 1, 1853, Miss Mar- 
garet May, daughter of Croft and Mary (Egel) May, whose children num- 
bered six -Margaret, Christian, Rosanna, Philip, Louisa and Willie. Willie 
and his mother died in the " fatherland. " All the surviving members of 
the May and Diebold families crossed the ocean in May, 1854, settling in 
Marion. Mr. Diebold located where his widow now resides. To them four 
children were born— Rosa, wife of William Shoemaker, Columbus, Ohio ; 
John, dealer in ice ; Louisa, wife of George Krause, and Clara. Mr. Die- 
bold was a baker by trade, and prosecuted that business in Marion until 
1858. He then commenced to assist his wife in keeping boarders, and so 
successful did their private house become that in 1866 he built a commo- 
dious hotel on his own lot on East street. They continued in this business, 
satisfactorily to the public, until and after Mr. Diebold's death. He was a 
very industrious and highly respected citizen. He was a charter and official 
member of the K. of H, and the Druids — State Marshal of the latter at 
the time of his death. He was a stanch Democrat, and was serving his sec- 
ond term in the City Council. Upon his arrival in Marion, he had $300 in 
money, but through untiring efforts at one time, carrying brick for the 
Methodist Episcopal Church at 75 cents per day, he left an estate of $25,- 
000. His death occurred J anuary 4, 1881. The old Diebold Hotel burned 
to the ground January 12, 1833. His widow, who is an agreeable lady and 
a consistent member of the Lutheran Church, built the same year a hand- 
some residence on its site, costing $2,500. 

GEORGE DIEGLE was born in Philadelphia, Penn., July 6, 1826. 
He is a son of George and Catharine Diegle, the former a native of Wit- 
tenburg, Germany, and the latter of Prussia. They emigrated to America 
about 1818, and were married in Philadelphia. Our subject is the eldest 
of eight children. He was partially reared in his native city, and at the 
age of twenty engaged in teaching, which he followed five years. In 1840, 
he came to Tully Township, and in 1850 was elected Justice of the Peace 
and served four consecutive terms. In 1867, he was elected County Treas- 
urer, and re elected in 1869, thus serving two terms. At the expiration of 
his second term, he was admitted to the bar, he having previously read law 
under the instructions of Judge A. M. Jackson, of Bucyrus, and H. T. Van- 
fleet, of Marion. He also read medicine under the instructions of Dr. Die- 
ther, of Bucyrus, for the term of two years, on the homoeopathic system, 
practiced medicine two years, but did not make it a business for a liveli- 
hood. In 187-, he was elected Justice of the Peace, and again elected in 
1877. He served, while a resident of Tully Township, as Assessor seven 
years, and Treasurer for the same period. April 8, 1851, he was married 
to Miss Sarah, daughter of Rev. John Richmond, by whom he has had ten 
children. Of these, seven are living, viz.: Alcesta, Celia, George O., 
Dawson W., Nelia, Rodney J. and Hilton. 

PHILIP DIETRICH " first saw the light " near Frankfort-on-the-Main, 
in Germany, February 26, 1813. His parents, Philip and Elizabeth (Sha- 
fer) Dietrich, lived and died there. Philip, the eldest of nine children, 
was reared on a farm, and when sixteen began to learn his trade, near 
Frankfort, working four years. In the spring of 1834, he crossed the At- 
lantic and finished learning his trade at Baltimore, Md. The succeeding 
year he migrated to Ohio, locating in Miirion. He immediately engaged 
in his trade, and thus is the oldest tailor in the city. Marion was then a 
small village; he thus has witnessed its childhood and youth. He gave $5 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 575 

for the old court house bell, and assisted in building the old Lutheran 
Church. Labor then commanded only 25 to 50 cents a day, yet he gave 
$140 to the above church. H> wedded, September 9, 1838. Mary E. Bolen- 
der, daughter of George Bolender. She is a native of Ross County, Ohio, 
born in 1819. Their two children are Eugene, born October 30, 1841, and 
Josephine, born August 6, 1845. He owns the property where he does bus- 
iness, and four acres within the corporation. He is Democratic political- 
ly, and has been a Freemason since 1847. His wife is a Presbyterian, but 
he is a Lutheran, and an Elder in that church. 

CLARK DIX, owner and operator of the tile factory, was born in 
Champaign County, Ohio, January 22, 1840. He is a son of Clark and 
Clarissa T. (Clough) Dix, natives of Susquehanna County, Penn. They 
removed to Ohio about 1834, settling in Champaign County, where they now 
reside. Mr. Dix was reared on a farm and educated in the public schools 
of Mechanicsburg and National Normal at Lebanon. He taught school one 
year, and in May. 1861, enlisted in Company G, Ninety -fifth Regiment Ohio 
Volunteer Infantry, in the three months' service. August 6, 1861, he 
re-enlisted in the same company and regiment. He was engaged in the 
battles of Richmond, Ky., siege of Vicksburg, Grand Core, Alexandria, 
Cloudsville, and a number of minor battles. March 4, 1863, he was trans- 
ferred to the signal secret service, from which he was discharged July 4, 
1865. He then spent three years in Iowa teaching school, after which time 
he returned to Champaign, and in the winter of 1869 came to Marion, and 
engaged in the manufacture of tile, which business he still follows. March 
3, 1870, he married Miss Martha R. Holverstott, daughter of Henry and 
Margaret Holverstott. They have three children — Clayton H., Florence M. 
and Ada I. Mr. Dix and family are members of the Baptist Church. 
Besides his residence, tile-yard and seventeen acres of land in Marion, Mr. 
Dix owns ninety-three and a fourth acres in Claridon Township. 

DR. WILLIAM S. DRAKE was born on the homestead in Waldo 
Township January 8, 1844, and is a son of Daniel S. Drake. He was edu- 
cated in the schools of Marion and Delaware, and studied dentistry with 
Dunn & Emmons. In 1863, he went to Springfield, Ohio, practicing his 
profession one year, when "he located in Marion, continuing to reside here 
since. He commands a good trade. July 10, 1864, he enlisted in his coun- 
try's defense in Company I, One Hundred and Seventy -fourth Regiment 
Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He served in the Twenty-third Army Corps. He 
fought at Overhall's Creek, battle of the Cedars, Kenston, and in many 
minor battles. He became Sergeant, and was discharged July 13, 1865, at 
Charlotte, N. C. Returning, he resumed his profession. November 14, 
1865, he was married to Miss Maria E. Guthrie, daughter of John and 
Catherine Guthrie; she was born in Shippensburg, Penn., March 2, 1843. 
They have four children — Claudius S., Charles E., Raleigh and Frederick 
W. They are members of the M. E. and Baptist Churches respectively, 
and he of the K. of P. 

E. DURFEE, Assistant Cashier of the Farmers' Bank and a Director in 
the Huber Manufacturing Company, is a native of Marion, where he was 
born September 14, 1836. His parents Gardner and Mary (Sweetser) Durfee, 
were natives of Rhode Island, and N. Y. The former, with his parents, came 
to Athens County, Ohio, at an early day. He came to Marion prior to 1833, 
and that year purchased property on South Main street. In 1835, he mar- 
ried for his second wife Miss Mary Sweetser, whose parents came to Dela- 
ware County when she was young. They had four children, two of whom 



576 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

are now living — E., the subject of this sketch, and Eva D., widow of Justus 
H. Bunker. George B. was a soldier in the Ninety-sixth Regiment Ohio 
Volunteers. He died of erysipeloid fever February 13, 1863, while home 
on a furlough. Albert died in childhood. Gardner Durfee was a cabinet- 
maker by trade, and followed it till his death, which occurred in October, 
1844. His widow died February 15, 1883, at the age of seventy years. Mr. 
E. Durfee was reared and educated in Marion. Beginning the cabinet 
trade at fifteen, he served three years at Mount Blanchard, Hancock Co., 
Ohio. He followed it, attending school at intervals till he was twenty-two 
years of age. He clerked for Field & Short, of Plymouth, Ohio, two years, 
and for John L. Gill & Son, manufacturers, of Columbus, Ohio, for the 
same length of time. In October, 1862, he entered the Farmers' Bank as 
Teller, and in July, 1881, was appointed Assistant Cashier. He was Clerk 
of the City Council two years, and Secretary of the Marion Building and 
Savings Association during its existence. He was a partner for a year and 
a half with E. Huber, and at the organization of the Huber Manufacturing 
Company he became a Director. June 13, 1861, he was married to Miss 
Mary A., daughter of Daniel and Ann Short. She was born in Haverhill, 
Mass., in 1835. Their three children are Grace P., Florence S. and Mar- 
garet I. Mrs. Durfee and two eldest daughters are members of the Free- 
Will Baptist Church. 

GOTTLIEB EIBLING, of the firm of Brigel & Eibling, harness- 
makers, was born in Richland Township February 2, 1844; son of Charles 
and Eva Eibling, natives of Prussia. They came to America in 1832-33, 
and settled in Richland Township, where Mr. E. bought forty acres of land, 
at $1 per acre. Mrs. Eibling dying in 1848, Mr. E. married Rica Miley, 
and moved to Van Wert in 1859, where he died in 1863. Gottlieb came 
to Marion the same year, and learned his trade with Brigel & Everly, and 
worked for various firms until 1882, when he formed a partnership with 
Mr. Brigel. He married, December 21, 1871, Miss Catharine, daughter of 
Gottlieb Gayer, and have four children, viz., Otto G., Wilhelm F. , Henry 
W. and Amos. Mr. and Mrs. E. are members of the German Lutheran 
Church. 

JOHN EVANS was born in Wales September 28, 1848; came to Trum- 
bull County, Ohio, with his father and mother in 1862. His father, John 
Evans, Sr., was born in Wales, in 1815, and died in 1875. His mother, 
Gwenllian Evans, was born in Wales in 1814, and is now living with her 
son. John Evans has two brothers and three sisters living. He came to 
Pleasant Township, Marion County, Ohio, in the year 1873; married Mary 
J. Owens, daughter of John and Ann Owens, November 11, 1873. They 
have now living four sons — John, aged nine; Daniel, five; Thomas, two 
years, and David nine months. After his marriage, Mr. Evans bought the 
old Barnhart farm (eighty acres) from his father-in-law, and then went in 
partnership with John and Daniel Owens in the Owens stone quarries, 
burning lime, etc. In 1882, he sold his interest in Pleasant Township and 
bought the now famous " stone-cut " on the Columbus, Hocking Valley & 
Toledo Railroad, then almost untouched, but now the largest and finest 
quarry in the county, for the consideration of $9,850, valued to-day at 
§25.000. Here he employs regularly forty men,- having two lime kilns 
and shipping daily eight car loads; annually about 1,000 cars of building 
and furnace stone. His enterprise has led him to build several hoiTs«s for 
his employes. He is a Repiablican and a thorough business man, not- 
withstanding he never went to school one day. 







MARION TOWNSHIP. 577 



WILLIAM FIES, furniture dealer and undertaker, was born in Baden, 
Germany, October 17. 1841; is a son of William and Magdalena (Egley) 
Fies, who were natives of Baden and emigrated to America in the soring 
of 1847, settling in New York City, where they resided until August, 
1852, when they came to Marion. Mr. Fies was a butcher by trade, having 
learned and followed it in his native place. He was born in April, 1818, 
and married, in 1840, Magdalena Egley, by whom he had ten children. 
Of these, William is the eldest. Mrs. Fies departed this life July 17, 1872. 
Mr. Fies, the subject of this notice, was reared principally in Marion and 
educated in its schools. In 1858, he took up the cabinet trade with Wid- 
man & Diebold and served an apprenticeship of two years and a half. Oc- 
tober 30, 1861, he enlisted in Company B, Sixty- fourth Regiment Ohio Vol- 
unteer Infantry. He served in the Army of the Cumberland, and partici- 
pated in the following leading battles: Shiloh, Stone River, Mission Ridge 
and all the engagements in the Atlanta campaign. He returned with Gen. 
Thomas and was engaged at Franklin, Tenn., where he was taken prisoner. 
He was in prison from November 30, 1864, to March 26, 1865, and during 
this period was confined at Corinth, Montgomery, and Selma, Ala., Merid- 
ian, Miss., and Andersonville. April 17, 1865, he was on the ill-fated 
Sultana, that exploded near Memphis, Tenn., and had his shoulder dislo- 
cated and was otherwise injured. He received his discharge May 30, 1865, 
after which he returned to Marion and worke I at the bench one year. In 
March. 1866, he became a member of the firm of Fies, Schaffner & Dreyer 
in the furniture and undertaking business, which was dissolved in March, 
1877. Mr. Fies conducting the business for himself, and January 22, 
1883, Mr. Fies removed to his present place. He keeps all kinds of furni- 
ture and undertakers' goods, to the amount of $8,000. In 1882, he and A. 
H Kling erected the Fies-Kling Block on South Main street. November 
14, 1867, Mr. Fies married Miss Anna O, daughter of Justus Haberman, 
and a native of Richland Township, where she was born February 2, 1842. 
Of seven children born to them, six are living, viz.: Kate, William J., 
Mary L., Maggie (deceased), Hortense, George and Harry. Mr. Fies is a 
member of the Masonic order, Marion Chapter, R. A. M., and I. O. O. F. 
and G A. R. He served as member of the City Council four years; City 
Clerk four years; and is now serving his second term as Chief of the fire 
department. Is also a member of the Board of Education and its present 
Treasurer. 

DR. T. B. FISHER. The subject whose name heads this sketch is 
the oldest physician in Marion County, having come to Marion in 1835. 
He was born in Franklin County, Ohio, July 30, 1810. His father, Isaac 
Fisher, was a native of Sussex County, N. J., and his father emigrated 
from Germany prior to the American Revolution and enlisted in that war as 
a private soldier. He was a member of the guard at the execution of Maj. 
Andre. Dr. Fisher's mother, Sarah Bruen, was a native of Newark. N. J. 
Her father, David Bruen, and two brothers came from England and were 
soldiers in the Revolution, David ranking as Major. Isaac Fisher removed 
with his family to Ohio in 1806 and settled near Worthington, Franklin 
County. Mrs. Fisher died there, and he moved to Worthington, Ind. Dr. 
Fisher is the youngest of a family of eleven children. He passed his early 
life on a farm and when seventeen took up the trade of brick-laying, which 
he followed as a business for five years. He chose the profession of medi- 
cine for his life work, and after taking a proper course of instruction he 
attended the Medical Department of the University of Worthington, Ohio, 



578 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

and graduated at that institotion in the early part of 1835. In May of the 
same year, he came to Marion and engaged in the practice of his profession. 
Milk sickness had been prevailing to an alarming extent, all the physicians 
up to this time having died of that disease. Dr. Fisher located in Marion 
when it was but a small village arid the county was sparsely settled. Then 
there were no roads, only half-beaten paths, and for the first fifteen years 
he traveled on horseback. His field of practice extended almost over the 
entire county, and his trips were not unattended with difficulties and dan- 
gers. He has practiced his profession here uninterruptedly, with the excep- 
tion of a few brief intermissions, ever since. In 1879, he admitted Will- 
iam C. Denman, M. D., into partnership, and they continued together 
until Dr. Fisher's retirement from the profession in 1882, when he was 
succeeded in his practice by Dr. Denman. From May, 1863, until the 
close of the war, he was Surgeon for the Board of Enrollment for the 
Eighth District. He was located at Mansfield, and during this period he 
examined 8,000 persons for the army. In 1846, Dr. Fisher was elected to 
represent this district in the Legislature, and served one term. His serv- 
ices in this important position reflected upon him much credit and won from 
his constituents their highest esteem. In 1859, he was again called forth 
to serve in a more important public office, that of State Senator. He served 
two years in this honorable trust and then returned to his profession. Both 
these offices were unsought by him. Dr. Fisher is a man of public enter- 
prise and has been identified with many important improvements of the 
town. He was one of the leading men in the organization of the Marion 
Gas-Light Company and was its largest resident stockholder. He sorved suc- 
cessively as Director, President, Secretary and Superintendent. He was 
one of the founders of the Bank of Marion, and was connected with it as- 
President four years. He was also one of the chief men in the organiza- 
tion of the Marion County Medical Society, and was its second President. 
He is a Knight Templar in the Masonic order, and was largely instrumental 
in securing the charter for the Chapter, Council and Commandery, and was 
the first presiding officer of each body. He served as Mayor of the village 
two terms, member of the City Council several years, and was a member of 
the Board of Education thirteen years. In 1840, Dr. Fisher was united in 
marriage with Miss Elenora P. Bennett, daughter of Judge S. S. Bennett, an 
early pioneer of this county. Mrs. Fisher was born in Delaware County, Ohio, 
July 17, 1821. Four children were born to this union. Of these three are 
living, viz. : J. Bruen, William B. and Charles C. Sanford B. died at the 
age of eighteen months. 

CHARLES F. GARBERSON, the son of John R. and Susan (Irey) 
Garberson, is a native of Claridon Township, born June 6, 1851. Having 
a love for learning, he took the classical course at the Ohio Wesleyan Uni- 
versity, where he graduated June 26, 1873. He then began the study of 
law under the instruction of W. Z. Davis, attorney, and in 1876, was ad- 
mitted tu the bar by the Supreme Court of the State. As a student, he re- 
ceived such preferment as being elected to the presidency of the graduating 
class of 1873, Secretary of the College Lecture Association and of being chosen 
to deliver the presentation speech at the first class-day exercises held at the 
aforesaid university. In June, 1876, he opened his law office at Marion, 
since which time he has continued the practice of law. September 14, 1876, 
he married Miss Anna Graham, who was born November 14, 1851, a daugh- 
ter of Rev. John and Jane (McKee) Graham. The name of their only child 
is Margin? a, born April 28, 1879. Mr. Garberson is a prominent young 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 579 

lawyer; is a member of the County Board of School Examiners, of the K. 
of P., of the F. & A. M., and, with his wife, of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. 

JAMES D. GREGORY, merchant tailor, was born in Cardington, Mor- 
row Co.. Ohio, March 8, 1850. His parents, John and Louisa Gregory, re- 
moved to Marion in 1862 and Mr. Gregory spent the remainder of his early 
life in this place. He attended school until 1868-69, when he engaged 
with his father in the grain business, and was associated with him up to 
February 17. 1881. In 1879, he engaged in the merchant tailoring trade, 
now employing twenty-four hands and is doing a leading business. 
March 25, 1883, he was married to Miss Nettie B. Monnett, daughter of 
Ephraim B. Monnett. a prominent banker of Bucyrus, Ohio. Mr. Gregory 
is a member of the I. O. O. F., K. of P. and Royal Arcanum. He served 
as a member of the City Council 1880-81, and is a gentleman of honor and 
integrity. 

ABRAHAM GRUBER, deceased, was born in Jefferson County, Va., 
July 19, 1819. His father. Christian Gruber, settled in Marion Township 
in 1826, entering 160 acres, now a part of the Infirmary farm. He died 
February 26, 1827, aged thirty-eight years and two months. Abraham's 
mother, Mary E. Gruber, died November 19, 1880, aged eighty- nine years 
and ten months. Of their six children, only one is now living. Abraham 
had a common school education. In LS45, he bought 160 acres of land in 
the southeastern part of the township; in 1858, sixty-six acres; and in 1865, 
forty-five acres — the second purchase being where his son, Thomas B. , now 
resides. He married Frances Bell, who was born December 18, 1823, and 
died September 16, 1873. In this family were born eleven children, nine 
of whom are living. Mr. and Mrs. Gruber were prominent members of the 
United Brethren Church; he was a Trustee of the township at the time of 
his death, which took place December 24, 1868, in Marion Township. 

SIDNEY W. GRUBER was born in the city of Marion February 7, 
1858, next to the youngest of eight children born to Abraham Gruber. 
Having secured a fair education, he commenced, when sixteen, to work by 
the month, continuing three years. In 1876, he bought a farm of ninety 
acres in this township. His marriage took place, April 1, 1880, to Martha 
J. Ulsh, a daughter of John and Jemima Ulsh. She died in March, 1881, 
leaving one son — "William A. He again married, in December of 1882, 
Miss Mamie Hefner, who was born May 17, 1855, a daughter of John and 
Nancy Hefner. He is a Republican, and an enterprising farmer. 

THOMAS B. GRUBER, son of Abraham Gruber, is a native of Marion 
Township, born March 21, 1845, and educated in the common schools. He is 
the owner of fifty acres of land, besides fifty-four acres of the original 
homestead and forty-five acres located in Claridon Township owned by his 
father. He erected a two-story frame house in 1876, at a cost of $1,500. 
March 29, 1868, he was married to Rebecca E. Holverstott, a daughter of 
Jacob and Mary Holverstott. She was born April 10, 1848, and died April 
18, 1882, the mother of five children, of whom three are living — Mary F., 
Ida E. and Jacob T. Harley J. and Jennie M. are deceased. 

JOHN GUGLE, shoemaker, was born in Bavaria, Germany, May 9, 
1828, the son of George and Barbara (Shuh) Gugle. They crossed the 
ocean with six children in 1836, stopping in Philadelphia until next spring; 
thence they went to Madison County, Ohio, where they remained until 
autumn; thence to Marion County, settling in Richland Township. Here 
they purchased forty acres of land and cleared a good portion of it. About 



580 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

1860, they removed to Whitley County, Inch, where the father died in 1862. 
Mrs. Gugle returned to Marion County and died in February, 1878. The 
subject of this sketch is next to the youngest of their six children. He ob- 
tained a fair education in the common schools, going only three months out 
of live winters. When sixteen, he took hold of his trade, giving three 
years to acquire its mastery under the tutorship of Levi H. Randall. Fet- 
ter & Gugle did business from the spring of 1851 to 1854: since then Mr 
Gugle has been alone, doing a good business. He established himself in 
his present location in 1856, and he has a pitcher that has been in this shop 
ever since. He was married, July 27, 1850, to Miss Barbara Brant, who 
was born in Switzerland, November 5, 1827, the daughter of Christian 
Brant. Only five of their seven children are living — Anna R., Mary E., 
Callie, Julia and Florence B. Two daughters died in infancy. In poli- 
tics, Mr. Gugle is a Democrat. He owns his shop, where he also deals in 
boots and shoes, and he owns his residence on the corner of Main and Ca- 
nal streets, and a house and lot on South Main street. He is a member of 
the Lutheran Church, while bis wife is a member of the Presbyterian 
Church. 

LEWIS GUNN. The subject of this memoir is a native of Ross Coun 
ty, Ohio, born March 7, 1829, a son of Henry and Sophia (Schreck) Gunn, 
who were born in Northumberland County, Penn. Having been united in 
marriage, they emigrated to the above county in Ohio in 1822; but in 1830, 
they moved to Marion County, settling in Marion Township, one and a 
half miles northeast of town, entering 160 acres. He had entered this the 
year previous. Mr. Gunn was a weaver by trade, and practiced his art un- 
til his death, July 24, 1841, at the age of sixty years. Mrs. Gunn, born 
December 24, 1784, resides with Lewis at the advanced age of ninety- 
eight.. Her father, Paul Schreck, was a soldier in the war of Independence 
and she has been the mother of thirteen children, five living, Lewis being 
the youngest of the family. He was reared upon the farm and the country 
schools educated him. He took charge of the homeslead from his eight- 
eenth to his twenty-fourth year; he also worked as a farm laborer one 
year. In the autumn of 1855, he came to Marion, and for seven years 
made post and rail fencing. Having operated a saw-mill one year, he was 
made a partner in the planing mill, and continued this until 1875, when 
he became a stockholder in the Huber Manufacturing Company, taking 
charge of the planing mill department, which position he still occupies. 
For two years he was a Director in the company. His wedding nuptials 
with Sarah C. Stonebarger were celebrated March 31, 1853; her death took 
place August 4, 1854, leaving one child — Chester B. Gunn. Mr. Gunn sol- 
emnized his second marriage November 22, 1855, with Margaret Stonebar- 
ger, who died July 24, 1856. He was married the third time to Miss 
Leanna Comstock, daughter of Gideon Comstock — three children have been 
born to this union — Caroline, wife of H. C. Waggoner; Eva F., wife of 
Clay Harvey; and Lewis W., who died May 4, 1881, aged thirteen years. 
Mr. Gunn in 1864 was a member of Company B. One Hundred and Thirty- 
sixth Ohio National Guard, and served honorably during his time in the 
army. He owns an attractive i*esidence on Main street, together with five- 
sixths of an acre of ground. He is a thoroughgoing citizen, a Prohibition- 
ist politically, and is serving his fourth term as Councilman. He and his 
wife affiliate with the United Brethren in church membership. 

JOHN GURLEY is the son of William and Susan (Beatty) Gurley, of 
the Emerald Isle, County Wexford. His father was born March 12, 1757, 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 581 

reared in Wexford and educated in the schools of that place. When six- 
teen, he began a fourteen years' apprenticeship "as a silversmith and was 
taught by two men. He prosecuted his trade at the above place until July, 
1798, when, on account of the Catholic war against the Protestants, he was 
persecuted and his life threatened. Five times he was taken from the jail 
with his life in jeopardy. This took place in the above year (1798). He 
studied for the ministry and preached a number of years before he went to 
England, and preached until 1801. He met Rev. John Wesley in Ireland. 
He followed his trade two years in Liverpool. He came to America, set- 
tling in Norance, Lundon, Conn., and continuing his trade until the fall 
of 1811, when he moved to Perkins Township, Huron County, Ohio. He 
was the father of seven children, four living — Rev. James, William D., 
John, and Susan, wife of Thomas Cochran. Ann, Sallie, Eliza, Dempster, 
William, Leonard, Elizabeth and John are deceased. He died in Perkins 
Township, February 10, 1848. Mrs. Gurley died in October of the same 
year. 

JOHN GURLEY, son of the preceding, was born in Zanesville, Ohio, 
December 19, 1813. He passed his childhood and youth upon a farm. 
When twenty he went to Sandusky City to learn the tinner's trade. In 1838. 
he moved to Marion with his trade, plying it twenty years. He then purchased 
his present location and eight acres, and he has since been growing fruits 
of various kinds. He has a farm of j 60 acres in Big Island Township 
which he oversees. He was wedded, December 10, 1839, to Miss Hannah 
Monnett, daughter of Jeremiah and Aley Monnett. She was a native of 
Pickaway County, Ohio, born December 13, 1817. Her death occurred 
April 15, 1880, leaving one son — Leonard B., who was born June 19, 1845, 
and was united in marriage, February 6, 1878, with Miss Sallie Barnhart, 
daughter of John and Harriet E. Barnhart. Their one child is Harry L. , 
born August 1, 1879. Mr. Gurley is a revered citizen, a stanch Repub- 
lican and an exemplary Christian. He was a member of the City Coun- 
cil several years, and Treasurer of the township about as long. He is one of 
the oldest church Trustees, and has been Class- leader of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church for forty vears. His family belong to that church also. 

CHRISTIAN HABERMAN was born in Hesse, Prussia, October 6, 
1829, a son of Conrad and Catharine (Maub) Haberman. The former dying 
in Germany in 1831, his widow emigrated to thin country in 1871, settling in 
Marion County. She died at the home of her daughter, Margaret Kam, in' 
Marion Township, in August, 1877. They were the parents of eleven chil- 
dren, seven of whom came to Marion County — John, Philip, Catherina, 
Margaret, Maiy and Mary Catherina. Christian Haberman received very 
little education, and at the age of fourteen years commenced to learn the 
stone mason's trade, serving an apprenticeship of five years. In 1852, when 
twenty-three, he came to the United States, landing at the port of New 
York, and thence came to Marion. November 22, 1853, he was married to 
Miss Gertrude, a daughter of Henry and Gertrude (Drollinger) Seas. They 
have eight children — Frederick, born September 1, 1854; Henry D. , 
born June, 1856, and killed when aged fourteen while playing on the cars; 
Louisa C, April 11, 1858; Anna Gertrude, March 17, 1860; Amanda C, 
December 7, 1861; William D., June 11, 1863; Philip J., January 15, 
1866; John Alfred, April 15, 1868; and Charles Wesley, March 19, 1870. 
Mrs. Haberman was bora in Baden, Germany, June 5, 1828, and came with 
her parents to Stark County, Ohio, in the fall of 1829; thence to Marion 
County in 1846-47. The second year after his marriage, Mr. Haber- 



582 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

man entered the business of contractor and builder. He constructed 
the first stone mason work for the abutments of the bridges in the county, 
building in 1856 the Little Scioto bridge near John Rayl's in Green Camp 
Township. Since then he has done stone mason work for bridges in every 
township in the county, and probably more work of this kind than any other 
man in Marion County. His contracts extend over the counties of Marion, Har- 
din, Logan, Wyandot, Crawford, Morrow and Delaware. His stone quarry, 
situated within the corporate limits of the city, was discovered in 1857. 
' (See Chapter X for sketch on Marion quarry. ) Mr. Haberman enlisted in 
the late war May 12, 1864, in Company B, One Hundred and Thirty-sixth 
Regiment Ohio National Guards, for the 100-day service. Taking sick, he 
returned home. He is very comfortably situated financially, having, besides 
his business interests, a farm of 112 acres and seventeen acres within the 
corporation, six acres being platted in city lots, called " Haberman's Addi- 
tion. " Amid his success, Mr. Haberman has not forgotten his friends in 
the Fatherland, for be has sent thither some $2,200, which was the means 
of bringing to this country five families, his brothers' and sisters', three of 
whom were half-sisters. He has erected the foundations for many of the 
principal buildings in Marion, including those of nearly all the churches, 
the jail and the Hotel Marion. He also had charge of the stone work for 
the Chicago & Atlantic Railroad in Marion, and he superintended for five or 
six years the stonework over the entire Cincinnati & Toledo Railroad. The 
subject of this sketch is a strong temperance advocate, and fonnerly made 
many temperance speeches in this and adjoining counties. Politically 
speaking, he is a Democrat. He is a Methodist, and formerly was a mem- 
ber of the German Methodist Church of Marion, and contributed about 
$1,000 toward the erection of that church building on West street. His 
family are all members of that church, including his wife, who is a pleas- 
ant lady and an exemplary Christian. He is also connected with the F. & A. 
M., the I. O. O. F., also with the Encampment, the P. O. of A. and the 
G. A. R., and thus we conclude the sketch of an honorable citizen, a suc- 
cessful business man and a generous-hearted Christian. 

FRED. HABERMAN, eldest son of Christian Haberman, was born in 
Marion September 1, 1854. When thirteen years of age, he engaged as a 
clerk for Hazard & Reed, dry-guods merchants, and remained with them a 
year and a half; he was next with T. Fahey, grocer and dry goods mer- 
chant. In 1872, he took the position of clerk in the hardware store of G. 
H. Kling & Co. He continued with this firm and G. H. Kling till Febru- 
ary 1, 1882, when he formed a partnership with Harvey Wilson and pur- 
chased the stock of Mr. Kling, and since that time they have conducted an 
extensive and succcessful business under the firm name of Haberman & 
Wilson. September 24, 1875, Mr. Haberman was married to Miss Cora, 
daughter of J. W. and Elizabeth Clark, of Marion. Mrs. Haberman was 
born in Horicon, Wis. , April 7, 1858. To them were born three children, 
two of whom are living, viz., Gertie A. and Hallie E. Mr. Haberman is 
a member of the Masonic order and Royal Arcanum. 

DR. CHARLES HAHN, County Auditor, was born in York County, 
Penn., November 10, 1824. He is a son of Abraham and Julia A. (Earnst) 
Hahn, the former a native of Maryland and the latter of Pennsylvania. 
They were married in 1821 and removed to Stark County, Ohio, in 1825, 
thence to Crawford County in 1828. Mr. A. Hahn was a miller, and followed 
that business exclusively prior to his coming to Ohio. He ran the rolling 
mill near Canton for awhile, and in 1829 built the Deal House in Bucy- 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 583 

rus, which he conducted till 1843; this he traded for mill property in 
Mount Gilead, which he operated till December, 1866. On the 19th of 
January. 1867, he died, at the age of seventy-one years and seven months; 
his wife died in May, 1880. in the seventy-seventh year of her age. They 
had ten children, of whom Dr. Hahn is the eldest son. The latter passed 
his early life in Bncyrus and acquired his education in the schools of that 
place and in Granville College, of Granville, Ohio. He began reading 
medicine in 1850 under Dr. P. E. Rupp, with whom he spent two years 
and a half. He practiced in Crawford County till 1867, when he moved to 
Three Locusts, this county, at which place he continued his professional 
work till 1880, when he was elected to the office of Auditor. While at 
Three Locusts, he served a« Treasurer of Tully Township thirteen years. 
In 1847, he was married to Miss Sarah A. Newson, daughter of Joseph 
Nnwson, who came to Marion, now Morrow County, in 1826. Mrs. Hahn 
was born in Washington County, Md., October 26, 1822. They have no 
children of their own, but have raised two — Miss Sarah E. Jacobs and Miss 
Emma B. Mowery. Dr. Hahn and wife are members of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church, of which he is a Steward. 

L. C. HAINES, an old and highly respected pioneer of Marion County, 
was born in Lancaster County, Penn., December 10, 1818. His parents, 
Allen and Nancy Haines, were also natives of Lancaster County, Penn., 
where they were married. They emigrated to Ohio in 1826, settling in 
Stark County, from which place they moved to Dayton. Ohio, where they 
both died. Their married life was blessed with nine children, of whom L. 
C. Haines, the subject of this sketch, is the eldest. Being brought 
up on a farm, he enjoyed the advantages of only a common school edu- 
cation; at the age of fourteen, he became a clerk in a store at Har- 
risburg. Stark County, and continued in that situation four years. 
He was then engaged in various avocations until January 24, 1840. when 
he came to Claridon Township, this county, and purchased sixty-five acres 
of land; from that time till he removed to the township of Marion, he de- 
voted his time and attention to agriculture and stock-raising. Starting 
with limited means, Mr. Haines resolved, by his industry and economy, to 
acquire for himself and family a reasonable competence; and right faith- 
fully has this resolve been carried out. By dint of industry and careful 
management, he accumulated lands to the aggregate of 800 acres. He has 
since made a division among his children, reducing his farm to over 400 
acres, which is finely improved. A leading feature of his occupation has 
been sheep-raising, in which he was alike successful. Mr. Haines is a man 
who has always displayed an active interest in all worthy enterprises, both 
of a public and private character, and as a man and citizen he is honora- 
ble and upright. In 1865, he removed to the town of Marion and engaged 
in the mercantile business for one year, and since that time has dealt in 
real estate. Mr. Haines was married November 29, 1838, to Miss Ellen D., 
daughter of Dr. J. H. Bogen, born in Pennsylvania in February, 1814. This 
marriage was blessed with three children; of these two are now livino-, 
viz. , M. W. Haines and Frances E., wife of Isaac A. Merchant. Columbus L. 
is deceased. Mr. Haines and wife are earnest members of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church. He has always been a liberal supporter of the church, 
and made generous contributions to the erection of nearly every church edifice 
in Claridon Township. He served as Trustee and Treasurer of Claridon 
Township a number of years, and as Land Appraiser in 1850. He was 
Trustee of Marion Township three years, member of the City Council and 
School Board. Politically, he is a Republican. 



584 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

M. YV. HAINES, formerly Secretary and Treasurer of the Huber Man- 
ufacturing Company, was born in Claridon Township, Marion County, 
February 16, 1841; he is the eldest son of Laman C. and Eleanor D. Haines. 
He was reared on a farm and educated in the public schools of Marion and 
subsequently took a course in the Iron City Commercial College of Pitts- 
burg, and graduated in 1864. He clerked in the iron manufactory of Graff, 
Bennett & Co., of Pittsburg, one year; then went to Galion, Ohio, and 
was engaged in the grocery business one year, and from there returned to 
Marion and clerked in the store of George B. Smith one year. In 1867, 
his father engaged in the dry goods trade, and after clerking for him one 
year, his father went out of business and he was admitted as a member of 
the firm of Kowalke, Munday & Co., manufacturers of farming implements 
and furniture. In 1870, he disposed of his interest and bought a half in- 
terest in the Marion Flouring Mills, with which he was connected until 
1873. He then clerked for F. P. Seffner until the incorporation of the 
Huber Manufacturing Company, when he became a stockholder and also 
Secretary and Treasurer. September 24, 1864, he was married to Miss 
Mary M. Meyer, by whom he has had one child, Carrie E. Mrs. Haines is 
a daughter of F. J. Meyer, of Canton, Ohio, where she was bom August 
1, 1846. Mr. and Mrs. Haines are members of the Episcopal Church of 
Marion. 

i; HON. J. J. HANE was born in Stark County, Ohio, September 18, 1836. 
His parents, John and Matilda (Kitzmiller) Hane, were natives of Adams 
and Lancaster Counties, Penn., and when young removed with their par- 
ents to Stark County, Ohio. Jacob Kitzmiller, maternal grandfather of 
Mr. Hane, was a soldier in the late war between the United States and 
Great Britain. John Hane died in Stark County in June, 1864, having 
been a resident of that county from 1814, at which date his father, Chris- 
tian Hane, settled there. Mr. Hane, the subject of this notice, passed his 
early life on a farm and received his education in the union schools of 
Canton. At the age of eighteen, he engaged in clerking for J. R. Bucher 
& Co., of Canton, and the following year took charge of the Farmers' and 
Mechanics' Warehouse in that city, conducting it one year. He then took 
a course in Duff's Commercial College of Pittsburg, and graduated in 
three weeks and four days, having accomplished the course in a shorter 
space of time, with a single exception, than any person that ever graduated 
at that institution. He subsequently attended Granger's College of Colum- 
bus, Ohio, and, after completing a commercial course there, in June, 1857, 
came to Marion and took the position of teller in the bank of Marion. In 
1860, he was appointed cashier, and has acted in that capacity through the 
changes of the bank, from that time to the present. Since his residence 
in Marion, Mr. Hane has borne his part in all the public improvements, 
and his energies are' always alive to all legitimate movements that are in- 
tended to benefit or enrich the community or county in which he resides. 
In 18 — , he aided in securing the Marion Chair Company, of which he was 
a charter member. He was one of the incorporators of the Huber Manu- 
facturing Company, and has been a Director since its organization. He 
w^fc one of the founders of the Marion Building & Loan Association in 
1868, and was a Director and Treasurer during all the time of its success- 
ful career. At the construction of the Columbus & Toledo Railroad, he 
became a stockholder, and was elected a Director and served as such one 
year. In 1877, he built two-fifths of the Masonic Block and is part owner 
of the Hotel Marion. Mr. Hane has been identified with nearly every pub- 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 585 

lie enterprise in connection with the town for the last twenty-five years, and 
by square, upright dealing has won the respect and esteem of all who know 
him. Although not an aspirant for political honors, he has been chosen 
to various important political trusts, and has always performed his duties 
with great credit to himself. In 1878, he received the Republican nomina- 
tion for Commissioner of the county, and although in a county that has a 
Democratic majority of TOO to 800, he was elected to the office by a major- 
ity of 217. Mr. Hane was a member of the City Council seven years, and 
Corporation Treasurer two years. Has been a member of the Republican 
State Central Committee and is now Chairman of the Marion County Re- 
publican State Central Committee. In 1876, he was a Presidential elector, 
casting his vote for R. B. Hayes. The general popularity of Mr. Hane was 
attested at the Senatorial Convention of the Thirteenth District, comprising 
"Union, Logan, Hardin and Marion Counties, held at Marion August 16, 
1883, when he received the nomination for State Senator by acclamation. Mr. 
Hane celebrated his first marriage in May, 1861, with Miss Matilda, daugh- 
ter of William and Sarah Montgomery. Mrs. Hane died in November, 
1862, leaving one daughter, who died in 1870. Mr. Hane again married 
in June, 1865, to Miss Melissa A. Bell, daughter of John Bell. Mrs. Hane 
was born in Sandusky City, November, 1842. Their children are Henry B., 
Florence A., Alice M., Mary J. and Eleanor B. 

CAPT. ELISHA HARDY, deceased, was born in New Jersey July 4, 
1795. He was the son of Joseph T. andPhebe (Baldwin) Hardy, and came 
to Delaware County, Ohio, in 1823; remaining there but a few years, he 
moved to Marion and entered the mercantile business with Judge Bennett. 
He continued in the dry goods trade the major part of his days, command- 
ing a successful patronage. He first married Elizabeth Crosby, December 
5, 1832, who died May 6, 1836. In 3846, he married Mrs. Jane Gr. Mar- 
shall, widow of Dr. S. W. Marshall. He received his title of " Captain " by 
being such of a rifle company before the war. He was a very generous- 
hearted man, particularly to the needy. In politics, he was a Republican. 
He was a member of the Masonic order and of the Presbyterian Church, to 
which he was a liberal contributor. His death occurred May 13, 1877; his 
surviving widow, born April 19, 1807, is the daughter of Dr. Marcus and 
Sarah (St. John) Potter, descendants of old England. Her grandfather 
Potter, with herself, was a native of Litchfield, Conn. Her father was the 
son of Milton Potter and the grandson of Dr. James Potter, a native of En- 
gland, coming to America before the Revolution. When aged tw«nty-two 
years, Mrs. Hardy moved to Washington, Penn., marrying in September of 
1831 Dr. S. W. Marshall. Two years later, they settled at Ashland, Ohio, 
where the Doctor died in 1S40. She came to Marion in 1842, where she 
has ever since resided. 

JOHN V. HARRISON is not only a successful, but also a popular man 
of Marion County. He was born September 1, 1839, in Claridon Township, 
a son of Jacob and Rachel (Rice) Harrison. His ancestry were from Ger- 
many, but his parents came from Virginia to Fail-field County, Ohio, and 
settled in the eastern part of this county in 1833, entering eighty acres, ad- 
ding later another eighty acres, and clearing seventy acres of forest 
land. He had five sons and four daughters. He died in 1875, aged sev- 
enty years, and Mrs. Harrison passed away in 1880, aged seventy-five years. 
Her father was a Revolutionary soldier. John V. Harrison's education was 
obtained at the common school. He purchased, in 1865, eighty acres in 
Morrow County, Ohio, retaining it three years: then he went toTullv Town- 



586 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

ship, renting a number of years, but in 1880, he bought his present farm. 
He owns altogether 320 acres in Marion County in good condition. Mr. 
Harrison has been a stock dealer all his days, commencing in boyhood; is 
still continuing the business. For three years, he and S. F. Rosencrans 
were in partnership, and in the winter of 1878-79, they shipped $84,000 
worth of stock. Ho was also an extensive grain dealer for two years. Ho 
was engaged with Richard Thew in the hardware business for nearly two 
years at Caledonia, in which he was very successful, and was called from 
it to the Sheriff's office, which he has acceptably held two terms, his admin- 
istration terminating January 1, 1884. While living in Tully Township, 
he was its Trustee for four years and Assessor two years. At Caledonia he 
was a member of the Council two years, and its Mayor twenty-one months. 
Mr. Harrison and family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, 
with which he is connected officially, and in which his father was a local 
preacher. April 2, 1862, Mr. Harrison married Elizabeth P. Dickson, 
daughter of Isaac and Mary Dickson, of Tully Township. The names of 
their two children are O'rphio M. and John D. 

WESLEY HARSCH is a leather and hide dealer, doing business upon 
Main street. He was born January 4, 1848, in Pleasant Township, son of 
Adam and Mary (Dunbar) Harsch, the former a native of Germany, and the 
latter a native of Ohio. From Pleasant Township, they moved to Wiscon- 
sin in 1856, with seven children, all engaged to-day in the leather business. 
Wesley was educated at the district school, but left his father's house in 
1874, going to California, where he remained three years, f arming. In 
1877, he came to Marion, establishing himself in his business, that of deal- 
ing in leather and hides, under the name of A. Harsch & Son. They have 
about $6,000 or $7,000 invested, and their annual sales amount to about 
$15,000. Mr. Harsch married, April 26, 1880, Miss Caroline Lust, daugh- 
ter of John and Margaret Lust; the name of their one child is Edward H. 
Harsch. Mr. Harsch owns a good house and lot upon Silver street, valued 
at $1,500. His wife is a member of the Lutheran Church. He enrolls his 
name with the Democracy of Marion County. 

J. R. HARSHBERGER, hardware merchant, was born in Portage Coun- 
ty, Ohio, in March, 1831; his parents, Leonard and Phebe (McCummins) 
Harshberger, were natives of Pennsylvania and Ohio respectively; were 
married in Ohio, and about 1836 or 1837 removed to Prospect Township. 
Mr. Harshberger bought 240 acres of land on the Scioto, about one and a 
half miles north of Prospect, and cleared a portion of it. He and Mrs. 
Harshberger both died on the homestead. They were the parents of six 
children, of whom only the subject of this sketch is living. Mr. Harshber- 
ger by his secoud wife Barbara, n6e Snyder, had three children; of these. 
John and Leonard are living; Phebe is deceased. Mr. Harshberger, the 
subject of this sketch, was reared on the homestead till fifteen years of age, 
when he engaged as clerk for A. D. Matthews, of Prospect, remaining with 
him until the spring of 1850, when he came to Marion. After clerking for 
two years for B. F. Clark, a dry goods merchant, he took the same position 
with Williams & Bain in the first regular hardware store in Marion. la 
1854, he became a member of the firm of Mitchell, Harshberger & Co., 
merchants, of Mansfield. In selling his interest in 1856, he returned to 
Marion and was in the employ of the mercantile firm of Lucas & Seffner 
until 1864, when he joined Company B, One Hundred and Thirty-sixth 
Regiment Ohio National Guards. He served as a Sergeant, and on his re- 
turn engaged in the hardware and agricultural implement trade. In De- 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 587 

cember, 1854, Mr. Harshberger married Miss Margaret E. Short, who died 
in 1856, leaving one child, Leonard D. He again married in December, 
1857, Miss Jennie R. Tharp, by whom he has had six children, viz., 
^Nellie, Frank E., May, Bertha, Jessie and Josie. Mr. Harshberger and 
family are members of the Episcopal and Methodist Episcopal Churches. 

D. H. HARVEY is a citizen living in the north part of Marion Town- 
ship. He was born August 15, 1822, in Franklin County, Penn. In 1835, 
in company with his brother, William Harvey, he came to Marion County, 
Ohio, and purchased 160 acres of land, after which they dissolved partner- 
ship, D. H. Harvey retaining the first purchase, to which he has added in 
the aggregate about 1,200 acres in Marion and Grand Prairie Townships. 
In connection with grain-raising and wool-growing, he is engaged in breed- 
ing fine cattle, having at this time a herd of twenty-five registered short- 
horn Durhams, also registered Poland -China hogs. D. H. Harvey and Miss 
Calista Everette were married in 1847. To them were born seven children. 
Affliction entered the family circle by the demise of Mrs. Harvey in 1861. 
In 1864, Mr. Harvey and Mrs. Odaffer were married. Mr. Harvey, in poli 
tics, is a Republican, and Mrs. Harvey affiliates with the Free- Will Baptist 
Church. 

JAMES M. HARVEY is a native of Pennsylvania and was born Janu- 
ary 29, 1833, the son of Thomas and Margaret Harvey. He is the eldest 
of eight children and was brought by his parents to this country when 
eighteen months of age. Having taken advantage of the common schools 
of the day, he commenced in life for himself, renting in Claridon Township 
one year and six years in Crawford County, Ohio. In 1860, he purchased 
170 acres of land, ninety acres of the old homestead. Eight years subse- 
quently, he added eighty more acres, making in all 250 acres of well im- 
proved land. He was married, January 28, 1854, to Catherine Owen, a 
native of Claridon Township and a daughter of William Owen. This un- 
ion has been crowned with the birth of three children, two living — Francis 
M. ,who married Ella Heninger,and Ella, who died in infancy. Mr. Harvey 
is an influential Democrat, serving as Trustee of the township two years, as 
County Commissioner two terms and as a delegate to a Senatorial Conven- 
tion held at La Rue. He belongs to the I. O. O. F. 

PAUL G. HARVEY, son of Thomas and Margaret (Geddes) Harvey, 
was born in Marion Township February 9, 1837. He was brought up on 
the homestead and received such an education as the common schools of the 
day afforded. In 1857, he rented a farm in Crawford County, and in 1858 
returned to this county. He married and removed to Wyandot County, 
where he lived one year, then came and purchased 160 acres in Salt Rock 
Township, where he resided until 1865, when he bought a farm containing 
197 acres of land in Marion Township. In 1869, he removed to Marion, 
and after clerking about two years, in 1871, he was appointed Deputy 
Sheriff and served in that capacity seven years. In 1880, he was ap- 
pointed Land Appraiser. April 7, 1859, Mr. Harvey was married to Miss 
Sarah E. , daughter of Francis and Elizabeth Campbell, early pioneers of 
the county. Mrs. Harvey was born in Marion Township, March 23, 1840. 
Mr. Harvey served his township as Trustee five years, and was member of 
the City Council two terms. Politically, Mr. Harvey is Democratic. 

THOMAS HARVEY, deceased, was born in Franklin County, Penn. , 
September 15, 1812. His parents, Thomas and Francis (Barkley) Harvey, 
of the same county, had thirteen children. He received a fair education, 
married, and in 1835 came in wagons, with six brothers, to Crawford Coun- 



588 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

ty, Ohio. In 1884, he had purchased eighty acres of land, in Marion 
Township, of Stone k Peters; in 1835, he moved upon it. He made many 
additions, owning in all 320 acres, upon which he made most of the im- 
provements. His marriage took place April 22, 1833, to Miss Margaret 
Geddes, daughter of Paul and Sarah Geddes, who were also born in 
Franklin County. Penn., August 26, 1811. They had eight children: 
James M. , Paul G., Robert M., Andrew J., George W., Thomas J., Nancy 
J., wife of Edward Bowser, and Frances A., wife of Thomas Sickle. Mr. 
Harvey was a successful man, and generally liked. He was a Democrat 
and was serving his second term as County Commissioner at the time of his 
death, which occurred November 30, 1861. He left a half-section of land 
to his widow and children. Mrs. Harvey's brother, Robert Geddes, was a 
soldier in the Confederate army. 

REV. J. M. HELLER was born in Gnadehutten, Tuscarawas Co., Ohio, 
October 1, 1816, the son of John and Mary (Rhoads) Heller, of Lehigh and 
Northumberland Counties, Penn., respectively. They were married in 
that State and came to Tuscarawas County in 1815; purchasing 200 acres 
of military land, they settled among the Indians and wild animals. His 
mother died in the spring of 1869, aged seventy-seven years, and the father 
in 1875, aged eighty-seven years. They had a family of ten children, of 
whom J. M. is the third child. He passed his boyhood on the Earm, secur- 
ing a common school education, and assisting his father in clearing up the 
homestead. When sixteen, his health failed from overwork, and at nine- 
teen he engaged in teaching in his native county. He continued in the 
profession until 1854, occupying the best schools in the county. In that 
year he moved to Marion and took charge of^ the grammar department in 
the public schools, a position which he held six years. In 1861, be and 
Matthew (Jronenwett, under the firm name of Heller & Cronenwett, engaged 
in the grocery trade. Mr. Cronewett retired in 1869, and Mr. Heller con- 
tinued alone until July 16, 1877, when he sold to Amos Lapham. For the 
past year he has been book-keeper for Mr. Patten. December 20, 1852, he 
was married to Miss Harriet Steese, whose death took place in Marion Sep- 
tember 10, 1856, leaving no children. He married again, December 17, 
1857, Mrs. Hannah B. Kendrick, widow of William Kendrick, and daughter 
of Maj. Busby. She is a native of Roscoe, Ohio, born August 3. 1819. 
Two children have been born to them, one living. Mary R. Emerson is de- 
ceased. Mrs. Heller's children by her former husband were three in num- 
ber—Martha T., wife of Jacob Keiler; Alice M., wife of E. P. Turner; 
and George W. Mr. Heller was formerly a Whig, but is now a Repub- 
lican. He was Justice of the Peace one term. Himself and family are 
members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, he being a local preacher in 
that church since 1840. September 10, 1883, about forty prominent busi- 
ness men of Marion, who were Mr. Heller's pupils at school from 1857 to 
1860, surprised their former teacher by the presentation of a gold -headed 
cane, with the following inscription: " September 10, 1883, presented to 
Rev. J. M. Heller, by the pupils of Marion Grammar School from 1857 to 
1860." This was indeed a high testimonial to Mr. Heller's good qualities. 
" H. C. HOBERMAN, of the firm of Hoberman & Co., druggists, was 
born in Marion, September 14, 1852, and is the eldest son of John and 
Catharine Hoberman. He spent his boyhood in the schools of Marion, and 
in 1869 engaged as a clerk for J. E. Leonard in the drug business, remain- 
ing with him three years, until 1872, when he took the same position in 
the store of P. O. Sharpless, and continued with him as clerk up to Janu- 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 589 

ary 1, 1883, when he became a member of the firm, which was changed to 
H. C. Hoberman & Co. January 14, 1878, he was married to Miss Ella R. 
Siegfried, a native of Delaware County, Ohio. To them were born two 
children — Mary G. and Henrietta C. Mrs. Hoberman is a member of the 
Presbyterian Church of Marion. 

JOHN HOOD, of the hardware firm of J. Hood & Son, is a native of 
Cumberland County, Penn. He was born October 1, 1821, and is a son of 
Josiah and Sarah (Campbell) Hood, who also were natives of Cumberland 
County, Penn. Mr. Josiah Hood enlisted in the war of 1812, in response 
to a call for volunteers to defend the city of Baltimore. He was the parent 
of eight children, six of whom grew to maturity. The subject of this 
sketch is the eldest son and third child. He passed his early life in Spring- 
field in his native county, and at the age of fifteen began the career of a 
clerk with his father and followed it till he was of age, when he was admit- 
ted as a partner. He continued in general merchandising with his father 
till 1852, when he purchased his father's interest. In 1854, he sold the 
stock to his father and brother and came to Marion. He sold goods for 
Patten & Wallace for three years and then purchased their stock. He con- 
tinued at their old stand in the Bartram Block until 1864, when he sold 
and clerked for T. Fahey one year. He went to Chicago in the winter of 
1865 and was engaged as a produce commission merchant until the follow- 
ing June, when he returned to Marion, and took, in December, 1866. an 
interest with E. Sharpless & Co. in the hardware business for three years. 
He then clerked for G. H. Kling & Co. two years and was a partner up to 
1879. In March, 1880, he and his son, W. L. Hood, under the firm name 
of J. Hood & Son, established their present business. Thev carry a stock 
of $7,000 to $8,000. In November, 1841, Mr. Hood was married to Miss 
Sarah A., daughter of Thomas and Mary Wallace, and a native of Cumber- 
land County, Penn., and by this marriage there have been five children. 
Of these, but one — Walter L. — is living. Mr. and Mrs. Hood are mem 
bers of the Presbyterian Church. In 1861, Mr. Hood was elected State 
Senator. He was a member of the City Council four years, Township Trus- 
tee two years and Clerk one year. He entered the army May 2, 1864, for 
100 days, and served about four months, and was mustered out at Camp 
Chase, Ohio. 

ROBERT HOPKINS, ex- Probate Judge of Marion County, was born 
in Big Island Township February 20, 1830. He is the youngest son of 
Robert and Nancy (Vesey) Hopkins, natives of Delaware. Judge Hopkins 
was brought up on a farm and followed agriculture till 1872, when he was 
elected Probate Judge and moved to Marie n; he was re-elected to that office 
in 1875 and served two terms. He served one term as Justice of the Peace 
of Marion Township; he was Justice of the Peace of Big Island Township 
nine years. He is now serving his third term as Ward. Assessor. Decem- 
ber 24, 1854, he was married to Miss Martha J. Day, daughter of Ovington 
and Jane (Clark) Day. Mrs. Hopkins was born in Big Island Township, 
and departed this life December 22, 1862, leaving four children. Of these, 
three are now living, viz., Jennie C. , Laura A. and Ovington R. Judge 
Hopkins again married. December 31, 1863, Miss Emily A. Harvey, and 
she died October 6, 1876. 

HON. PEYTON HORD, deceased, was born in Rockingham County, 
Va., December 2, 1816. In 1825, his parents, Nathaniel G. and Mary 
Hord, moved from Virginia to Zanesville, Ohio, thence to Franklin County, 
and finally to Grand Prairie Township, Marion County, where Mr. Hord 



590 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

died. His widow survived him some years and died in Franklin County. 
Hon. Peyton Hord was reared on a farm and acquired a common school ed- 
ucation. He married, October 10, 1847. Mary J. Hutchinson, who was 
born in Franklin County, Ohio, November 5, 1825. In 1826, he removed 
to this county, settling in Marion Township, and in two years moved 
to Grand Prairie Township. Mr. Hord, soon after he came to the 
county, engaged in handling stock, which he followed for a number 
of years. He purchased and drove cattle and hogs through the Black 
Swamp to Detroit, and also over the mountains to Eastern markets; 
of later years he took advantage of the railroads and did a large 
shipping business. In 1867, Mr. Hord was elected on the Republican 
ticket to the Lower House of the Legislature, and few men ever represented 
this county more honorably and faithfully than he. With a view to public 
benefit and improvement, he introduced many bills in the Legislature that 
became laws, and which won, not only from his own constituency, but also 
from the Statu at large, the highest approval. He was the author of the 
8 per cent interest law, the bill authorizing the sale of the " old fair 
grounds " and purchasing the new, the bill authorizing the macadamiz 
ing of the streets of Marion, and also of the bill which authorized the 
clearing of the channel of the Scioto River of trees. These all were made 
laws, and the latter was one that conduced to the direct benefit of many 
living in the Scioto Valley. Mr. Hord was President of the Agricultural 
Society one year, and was otherwise identified with it; was Chief Marshal 
of the Fair several years. He died September 28, 1875, honored and 
respected. Mrs. Hord moved to Marion in April, 1882, where she now re- 
sides. Their married life was blessed with seven children, four sons and 
three daughters — Amaziah H., T. Benton, Addie (wife of Rev. D. M. Har- 
ris), Balie P., Laura F. , Jennie M. and Charles M. 

AMAZIAH H. HORD, the eldest child, was born in Franklin County, 
Ohio, September 25, 1848; the same year his parents moved to this county, 
where he grew to manhood; he received his education in the Ohio Wesley - 
an University. In 1867, he left college and adopted the business of his 
father, rearing and dealing in stock, which he followed till elected to the 
office of County Clerk in October, 1875; he took the office February 1, 
1876, and was re-elected in 1878. Since he retired from the office, he has 
devoted his attention to agriculture and stock-raising:. He owns a farm of 
224 acres, and makes the rearing of Hereford cattle and Cotswold and Me- 
rino sheep a special pursuit. He introduced the first Hereford cattle into 
the county and is an annual exhibitor at the county fairs. He served as 
Justice of the Peace of Grand Prairie one term and Township Cler,k three 
years. Politically, he is a Democrat. He was married, September 6, 1877, 
to Miss Martha E., daughter of Hon. Robert Hill, of Grand Prairie Town- 
ship. Mrs. Hord was born in Grand Prairie June 19, 1850. Th«y have one 
son - Peyton Robert — born to them January 26, 1879. Mr. and Mrs. Hord 
are members of the Free- Will Baptist Church. Mr. Hord is connected with 
the Chapter and Commandery of the Masonic order. 

EDWARD HUBER, proprietor of the Huber Works, was born in Dear- 
born County, Ind., September 1, 1837. His parents were both natives of 
Germany. His father, Philip Huber, came to the "United States in 1833, 
settling in Dearborn County, Ind. His mother, Mary Hurrn, came acros 
in 1834, and the same year was married to Mr. Huber. They had six chila 
dren, of whom our subject is the second son. Mr. Philip Huber died Au- 
gust 3, 1882, his wife having preceded him in July, 1845. Mr. Huber, 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 591 

the subject of this sketch, was reared on a farm His father was a wagon- 
maker, and at an early age he learned that trade, which he followed ten 
years. In 1865, he came to Marion, and the following spring, he became a 
partner in the planing mill of Kowalke, Hammer & Co., which firm contin- 
ued without change until 1870, when Huber, Gunn & Co. purchased the 
institution. In 1875, the Huber Manufacturing Company was incorpo- 
rated, with a capital of $75,000, and Mr. Huber has been connected with it 
since that time. He possesses a fertile genius, and has produced in all 
about twenty-five inventions, which are being used on different kinds of 
machinery. In January, 1865, he invented the Huber Revolving Rake, 
which he continued to manufacture up to 1875. He patented the Huber 
Engine in 1877, and the Huber Separator, with Frederick Stroble, in 1879. 
He also has patented an automatic steam governor, which he uses on his 
engines. His inventions are known and used extensively. Mr. Huber was 
married in Dearborn County, Ind., October 30, 1865, to Elizabeth 
Hammerle, a native of that county; thev have two children — Frank A. and 
Mary C. 

JOHN HUDSON, a native of Yorkshire, England, was born May 10, 
1815. He is a son of John and Mary (Hopkinson) Hudson, who were also 
natives of Yorkshire. He is the second son and fourth child of a family 
of eight children. At the age of fourteen, he went to the butcher's trade 
and served an apprenticeship of five years. In May, 1834, he crossed the 
waters to the United States; the voyage was made in a sailing vessel and 
occupied forty-two days. He came on to Marion and engaged in his trade, 
following it till 1846, at which date he began purchasing and driving cat- 
tle for the markets for nine years. He followed this occupation at inter- 
vals until 1876. He resided on his farm three miles west of Marion, till 
a few years since, when he removed to Marion, leaving his son Samuel in 
charge of the farm. He owns 397 acres of highly cultivated and well im- 
proved land, situated in Marion and Big Island Townships. February 24, 
1835, he married Miss Mary Rice, daughter of John and Jane (Stewart) 
Rice. Mrs. Hudson died May 18, 1858, leaving three children, viz., Isa- 
bella, wife of Dr. E. B. Crow; Thomas Gr. and Samuel. Mr Hudson mar- 
ried for his second wife Miss Julia A. Stone, daughter of C. V. Stone, and 
born in Preston County, W. Va., May 6, 1835. They have had two chil- 
dren — Lizzie and Laura E. Mr. Hudson is a member of the I. O. O. F. 

MRS. PAULINE HUMMER, the widow of Rev. S. A. Hummer, form- 
erly the widow of B. R. Durfee, was born iu Marion July 7, 1835, the 
daughter of Nathan and Alice (Wilson) Peters. Her people were of Scotch- 
Irish and German ancestry and were largely identified with the primitive 
history of Marion. Mrs. Hummer was reared and partially educated in her 
native city, obtaining a classical education, however, at Granville Female 
Seminary, graduating in 1856. Two years later, April 6, 1858, she was mar- 
ried to Bradford R. Durfee, a son of Gardner and Elizabeth (Brightman) 
Durfee, of French-English and Irish descent, and natives of Fall River, 
Mass., and Muskingum County, Ohio, in which county they lived and died. 
This marriage was crowned with the birth of two children — Elisha Bright- 
man, born May 25, 1859, and Alice E. , born October 29, 1862. Mr. Dur- 
fee was born January 20, 1816, and graduated at Denuison University, 
Granville, Ohio. He was admitted to the bar in 1841, and immediately won 
a place and a name in the legal fraternity of the State. Judge Thurman. 
Judge Lawrence and other prominent men pronounced him one of the 
ablest counselors at the bar. He enlisted as a private soldier in April, 1861, 



592 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY . 

and was soon promoted as Adjutant of the Fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer 
Infantry, and later as Lieutenant Colonel of the Eighty-second Regiment 
Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Having gallantly served his country one year, 
he tendered his resignation, returned to his home and died February 20, 
1868. He was an honored citizen, and left a large estate to his wife and 
children. December 19, 1871, the subject of this sketch married Rev. Sam- 
uel Alexander Hummer, a son of John and Anna (Dunn) Hummer, of En- 
glish and Scotch-Irish ancestry, and who died in Springfield, Mo., the 
father in 18.29 and their mother six years subsequently. Three children 
were born to this union — Ruth Pauline, born April 3, 1873; Theodosia 
Maudana, August 9, 1875; Louie Leora Genevieve, July 28, 1877. Mr. 
Hummer's birth took place July 31, 1833. He passed his boyhood upon a 
farm, securing a common school education, but graduating at Chicago in 
the Theological Seminary of the Northwest. He was ordained in the Pres- 
byterian Church at Lincoln, 111., and commenced preaching about 1856, at 
Monmouth, 111. He removed to Marion in 1871, where he continued to 
reside until a short time before his death, when he located at Columbus, 
Ohio, dying there June 13, 1878. He was an able and successful minister 
of the Gospel. His labors were in the home mission field, until his health 
failed in 1875, this being the field of his own choice. Mrs. Hummer is a 
lady possessing decision and positiveness of character, though affable and 
agreeable in her deportment; responds readily to r the call of duty, be it 
approved or disapproved by the vox populi; conscious of the correctness of 
her motives, she holds herself accountable first to her Maker, next to so- 
ciety. She would not turn back because opposed; possesses great moral 
fortitude and is much like her father in the love of liberty and sense of inde- 
pendence. She is characterized by will, firmness, energy, business tact and great 
executive capacity; shrewdness to a large degree; has very rapid and correct 
powers of intuition, remarkably sympathetic and kind-hearted, and seldom 
if ever discouraged; holds her own ground and wins her way against any 
odds, capable of keeping a good many irons in the fire at ouce and would 
not let any of them burn; is ideal, and above all believes in making home 
beautiful. 

DAVID J. HUMPHREY, Secretary of the Marion Gas -Light Company, 
was born in Prospect Township, then forming a part of Delaware County, 
April 22, 1841. His father, Thomas Humphrey, emigrated from Wales 
and settled in Delaware County, Ohio; and his mother, Mary (Phillips) 
Humphrey, was a native of Delaware County, Ohio. They married, and in 
1837 removed to what is now Prospect Township. Mr. Humphrey followed 
mercantile business eight or ten years in Radnor and Prospect and retired. 
He died in October, 1877, at the age of seventy-two years. His widow now 
resides in Delaware County. Of seven children born to them but two are 
living — David J. and Victorine. D. J. Humphrey was reared principally 
at Radnor, his parents having moved there when he was a boy. When 
sixteen, he came to Marion and clerked in the store of A. H. Kling until 
August 1, 1862, when he enlisted as a soldier in Company E, Ninety-sixth 
Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Was employed as clerk inj the Com- 
missary and Quartermaster's Departments and Adjutant General's office; 
was on duty with his regiment through Louisiana, Tennessee, Alabama and 
Mississippi, and finally mustered out at Mobile, Ala., July 7, 1865. He 
remained in the Commissary Department one year, then returned and was 
clerk in the soldiers' claim agency at Columbus six months; then returned 
to Marion and clerked for George B. Smith, here and at AVooster, and for 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 593 

McDonald & Co. at Wooster four years. He then came back to Marion, and 
in 1876 engaged in the grocery trade, and in April, 1882, was elected to 
his present position. December 28, 1869, Mr. Humphrey married Mary, 
daughter of George and Mary Jane Gray; of their five children, but one is 
living— Gladys Marian. Mr. Humphry is a member of the F. & A. M. of 
Marion. 

SILAS IDLEMAN was born in what is now Pleasant Township, then 
Delaware County, February 10, 1822. He was the first white child born in 
that township, and the son of Rev. Jacob and Susannah (Rohrbaugh) Idle- 
man, of Hardy County, Va. Jacob Idleman was born January 19, 1786. 
Mrs. Idleman was born January 29, 1783. They were married and moved 
with teams to Highland County, Ohio, in the spring of 1818. In February 
of 1820, they came to what is now Waldo Township. The fiFst night they 
built a fire by a log, Mr. Idleman and his men sleeping by it; Mrs. Idleman 
and the children in the wagon. He and the two young men who came with 
them immediately erected a log cabin, 16x18 feet in size. The following 
fall he purchased 160 acres in Pleasant Township, building a cabin and 
moving into it. He continued making additions to the above purchase un- 
til he owned a half section. A large part of the farm he' cleared. He was 
instrumental in building the first schoolhouse and was the founder of the 
first church (Methodist Episcopal) in that township and county. He gave 
the ground for the church and cemetery, which are still called by his name. 
He was the first Class Leader and Steward, and served in various official 
capacities, till a few years before his death. Receiving his license to ex- 
hort about 1824, he preached until 1846. He aided in constructing the 
Columbus & Sandusky pike, built in from 1832 to 1834. He made a con- 
tract to build a mile, receiving therefor 804 acres of land and a little 
money for every one-fourth mile. They had seven children, four of whom 
are now living — Rev. Christian, Rev. J. J., near Salem, 111., Anna, wife of 
J. A. Snyder, and our subject. John W. died in Marion County in the 
summer of 1847, aged thirty-two years. Two children died in infancy. 
His death took place October 5, 1846, and his remains were buried in the 
cemetery he founded. His widow survived him until the September of 1870. 
Silas Idleman was reared upon the homestead and educated in the common 
schools of his day. He assisted his father in clearing the farm. In the 
spring of 1846, his father gave him 160 acres in Claridon Township, 
where he (the father) owned 1,300 acres. The succeeding fall, after his 
father's death, he returned to the old farm and became the owner of 160 
acres of th^ homestead. He made one-half the improvements upon this and 
many additions, until he owned 300 acres in one body. While on the farm, 
he raised considerable stock, making a specialty of French horses and fine 
sheep, shipping his own stock for a number of years. He was married 
May 14, 1846, to Miss Catherine A. Pontius, a daughter of William and 
Susan Pontius. She was born in Pickaway County Ohio, June 11, 1838. 
Ten children have been born to them — Jacob W., Christian Z., Cicero M., 
Ida M., Lydia P., Hattie S., Kathleen C, Charles L., Lawronce M. and Har- 
ry L. Mr. Idleman has been connected with the County Agricultural So- 
ciety since its organization, and has served as a member of the Agricultur- 
al Board since its origin, save three years. He was its Vice President sev- 
eral terms, his last being in 1881. He was an exhibitor at the first fair, and 
at nearly every one since. He has been a resident of Marion since April 
1, 1880. Mr. Idleman is a Republican in politics and has served as Trus- 
tee of the Township a number of years. He was elected a Justice of the 



594 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Peace, but he refused to qualify. He was nominated for County Treasurer 
at two different times, and, although defeated, he ran far ahead of his tick- 
et. In 1862, he was elected Infirmary Director. He takes an active part 
in local politics. He is a stockholder in the Marion & Waldo pike, and 
also a Director since its construction. He acted as its President about 
three years. Himself and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church, of which he is Steward. 

FREDERICK A. ISSLEIB, the fashionable and leading tonsorial 
artist of Marion, is a native of the " Fatherland," born April 29, 1855, the 
son of August and Laura Issleib. He arrived in America April 10, 1872, 
stopping in New York City twenty months, learning his trade, being in- 
structed by a prominent barber, Seihardt, of that city. He came to Marion 
June 2, 1876, and was in the employ of Henry Ackerman four years, work- 
ign at his trade. He was married in Delaware, Ohio, December 28, 1875, 
to Miss Paulina Seiter, and four children were born by this union — Otto A., 
born September 1, 1876; Minnie L., February 17, 1878, dying November 
3, 1882; Wesley R., April 16, 1880, and Bertha P., January 29, 1883. 
Mr. Issleib purchased in 1880 the barber shop of H. Ackerman, located 
iipon Center street, and is doing h flourishing business, employing from two 
to four assistants all the time. He is industrious and frugal, and has a de- 
sirable lot upon South street, where he anticipates building a comfortable 
home soon. He is a member of the K. of P., of the I. O. O. F. and of the 
German Methodist Episcopal Church. He is an intelligent and active Re- 
publican. 

R. H. JOHNSON, cashier of the Marion County Bank, was born in 
Richmond, Va. , June 18, 1819; his parents were Davis and Catharine 
(Everett) Johnson, the former a native of Tunbridge, Vt., and the latter of 
Poughkeepsie, N. Y. ; ishey were married in Poughkeepsie, and in 1828 
removed to New York City. Mr. Johnson was for many years a banker. 
He organized the Orange County Bank of Chelsea, Vt. He was connected 
with the old Bank of New York for fifteen years, and with the Phoenix Bank 
on Wall street for a quarter of a ceutury. He was for one term Consul to 
Jamaica. In 1866, he came to Marion and lived retired until his death. 
Mrs. Johnson also died in Marion. Of a family of eight children, they 
reared six to maturity. R. H. Johnson was reared principally in New York 
City, and educated in the High School of Montpelier, Vt. A.t an early age, 
he was educated to the mercantile business. He spent the years 1835, 1836 
and 1837 as a clerk in Havana, near Tuscaloosa, Ala., after which he re- 
turned to New York and was engaged in the brokerage business two years. 
He continued clerking from that time "until 1842, when, on account of ill 
health, he came to Marion and engaged in mercantile pursuits till 1867. 
He became connected with the Marion County Bank at its organization, 
and in 1870 he assumed the cashiership, a position which he has since 
filled. Mr. Johnson has assisted in many of the public improvements of 
Marion. He was one of the incorporators of the Marion Gas-Light Com- 
pany, and is now serving as its President. He was for a number of years 
a jnetriber of the School Board, and has held various other local offices. 
His marriage took place July 2, 1846, to Miss Sarah H. , daughter of James 
and Sophronia Reed. Mrs. Johnson is a native of Deerfield, Franklin Co., 
Mass.; was born October 11, 1824. Their only child, Catharine E. , mar- 
ried W. B. Fisher, and has one child, Henry J. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson are 
members of the Presbyterian Church, and are highly respected. 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 595 

WILLIAM C. JOHNSON, M. D., deceased, was born in Virginia 
January 21, 1808, the son of Henry M. and Catherine (Murphy) Johnson, 
the former of English and the latter of German extraction, and natives of 
Maryland and Virginia respectively. They came to Harrison County, 
Ohio, as early as 1800, spending there the remainder of their days. They 
.were the parents of nine children, six of whom are living — Belinda, wife 
of Dr. McDean, Cadiz, Ohio; Harriet, wife of George McPherson, ditto; 
. Henry M., of Salt Lake City; Wesley, of the same city; Asbury 
j F., of Peoria, 111., and Julia A., wife of James Tallman, of Belmont 
County, Ohio. The deceased are Sophia, Catherine and William 
C. Dr. Johnson, having obtained a good common school education, 
supplemented with a collegiate scientific course, commenced the 
study of medicine in 1829, under the instruction of Dr. John Mc- 
Bean. He subsequently graduated at one of the chief medical colleges 
in Philadelphia, and began the practice of medicine at Wheeling, Va., in 
1833-34. He married, January. 21, 1836, Jane McFadden, born October 
20, 1818, a daughter oi Samuel and Lydia (Slafford) McFadden, and four 
children were born to them, three now living — Georgietta, born May 22, 
1838; Henry C, February 24, 1840; Isabella M., March 14, 1849; and 
William, December 28, 1843, dying in New Mexico, August 30, 1878. Dr. 
Johnson came to Marion in 1836, and immediately built up an enviable 
practice, finally obtaining considerable property. He was widely and fav- 
orably known. His death occurred July 23, 1864. 

J C. JOHNSTON, attorney, wa? born in Wayne County, Ohio, January 
15, 1830. He is a son of Robert and Catherine (Harris) Johnston, the 
former a native of Butler County, Penn. , and the latter of Maryland. His 
grandpai'ents on both sides emigrated from North Ireland to the United 
States about the year 1800. When five years of age, Mr. Johnston's father 
removed to Kenton, Ohio, and engaged in merchandising. He remained 
there but a short time, on account of the prevalence of milk sickness, and 
removed to Galion and resumed mercantile pursuits, which he followed till 
the revulsion of business in 1837. He then removed to Richland County, 
and then to Shelby County, 111., in 1844; thence to Muncie County, Ind., 
in 1845, and two years later to Logan County, Ohio, where he died, in No- 
vember, 1869. He was in earlier life a blacksmith, and sickle manufactur- 
er, and followed that business several years. He contracted the asthma, 
which disabled him till 1859, when he resumed his trade and followed it 
till his death. J. C. Johnston is the fifth of a family of fifteen children, 
seven of whom grew to maturity. He passed his early life on a farm and 
received his education in the common schools. He taught school from 1852 
to 1854, and at the same time read law with Judges Lawrence and W T est, of 
Bellefontaine. August 15, 1854, he was admitted to the bar by Chief Jus- 
tice John A. Corwin. The following year he began practice in Van Wert, 
Ohio, at which place he remained till February, 1859, when he located in 
Marion. Mr. Johnston does business in all the courts of the State and Dis- 
trict Court of the United States, and enjoys a successful practice. May 2, 
1864, he enlisted in Company B, One Hundred and Thirty-sixth Regiment 
Oaio National Guards. He served on garrison duty at Fort Ellsworth and 
Lyons, and was elected Captain of the battalion on the return of the com- 
pany. He received an honorable discharge August 31, 1864. Mr. John- 
ston served the people as Mayor for nine years and as Justice of the Peace 
six years. October 19, 1856. he was joined in marriage with Miss Louisa 
J., daughter of George Baker, an early pioneer of Marion. ■ Mrs. Johnston 



596 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

was born in Marion Ma\ 22, 1836. They have three children, viz., Gene- 
vra Ennis, an accomplished musician and singer; Orland AW, telegraph 
operator and ticket agent at Morral; and Homer C. 

JACOB KELLER, owner and operator of the planing mill, was born 
in Berlin County, Penn. , January 1, 1832. His parents were Jacob and 
Catharine (Cook) Keiler; the former died in Columbia County, Perm., in 
1858, and the latter in Delaware County, Ohio, in July, 1870. When a 
boy, our subject learned the miller's trade with his father. When of age, 
he took up the carpenter's trade in Lycoming County, Penn., and worked 
two years. In 1857, he went to Marshall County, Iowa, where he worked 
at his trade until October, 1861, when he enlisted in Company H, Twelfth 
Regiment Iowa Volunteer Infantry; he served in the Army of the Tennes- 
see, and participated in the following leading battles. Shiloh, Corinth, 
siege of Vicksburg and in all the engagements of the Atlanta campaign, 
including Atlanta, where he was taken a prisoner, July 22, 1864. He was 
confined in Andersonville Prison two months and Florence, S. C. , until 
December 12, 1864, when he was paroled. He was discharged at Daven- 
port. Iowa, July 3, 1865. He came to Delaware and purchased an inter- 
est in the Delaware Flouring Mills; a year later he came to Marion and 
engaged in lumbering, and subsequently erected his planing mill, at a 
cost of $4,000. In October, 1868, he was married to Miss Sarah C. Har- 
der, who died in October, 1877, leaving two children, Frank S. and Grace. 
His second marriage took place in June, 1881, with Mrs. Martha P. Elliott, 
widow of J. S. Elliott; she had two children by her former husband, 
namely, Lowell and Charles H. 

TIM KELLEY, a native of County Limerick, Ireland, was born 
June 16, 1844; his parents, Timothy and Ellen Kelley, were natives of the 
same county and both died there, the former in 1848 and the latter in 
1849. Mr. Kelley, the subject of this biography, in 1852 came to America 
with his brother, Jeremiah Kelley, and stopped in Queen's County, Long 
Island; remained there until 1856, then went to Albany, N. Y., and in De- 
cember, 1861, came to Bucyrus, Ohio, and subsequently to Marion. He 
worked on a farm until August 16, 1862, when he enlisted in Company A, 
Eighty-second Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He served in the Elev- 
enth Army Corps under Gens. Sigel and Howard till September, 1863, 
when he joined the Twentieth Army Corps and served as Orderly to Gens. 
Hooker and Slocum until his discharge in June. 1865. Among the leading 
battles of the war in which he participated were Chancellorsville, Gettys- 
burg, Lookout Mountain, Mission Ridge, and from the latter place to 
Knoxville, Resaca, and in all the engagements of Sherman's Atlanta cam 
paign and march to the sea. He marched through the Carolinas to Rich- 
mond; thence to Washington, D. C, where he witnessed the grand re- 
view. He was wounded at New Hope Church. After the war closed, he 
returned to Marion, and afterward to Albany; then back to Marion. He 
clerked three years for T. Fahey, then engaged in business for himself. 
In April, 1876, he removed to his present rooms, where he carries a stock of 
groceries and provisions, tobacco, cigars, foreign and domestic liquors, to 
the amount of $15,000 to $20,000, and does a wholesale and retail busi 
ness. He is also a stockholder iD the Huber Manufacturing Company; was 
a member of the City Council 1873-74, and is also a member at the pres' 
ent time. October 16, 1873, Mr. Kelley was united in marriage with Miss 
Norah, daughter of Pierce Keating, formerly of Marion County. She was 
born in Rochester, N. Y. , June 4, 1848. They have five children, viz., 
William P., JamesjK., Edward D., Mary E. and Maggie. 




£3$ ' &fiM 1 





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MARION TOWNSHIP. 599 

GEORGE KEY was born in Scotland December 30, 1838. Having 
obtained an ordinary education, he sailed for America in 1866, stopping in 
Akron, Ohio, until 1870, when he came to Marion. Jn trade, Mr. Key is a 
blacksmith, having a shop on South street. He served an apprenticeship 
of four years, beginning when aged fifteen; he now has all he can do, and 
owns a house and lot on West street. August 4, 1869, he married Miss 
Margaret Davidson, daughter of John Davidson, of Scotland, and of their 
six children four are living, namely, William H, John A., George F. and 
Amy V. The family are members of the Presbyterian Church: Mr. Key 
also belongs to the Knights of Pythias, in which he has passed the Chan- 
cellor's chair. In politics, he believes in the principles of the Democracy. 

JAMES KING was born in County Deny, Ireland, August 28, 1828, 
the eighth child of eleven children born to John and Catherine (Riddle) 
King. Their ancestors were originally from Scotland. James came to 
America in 1818, stopping two years in Crawford County, Ohio. March 
25, 1850, he came to Marion Township, working two years by the month, 
then "sharing" the same length of time. He bought a farm of eighty acres 
in 1856, moving upon it in the following spring. In 1856, he added eighty 
acres more and in 1879, another eighty-acre lot, making in all 2-10 acres, 
in a high state of cultivation. For a number of years, he has been engaged 
in rearing and breeding English and Clydesdale horses, having at present 
thirteen head. He is an annual exhibitor at the county fair. May 15, 
1847, he married Sarah J. McPherson, a daughter of John and Mattie Mc 
Pherson. She was also a native of Ireland. Politically speaking, he is a 
Republican. 

JOHN KINSLER is a native of Baden, Germany, born March 20, 
1830, the son of John and Christina Kinsler; he was reared and educated 
in the common schools of his " fatherland. " In June, 1854, he landed in 
America, living one year in Cattaraugus County, N. Y. In the fall of 
1855, he came to Marion, living here ever since, save five years — from 
1862 to 1867 — when he resided in Grand Prairie Township, four miles 
from Marion, engaged in farming. He has always been following this bus- 
iness, together with stock-raising, renting land all the time. April 2, 1864, 
he married Margaret Ambruster, who was born in Baden, Germany, in 
1827, the daughter of Charles and Margaret Ambruster. They have four 
children — John H. , Charles, Louisa, wife of Wesley Romoser, and Jennie. 
Mr. Kinsler owns a little home of three and one-half acres, is a Democrat, 
and he and family are members of the Lutheran Church. 

JOHN H. KINSLER, eldest son of John and Margaret Kinsler, was 
born in Baden, Germany, January 17, 1851. He came across the Atlantic 
Ocean with his people when two years of age; he passed his youth in Mar- 
ion, going to the union schools. At twenty years of age, he began to serve 
an apprenticeship of three years at stone masonry, under the "direction of 
William Trone. He has since followed his trade, employing five men and 
doing a good business. His marriage to Miss Mary Leonhart was solem- 
nized December 3, 1878; she is the daughter of Michael and Catherine 
Leonhart, and was born in Waldo Township July 12, 1854. Three chil- 
dren blessed their home, Elmore A. alone living, born August 17, 1882. 
amuel C. was born December 25, 1880, and died January 1, 1881; a 
daughter died in infancy. Mr. Kinsler is a Republican in politics. Be- 
sides his house and lot, he owns two town lots. The family hold a mem- 
bership in the German Methodist Episcopal Church. 



600 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

AMOS H. KLING, one of the wealthiest and most influential citizens 
of Marion County, was born in Lancaster County, Penn., June 15, 1833, 
the son of Michael and Elizabeth Kling, of the above State. They came 
to Richland County, Ohio, and then to Lucas County, Ohio ; where the old 
gentleman died in 1877; the mother is still a resident of the latter county. 
They were the parents of nine children, six living, of whom the subject of 
this notice is the third. Amos H. Kling was reared in his native place, 
obtaining an education in the common schools. He attended, however, W. 
W. Granger's commercial college at Mansfield, Ohio, graduating in the fall 
of 1854. When aged seventeen years, he commenced to learn the tailor 
trade, and plied it until he came to Ohio. Having obtained his commercial 
degree, he kept books for J. W. Bain, a hardware merchant, remaining 
with him three years. In 1857, he engaged in the hardware business, fol- 
lowing it nine years, when he retired on account of ill health. He then 
commenced negotiating in papers and real estate, continuing in that busi- 
ness to the present time. During the Paris Exposition in 1867, he 
visited the old country for the purpose of purchasing Norman French 
horses. The next trip was made in 1868 and a third in J 870. The first 
importation was made by Wallace, Watkins & Kling, and the subsequent 
importations by the Marion County Importing Company, of which Mr. 
Kling is still a member. He was a stockholder in the Columbus & Toledo 
Railroad from its incipiency, and a Director until it was sold to the pres- 
ent syndicate. He is a part owner of the Hotel Marion, one of the finest 
institutions of its kind in this part of the State. He has been a Trustee of 
the Marion Cemetery Association, and member of the School Board, now 
serving his second term ; was a member of the Agricultural Society a num- 
ber of years, and its President one year. He was appointed by the court a 
member of the building committee for the new court house. He is also a 
member of the I. O. O. F. His marriage occurred in the autumn of 1859, 
to Louisa M. Bouton, a daughter of Harvey and Emily Bouton, the latter a 
native of Fairfield County, Conn. The names of their children are Flor- 
ence M. Clifford B. and Yetallis H. It is needless to remark that Mr. 
Klino- is a successful business man. Every enterprise he has undertaken 
has grown tenfold, and his large fortune is wholly the product of his ex- 
cellent business ability. Mr. Kling is an energetic and public-spirited 
citizen and his name has been prominently associated with every public 
improvement of the town. He aided in securing railroads to the place, be- 
sides other important public enterprises. 

CHRISTIAN KRANER is a native of Baden, Germany, born January 
6 1812, the son of Michael and Eva Kraner, who sailed for America in 
1830 settling, October 15, in Pleasant Township, having entered 160 acres 
of land. He cleared that land with the assistance of his son Christian. He 
had seven children, three sons living. He died in 1860, aged eighty-five 
vears; she died at the same time, aged eighty- three years. Christian 
Kraner obtained such an eductaion as the schpois of the day afforded. He 
helped to make a number of the first roads in Pleasant Township, and was 
instrumental in building churches and schoolhouses there. In 1872, he 
bought 123 acres of his present farm, much of which was covered with a 
forest. He cleared this away and built the same year a two-story house, 
22x28 feet, costing $4,000. February 15, 1842, he was married to Cathe- 
rine Shin, a daughter of John Shin, and their family numbers seven chil 
dren— Christian, John, William, Sophia, Catherine, Caroline and Mary, all 
members of the Lutheran Church. He aided in building two churches at 
Bethlehem, contributing liberally. 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 601 

PATRICK LANNON, a policeman of Marion Village, is a native of 
County "Waterford, Ireland, born in the spring of 1831, the son of Thomas 
and Margaret Lannon. When aged eighteen years, he sailed for America, 
spending eighteen years in Now York State, principally in Syracuse and Utica. 
In 1862, he enlisted in Company C, One Hundred and Forty-ninth Regi- 
ment National Guards Volunteer Infantry, and was engaged at Chancel- 
lorsville, Lookout Mountain, many serious skirmishes, and went with 
" Sherman to the sea." At Chancellorsville, he was seriously injured, ly- 
ing on the battle-heir) three days and three nights with nothing to eat or 
drink except two canteens of water. He was honorably discharged in 1865. 
In 1851, he married Miss Ellen Burke, by whom he has had ten children, 
five being now dead. The living are Mary, wife of E. A. Greeley, "Walter, 
Ellen, Thomas and Joseph. In property Mr. Lannon has a house and four 
acres of land, located within the city corporation. He and family associate 
with the Catholic Church. He has been a r policeman in Marion for the 
past five vears. 

CAPT. VALENTINE LAPHAM is a native of Salt Rock Township, 
this county, and was born May 9, 1842. He enlisted in the civil war at 
Marion, July 26, 1862, Company E. Ninety-sixth Regiment Ohio Volun- 
teer Infantry. He served in the Department of the Gulf. He partici- 
pated in the following memorable battles: Chickasaw Bayou, Arkansas 
Post, Dallas Station raid, Opelousas raid, Carrion Crow, and Mansfield, 
April 8, 1864. At Mansfield he received a gunshot wound. He was mus- 
tered out as Orderly Sergeant September 10, 1863. During service, he was 
promoted as Second Lieutenant, and ten days later as First Lieutenant. 
While at home, recuperating from his wound, he was appointed Captain, 
joining soon after his regiment at New Orleans, and entering active service 
immediately. He commanded his company during the siege and capture of 
Forts Gaines and Morgan. His discharge dates November J 7, 1864. 

ABRAM LA TOURRETTE. The subject of this sketch was born in York 
State September 18, 1817, and is a son of Abram and Phcebe (Bodine) La 
Tourrette. The Bodines had both English and German blood in their 
veins; the La Tourrettes, of Huguenot association, sailed from France dur- 
ing the persecution. His maternal grandfather was a Revolutionary soldier 
and his father did valiant service at Lundy's Lane and at the storming of 
Fort Erie, in the war of 1812. His father settled in Seneca County, N. 
Y., raising a family of ten children to manhood and womanhood. Their 
names are Eliza (deceased), Abram, John, Peter, Susan, William, Alia M. 
Sarah, Anzolette and Daniel. His father died in 1874, aged eighty-six 
years, the first to break the family circle. His mother passed away in 1881, 
in her eighty-eighth year. Mr. La Tourrettte was educated in the common 
school to a limited degree. At sixteen, he closed his school career, but 
continued with his parents until his twenty-second year. Possessing a me- 
chanical turn, he entered a machine shop, and the first month his employer 
gave him the drafts to lay out work for the shop. At the end of six months, 
he bought out the establishment and began manufacturing separators, the 
first built in Seneca County. He was then a^ed twenty- five. In 1844, he 
purchased at Waterloo, N. Y., a foundry and machine shop, building en- 
gines, mill gearing and tile machines. He soon abandoned all but the last, 
and employed from sixteen to twenty men. doing a nourishing and success- 
ful business. It was at this place he made the first tile machine in Amer- 
ica. The first similar machine sent to the United States was bought 
by John Delafield. President of the Seneca County Agricultural Society. 



602 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

After several years, Mr. La Tourrette obtained it and presented it to the New 
York Board of Agriculture, preserved still by them at Albany, as a pioneer 
tile machine. From this imported one as a model, Mr. La Tourrette became 
the father of American tile machines. He continued thus in business un- 
til 1870, when he retired, occupying his leisure summer hours in running 
a steam yacht through the little lakes of New York. In 1875, h« stocked a 
tile shop for his son Peter; the subsequent year he removed to Marion, 
buying his present property and building a foundi-y, located near the Co- 
lumbus & Toledo depot. With his son Peter, he employs nine hands con- 
stantly, manufacturing tile machines with all the latest improvements. His 
machines are highly spoken of. 

He is an independent Democrat in politics, and a Freemason, with 
New York connection. He owns two and three-quarters acres, on 
which are his shop, barn and two residences. He also has a beautiful 
brick house on Center street, built by him in 1879, at an expense of $4,000. 
He possesses, too, the " Robinson farm " of thirty-nine acres, just west of 
town. Mr. La Tourrette was married, October 22, 1839, to Miss Eliza A. 
Williams, daughter of Bradley and (Voorhees) Williams, the for- 
mer a native of Connecticut, and of English ancestry, and the latter a native 
of New Jersey and of German ancestry. Mr. Williams' children numbered 
four — Eliza A, Abram, Mary (deceased), wife of Dr. Austin, of Belleville. 
Ohio, and Adeline (deceased). Mr. La Tourrette has been the father of 
three children, viz., Martha, wife of David McMurtrie, builder and stone- 
cutter of New York City, with residence in Plainfield, N. J.; Peter, who 
married Miss Mary Greenwood; and Henry, who died in infancy. 

CHARLES W. LAWRENCE was born on the old homestead in Clari- 
don Township January 12, 1854. He is the eldest son of George and 
Martha Lawrence. Having obtained a common-school education, he at- 
tended the Ohio Business College at Delaware, Ohio, graduating in the 
spring of 1874. Returning home, he engaged in farming and stock-rais- 
ing and is still continuing it. For two winters he conducted a saw mill. 
Mr. Lawrence has a farm of fifty acres, and is rearing French and Ken- 
tucky trotting horses, exhibiting them at county fairs. He and his father 
reared a French-Norman marp. that weighed 2,130 pounds, the heaviest 
ever seen at a county fair. Politically, Mr. Lawrence is a Republican. 
December 27, 1877, he married Miss Flora M. Cain, a native of Knox 
County, Ohio, born May 12, 1861. Two children have been born to them 
— Addie V. and Eva N. 

DANIEL LAWRENCE, Sr. , is the efficient Superintendent of the In- 
firmary. His birth took place September 15, 1837, in County Tipperary, 
Ireland, the son of John Lawrence, who came from the old country in 
1850. Three years later, he sent for* three of the children and for the re- 
mainder of the family in 1856. The family settled in Marion and in time 
numbered eight children. The father's death occurred on July 4, 1861, his 
age being fifty-three years, while the mother died in 1869, aged fifty years. 
Our subject having obtained a limited education, went to work on a farm, 
at which he continued ten or twelve years; but in March of 1872, he was 
appointed to his present position, which he has acceptably held for twelve 
years. At present he receives a salary of $840, has the charge of sixty-five 
people and of the Infirmary farm, which consists of 230 acres. Prior to 
his appointment to the above, he rented farms for ten or twelve years. He 
owns real estate in Marion, valued at $4,000. April 3, 1869, he married 
Miss Honnorah Hogan, daughter of William Hogan, of Marion. He and 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 603 

wife are zealous members of the Catholic Church. He believes in the prin- 
ciples of the Prohibition party. 

GEORGE LAWRENCE was born in Lincolnshire, England, March 31. 
1814, the third son and fourth child of eight children born to Edward a) d 
Martha (Sleeper) Lawrence, who sailed for America in 1835, settling in 
Claridon Township and buying 200 acres of land. George, the subject of 
this sketch, received a fair education, bought forty acres of land of his 
father, paying for it in work, increasing it to 300 acres, and remained upon 
it until March 30, 1871, when he sold and came to Marion Township, buy- 
ing in all 543 acres. He has sold and given to his children all but 247 
acres, which he keeps in a fine state of cultivation. He cleared and im- 
proved nearly all his land in Claridon Township, and has made many im- 
provements upon his present farm. November 7, 1839. he married Elizabeth 
Douce, a daughter of Vincent and Mary Douce. She died September 3, 
1851, leaving three children; one is living — George E. Vincent D. was a 
minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and died at Gambier, Ohio. 
January 14, 1881. He was born July 13, 1850. Mary died September 13, 
1861, aged thirteen years. Mr. Lawrence married again, April 24. 1853, 
Martha A. Smith, a native of Marion Township, born in 1833, a daughter 
of John and Naomi Smith. This union has been blessed with the birch of 
ten children, seven surviving: Charles W. ; Emma M., wife of Rev. S. 
O. Young, a minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church; Eva U. , wife of 
Francis A. Young; Willie R., Ulysses G., Ivie F. and Elma V. Mr. 
Lawrence is a thorough farmer and makes a specialty of rearing heavy 
draft horses. He is a Republican, aad himself and family are members of 
the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

GEORGE E. LAWRENCE is a native of Claridon Township, born 
August 27, 1845, the eldest son of George and Elizabeth Lawrence. Hav- 
ing secured a common school education, he remained with his father until 
the spring of 1867, when he moved to Franklin County, Kan. He returned 
in 1875, and after renting one year, purchased fifty acres of his father, and 
is residing upon it still. February 24, 1867, he married Josephine T.Bartlett, 
who was born in Knox County, Ohio, July 15, 1843, a daughter of Leonard 
and Sarah A. Bartlett. They have four children — Mary G.. Lulu B., 
George P. and Frank V. Mr. L. is engaged in rearing fine stock, such 
as French and Clydesdale horses, short-horn cattle and Spanish Me- 
rino sheep. He has been prominently associated with the Grange. While 
a resident of Kansas, he was a delegate to the organization of the State 
Grange, also a delegate to the State Grange held at Galion recently, and 
was its Secretary. He is serving his third term as Master of the home so 
ciety. Himself and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 
As a young man, he attended the Ohio Wesleyan University for a time, and 
later taught more or less for five years, two in the South and three in Kansas. 
W. C. LEECH, M. D., of the city of Marion, Ohio, is a native of the 
State of Pennsylvania He was born at Harrisburg November 25, 1823. 
His father was of Irish descent and his mother of German extraction. The 
Doctor's practice is of the homoeopathic school of medicine, and has been in 
the service since the year 1845, the greater part of that time in Cincinnati, 
Ohio. In 1880, he came to Marion, and still continues in the practice. 

ANDREW LEFFLER, meat merchant, was born in Baden, Germany, 
August 7, 1840. His parents. Michael and Christina Leffler, emigrated to 
the United States in 1854. He grew to manhood in Marion, and farmed 
till 1859. when be went into the butcher business. October. 1S61, he en- 



604 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

listed in Company D. Eighty-second Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, 
and served nine months. He was wounded in the right thigh at the battle 
of McDowell, W. Va. , which disabled him from further service; was dis- 
charged in August, 1862. Mr. Leffler is the oldest butcher in Marion, now 
employing two men, and doing a good business. December 20, 1805, he 
married Miss Mary Eberhart, daughter of John Eberhart. Mrs: Leffler was 
born in Marion County June 1, 1842. They have had seven children; six are 
living, namely: Jennie, Frank, Harrison G., Edward H. , Harry A. and 
Florence M. Inis is deceased. Mr. Leffler and family are members of the 
Lutheran Church; Mr. Leffler is connected with the order of V. A. O. D., 
and in politics is a Democrat. In 1874, he built the block that bears his 
name, at a cost of $6,000. He owns a residence at the corner of West and 
Canal streets, and ten acres adjoining the corporation. 

CHARLES W. LEFFLER, son of Godfrey and Louisa Leffler, was 
born in Upper Sandusky, Ohio, November 1, 1854; he was reared to man- 
hood in Marion, and educated in its high school. At the age of fourteeu, he 
took the position of clerk in his father's grocery and continued there two 
years and nine months. He took a course in the Commercial College of 
Delaware, Ohio, in 1872, and after his graduation he returned to Marion 
and took up the trade of' brick-laying, and worked with his father until De- 
cember, 1878, the last three years as foreman. In April, 1879, he and his 
brother, J. F. Leffler, established a billiard hall, and since May, 1881, he 
has conducted it alone. He neither sells liquor nor allows any to be sold 
in connection with the hall, and the best of order is preserved. 

GODFREY LEFFLER, one of the leading representative German 
citizens of Marion County, was born near Karlsruhe, Germany, October 15, 
1829. In 1854, his parents, Michael and Regina (Ludwig) Leffler, emi 
grated to America and settled in Pleasant Township, where Mr. Leffler 
purchased thirty-five acres of land. Mrs. Leffler died in September, 1857, 
and in 1865 Mr. Leffler moved to Marion, where he died June 22, 1882, 
having attained to the age of seventy-nine years. They had ten children, 
five of whom are now living. Godfrey Leffler was reared on a farm till 
fifteen years old, when he commenced and served an apprenticeship of three 
years at the brick mason trade. In 1850, he embarked for the United States 
in search of his fortune. He remained in New York City until the fall of 
1854, when he emigrated west and settled in Marion. Immediately after 
his arrival here, he resumed his trade and followed it four years, when in 
1858 he engaged in contracting and building, which he has followed with 
marked success to the present time. Mr. Leffler has built and superintended 
the building of more public and private houses than any other man in the 
county. Among the many leading buildings that stand as monumeuts to 
Mr. Leffler's labor and success as a builder, we mention the jail on East 
street, old Masonic Block, Campbell Block, Kerr House, the public school 
buildings and the German Methodist, Christian and Catholic Churches, be- 
sides a number of private residences. He is the leading contractor and 
builder in the county, and in that vocation he has achieved a signal suc- 
cess. He owns and runs a brick yard in connection with building, and 
employs a force of men at a weekly expense of #500. Mr. Leffler started 
in life a poor man, and by energy and perseverance he has accumulated 
large and valuable property. He is well known throughout the county, and 
his business transactions have always been honorable and upright. Mr. 
Leffler was married, in 1851, to Miss Louisa Wissinger, by whom he has 
had five children, namely, Jacob G., Charles W.,JohnF., Louisa C.,wife of 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 605 

Frederick Gottshal, of Columbus, and Bertha, at home. Mrs. Leffler was 
born in Baden November 19, 1831. Mr. Leffler owns the " Leffler 
Block," 'corner of Main and South streets, and a brick residence on Green- 
wood avenue, which cost $4,000. Besides the two and two-fifths acres 
wh«re he lives, he owns fifty-two town lots. Politically, Mr. Leffler is a 
Democrat, and takes considerable interest in local politics. Mr. and Mrs. 
Leffler are members of the German Lutheran Church. 

JOHN F. LEFFLER, of the firm of Williams & Leffler, merchant tai- 
lors, was born in Marion June 7, 1857, and is a son of Godfrey and Louisa 
Leffler. He was reared in Marion and educated in the high school; 
learned the carriage-maker's trade with McMurray & Fisher, working three 
years, at the expiration of which time he became connected with his brother 
in the billiard and pool business, under the firm name of Leffler Bros. At 
the expiration of two years, he sold his interest to his brother and became 
connected with J. D. Gregory in business; this relation continued up to 
August, 1882, when the present firm of Williams & Leffler was formed. 
This firm is composed of upright men, who enjoy a good reputation as tai- 
lors. September 21, 1881, Mr. Leffler was married to Miss Julia Fies, 
daughter of William Fies, of Marion. Mrs. Leffler is a native of Marion, 
and was born March 9, 1855. 

J. G. LEFFLER, grocer, was born in New York City September 17, 
1852. When a child, his parents, Godfrey and Louisa Leffler, removed to 
Marion; he was reared to manhood in Marion and educated in the Ohio 
Business University of Delaware, at which institution he graduated in 
June, 1870; he also took a course in the business university of Pough- 
keepsie, N. Y. , and graduated May 20, 1872. During the intervals of his 
college course, up to November, 1868, he clerked for J. E. Leonard and P. 
O. Sharpless. November 19, 1868, he took charge of and controlled a gro- 
cery and provision store on the corner of Main and South streets. In 1872, 
he bought a half interest, and January 1, 1873, he bought his father's in- 
terest, and has since that time been alone. February, 1876, he moved to 
his present room, which has a sixteen and a half foot front by 165 deep. 
He has a very tine residence on South street near Main, which he occupies. 
He married, September 23, 1875, Miss Susan M. , only daughter or child 
of Jacob Hettler, and they have two children — Paul W. and Paulina M. 
Mr. and Mrs. Leffler are members of the German Lutheran Church; Mr. 
Leffler is a member of the City Council. In 1875-76, he resided in the 
Eleventh School District, and was Clerk and Director of that district. In 
1879, he was a candidate for Recorder, and in 1881 for County Clerk. In 
politics, he is a Democrat. 

JOHN E. LEONARD, deceased, was born in Nassau, Germany, Decem- 
ber 12, 1831. When nine years of age, he came with his parents, John 
and Mary Leonard, to America, who located for awhile in Mansfield, Ohio, 
then in Coshocton County, Ohio. He passed his youth at Mansfield, when 
thirteen engaging as clerk in a large establishment. In 1857, he moved to 
Marion and entered the drug trade under the firm name of Bruck & Leon- 
ard. About 1860, he bought out Mr. Bruck and continued the sole mana- 
ger till death. October 10, 1861, he was married to Margaret S. Cummin, 
daughter of Dr. William and Margaret (Steele) Cummin, of Liverpool, 
Penn. Their union was blessed with three children — Mary M., Edward T. 
and Margaret S. Mr. Leonard commenced in life a poor boy, but through 
industry accumulated a good property, consisting chiefly of a business 
block on Main street and his residence with several acres of ground on 



606 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

South West street. He was a member of the Presbyterian Church, to which 
he contributed liberally, and of the Masonic order. His death took place 
December 6, 1870. Mrs. Leonard and her family are members of the 
Presbyterian Church. 

J. F. LINDSEY. a native of Blair County, Penn., was born September 
28, 1829. His father, Jacob Lindsey, was born in Carlisle, Penn., Septem- 
ber 23, 1785, and died in Blair Couuty, Penn., July 12, 1846; and his 
mother, Jane (nee Simonton) Lindsey, was born November 11, 1789, in 
Wilmington, Del., and died April 20, 1858, while on a visit at Marion. 
They were of Revolutionary stock, and were the parents of five children, 
of whom J. F. is next to the youngest. The latter, when eighteen years of 
age, commenced the trade of wagon and carriage making, at Hollidays- 
burg, Penn., and served three years. He worked in Philadelphia, Camden 
City and Cinnaminson, N. J., until 1851; then in Marion, Ohio, until the 
fall of 1852; then in Pennsylvania again till the next year; then at Mas- 
sillon, Ohio, carriage building, two and a half years, when, in 1855, the 
shops closed on account of the panic; next at Galion, Ohio; then 
Indianapolis, Ind. ; and in 1858 back to Marion, since which time he has 
followed his trade here. He usually employed from three to four men. and 
tiu-ned out first-class work, all of which was warranted. In contest with the 
Jackson, Mich., wagon, October 31, 1882, his wagon came out the cham- 
pion. Mr. Lindsey joined the Methodist Church February 14, 1852, but 
since the spring of 1858, he has been a member of the Presbyterian 
Church. 

DANIEL LINN is the seventh son of Levi and Mary (Van Buskirk) Linn, 
and a native of Maryland. His father was a native of Pennsylvania, but 
of Irish descent, while his mother was a native of the same State but of 
German descent. His father fought in the war of Independence and reared 
a family of thirteen children, eight of whom were boys. Daniel, the subject 
of this paragraph, obtained his education in the limited schools of that 
early day, finishing his school career when aged fifteen years; he continued 
to labor for his parents until his marriage. In 1831, he came to Marion 
County, entering 160 acres near where he now resides. Through industry 
and frugality, Mr. Linn has owned at one time 600 acres, all in the county, 
but at present has disposed of all but his homestead, consisting of 160 
acres, valued at $100 per acre. This farm is iu a good state of cultivation, 
being drained by 3,000 rods of tile. Mr. Linn has the honor of introduc- 
ing tile into the county for farming purposes, which he did in 1867. His 
home he built in 1875 for $2,500; he has improved 400 acres of land him- 
self. June 10, 1823, he married Mary A. Geiger, daughter of John and 
Kanable Geiger, of Bedford County, Penn., people of German descent. 
Eight children have blessed this union— Robert M. ; Orilla, wife of James 
Maxwell, of Wisconsin; Harriet, wife of Mr. March, of Wisconsin; Mary, 
maiden lady; George, a soldier of the late war and a professor of music, 
at Duvall's Bluff, Ark. ; J. B. Birney, of Chattanooga, Tenn., and Charles 
T. March 20, 1864, Mr. Linn married again, Rachel McFarland, George 
Edmund's widow. Five children have been born to them, one dying an 
infant; the names of the living are Jennie, Nettie, Arthur and Maria B. 
Mrs. Linn was the daughter of James and Mary (Ross) McFarland, her 
people originating in Ireland, though the Rosses came from England. Her 
grandfather McFarland was a Revolutionary soldier. Mr. Linn, though 
eighty years of age, is still hale, hearty and industrious. He belongs to 
the Republican party. 



MARTON TOWNSHIP. 607 

PHILIP LINN, Jr., is a native of Crawford County, Ohio, born March 
9, 1842, the son of Philip and Christina (Holcher) Linn, who emigrated from 
Germany about 1830, settling in the above county. They brought up eight 
children, seven of whom survive. They are John, William (deceased), 
Mary, wife of Andrew Green; Henry, Philip, Jacob, Charles and Elizabeth. 
Mrs. Linn died about 1868, aged sixty years. Mr. Linn, though born in 1801, 
is still vigorous. The school education of Philip was necessarily limited, 
for by choice he left the parental roof when fourteen, commencing to work 
by the month, at which he continued fourteen years. The first year he re- 
ceived the sum of $7 per month, but later he received as high as $30 per 
month. September 12, 1867, he was married to Mary Kerr, daughter of Robert 
Kerr, of whom mention is made in this volume. To them three children have 
been born — Minnie, born August 9, 1868, died August 31,1869; OlaP. R.,born 
May 8, 1871 ; and Charles O. ,born June 6, 1873. The first three years of mar- 
ried life he rented of his father-in-law; then Mr. Kerr gave him the use of 
a farm situated in the southwest corner of Scott Township, which he still 
retains. He lived upon that farm about twelve years. In 1870, he bought 
160 acres in Scott Township, paying $6,800 cash — a sum he had earned by 
his industry. He has 3ince disposed of that place, and in 1881 purchased 
his present property, in Marion Township, consisting then of ninety-three 
acres, but now of 225 acres of well- cultivated land. This is all underlaid 
with building and lime stone; .$100 per acre is a small estimate of its 
worth. In 1881, he built a substantial brick residence, finely furnished, at 
a cost of $6,000. He also owns an eighty-acre lot in Scott Township. He 
is making a specialty of Merino sheep, having at present 350 head. 
In politics, Mr. Linn is an Independent Democrat. Himself and wife are 
members of the Disciple Church. 

H. S. LUCAS, an old merchant of Marion County, was born in Homer. 
Cortland Co., N. Y., September 8, 1826. He is a son of William W. and 
Anna (Hitchcock) Lucas, both natives of Homer, Cortland Co., N. Y. The 
former was born in 1802. and the latter in 1803. They were married and 
moved to Cuyahoga County, Ohio, in 1832, and subsequently to Lorain 
County, where they resided till 1846, and went to Cuyahoga Falls, Summit 
County. Mr. W. W. Lucas died January 26, 1883; his widow still resides 
at that place. They had two children — H. S., the subject of this sketch, 
and Lydia A. , wife of James Zwisler, of Adrian, Mich. H. S. was brought 
up on a farm; from 1846 to 1853, he followed clerking at Cuyahoga Falls, 
Akron and Cleveland. September 3, 1853, he came to Marion, and with 
F. P. Seffner engaged in the mercantile business; in 185-, he went to La 
Rue and followed merchandising, under the firm name of H. S. Lucas & 
Co., doing an extensive business until 1879, when he returned to Marion 
and established himself in the Masonic Block. He carries a stock of from 
$15,000 to $25,000. and conducts a successful business. May 3, 1851, he 
was joined in marriage to Miss Abbie A. Green, by whom he had three chil 
dren, viz. : Jennie M., William G. and Carrie A. Mrs. Lucas departed 
this life in August, 1871, and in September, 1872, Mr. Lucas again mar- 
ried, this time Miss Retta McLain, a daughter of Rev. John McLain, of 
Tiffin, Ohio. Three children were born to this marriage — Stewart H, 
Grace M. and Rhea. Mr. Lucas and wife are members of the Presbyterian 
Church. He is connected with the Blue Lodge, Chapter and Council of 
the Masonic order, and also with the Royal Arcanum. In May, 1864, Mr. 
Lucas enlisted in Company H, One Hundred and Thirty-sixth Ohio Nation- 
al Guards. He served as Sergeant near Alexandria, and was discharged 
September, 1864. 



608 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

JOHN F. LUST, born in Baden, Germany, December 1, 1847, is the 
son of John and Margaret (Hoch) Lust, who sailed for this country in 1853, 
stopping one year in Marion County, but settling in Salem Township, 
Wyandot County, Ohio, until 1872, when they returned to Marion County. 
John F. is the eldest of seven children and was reared on a farm. In 1868, 
he went to Upper Sandusky and learned the baker's trade of U. Orsinger. 
In 1870, he went to La Salle, 111., returning one year later to Marion, working 
for Thomas Munday. April 1, 1872, he bought this property and conducted a 
restaurant and bakery for one year, when tie admitted William Fisher as a 
partner and added a confectionery department. In 1875, he purchased his 
partner's interest, and in addition to the above became a wholesale dealer 
in cigars. In 1882, he did an extensive business, employing one man to 
travel. His marriage with Mary A. Fetter, daughter of George Fetter, was 
solemnized November 14, 1872. Their children are Franklin A., Harry 
W. and Edies F. In politics, Mr. Lust is a Democrat, and himself and 
family are members of the Gorman-English Lutheran Church. 

T. J. MAGRUDER, proprietor of Magruder's " Novelty Saddle Works," 
was born in Clark County, Va.. October 1, 1826. His parents, Ninian and 
Elizabeth (Lyons) Magruder, were natives of Maryland and Virginia. Mr. 
Magruder died in 1829 and his widow married, in 1831, Philip Puller, 
and in 1836 removed to Belmont County, Ohio; thence to Fairfield Coun- 
ty in 1838, where they resided until her death in 1869. Mr. N. Magruder was 
married first to Grace Townsend, of Maryland, and secondly to Elizabeth 
Lyons, of Virginia. He was the father of fifteen children, six of whom 
are living; and Mrs. Magruder had three children by her second husband, 
all living. T. J. Magruder, the youngest of his father's living children, 
was reared on a farm till twelve years of age, when his step-father removed 
to Rushville, Fairfield County; in 1842, he went to Mechanics burg, Cham- 
paign County, and learned his trade with his brother, James L. Magruder. 
With him he was a partner one year, then went to Woodstock, thence to 
Bellefontaine after two years and a half. At the latter place, he was a 
member of the firm of Rutan, Magruder & Co. ; continued in that business 
about eighteen months; then sold his interest and engaged in the drug 
trade with Dr. W. A. McCandliss, William Fisher andO. S. Knapp. Sell- 
ing out his interest to Dr. McCandliss, he, in December, 1853, came to 
Marion, and January 2, 1854, established " Magruder's Novelty Saddle 
Works," under the firm name of Rutan & Magruder. One year later, he 
bought his partner's interest, and has since been alone. He is the pioneer 
saddler and one of ihe oldest business men of the town. He carries a large 
stock and employs on an average six men. He is the patentee of the Ma- 
gruder harness trimmings, and has made several other important improve- 
ments, both in saddles and harness. He was married, February 18, 1855, 
to Miss Elizabeth Fribley, who was born in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, 
February 3, 1831. They have had four children, three of whom are living, 
viz., Mary R., wife of E. J. Short, of Bellefontaine, Ohio; Charles O. and 
James William. Mr. and Mrs. Magruder are members of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church. Mr. Magruder is a member of the official board and an 
active worker in the Sunday school. He was a delegate to and a member 
of the Finance Committee at the first State Sabbath School Convention of 
the Methodist Episcopal Church, and was also on the Finance Committee 
of the People's Temperance Reform Convention, held at Columbus in 1881. 
He is a member of the I. O. O. F., both subordinate and encampment, with 
the rank of Past Grand. He was Township Treasurer eight years, Corpora- 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 609 

lion Treasurer several years, a member of the City Council and School 
Board, and was a Director of the Middletown pike two years. 

J. C. MARKERT, of the firm of Markert, Schoenlaub & Co. , general 
merchants, was horn in the State of Hesse, Germany, July 6, 1846. His 
father, Francis Markert, was born December 17, 1812, and his mother, So- 
phia, nee Hutter, January 6, 1816. They migrated to America, landing in 
New York January 1, 1865, settling at Scranton, Venn., where Mr. Mar- 
kert died, July 2, 1876. Mrs. Markert now resides in Marion. J. C. 
Markert is the eldest son and second child of six children. At the age of 
fourteen, he began and served three and a half years at the potter's trade. 
In May, 1864, he emigrated to the United States, and in April, 1865, went 
with his parents to Scranton, Penn., where he remained till 1869, at which 
time be came to Berea, Ohio. He there attended college, and during vaca- 
tions worked at the carpenter's trade in Cleveland. In 1872, he attended 
the International Union Business College, and in April, 1877, came to 
Marion. He was engaged in the grocery and queensware trade with George 
Dietsch about a year and a half, when Mr. Dietsch sold his interest to Will- 
iam Gracely, and October 22, 1881, J. J. Schoenlaub was admitted as a 
partner. November 15, 1881, they established the "People's Store," and 
carry a stock of dry goods, groceries, glass and queensware, to the amount 
of $16,000. In June, 1878, Mr. Markert married Miss Katie Doering, 
daughter of William and Katie Doering. Mrs. Markert was born in Cleve- 
land, Ohio, September 19, 1851. Two children were born to this union — 
Charles A., April 18, 1879, and Oscar H, April 18, 1881. Mr. and Mrs. 
Markert are members of the German Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. 
Markert belongs also to the Royal Arcanum. He owns a residence on the 
corner of West and Canal streets and three lots on West street. 

JOHN MARKEY was born in Stark County, Ohio, November 1, 1817, 
son of Henry and Hester (Risher) Markey, natives of Maryland. They were 
•early settlers in Stark County, the father dying in 1819. and the mother 
in 1829. John Markey was married, November 28, 1841, to Caroline 
Weeks, daughter of John M. and Martha Weeks, and six children have been 
born to them — Jackson, born September 14, 1842; Marshall, September 15, 
1844; John H., March 18, 1846; George, March 5, 1848; Martha A., Feb- 
ruary 7, 1851; and Thomas H., October 10, [1855. Mr. Markey, having 
acquired the rudiments of an education, taught four winters. He moved 
from his native county to Seneca County, remaining three years; then came 
to Crawford County, where he remained twelve years, but he settled in 
Marion County in 1869. He owns 545 acres of land in Marion County, 
besides farms in Illinois, Iowa and Michigan. He devotes his time and at- 
tention to the direct supervision of his home farm and to the buying of 
mortgaged notes In politics, he is a Republican, and in his personal hab- 
its strictly temperate. 

ALBIN D. MATTHEWS, son of John B. Matthews, was born on the 
old homestead in Pleasant Township April 4, 1824; was reared on the 
farm and educated in the Marion select schools and Ohio Wesleyan Univer- 
sity. He engaged in teaching when eighteen, and taught hve years, at the 
expiration of which time he embarked in the mercantile business, following 
it till the fall of 1855, when he was elected County Treasurer and moved to 
Marion. He was re-elected in 1857, and in 1860 he resumed merchandising 
at Marion, Ohio. Selling out in 1867, he traveled in charge, by appointment, 
of Delhi, Norton, La Rue and Middletown Circuits. In 1871, he was 
again elected County Treasurer, and re elected in 1873, making four terms 



610 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

that he filled the office. Mr. Matthews is an honorable, upright man, and 
is universally respected and esteemed. In 1876, on his retirement from 
office, he engaged in the grocery business. April 27, 1847, he was married 
to Miss Jane E., daughter of Thompson E. and Ruth Roberts. Mrs. Mat- 
thews was born in Stark County, Ohio, in October, 1824, and departed this 
life January 28, 1865. This marriage was blessed with eight children; 
five are living — Albin D. ; Henrietta M., wife of H. D. Morrill; Mary B. , 
wife of John C. Keil; "Willie W. and Joseph T. Mr. Matthews was mar- 
ried a second time, December 16, 1866, to Mrs. Eleanor T. Bowe, daughter 
of Lewis Jury. She had two children by her former tmsband, one daugh- 
ter, who died in 1872; and the son, A. Rush Bowe, is still living, now in 
New Mexico. Mr. Matthews and wife are members of the Methodist Epis- 
copal Church, and Mr. Matthews is a member of the Chapter and Council 
of the F. &. A. M., and in politics adheres to Democratic principles. 

JOHN B. MATTHEWS, deceased, one of the earliest piooeers of 
Pleasant Township, was born in Talbot County, Md., in 1772; his par- 
ents were also natives of Maryland and of English origin. Mr. Mat- 
thews was by trade a shoe-maker, having learned his trade in early life. 
In 1811, he migrated to Ross County, where he was married. He 
enlisted in the war of 1812, and after his term of service expired he 
returned and settled there and remained in that county till 1819, when he 
removed to Delaware County, and in December, 1821, came to what is now 
Pleasant Township, Marion County. On his location there, he entered 
forty acres, and subsequently eighty acres more. These lands he cleared, 
improved and occupied till his death, which occurred March 27, 1847. His 
widow survived him thirty-one years, lacking one day, her death taking 
place March 26, 1878. She was born in Kentucky in January, 1799. They 
had a family of twelve children, nine of whom died many years since. Of 
the living, Albin D., above mentioned, is the eldest. 

J. N. MATTHEWS was born in Pleasant Township, Marion County, 
January 21, 1837, son of the last mentioned. Mr. Matthews was 
reared on the homestead, and his advantages for an education were limited 
to the common schools of his native place. He was engaged in farming in 
Pleasant Township till 1858; then he removed to Jones County, Iowa, at 
which place he resided till 1871, when he returned to Marion County and 
started a store in Green Camp. In 1874, he admitted his son-in-law, D. H. 
Porter, as a partner. Mr. Matthews was the first Mayor of Green Camp, 
and filled the office of Treasurer of Green Camp Township four years. In 
1878, he was elected Judge of Probate, and re-elected to the same official 
position in 1881. November 22, 1855, he was married to Miss Mary M., 
daughter of John and Martenia Williams. Mrs. Matthews was born in Pleas- 
ant Township, January 22, 1837. Of their six children, four are living, 
viz., Emma J., wife of D. H. Porter; Cora B., wife of W. W. Patten; Ed 
win W. and Vena Z. Judge Matthews is a member of the Church of Christ, 
and Mrs. Matthews of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Politically, he has 
always been a Democrat. 

A. B. McMTJRRAY, M. D., was born in Steubenville, Ohio, February 25, 
1837. His father, James McMurray, was born in North Ireland and emi- 
grated to America in 1832, settling at the above place. His mother was a 
native of Steubenville and a daughter of James Workman, also a native of 
Ireland. He established an academy at Steubenville and superintended it 
until his removal to a farm in the same county, where he died. James and 
Nancy McMnrray were married at Steubenville and lived there until the 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 611 

death of Mrs. McMurray in 1812. Mr. McMurray was a wholesale notion 
dealer in New York City for twenty years, and a manufacturer of woolen 
goods at Steubenville, Ohio. He came to Marion in 1872, and died Octo- 
ber, 1875. Dr. McMurray was reared in his native town and educated in 
the public schools of that place. He attended at Fredericksburg Academy, 
in 1858, to finish his studies in languages and chemistry, and immediately 
began the study of medicine with Dr. J. W. Smalley, now of Upper San- 
dusky, and remained with him and Dr. James Martin three years. He at- 
tended lectures at Cleveland Medical College, graduating in 1871; came to 
Marion and engaged in the practice of his profession, which he has since 
followed, and has established a successful practice. In October, 1862, he 
was married to Miss Charlotte A. Cramer, a daughter of Henry and Mar- 
garet Kramer, and they have had eleven children, nine of whom are living, 
viz., Mary M., James A., Anna, Alexander P., Hattie, Bessie G. , Henrietta, 
Herbert and Ethel. Dr. McMurray and wife are members of the Presby- 
terian Church; he is a Knight Templar, and a member of the I. O. O. F. 
and K of H. , and also of the Ohio State Medical Society, American Medi - 
cal Association and Marion County Medical Society, and is at present 
Coroner and City Councilman. 

THOMAS J. McMURRAY, brother of the above and member of the 
firm of McMurray & Fisher, was born in Steubenville, Ohio, March 2, 
1841. He was brought up in his native town till seventeen, when he 
went to Wooster and served a regular apprenticeship of three years at car- 
riage painting, with John Wilhelm. He worked for John Beistle in 
Wooster till September 6, J 862, when he joined the " boys in blue" in 
Company H, One Hundred and Second Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. 
He served in the Army of the Cumberland and was honorably discharged at 
Nashville, Tenn., July 8, 1865, after which he engaged in his trade at 
Florence, Ky. ; from there he went to Orville and worked for Steele & 
Moore until September, 1866, when he and Mr. Moore came to Marion and 
established a carriage manufactory. Mr. McMurray has been a leading 
member of the business throughout the changes of the firms to the present 
time, and is a successful business man. His marriage, October 10, 1867, 
with Miss Ella Randall, daughter of Levi Randal, was blest with five chil- 
dren, two of whom are living — George W. and Charlie. Mr. and Mrs. 
McMurray are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church; Mr. McMur- 
ray is identified with the I. O. O. F., K. of H. and G. A. R. He was a 
member of the City Council, 1872-73. 

J. F. McNEAL, attorney, was born in Iberia, then in Marion County, 
April 28, 1840. He is a son of Allen and Nancy (Struthers) McNeal, who 
were natives of Washington County, Penn., and early pioneers of Marion 
County. Mr. McNeal, the subject of this notice, passed his early life on a 
farm and obtained his education at Iberia College, Iberia, Ohio. April 22, 
1861, he enlisted at the first call for troops, in Company I, Third Regi- 
ment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was discharged at the expiration of the 
three months' service, August 22, 1861, and the following day, August 23, 
re-enlisted in Battery E, First Ohio Light Artillery. He served in the 
Department of the Cumberland and participated in a number of the lead 
ing battles of the war. Among those in which he was active were Perry - 
ville, Stone River, Mission Ridge, Chickamauga, and a number of minor 
engagements. He was honorably discharged at Columbus, Ohio, September 
1, 1864, having served three years in the front ranks of the army. He 
came home, and on the 8th day of April, 1865, entered the office of Judge 



612 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

O. Bowen as a law student. After prosecuting a course of two years, May 
16, 1867, he was admitted to the bar in Champaign County. He immedi- 
ately entered upon the practice of law in Marion, forming a partnership 
with J. C. Johnston, which continued three years. He practiced with 
Philip Dombaugh in 1876 for about four months, and January 1, 1879, the 
present law firm of McNeal & Wolford was formed. Since 1872, Mr. Mc- 
Neal has practiced in the United States Circuit and District Courts. Mr. 
McNeal has, since his admission to the bar, devoted himself uninterrupted- 
ly to his profession, and has built up a large and successful business, ex- 
tending into the higher courts of the State and United States. Mr. McNeal 
stands high as a lawyer and is one of the leading members of the Marion 
County bar. He is a gentleman of high sense of honor and integrity, and 
never encourages litigation, when it is to the interest of his client to avoid 
it. Mr. McNeal is Republican in politics and has always taken an active 
interest in the success of his party. He has frecpiently been requested to 
become a candidate for important offices in the district, but he has declined. 
He served his village as Mayor two terms, and was a member of the City 
School Board for the same length of time. May 9, 1867, he was married 
to Miss Annie M. Francis, daughter of A. P. Francis, deceased. Two sons 
are the fruits of this union — Lewis B. and Alfred F. Mr. McNeal is a 
Knight Templar. 

JOHN T. MERCHANT was born in Jefferson County, Va., April 1,. 
1814, the son of Isaac and Eleanor (Thomas) Merchant, who camR to Ohio 
in 1836, settling in Seneca County. They had a family of eleven children, 
seven living, of whom our subject is the eldest. His father was in the war 
of 1812 and his grandfathers, Isaac Merchant and Leonard Thomas, were 
soldiers of the Revolution, the latter serving entirely through it, attending 
the surrender of Lord Cornwallis. John T.'s parents died in the country 
of their adoption, the father in 1851, and the mother in 1870, aged eighty- 
four years. Mr. Merchant, the subject of this notice, began to work in a 
paper mill when he was but eight years of age (when paper was manufact- 
ured by presses); remained at this until his twentieth year, when he 
started for Cincinnati, walking across the mountains, and from thence by 
boat. Failing to find employment in his trade, he became a deck-hand 
upon the boat "North America," making five trips to New Albany, Ind. In 
the fall of 1835 he visited this county, and in the following year came again, 
working for wages ($10 to $12 per month) in Salt Rock Township, two 
years. Having saved $90, he married and commenced renting farms, one 
and one-half years in Salt Rock Township and two years in Marion Town- 
ship. In 1844, he purchased eighty acres in the eastern part of this town- 
ship and lived upon it seven years. Then he bought sixty-two acres in the 
corporation of Marion, and continued upon it until 1860, when he sold the 
latter and purchased his present farm of 300 acres, the most of which he 
has improved. In 1860, he built a frame house for $1,300, and in 1861 a 
barn for $400. He was married, September 28, 1838, to Miss Rebecca A. 
Gruber, born in Virginia November 18, 1852, a daughter of Christian and 
Elizabeth (Mourer) Gruber. She died in March, 1875, leaving five chil- 
dren — Ann E. , wife of George Carhart; Eliza E., wife of W. R. Burr; Asa 
I., Christian B. and Jay T. Mr. Merchant again married, November 20, 
1875, Miss Salome Ulsh, a daughter of Jacob Ulsh. She is a native of 
Marion Township, born March 22, 1845, and the mother of three children 
— Jacob U., Fannie I. and Bettie B. Mr. Merchant began in life with noth- 
ing; but, by his energy and perseverance, he has amassed a good property. 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 61 3 

He is Republican in sentiment. Royal Arch Mason, and has been Trustee 
of the Township five years. He has been gate-keeper for the Marion Coun- 
ty fair since its organization, twenty-seven years. 

EDMOND L. MOLLOY hails from Ireland, County Limerick, born April 
20, 1846. His father, Dennis Molloy, was a native of County Tipperary, 
and his mother, Mary (Burk) Molloy, the same county as himself. His 
parents, after marriage, sailed for America in 1850, settling in York State, 
Franklin County. In 1865, they moved to Marion County, locating in Mar- 
ion Township. Mr. Molloy died July 9, 1872, having been a consistent 
member of the Catholic Church. Mrs. Molloy resides three miles north of 
the city, at the age of sixty-one years, an earnest member of the same 
church. The family numbered twelve, of whom Edmond L. is the second. 
He was reared on a farm and was educated in the common schools, remain- 
ing at home until he had attained his majority. He began as clerk in 1874 
for Thomas Breen; June 2, 1875, he entered the grocery and liquor trade 
for himself, doing a good business and carrying a stock of $1,500. 
November 18, 1880, he was married to Miss Anna Cusick, a daughter of 
Bartholomew Cusick. The name of their one son is Dennis A. Mr. Mol- 
loy owns three buildings (doing business in one) and a residence on North 
Main street. The family are members of the Catholic Church, with which 
he has been connected since childhood. 

CHARLES MOORE, senior member of the firm of Moore Bros. , was 
born in Marion May 9, 1858. His parents, John and Margaret Moore, 
were early pioneers of Marion County. He ie the youngest son of a fam- 
ily of eleven children. He graduated in the High School in the class of 
1876, and had clerked at intervals for P. O. Sharpless and J. W. Freeland 
up to that time. In the fall of 1876, he engaged as a clerk for J. M. 
Heller, continuing till August, 1877. when he formed a partnership with G. 
C. Stone, which firm dissolved in March, 1879; at this time the firm of 
Moore Bros., comprising Charles, William and Thomas, was formed. This 
firm keeps a full stock of groceries, books and wall paper, and enjoys a good 
trade. 

WILLIAM H. MOORE, the oldest photographer in Marion County, 
was born in Kent County, R. I., October 19, 1827. His father, Thomas 
Moore, was a native of County Tyrone, Ireland, and emigrated to the United 
States in May, 1822, locating in Rhode Island; his mother, Susan (Love) 
Moore, was a native of Kent County, R. I. They married there and Mr. 
Moore was engaged as a weaver and dresser tender in the cotton factories until 
1834, when he removed with.his family to Ohio and settled in Pleasant Town- 
ship, where he purchased 240 acres of woodland; he cleared a site and erected 
a log house, which he occupied ten years. He died March 26, 1871 ; Mrs. Moore 
died in Green Camp Township, November 6, 1867. They had four children, 
two of whom are now living — William H. , and Martha A., wife of John 
Vestal, of Marion. Mr. W. H. Moore, the subject of this sketch, was 
brought up on a farm and received his last school training in the Marion 
Academy. He began teaching in 1850, and followed it during the winters 
for six years. He studied photography with F. L. Frary', and in the spring 
of 1855 established himself in Bennett's Block; here he remained until his 
removal to his present rooms on Main street. Mr. Moore was married, Oc 
tober 6, 1853, to Miss EJsie Morris, daughter of Benjamin Morris. Mrs. 
Moore is a native of Marion Township, Marion County, was born February 
25, 1834. They have two children— Mary O., wife of G. W. Schrote, of 
Marion, Ohio; and Elizabeth A., wife of W. M. Haynes, cashier of the 



614 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

People's Bank of Portland, Ind. Mr. Moore and family are members of 
the Methodist Episcopal Church; Mr. Moore has been a member since 1857, 
and for a number of years an officer and leader, and an active teacher and 
worker in the Sabbath school. 

HENRY MORGENTHALER, cooper, was born in Wurtemberg, Ger- 
many, December 13, 1821. His parents, Frederick and Sarah (Bauer) 
Morgenthaler, were also natives of Wurtemberg, and emigrated to America 
in 1840, arriving in New York on the 2d of May. They then came on to 
Pleasant Township, Marion County, where they both died. Henry was ap- 
prenticed when fourteen to the cooper trade and served two years. He 
came to the United States in 1840 and worked one year in New York City, 
fourteen years in Philadelphia, Penn., and in 1854 came to Marion, where 
he still follows his trade. In 1845, he was married to Catharine Brow, and 
they have five children — Callie, Sarah, Henry, John and William. In 
1864, he was a member of Company B, One Hundred and Thirty-sixth 
Regiment Ohio National Guard. 

DAVID MOUSER is a native of Pickaway County, Onio, born Septem- 
ber 21, 1810, the son of James and Mary (Potts) Mouser. natives of Virginia 
and of Anglo-Germanic descent. They moved to Marion County in 1833. 
stopping one year in Marion Township, but settled permanently in Grand 
Prairie Township. He died in 1861, aged eighty years; and she in 1844, 
aged about fifty-six years. David, having obtained the rudiments of an 
education, commenced to learn the blacksmith's trade of his father when aged 
thirteen years, and has followed this business for fifty years or more, ac- 
quiring a good property and a comfortable home in Marion. He is the 
oldest blacksmith in the county, having devoted his life to this occupation. 
He is a member of the Regular Baptist Church, to which he contributes 
liberally. He first married, February 8, 1828, Lucy Thar, and nine chil- 
dren blessed this union, four of whom are living — Abigail,' born November 
28, 1832; Louisa A., April 16, 1838; Mary O, April 6, 1842; and Ellen 
L., June 19, 1852. The deceased are Rebecca J., born May 13, 1830, dy- 
ing July 7, 1832; James, born March 13, 1835 ; dying January 12, 1838; 
William T., February 1, 1841, dying May 11, 1841; Emily, July 14, 1844, 
dving February 28, 1845; and Silas P., February 1, 1846, dying July 7, 
1848. This wife was born May 17, 1808, and died December 31, 1863. 
He married his present wife November 6, 1881, Mrs. Elizabeth Jones, 
Isaiah Jones' widow. 

JOHN B. MOUSER, son of Isaac B. and Mary M. (Ireland) Mouser, 
was born on the old homestead September 24, 1852; was educated at the 
common schools, remaining at home until he attained his majority; then 
commenced to work in Big Island Township for Titus & Wortbridge, learn- 
ing engineering. He was employed by this firm three years, when they 
dissolved, and he formed a partnership with Mr. Titus. They purchased 
the saw mill and did a good business for one year, under the firm name of 
Titus & Mouser. The latter came to Marion in 1878, entering the Huber 
Machine Works. His particular business is to test engines, but he is called 
to any and all of the machinery departments, sometimes acting in the capac- 
ity of chief engineer. In 1881, he became a stockholder in the company. 
He is an efficient engineer and a highly respected young man. He is a 
straight Republican, a member of the Free-Will Baptist Church and of the 
I. O. O. F., the Mizpah Encampment, No. 50. 

W. M. MUNTSINGER, merchant, was born in Marion, Ohio, June 
1 6, 1846, son of Michael and Mary (Gresley ) Muntsinger. The father emigrated 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 615 

from Germany when a young man and located at Marion, and the mother emi- 
grated from Germany with her parents when a child and settled in Marion. 
They were married in the year 1845. Michael Muntsinger was a weaver 
by trade, and followed it here a number of years; he was also engaged in 
the grocery business. His death occurred January 8, 1865. Mrs. Munt- 
singer now resides in Toledo. W. M. is the eldest of eight children. He 
grew to manhood in Marion and was educated in the high schools At an 
early age, he began clerking in his father's store, and in 1861 engaged in 
the mercantile business, and has been successfully engaged in it ever since. 
He occupied the old Ault & Gordon stand until March, 1878, when he moved 
to his present place in the Masonic Block. He carries a well -selected stock 
of dry goods, to the amount of $10,000, and is doing a good business. He 
married, in July, 1869, Mrs. Magdalena Hecker, daughter of F. X. Zach- 
rnan, and a native of Waldo Township. They have two children— Bertha 
E. and William A. Mr. and Mrs. Muntsinger are members of the Method- 
ist Episcopal Church. 

C. H. NORRIS, attorney, was born in Waldo Township September 29, 
1849. When four years of age, his parents, Daniel and Rosanna (French) 
Norris, removed to Cardington, Morrow County, and resided there until 
1866, when they came to Marion. Mr. Norris graduated at the Cardington 
High School in 1866, and the nest year entered the law school at Ann 
Arbor, Mich., and completed his course at that institution in June, 1869. 
He was admitted to the bar at Dayton, Ohio, and in July was nominated 
for Prosecuting Attorney, which office he tilled for eight consecutive years. 
In 1880, Mr. Norris was chosen by the Democratic party as a candidate for 
Congress, and, although defeated, he reduced the majority of his political 
opponent. Mr. Norris. devotes his attention exclusively to his profession, 
and has been successful in its pursuits. He married Miss Isabella Prosser, 
daughter of Thomas Prosser, a highly respected citizen of Marion County. 
Mr. and Mrs. Norris have one child — Daniel P. Mr. Norris is a member 
of the Blue Lodge, Chapter, Council and Commandery of the Masonic or- 
der. In politics, he is a Democrat. 

WILLIAM T. OWEN is the fourth son of Charles and Esther (Bra- 
shares) Owen, a native of Claridon Township, born November 23, 1842. 
His parents were of Welsh and Scotch ancestry; he obtained a good educa- 
tion, attending a number of terms the Ohio Wesleyan University, and when 
aged sixteen he commenced teaching, continuing off and on fifteen years. 
October 29, 1872, he married Sarah A. Gruber, daughter of Abraham and 
Francis (Bell) Gruber, and five children have been born to them — Francis 
H, Eva M., Clara B., William T. and Elizabeth G. Mr. Owen is the 
owner of 106 acres of excellent land. He is industrious and a highly re 
spected citizen. He served as a member of the Board of School Examiners 
of Marion County seven years, declining to serve longer. He is a stanch 
Prohibitionist, and is nominated now (October, 1883) for Representative to 
the Legislature. He is an honored member of the F. & A. M. , and, with 
his wife, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

L. L. PATTEN, a leading grocer of Marion, is a son of Orren Patten, 
deceased. He was born in Marion October 11, 1855, and graduated at the 
High School in the class of 1871. After clerking for Williams Bros, two 
and a half years, and for Baker, Sturgeon & Co. a short time, he secured a 
situation as a clerk with L. A. Smith & Co., of Detroit, Mich. He returned 
to Marion and formed a partnership with C. B. Burkholder, under the firm 
name of Burkholder & Patten, and were engaged in the millinerv and 



616 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

fancy goods business for a time. He was for one year a elerk in the Marion 
Deposit Bank, and November 6, 1878, he engaged in the grocery business with 
Mr. Whitmarsh. The firm of Whitmarsh & Patten dissolved March 5, 1880, 
and since that Mr. Patten has conducted his business alone, carrying a stock 
of $3, 500 worth of groceries and provisions. January 21, 1878. he was 
married to Miss Maggie H. Wallace, daughter of T. P. Wallace. One 
daughter — Lucretia Leomoin — was born to this union, January 28, 1881. 

ORREN PATTEN, deceased, the subject of this memoir, for many years 
a prominent business man of Marion and one of its most honorable and 
highly respected citizens, was born in Delaware County, Ohio, May 27, 
1817. His parents, William and Mary Patten, were among the earliest 
settlers in Delaware County. In 1822, they removed and settled in Pros- 
pect Township, near where the village of Prospect now stands. Mr. Patten 
was a soldier in the late war with Great Britain, and in early days was a local 
minister in the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Patten, the subject of this 
sketch, was reared until fifteen years of age on a farm, and in common 
with those of his time, received only such an education as the common dis- 
trict schools afforded. In 1832, he came to Marion and took the position 
of clerk in the drug store of his brother, Richard Patten, with whom ho 
Jived and was associated in business for a term of years. He then entered 
the employ of Busby & Bartram, merchants, and continued with them as 
clerk till 1849. In October of the same year, he and T. P. Wallace formed 
a partnership, under the firm name of Patten & Wallace, and embarked in 
merchandising. June 10, 1854, when the Deposit Bank was established, 
Mr. Wallace became the cashier, leaving Mr. Patten in charge of the store. 
He continued in this department of their business till 1856, when the store 
was sold and he joined Mr. Wallace in the bank, where he spent the remain- 
der of his business life. Mr. Patten was a man of excellent business abil- 
ity, and by his honorable and upright dealings, won the highest respect 
and esteem of all who knew him. He possessed the sterling traits of char- 
acter that made him a valuable citizen and neighbor. In the public enter- 
prises and improvements of the community, he always rendered an active 
and liberal support. In enterprises of a charitable or benevolent character, 
his assistance was always felt. Commencing life as a poor boy, like his 
partner, Mr. Wallace, he rose from the humble situation of a chore boy to 
the position of a successful banker. During the war, Mr. Patten, although 
not in the ranks of the army, was ever active in the interests of the soldier's 
family. September 17, 1844, he was united in marriage with Miss Laura 
T. Priest, daughter of Alvin C. Priest. She died October 30, 1847, and 
Mr. Patten celebrated his second marriage, October 23, 1849, with Miss A. 
N. Simms, daughter of John and Julia Simms, the former a native of Mary- 
land and the latter of Pennsylvania. Mrs. Patten is a uative of Belmont 
County, Ohio. They had three sons — George W., L. L. , above mentioned, 
and Carl W. of Casper County, Neb. Mr. Patten departed this life Octo- 
ber 31, 1872, and was interred in the Marion Cemetery. He was brought 
up in the Methodist Episcopal Church, but he never united with any relig- 
ious denomination. He was a man of good principle, and, while not a 
member of any church, he often contributed to their support. Politically, 
he was a Republican. He served as Clerk of Marion Township from 1839 
to 1853. 

CAPT. EBENEZER PETERS was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, Jan- 
uary 27, 1818. His parents, Samuel and Mary (Stevenson) Peters, hailed 
from Philadelphia, Penn., and Manchester, Md\, respectively. They were 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 617 

married in 1794, and in 1813, removed to Fairfield County, where his (the 
Captain's) grandfather, David Stevenson, had entered 1,200 acres of land, 
eight miles from Lancaster. His grandfather had moved there about 1809, 
and died upon the anniversary of his birth in 1826, aged ninety years. His 
wife died on her birthday at the same age. Our subject's father was Post- 
master at Manchester, Md., about six years and died near Lancaster in 
1829, aged fifty-eight years. His wife was eighty-eight years old when she 
died in 1860. The Captain is the youngest of a family of thirteen children, 
eleven of whom are living. At a re-union of the family in Pickaway 
County, Ohio, October 8, 1882, the eleven were present — in all, 120 of the 
name. The average age of the eleven was seventy-six and one-half years, 
ranging from sixty-five to eighty-seven years. Mr. Peters passed his 
youth upon the farm, and obtained his education at the district school and 
at Granville Baptist College. In 1832, he came to Marion, remaining one 
year, when he returned to Fairfield Amanda University, studying and teach- 
ing one year in that institution. The two subsequent years he followed 
teaching. In 1838, he again came to Marion and entered tbe mercantile 
trade, with Henry Peters; H. & E. Peters was the name of the firm. He 
continued thus three years, and then was the sole proprietor two years. Next 
he was a partner with J. D. Butler, under the name of E. Peters & Co., 
which company existed two years. He then continued alone until retiring 
in 1850 He had thus been handling stock twelve years, but he soon en- 
gaged more extensively, following it fifteen more years, trading in Ohio 
and Illinois. August 28, 1862, he enlisted in the One Hundred and Twen- 
ty first Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, as Quartermaster General, serv- 
ing in that capacity two years. He was engaged at Perryville, Stone River, 
Chickamauga, Shelbyville, Lookout Mountain and Mission Ridge. At the 
last place he was stricken with spinal trouble, from which he has never 
fully recovered. He receives a pension of $20 a month. In October, 1863, 
he was promoted to the Caplaincy. His discharge dates May — , 
1864. In April, 1865, he was appoiuted State Agent for North Caro- 
lina and South Carolina. In July, 1846, he wedded Miss Elizabeth 
Rightley, who died in 1851, leaving two children, both now deceased. 
He was wedded again in October, 1853, to Miss Elvira Gardner, who died 
in August, 1854, His third and final marriage took place December 25, 
1855, with -Miss Narcissus D. Holmes. Her death occurred in October, 
1881, leaving no children. Since the war, Capt. Peters has been physi- 
cally disqualified for the performance of any labor. Was at one time a 
farmer and owned 600 acres of land. He reared Durham cattle and Span- 
ish Merino sheep, and was a regular exhibitor at the fair. He retired from 
farming in 1877. He was Auditor of the county from 1851 to 1852, and a 
member of the State Legislature during 1854-55. He was President of the 
School Board eight years, and also of the Agricultural Society for the same 
length of time. Politically, he is a Republican, and a member of the G. 
A R. 

HARVEY PETERS, deceased, was born in Marion March 4. 1828, and 
was the second son of Nathan and Alice Peters. He passed his childhood 
and youth in the village of bis nativity, and entered the drug business with 
his brother, Wilson Peters, in 1854. He followed this trade until the Jan- 
uary of 1881, when he retired. In 1856, his brother sold his interest, and 
our subject continued alone until 1863, when he sold to Mr. Sharpless. 
Rusticating six months, he re-entered the business with F. C. Ruehrmund, 
who were partners two or three years; then the latter gentleman retired, 



618 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

and Mr. Peters continued alone until 1881. He was the oldest druggist in 
Marion, having been engaged in that business over twenty-live years. He 
was a respected citizen and a very successful business man. He was joined 
in marriage in Baltimore, Md., December '29, 1864, to Miss Martha A. 
Boyd, daugther of Hiram and Matilda (Harbaugh) Boyd, of Maryland and 
Pennsylvania, severally. Mrs. Peters is a native of Adams County, Penn. 
Their three children are Fannie, burn August 7, 1867; Walter B., born 
August 14, 1869; and Frederick W., born January 5, 1871. Mr. Peters' 
death occurred January 1, 1883. He had served as a member of the City 
Council a number oE terms, and as a Trustee of the township many years, 
and was a man of good ability. He was a Knight Templar. Mrs. Peters 
came to Marion in the spring of 1857, and has since resided here. She has two 
brothers, Joseph J. and Henry L. Boyd, who were soldiers, the former in 
the 100-day service; Henry L, enlisted in Company H, Fourth Regiment 
Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and also in a 100-day regiment. Here-enlisted 
in the One Hundred and Seventy-fourth Regiment, serving to the close of 
the strife. He was a Lieutenant and fought in many of the leading bat- 
tles. They both reside in Larimer County, Colo., and are natives of Adams 
County, Penn. They came to Mendon, Ohio, with their father, who died a 
short time after, and they moved to Marion County, living here until their 
enlistment. Henry L. went to Colorado soon after his return from the 
war; but J. J. continued in business here until 1874, when he followed his 
brother. 

NATHAN PETERS, the subject of this sketch, was born in Manches- 
ter, Baltimore Co., Md., June 20, 1799. He emigrated to Fairfield Coun- 
ty, Ohio, in 1817, and thence to Marion in April, 1826. The county was 
then much of it new and unbroken forest. The portrait of Mr. Peters, 
made from a photograph, the best that could be obtained, fails to do him 
justice in the ripe manhood of his life. He possessed a brain which ill 
accorded with his body; the nervous system greatly predominated. He was 
profound and deeply theoretical, looking more into the interior essence of 
subjects and discussing their special relations and properties. Mr. Peters 
possessed independence of spirit and great constructive ability and method. 
He was more sensible than showy, very sedate among strangers and ex- 
tremely modest. His large human nature aided bim in the faithful por- 
traiture of character, whether in domestic or public life. He was eminently 
a self-made man; his education was derived chiefly at home from the in 
struction of his father. He drew two prizes in the matrimonial lottery. His 
union with Miss Alice Wilson, a woman of Scotch descent, who was well 
worthy of his affections on account of her many excellent qualities of mind 
and heart, possessing classical features of great beauty, was blessed with 
seven children, four sons and three daughters, the eldest son being Wilson 
Peters and the eldest daughter Charlotte Baker, wife of Hon. A. W. Baker, 
of Van Wert, Ohio; and Pauline, the fifth child, are the only children now 
living. This marriage was celebrated January 10, 1825, and severed by 
death October 13, 1838. Five years later, January 2, 1842, Mr. Peters was 
married to Mrs. Mary Ballantine, then denominated a Connecticut beauty, 
who was born September 4, 1820, and died December 18, 1850. The three 
daughters of this union are Mrs. Mary Ellen Camp, wife of Capt. William 
M. Camp, of Bement, 111. ; Mrs. Irene L. Beerbower, wife of ex-Postmas- 
ter Samuel T. Beerbower, of Marion, Ohio, and Mrs. Alice Williams, wife 
of Jamesy Williams, hardware merchant, of Cleveland, Ohio. Mr. Peters 
died at his residence on Mount Vernon avenue, September 22, 1881, having 



MARION TOWJNSHIP. 619 

been a resident of the town fifty-five years. At his funeral, assembled ten 
brothers and sisters, of a family of thirteen children. Seven brothers acted 
as pall-bearers to lay him to rest near the spot where fifty-five years previous 
he had come in a wagon drawn by four horses, on account of the mud, with 
all his earthly possessions, including his wife and eldest child. Thus he 
rose from grim poverty, by his own indomitable energy and will, to the 
possession of a handsome fortune. Mr. Peters was an honorable, upright 
man, and was universally respected. 

WILSON PETERS, the eldest son and child of Nathan Peters, 
was born at Lancaster, Fairfield County, Ohio, November 27, 1825. 
The following year, 1826, he was brought by his parents to Marion, 
where he was reared to manhood. He was educated in the public schools 
and in Otterbein University and Dr. Williams' Academy, near Lancaster. 
In 1843, he returned to Marion, and in the same year, with his father, en- 
gaged in the drug trade, under the firm name of W. Peters & Co. This 
partnership continued four years and dissolved; Mr. Peters then admitted 
his brother as a partner, and the firm of W. &. H. Peters continued two 
years. Since that time, Mr. Peters, our subject, has devoted his attention 
to farming. He owns 103 acres of land, eighty of which are within the cor- 
porate limits of Marion. In May, 1864, Mr. Peters enlisted as a member 
of Company B, One Hundred and Thirty-sixth Regiment Ohio National 
Guard, and was engaged on garrison duty at Alexandria, Va. , till his dis- 
charge in September, 1864. January 22, 1881, he was united in marriage 
with Mrs. Olive S. Southwick, widow of Corydon Southwick, deceased, and 
daughter of Reuben Smith, a pioneer. Mrs. Peters was born in Marion 
County May 18, 1835. She had one child by her former husband, a 
daughter, now deceased. 

DAVID PETTIT, deceased, was born in Miami County, Ohio, June 9, 
1820. He was a son of John and Elizabeth (Dye) Pettit, natives of Penn 
sylvania and Ohio respectively, and of English descent. The father came 
to the above county at a very early day. Our subject acquired a good com- 
mon school education and was married, September 20, 1842, to Catherine 
Shidaker, born January 6, 1822, a daughter of Valentine and Emily (Har 
ter) Shidaker. The former was of German and the latter of English descent, 
and natives of Maryland and Kentucky, respectively. This couple were 
married in Miami County, Ohio, in a very early day, and were the parents 
of eight children, all living save one — Mitchell W., Catherine, Henry C. , 
Andrew J., Jonathan T., Sarah L. and Robert F. Lucy L. died January 16, 
1859. The father's death took place in May, 1835, while the mother is 
still living. David and Catherine Pettit have had six children — Emma N. , 
born March 17, 1847; Cora C, December 9, 1850; and David, September 
6, 1859. The deceased are an infant, Eva B. , born September 17, 1856, 
died July 28, 1865; and Katie, born September 6, 1859. died June 16, 
1864. Our subject became a settler in Marion County in 1852-53, purchas- 
ing land three miles north of the town. This land amounted in time to 
2,000 acres. He was a prominint stock-dealer, continuing as such all his 
life. He was President of the Agricultural Society four years, and one of 
the principal exhibitors. His death occurred December 13, 1868. He was 
a member of the Christian Church and a liberal contributor to all worthy 
enterprises. 

WILLIAM C. RAPP. City Marshal, was born in Wurtemberg, Ger- 
many, July 21, 1844. In 1852, his parents, Jacob and Catherine Kapp, 
crossed the Atlantic waters with two of their children, settling three miles 



620 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

south of Marion. The remainder of the family, among whom was William 
C, came the following year with an uncle, Frederick Rapp. The names of 
the children are Catherine, William, Frederick, Margaret, David, W. 0., 
Rosanna, Caroline and John; four living. Their father held a position in 
the old country corresponding with the office of Probate Judge in this 
country, but himself and wife both fell victims to the cholera in 1854. 
William C. Bapp acquired his education in the common schools, and when 
eighteen enlisted, August 17, 1862. in Company B, One Hundred and 
Twenty-first Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, under Capts. Martin, Clay- 
son and Irwin. Their regiment did memorable service at Perryville, Frank- 
lin, Chickamauga, Missionary Ridge and during the Atlanta campaign. 
Mr. Rapp was wounded in the left arm in the charge at Kenesaw Mountain. 
He lay in the hospitals at Nashville, Jeffersonville, Camp Dennison and 
Cleveland, altogether about six months. He was honorably discharged in 
May, 1865, upon a certificate declaring a disability. Returning home, he 
worked out by the day and month until May, 1869, when he formed a 
partnership with S. J. Snyder, doing a successful grocery and provision 
business, on South Main street, for three years. The firm then dissolved 
and our subject clerked for Mr. Snyder five years. May 18, 1871, he wed 
ded Miss Clara Idleman, daughter of Silas and Catherine (Pontius) Idle- 
man. She died January 10, 1874, aged twenty-seven years, leaving Orlan- 
do S., born Juno 14, 1872. He again married, May 29, 1883, Mrs. Ida M. 
Walters, the widow of James C. Walters, and daughter of Francis Campbell. 
In the spring of 1878, Mr. Rapp was appointed on the Marion Police force, 
serving six months, when he took charge of the fire engine team. He con- 
tinued in this position until he was elected City Marshal in April, 1880 
(serving as Township Treasurer the previous year) . He was re-elected in 
1882 and still holds that office. In August, 1883, his party, Republican, 
nominated him for the Sheriff's office, almost by acclamation. He holds a 
membership in the Methodist Episcopal Church, the G. A. R. and the K. 
of P., being Sir Knight Commander of the Marion Division, No. 15, of the 
same. 

SAMUEL L. RAYL was born in Beaver County, Penn., September 2, 
1827; his parents, Samuel and Sophia (Lyon) Rayl, had twelve children, 
of whom four are living. When nine years of age, his father removed to 
Marion County, locating in Pleasant Township. In 1838, he moved to 
Waldo Township and two years later settled in Green Camp Township, 
where Samuel L. passed his youth, attending common school and clearing 
up the homestead. In 1848, he and his brother John took charge of the 
home place, ninety acres of which fell to him and his brother, and they 
together purchased 148 acres of the same farm, clearing it and making all 
the improvements. They continued buying in partnership until they owned 
960 acres in this county" and 110 in Alien County, Ohio. In April, 1877, 
they divided their land property and Mr. Rayl received 435 acres, located 
in Green Camp and Big Island Townships. This included 203£ acres 
of the homestead, which he still owns. They had reared stock ex- 
clusively for twenty-five years, dissolving in 1878. Since then Mr. S. L. 
Rayl has been grazing graded stock and shipping to Eastern markets, now 
pasturing usually about 100 head of cattle. At present he owns 560 acres 
of land in the above-named townships. His marriage occurred November 
29, 1860, to Miss Priscilla Uncapher, a daughter of Solomon and Hannah 
(Shoemaker) Uncapher. Her birth took place Januai'y 21, 1842, in Marion 
Township. Five children are the fruit of this union— John E., Catherine 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 621 

J., Margaret M. , Luella and Evert P. John E. is ticket and freight agent 
at the Cleveland, Columbus, Cinncinnati & Indianapolis depot. November 
25, 1879, Mr. Rayl moved his family to Marion, where, on West Center 
street, his residence is located. He is a stanch Republican, and was very 
active during the civil war; was Trustee of Green Camp Township one 
term, is a member of the Royal Arcanum, and he and wife hold a member- 
ship in the Free-Will Baptist Church. 

FELIX REBER was born May 4, 1831, in Fairfield County, Ohio, 
son of T. V. and Rachel (Allen) Reber, who came to Wyandot County, 
Ohio, in 1853, settling in the " Armstrong Bottom. " He obtained thirty- 
nine acres of his land from the Government in 1851, paying $1,200. In 
time he owned nearly 1,000 acres in Marion Township. He is still living, 
aged seventy-seven years, doing all his business, having reared a family of 
eight children; his wife is still living, aged seventy-five years. Mr. Felix 
Reber, haviug obtained a fair education, married, September 4,1853, Miss 
Harriet Brobst, daughter of Jacob and Phebe Brobst, of Pickaway County, 
Ohio, and they have had seven children, whose names are Samuel, Sarah, 
Ida (wife of James Hill), Frank, Eugene, Cora and Nellie. In 1871, Mr. 
Reber inherited and purchased his present farm of 315 acres, three miles 
northwest of town, valued now at $85 per acre. He erected his beautiful 
residence and surrounding buildings in 1879, at an expenditure of $6,000. 
His large, commodious house is built of brick and is finished with all the 
modern improvements. Mrs. Reber is a member of the Presbyterian 
Church, and he affiliates with the I. O. O. F. at Marion, and is a zealous 
Republican. 

J. S. REED, President of Marion County Bank, and the oldest banker 
in the county, was burn in Franklin County, Mass., April 13, 1819. He is 
the son of James and Sophronia Reed (first spelled Reade, then Read, but 
now Reed). William Reade, born in 1606, son of William and Lucy (Hen- 
age) Reade, sailed for America from Gravesend, Kent County, England, in 
1635, settling in Weymouth, Mass. Mr. Reed's grandfather, Benjamin 
Reed, served during the entire Revolutionary war as an officer. His orand- 
father, Amasa Smith, was at West Point, Captain of the militia. The 
parents of J. S. moved when he was a boy to New York City, and educated 
him to the mercantile business. He followed the career of a clerk until 
1839, when he came to Marion, engaging in the mercantile trade on Main 
street, opposite the court house. His parents arrived in 1844, and resided 
here till their death, the old gentleman dying in 1881, aged ninety-eight 
years, the oldest man in the county at that time. The mother died in 1854. 
They had three children — J. S., Elizabeth, deceased (wife of Dr. True); 
and Sarah, wife of R. H. Johnson. Mr. Reed continued as a merchant, 
having in connection a private bank, until 1859; he then x'etired from the 
former business and devoted his attention exclusively to banking. He is 
the oldest banker in the cmuty. In December of 1841, l\e married Miss N. 
A. Holmes, daughter of Samuel Holmes, one of the original founders of 
Marion, surveying the county for the Government and laying out the town 
of Marion. He has three children — Sophronia, wife of John Williams, of 
Chicago; James H. , who married Elizabeth, daughter of Ebenezer Par- 
dee, also a stockholder in the same bank; and Sarah E.,wife of James Del- 
ano, a merchant and manufacturer of Boston, Mass. Mr. Reed and wife 
are members of the Episcopal Church, of which he is Senior Warden; he is 
also a member of the Blue Lodge, Chapter and Council of the Masonic 
fraternity. Mr. Reed has been a successful merchant and banker and has 



■ 622 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

amassed considerable wealth. He was for tea years general adjuster of 
several of the principal insurance companies of the United States, and while 
in that position he audited larga sums of money for indemnity of losses in 
the great fires of Boston, Chicago, St. Louis and Louisville. Mr. Reed 
has one of the finest and most extensive libraries in the county, containing 
many ancient volumes and valuable papers, among the latter a quaint-look- 
ing old check filled up and signed by Col. Aaron Burr, upon the old Manhattan 
Bank, of New York City. Upon the door of Mr. Reed's reading room there 
is an ancient knocker, made in England prior to 1750, which has been used 
continuously in the old Colonial and Revolutionary days down to the pres- 
ent time. 

ELIAS RILEY was born in Sussex County, Del., December 12, 1804, 
the son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Bennett) Riley; the former was of English 
and the latter of Irish ancestry, and both natives of the above State. Mr. 
Riley came to Pickaway County, Ohio, and thence to Marion County in 
1827, entering in Marion Township, with his brother William, 240 acres of 
land and residing thereon twelve years. March 12, 1846, he purchased of 
the Government 240 acres in Pleasant Township, which he sold in 1871 to 
John Owens, for $88 per acre. Mr. Riley was married February 6, 1834, 
to Sarah A. Moore, a daughter of Benjamin and Rebecca (Biggerstaff) 
Moore, of French and English ancestry, and natives of Virginia. They 
came to Fairfield County, Ohio, in 1816 and moved to Marion County in 
1827. The father died in 1860, aged seventy-nine years, and the mother 
in 1861, aged about seventy-eight years. Mr. and Mrs. Riley were the 
parents of six children, four of whom are now living, namely: Isaac N., 
born February 21, 1838; Rebecca J., February 22,1840; Lizzie A., June 
18, 1843; Hannah AY., February 21, 1848; Jacob B. was born December 
13, 1834, and died November 19, 1850; and Benjamin B. was born June 
2, 1836, and died February 2, 1858; Mrs. Riley was born June 7, 1814, 
and died June 23, 1883. Mr. Riley is a retired farmer, having in all 158 
acres of land and a comfortable frame residence located upon South Main 
street. He is a respected citizen, a Republican, and a member of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. 

JOHN P. RILEY, deceased, was born December 8, 1814; he was a son 
of John and Jane Riley; the forinsr was born in Ireland and educated there 
for a Roman Catholic priest, but, abandoning the faith, he sailed for 
America and became one of the first settlers of Pennsylvania. With his 
wife, who was of German extraction, he removed to Marion County in 1831, 
locating in Marion Township. This family numbered four children — 
Jane M. , wife of Horace Allen, of Delaware, Ohio; Smith, of Kansas; El- 
len M., wife of Marvin Edgerton (deceased), formerly of Iowa, now of 
Cincinnati, Ohio; and John P. John Riley's death occurred in 1840, aged 
about eighty-five years; his wife survived him nine years, dying in 1849. 
The subject of this memoir married, March 3,1841, Miss Sarah A. Malone, 
daughter of Richard and Rebecca (Arthur) Malone, of English descent; 
they were natives of Kentucky and Virginia respectively, and emigrated 
to Ohio, and to Marion County in 1832, settlirig in Marion Township. Mr. 
Riley bought 160 acres of land. There were born to them eight children, 
two of whom are living — Sarah and Martha J. Richard M. died in 1870. 
aged seventy-six years; his wife died several years before. Mr. and Mrs. 
Riley were blessed with seven children — John R., born October 6, 1S42; 
Almeda E., November 11, 1844; Horace W., December 27, 1846; Martha 
O., April 12, 1849; Thomas P., August 30, 1850; and James B., June 4, 



.MARION TOWNSHIP. 623 

1856. Joseph W., born August 3, 1859, died September 10, 1869. Their 
mother was born April 6, 1824 Oar subject obtained such an education as 
the pioneer days afforded. He learned the cooper's trade when fifteen, and 
followed it about five years. After this he turned his attention to agricult- 
ure and the rearing of stock. He was a resident of this county, one of 
the leading farmers, and the owner of 700 acres of productive land. He began 
in life with nothing save his iron will and strong and ready hand, and ac- 
cumulated the above possessions, leaving an estate of $40,000. He was an 
honored and respected citizen; was a Democrat in politics, and with his 
family associated with the Presbyterian Church, to which he was a liberal 
contributor when called upon. His death took place April 2, 1879. 

JAMES B. RILEY is the youngest of seven children born to John P. 
and Sarah A. (Malone) Riley. The common school gave him his education; 
he remained on the farm until marriage, which occurred December 29, 
1875, to Miss Ella Conley, daughter of Edmund and Jane A. Conley. The 
name of their one child is Ollie. Mr. Riley inherited from his father's 
large estate 100 acres; this he keeps in good repair, on which he has 
already buried 400 rods of tile. His barn was built in 1856. Mr. Riley 
enrolls his name with the Democracy, is an active member of the I. O. O. 
F., and is liberal with his means to all benevolent and charitable objects. 

JOHN S. RILEY is a native of Marion County, born September 6, 1832, 
the son of -John J. and Betsey M. (Seymore) Riley, of English and Irish 
extraction respectively, and natives of New York and Ohio. Having mar- 
ried in Pickaway County, Ohio, they came to. Marion County at a very 
early date, where they lived and died, he in 1863, aged about sixty years, 
and she on August 18, 1873, aged eighty-three years. Mr. Riley, the sub- 
ject of this sketch, having finished his education at Kenton, Ohio, married 
Catharine A. Campbell, daughter of Francis and Betsey Campbell, and 
eight children have been born to them, six living — Francis O, Chester G., 
Catherine, John E., William and Thomas. Ellen and James (twin to 
Thomas) are deceased. Mr. Riley owns a farm of 145 acres located in Salt 
Rock Township, which he has been renting since 1878. He is at present a 
resident of Marion. While a citizen of Salt Rock, ho was a Justice of the 
Peace three years, its Trustee two years, and connected with the School 
Board nearly all the time. Since coming to town he has been a member of 
the Council two years. He associates with the Free-Will Baptist Church, 
is liberal with his means and is a supporter of the Democracy. 

F. C. RUEHRMUND, teller of the Farmers' Bank, is a native of the 
province of Saxony, Germany; he was born April 19, 1825. In March, 
1841, his parents, Philip F. and Rosa Ruehrmund, embarked for America 
on a sailing vessel, but Mrs. Ruehrmund died while at sea. Mr. P. F. 
Ruehrmund came on to Marion County and lived until his death with his 
son Ferderick A, who had emigrated in 1839. Mr. F. C. Ruehrmund, the 
subject of this notice, is the youngest of four children. He learned the 
trade of book- binding in Germany, and came to America with his parents 
in 1841. After living in Richland Towuship two years, he came to Marion 
and learned shoe-making. He clerked for Bain & Williams three years, and 
afterward became partner with John E. Davids in tbe mercantile trade. 
This firm dissolved in 1852, and Mi*. Ruehrmund clerked for various parties 
until 1858. He next purchased a store in Caledonia and conducted it till 
1863; then returned to Marion, clerked for John E. Davids two years, after 
which time he became a partner with Harvey Peters in the drug business. 
In 1867, he sold his interest and botight a stock of goods of Davids & 



t>24 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Holmes and continued in the mercantile trade till he became teller in the 
Farmers' Bank in 1879. April 19, 1849, Mr. Ruehrmund was married to 
Miss Mary A. Loebrich, by whom he has had ten children, viz.: Henry L., 
who died at the age of seventeen months; Mary A., wife of John Merrill; 
Elizabeth S., Flora L., Dora I, Philip F., Emma, Mary E. and Remate. 
Mr. Rnehrmund is a member of the Masonic order —Lodge, Chapter and 
Council; he has been a member since 1853, and is now Secretary of the 
lodge. He was a member of the School Board for ten years, and in politics 
is a Republican. 

S. H. RUPP was born in Pleasant Towaship, this county, October 25, 
1835. His parents, David and Sarah (Noble) Rupp, were natives of Cum- 
berland County, Penn. They were married in 1828, and in June, 1831, 
they removed to Ohio, and on the 10th day of that month settled in Pleas- 
ant Township, where S. H. was born. Mr. David Rupp bought eighty 
acres of land, which he subsequently sold, and in 1849 purchased six acres, 
on which he died, December 30, 1879, at the advanced age of eighty-three 
years seven months and five days. His widow followed him September 19, 
1881, at the age of seventy-seven years. They were the parents of eight 
children, viz. : Jonah, Mary (wife of Addison Tavenner), John, Henry, S. 
H. (the subject of this sketch), William D., Sarah J. (wife of J. F. Curren), 
Minerva E., wife of J. W. Harruff. Mr. Rupp, the subject of this notice, 
was brought up on a farm, and received his education in the common 
schools. He taught school winters from 1856 to 1865, and then pursued 
the vocation of farming till 1874, when he came to Marion. He was en- 
gaged in the Auditor and Clerk's office, till October, 1879, when he was 
elected to the office of Recorder. He was re-elected to the same position in 
October, 1882. He also served Pleasant Township as Clerk eight years and 
Assessor two years, and is now filling the office of member of the City 
Council. April 7, 1880, he was married to Miss Mary A. , daughter of 
Robert Robinson, a native of Ireland. Mrs. Rupp was born in Ireland 
April 10, 1858, and came to Ohio in 1875. Mr. and Mrs. Rupp are mem- 
bers of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Rupp is also a member of 
the I. O. O. F. and of the Encampment, a higher branch of Odd Fellow- 
ship, and has filled all the chairs in both departments. 

JACOB RUTHARDT, deceased, was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, 
August 22, 1830, the son of Frederick and Catherine (Reich) Ruthardt. 
who came across the sea in 1854, settling in Marion Township, where they 
resided until 1860, when they moved to Marion. Mr. Ruthardt died Sep- 
tember 7, 1882, aged eighty years; Mrs. Ruthardt died March 7, 1882. 
They had three children, of whom the subject of this sketch is the eldest, 
As a farmer boy, the common school gave him his education; he mastered 
the trade of a stone mason in three years, beginning when fourteen. He 
followed it in the " Fatherland " till 1849, when he came to New York City, 
engaging in a marble shop until 1861; at that time he moved to Richland 
Township, this county, remaining one year; he then (1862) bought a bak- 
ery and restaurant at Marion, which he conducted the remainder of his 
days. December 6, 1856, he was wedded to Miss Catherine Blaich, also of 
Wurtemberg, Germany. She was born at that place March 17, 1834, and 
arrived in this country in 1852. Four children have been born to them, 
two living — Louisa and Minnie; William and John are deceased. Mr. 
Ruthardt was kicked by a horse February 12, 1864, and death resulted in- 
stantly. His widow conducted the restaurant with her brother, Jacob 
Blaich, until 1875. She and children are Lutherans, as was also Mr. Rut- 
hardt, and have a residence on Berwick avenue, and other town property. 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 625 

RICHARD SARGENT, deceased, was born in Washington, Perm., 
November 15, 1807, the son of James and Deborah (Conklin) Sargent; the 
former was of Irish and the latter of English lineage, and both natives of 
Pennsylvania. Their marriage resulted in the birth of seven children, one 
surviving, Elizabeth, wife of Joseph Sheppard, who died in the civil war. 
These people died in their native State. Richard Sargent, being well edu- 
cated, moved to Knox County, Ohio, in 1829; one year later, he came to 
Marion County, and June 28, 1831, he married Mehetabel C. Baker, born 
December 22, 1812, a daughter of Eber and Lydia (Smith) Baker. Eber 
was the eldest son of Capt. Smith Baker, who was born in Maine April 27, 
1780, and died in Marion October 6, 1864. He married Lydia Smith June 
29, 1802; she was born at Cape Cod June 29, 1779, and died also in Mar- 
ion, June 24, 1843. They were the first settlers in Marion, arriving in 
1821. Mr. Sargent and wife were the parents of six children — Lydia J., 
born July 7, 1832, and died July 19, 1837; Francis M., born May 22, 1834. 
and died October 12, 1878; Jerome W., born January 1, 1836, and died 
July 21, 1837; Charles C, born January 11, 1837, and died October 6, 
1837; James B., born April 28, 1838, and Viola A., born Jauuary 31, 1845. 
Mr. Sargent was a tailor by trade, and was largely identified with the in- 
terests of Marion. He served as Township Clerk several years, and was a 
stanch Republican. His widow has a comfortable patrimony for her sup- 
port. 

HENRY SCHAFFNER, furniture dealer and undertaker, was born in 
Emngen, Canton of Aargau, Switzerland, May 31, 1831. His parents,jDan- 
iel and Barbara (Weibel) Schaffner, were natives of the same place. They 
were married in 1827, and emigrated to America in 1848, arriving at Mans- 
field, Ohio, in September; the following year they removed to Gabon, 
where Mrs. Schaffner died the same year. Mr. Schaffner' s first wife died 
in Effmgen in 1846. Mr. Schaffner came to New Bloomington, this county, 
in 1862, and in 1869 removed to Dover County, Tenn.; thence to Clay 
County, Kan., where he now resides, at the age of eighty-one years. Henry 
Schaffner was reared principally in his native place, and came to America 
with his parents. December 17, 1849, he came to Marion, and April 1, 
1850, took up the trade of cabinet-maker, serving an apprenticeship of two 
years in Marion and Kenton; he also took instruction in Indianapolis and 
LaFayette, Ind. He made coffins during the cholera epidemic in 1854, and 
worked for Samuel Saiter, David Jameson and Frederick Kowalke until 
1866, when the firm of Fies, Schaffner & Dreyer was formed, and of which 
he remained a member until March 3, 1877. He now has his son Frank 
associated with him. They manufacture all kinds of furniture, and are suc- 
cessful in their business. Mr. Schaffner was married, March 27, 1856, to 
Miss Margaret, daughter of Jacob and Mary Shultz, and a native of Alsace. 
France. They have three children living, viz.: William H, Frank and 
Charles D. ; Mary is deceased. May 2, 1864, Mr. Schaffner enlisted in Com- 
pany B, One Hundred and Thirty-sixth Regiment Ohio National Guards, 
and served four months at Fort Ellsworth and Lyon. He is a member of 
the G. A. R. , and, with his family, a member of the German Lutheran 
Church. 

JOHN SCHNEIDER, the son of Christian and Magdalena (Ott) 
Schneider, of Germany (Baden and Wurtemberg respectively), was born in 
Baden, November 6, 1824. His people were married in the place of his 
nativity, and Mr. Schneider died in 1836, aged fifty-six years, and Mrs. 
Schneider in 1873, aged eighty-three years. Their children numbered 



626 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

seven, John being the youngest. He spent his childhood in town,, taking 
advantage of the common schools. When fourteen, he began to serve an 
apprenticeship of three years at the trade of shoe-maker. He " pounded his 
last " at various places in the jld country until 1847, when he emigrated to 
the " land of the free," locating in the metropolis, plying his business until 
1856; he then came to Marion, where he still follows it. In June, 1857, 
he wedded Miss Louisa M. Meyer, who was born to John M. Meyer in 
Wartemberg, Germany, August 14, 1836. Their six children are Charles 
G., John M., Christian W., Lena L., Clara C. and Lydia B. Mr. Schnei- 
der also deals in boots and shoes, lamps, etc. He owns a residence on 
North Main street. He votes the Democratic ticket, is a member of the 
V. A. O. D., and he and family affiliate with the Lutheran Church. 

JACOB SCHOENLAXJB, who lives in the southeastern part of Marion 
Township, was born in Germany March 5, 1830, the son of Christopher 
and Phoebe Schoenlaub, who emigrated to America in 1833, settling in 
Marion County, entering eighty acres of land. They reared a family of 
five children, and both died in 1842, the father aged fifty-one years, and 
the mother fifty years. Jacob, having obtained a moderate education, en- 
listed when only seventeen years of age in the Mexican war, in Company 
B, Fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He remained until the close 
of the war, being under the direction of Gen. Scott the most of the time. 
Being honorably discharged, he received for his services a " land warrant," 
which in 1851 he exchanged for fifty acres of land in Marion County. He 
now owns 109 acres in good condition, valued at $100 per acre. He built 
a good home in 1881. at a cost of $1,500. Mr. Schoenlaub married, July 29, 
1850, Miss Dietsch, daughter of Michel Dietsch. The names of their nine 
children are Jacob J., George, Elizabeth (wife of George Hineman), and 
Sarah (wife of George Fetter) (twin daughters), John, Catherine, Emma, 
Henry and David. In addition to his farming, Mr. Schoenlaub has been 
running a " thresher " for eleven years. He has been elected Trustee of 
Richland Township, and also its Clerk, which he refused to accept. He holds 
the principles of the Democracy, and he and wife are members of the Luth- 
eran Church, with which he is officially connected. 

JACOB J. SCHOENLAUB, eldest son of the preceding and member 
of the firm of Markert, Schoenlaub & Co., merchants, was born in Richland 
Township May 3, 1852; was reared on a farm till twenty years of age, 
when he came to Marion and clerked for Dennig & Dietsch, grocers, a 
short time; then clerked for Reed & Yake till that firm dissolved, and for 
Yake & Uhler till October, 1881, when he became a member of the firm of 
Markert, Schoenlaub & Co. September 6, 1876, he was married to Miss 
Martha C. Graham, daughter of Thomas and Maria Graham, and a native 
of Marion Township, where she was born September 5, 1852. To them 
has been born one son — Thomas J. — September 29, 1877. Mr. and Mrs. 
S. are members of the Lutheran Church. 

JACOB SCHROTE is a highly respected German citizen, living about 
two miles south of town. He was born March 27, 1819, in Baden, Ger- 
many, son of Jacob and Christiana (Debold) Schrote, who came to America 
in 1832, the father and one child dying on board the vessel with the chol- 
era. The family stopped at Cleveland, and were offered eighty acres where 
that city now stands, for $400, but they preferred Marion County; they set 
tied about three miles southeast of town, buying a little farm of eighty 
acres. Mr. Schrote remained at home with his mother and brother until 
his marriage, which took place April 10, 1845, to Miss Christiana Young, 



MARION TOWNSHIP. _ 627 

daughter of Christian Young. This union resulted in seven children; 
their names are Isaac (dead); Hannah, wife of Christian Gracely; Jacob E. ; 

John W. ; , wife of Rev. Bevington; Annie M. , wife of Dr. Briggs, 

New Bloomington, Ohio, and Frank A., at home. The mother died August 
16, 1877, aged fifty-two years. He married his present wife, Julia A. 
Klinefelter, the following year. Mr. Schrote bought his present farm in 
1848, then 120 acres, but he increased that in time to 400 acres, all joining 
his home farm; he made all the improvements. A good house was built in 
1859, costing $1,500, and a bank barn in 1865, for $1,200. Although Mr. 
Schrote has never called himself a stout man, he has, by continual industry, 
cleared eighty acres of forest land and amassed a good property. In an 
early day he teamed a good deal to Sandusky City and Columbus; was 
also quite an extensive stock- dealer for fifteen years. He and wife have 
been consistent members of the Evangelical Church for years, he officially 
connected. 

GEORGE SCHWEINFURTH was born in Germany March 28, 1845; 
is a son of George and Barbara Schweinfurth, who still resides in Ger- 
many. He was reared to manhood in his native place, and in 1866 crossed 
the waters to America. He came to Marion, then went to Indianapolis; 
thence to Chicago, and in 1869 back to Germany. Returning to the United 
States in 1870, he settled in Marion, ran a cooper shop five years, employ 
ing from four to five men, and April 1, 1870, established the City Bakery. 
He bought the Schweinfurth Block in 1877, and in 1882, erected his resi- 
dence on South Main, which cost $5,000; he also owns the square occupied 
by the "wigwam" and other buildings. March 22, 1870, he married Chris- 
tina, daughter of Jacob and Christina Bensley, and has four children — 
Frank, Bertie, Edna and George. 

P. O. SHARPLESS. It is believed that all now living in the United 
States of the name of Sharpless are descendants from John Sharpies (not 
" Sharpless "), who, with his family, emigrated from England with William 
Penn's colony and landed at Chester, Penn. , on the 24th of August, 1682. 
They were among the earliest settlers of Pennsylvania, and their descend- 
ants are now residents of several of the States. The coat of arms of this 
family has been preserved and handed down from the year 1664. P. O. 
Sharpless, the seventh generation from John Sharpies, was born in Colum- 
bia County, Penn., May 16, 1834. He is a son of Edward and Ann (Pan- 
coast) Sharpless, who were natives of the same county and now residents 
of Marion. When Mr. Sharpless was a child, they emigrated to Wayne 
County, Ohio, and subsequently to near Massillon, and from there, in 1839, 
to Franklin County, and in 1844 to Marion. Mr. Sharpless was engaged 
in the distillation of liquors until 1848, when he retired, and has since that 
time dealt in real estate. P. O. Sharpless, the subject of this notice, was 
reared chiefly in Marion. He began as a clerk in 1848, and in 1853 em- 
barked in the dry goods trade with T. Search, under the firm name of 
Search •& Sharpless. In the fall of 1855, he and D. McWilliams purchased 
a stock of goods of Fisher & Reed, and in 1857 he bought his partner's 
interest and continued in mercantile pursuits until 1863, when he removed 
to Richland County. On his return the following fall, he bought a drug 
stock of H. Peters, and has since been engaged in the drug business. In 
January, 1883, he admitted H C. Hoberman into partnership, and changed 
the style of the firm to H. C. Hoberman & Co. Mr. Sharpless has turned 
his attention to agriculture and rearing Jersey cattle. Mr. Sharpless has 
been a member of the Marion Cemetery Association for sixteen years, and 



628 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

has devoted much of his attention to the improvement of the grounds* 
June 24, 1857, he was married to Miss Martha M. Mclntyre, a native of 
Charlton, Worcester Co., Mass. Mr. and Mrs. Sharpless are members of 
the Presbyterian Church. 

PETER SHOWEN is one of the good men of Marion Township. Ht* 
is the youngest of eleven children, who were born to Andrew and Elizabeth 
(Duboy) Showen, residents of Vii'ginia. His father was a wagoner in the 
war of Independence for six years, but was killed in the prime of life by a 
running team. Two of Peter's brothers — Henry and William — engaged in 
the war of 1812. When aged fourteen years, Peter Showen ventured upon 
life for himself, working for $5 a month: when aged sixteen years, he 
learned the millwright trade, at which he continued until his marriage, 
which occurred October 26, 1836, to Miss Susan Bowyer, daughter of Adam 
and Christiana (Wolf) Bowyer, both of German descent. Eleven children 
have blessed this union, three dying infants. Their names are Napoleon 
A., Henry C. (died aged twenty-four years). George W., John L., William 
A., Virginia C. (wife of Amo3 C. Wilson), Martha J. (wife of William T. 
Johnson), and Amanda L., wife of John Porter. In 1837, Mr. Showen em- 
igrated to Meigs County, Ohio, and remained there engaged in farming 
nine years; then to Jackson County, Ohio, for a number o!: years; then to 
Ross County, Ohio, for two years; then Franklin County, Ohio, stopping 
about the same time. In 1857. however, the family moved to Marion Coun- 
ty, locating where our subject now resides, buying 240 acres for $25 per 
acre. This was wild land at the time, but to-day is an excellent farm. Mr. 
Showen owns only 144 acres at present, valued at $75 per acre. He built 
a suitable house in 1860, at a cost of $1,000. Mr. Showen lived in the 
city of Marion four years, but preferred to return to the farm in 1882. He 
is an avowed Prohibitionist and a faithful member of the Methodist Epis- 
copal Church. He is not a seeker of office, but he has been Trustee of the 
township. 

ADAM SHROCK was born in Perry County, Penn., September 23, 
1822, the son of Philip and Catherine (Ulsh) Shrock, who were married in 
the same county and came to Ohio in the fall of 1832, settling where Adam 
now resides. Making an opening in the forest, his father erected a hewed- 
log house, living in it until his death, 1847, at the age of fifty-six years, from 
an injury received by a horse falling on him. The mother died in 1853, aged 
sixty-six years. They had six children. Adam S. was reared upon the 
farm and educated in the common schools. He assisted in clearing the old 
homestead and remained at home until he was of age. In 1845, he com- 
menced to rent the home farm, caring for his parents, at whose death he 
became sole owner. He has since added fifty acres, making a farm of 130 
acres, which he has well improved. In 1867, he built a two-story residence, 
at a cost of $2,100. He was married, July 11, 1847, to Miss Martha Block- 
som, born in Richland Township April 23, 1820, a daughter of Jeremiah 
Blocksom. They have a family of five children— Philip, Job (married 
Helen Wilson), Sarah J., Samuel and George. Mr. Shrock is a sympathizer 
with the Republican party, and is a member of the Evangelical Church. 
In the early days, he has often gone to Mount Vernon to mill, the trip re 
quiring four days. He hauled wheat to Sandusky City for 50 to 75 cents 
per bushel, often taking nine days for the trip. 

ISAAC SHUPP, proprietor of Skupp's Restaurant, was born in Craw- 
ford County, Ohio, August IS. 1S35, son of Michael and Susanna (Miller) 
Shupp, natives of Dauphin County, Penn., and the parents of fourteen 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 629 

children; of these Isaac is the eldest. He lived on a farm till 1858, at 
which time he took up the cabinet trade and worked three years at Win- 
gert's Corners, Crawford County; at the expiration of this time, he came to 
Marion and followed carpentering and painting eight years; worked one 
year at Cardington, running a planer for J. S. Peck, then returned to Mar- 
ion. He became a partner in the Huber Manufacturing Company in 1873, 
and retained an interest till its incorporation in 1875, when he invested a 
stock of $5,300. He was in the employment of this company up to Janu- 
ary 1, 1883, when he engaged in his present business. In 1882, he erected 
his brick building, at a cost of $3,500. September 6, 1857, he was married 
to Miss Catharine Stoze, a daughter of John Stoze, and a native of Peters- 
burg, Penn. They have one child — Alice — wife of Frank Miller. They 
have three children — Martin V., Katie Mt and Charlie I. Mr. Shupp and 
family are members of the Evangelical Association; Mr. Shupp is also a 
member of the Royal Arcanum. 

ISAAC SMITH is the third son and fifth child of eight children born 
to John P. and Naomi Smith. His birth occurred in Marion Township 
February 28. 1839. He received a common-school education and remained 
with his parents, clearing up the old homestead, until his twenty-first year; 
at this time he purchased seventy-eight acres in Claridon Township; he 
continued at home three more years, when he purchased his present farm, 
consisting them of 110 acres. In 1878, he added thirty acres, and in 1883 
fifty acres more. He is a thorough farmer, raising a good deal of fine stock. 
May 31, 1867, he married Miss Kate Landon, a daughter of James Landon, 
who was born in Delaware County, Ohio, October 18, 1841. Her mother's 
maiden name was Elizabeth Kennedy, and her parents were natives of 
Pennsylvania. They came to Ohio, residing in Delaware County till 1840, 
when they moved to Prospect Township, this county. They had six chil- 
dren, of whom Isaac was the youngest. He served through the war of 
1812, receiving a wound in an engagement; he died December 20, 1852. 
John P. Smith was born in Augusta County, Va., September 13, 1803, and 
Mrs. Smith was born in Jefferson County, same State, May 31 of the same year; 
they were married July 30, 1826. In 1829, they emigrated to Ohio, in wagons, 
settling two and one-half miles east of Marion, entering eighty acres. 
Subsequently he increased this to 400 acres, clearing the most of it him- 
self. There were eight children — William (deceased), Jacob, Mary (de- 
ceased), Martha, Margaret, George, Isaac and James. Mr. Smith has a 
valuable farm, upon which he has made all the improvements. In 1873, he 
built a residence costing $1,500. He is a Republican in politics. 

GEORGE SNYDER, deceased, was born in Lehigh County, Penn., 
March 5, 1801; about 1815, his parents, George and Susan Snyder, re- 
moved to Perry County, Ohio, and finally died there. Mr. George Snyder 
secured a district school education, and September 15, 1824, married 
Christiana Ulsh, a native of the same county, born November 18, 1802. 
She ivas a daughter of Jacob and Mary Ulsh. In the spring of 1831, they 
came to Marion Township among the first settlers, buying 120 acres, thirty, 
seven of which lie in Pleasant Township: he cleared nearly all of. this and 
made all the improvements; made additions to this farm until he owned 260 
acres. He aided in building a number of churches and schoolhouses, and 
was an active and influential citizen. He was Trustee of the township, 
Chief Magistrate seventeen years in succession and Judge of the Probate 
Court nine years consecutively. Mr. and Mrs. Snyder are the parents of 
eight children, three surviving — Elizabeth, wife of John Myers; Hannah, 



630 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

wife of Jacob Free; and Wilson S. Isaac, George, Jane, Ellen and Mary 
A. are deceased. His son George was a soldier in the late war, entering 
Company B, Sixty- fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was 
killed at the battle of Murfreesboro. Wilson Cummings, a boy whom he 
reared, was killed in a battle at Perryville, Ky. 

JULIUS STRELITZ, merchant and County Treasurer, was born in 
Prussia February 24, 1880. He is a sou of Herman and Bartha (Fox) 
Strelitz, also natives of Prussia. Mr H, Strelitz was assassinated April 10, 
1848, during the revolution in Prussia. His widow lived until in Decem- 
ber, 1879, when her death occurred, at the age of ninety-three years. Mr. 
Strelitz, the subject of this sketch, commenced to work at the tailor's trade 
when fourteen years of age, and served a regular apprenticeship. He 
served two years — 1849-50 — in the regular army, and in 1852 emigrated to 
America. He lived two years in Columbus, Ohio, and October 4, 1854, he 
came to Marion and engaged in the clothing business, which he has since 
followed. In 18 — , his eldest son, Henry Strelitz, became a partner, and 
the tirm has since been J. Strelitz & Son. They carry a stock of $20,000 
to $25,000, and do a large annual business. Mr. Strelitz is an active citi- 
zen, and has been called 'upon to fill vai'ious positions of honor and trust. 
He served as a member of the City Council one term, member of the Board 
of Education ten years, four years of which he was Treasurer of the board, 
and he has also acted on the Board of Health. In 1879, he was elected 
Treasurer of Marion County, and in 1881 re-elected to the same office. In 
January, 1852, Mr. Strelitz was married to Miss Dorotha Aronson, daugh- 
ter of Michael Aronson, and a native of Posen, Prussia. To Mr. and Mrs. 
Strelitz have been born five children; of these four are living, viz., Henry, 
Augusta, wife of S. Cohn; Mitchell and Ettie. Rosalie died at the age 
of nineteen. Mr. Strelitz and family are members of the Hebrew Church 
of Columbus; he is a member of the Masonic fraternity and of the I. O. O. 
F., and in politics is a Democrat. 

REV. JOHN J. SUTTER was bora in Bretzville, Canton Basel, 
Switzerland, May 6, 1826, the son of John J. and Barbara (Schneider) Sut- 
ter, who came to this country in 1839, settling in Fairfield County, Ohio, 
where the father died April 8, 1844. Four years later, his widow moved 
to Putnam County, Ohio, and died November 24, 1865, the mother of ten 
children. Our subject stopped in the city of New York, following the ca- 
reer of a clerk until 1843, he came to his father's adopted county. In 
1845, he began a course of study at the Evangelical Lutheran Seminaiy at 
Columbus. He studied theology under Rev. Prof. F. W. Lehmann, grad- 
uating in 1849. He immediately entered upon the duties of a minister at 
Westmoreland County, Penn. , remaining one year. Receiving then a call 
from Fairfield County, Ohio, he took charge and remained the pastor of the 
Sugar Grove Church until 1874, when he went to Seneca County, assuming 
the pastorate of the Thompson charge, consisting of four congregations. 
In 1877, he came to Marion, where he has continued to reside as pastor of 
the Lutheran Church. His marriage occurred December 20, 1853, to 
Miss Magdalena Hoffman, daughter of John and Eva Hoffman. She was 
born in Erdmanhausen, Wurtemberg, Germany, January 20, 1829. Eight 
children have crowned this union, five living — Henry G, Louise (the eld- 
est, and wife of Frederick Walfrom, of Huron County, Ohio), EmmaK.. 
Magdalene C, Anna B. and Maria L. Henry G. graduated at the Capital 
university of Columbus. Ohio, in June, 1880. and at the theological semi- 
nary in March, 1883. He is pastor at present of the Caroline charge in 




^Z^£ 








J - 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 633 

Seneca County, Ohio. Rev. Sutter has officiated at 800 baptisms, and con- 
firmed 700 communicants, solemnized 500 marriages and attended profes- 
sionally 600 funerals. 

DR. ROBERT L. SWENEY was born in Gettysburg, Penn., May 18, 
1822. He is a descendant of Scotch-Irish ancestors, who were citizens of 
the United States and soldiers of the Revolutionary war. His father. Col. 
Isaac Sweney, was a soldier in the war of 1812. Dr. Sweney removed 
from Pennsylvania with his father to Whetstone Township, Crawford Coun- 
ty, Ohio, in 1828, where he remained in his father's family till thirteen. 
At this time, there being but few schools in the country and of difficult ac- 
cess, he was sent to Bucyrus and in the schools of that place received the 
elements of an education. At the age of twenty, he entered his father's 
store as a clerk, in which he remained about three years. At the expiration 
of this time, he entered the office of Drs. Douglas & Swingley, of Bucy- 
rus, as a student of medicine and surgery, at which he assiduously devoted 
his time for four years. After completing his course of instruction under 
his preceptors, he entered the Cleveland Medical College, where he became 
an intimate friend and classmate of Profs. Thayer, Bennett and Cushino- of 
Cleveland, Newberry and Reeves, of Dayton, and D. Willard Bliss, of 
Washington, D. C, physician to the late President Garfield; and also other 
students who have become eminent in the medical profession. Perhaps 
through his predilection for surgery, he was honored with the friendship 
of Prof. Horace A. Ackley, then Professor of Surgery in that institution, 
and by whom he was many times both pleasantly and profitably entertained 
as his guest, and by whom he was, during the last year of his studentship, 
frequently requested to visit patients with him. He was also permitted to 
visit with Dr. Bliss his surgical patients in his extemporized wards, there 
being no hospital at Cleveland at that time. Dr. Sweney received the de- 
gree of M. D. at that college in the spring of 1849, at which time he re- 
turned to Bucyrus and practiced with Dr. Swingley, one of his former pre- 
ceptors, until July, 1851, when he came to Marion and has been a faithful 
worker in the practice of his profession ever since. He is, it may be said, 
the surgeon and gynecologist of his country, and being located at a remote 
point from city surgeons (specialists), has afforded him a rare opportunity 
to practice this profession. He has fourteen times performed craniotomy 
and also many other gynecological operations. He has seven times tre- 
phined the skull, with six recoveries, an almost unparalleled success in the 
history of this operation. He has also made resections of the arm and thio-h, 
each case recovering a tolerably good and useful limb. He has made his 
tweuty-fifth capital amputation, that is, above the hand and foot; twice 
disarticulated at the shoulder joint and twice amputated both legs at the 
same time. He has operated for strangulated hernia, and once performed 
anterior colotomy, making an artificial outlet for the bowels. He has also 
performed tracheotomy. In a work entitled " Physicians and Surgeons of 
the United States," we find him recorded as the first man in the State of 
Ohio to successfully revert a chronic inversion of the uterus, of which he 
has now reduced four, one acute, two sub- acute and one chronic. He has 
operated in a number of cases of anal fistula, once performing that opera- 
tion upon two patients in one day — a rare occurrence. Dr. Sweney is a 
membsr of the American Medical Association and of the Ohio State Medi- 
cal Society, of which he has been twice elected, and served as one of its 
Vice Presidents; also a member of the Marion County Medical Society, 
of which he has been called the founder, and served as President duri ng 

T 



634 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

the tirst two years of its existence. Owing to the Doctor's constant devo- 
tion to his practical labors, he has not had time to become an extensive 
writer, though he is the author of several papers of high commendation, 
one on the inversion of the uterus, read before and published in the Trans- 
actions of the Ohio State Medical Society of 1864, from whence it was 
published in the Cincinnati Lancet, and from it in a number of medical 
journals, both in this country and in Europe. He is also author of a report 
on amputations, published in the transactions of the same society for 1868; 
and so able was it deemed by the Board of Publication, that he was hon- 
ored with 250 bound copies for distribution among his friends; also a second 
report of the inversion of the uterus, published by the Ohio State Medical 
Societv in 1878; and also other papers and addresses before the Marion 
County Medical Society. He is one of the Censors of Cleveland Medical 
College, and ia by appointment surgeon to four railroads entering Marion, 
and has been since their construction. He was appointed Examining Sur- 
o-eon of Pensions February 28, 1868, the duties of which he continued to 
perform up to March 1, 1882, at which time the department created a 
board of examining surgeons at Marion, of which he was made President, 
and is acting as such at the present time. He was commissioned Surgeon 
and assigned to the Forty-third Ohio Volunteer Infantry, May 13, 1862. 
but while acting as volunteer Surgeon on board of hospital boats running 
between Cincinnati, Pittsburg Landing and Nashville, he was prostrated 
with diarrhoea, from which he did not sufficiently recover to enter the serv- 
ice till the close of the war. He was commissioned by Gov. Broughwith 
the rank of Major as Military Examining Surgeon for the county of Marion, 
June 8, 1865, for the term of three years, in which capacity he acted until 
the end of the war. Dr. Sweney is a member of the Cooper Post, G. k. 
R. , and is at this time its Surgeon. He has for many years been connected 
with the Masonic order, of which he is a Sir Knight of Malta. In politics, 
he has been somewhat conservative, although identified with the Repub- 
lican party since 1856. In religion, he adheres to the " God of his fathers," 
and they being Scotch-Irish, were, of course, Presbyterians, September 2, 
1852. Dr. Sweney married Miss Elizabeth Concklin, eldest daughter of 
Col. W. W. Concklin, and is the father of five children, whose names occur 
as follows: Robert C; Nellie S., wife of Dr. Augustus Rhu; Jennie S., 
wife of William J. Mooney, of Columbus, Ohio; George W. and Charles C. 

JAMES SWINNERTON, Secretary of the Huber Manufacturing Com 
pany, was born in Grand Prairie Township October 4, 1846, and is a son of 
William and Clarissa (Thomas) Swinnerton, of Vermont and Pennsylvania 
respectively. Mr. Swinnerton was reared to manhood in his native place, 
and educated in the common schools. He early evidenced a taste for 
mechanics, and as soon as he could dispose of his interest in the farm did so 
and became interested in the Huber Manufacturing Company, first as a 
workman, to acquire an insight into the business, and then went on the 
road as salesman; from that was elected Secretary. He was married, Octo- 
ber 5, 1875, to Miss Kate, daughter of Maxwell Moore, and a native of 
Blair County, Penn. Mr. Swinnerton enjoyed the confidence of his fellow- 
citizens, having served several years in positions of trust in his native town- 
ship. 

CHARLES H. TERPANY, of the firm of Terpany & Rhodes, dealers in 
boots and shoos, was born in Marion December 28, 1850, the son of Samuel and 
Samantha (Randall) Terpany, the former a native of New York and the lat- 
ter of Marion County. Samuel Terpany was bom in 1826, and came to 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 635 

this county with his parents, settling in Big Island Township. In subsequeut 
years they returned to New York, where they died. Mr. Samuel Terpany 
married in this county in 1850. He was engaged in manufacturing boots 
and shoes in Marion. September 1, 1862, he enlisted in Company E, 
Ninety-sixth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, as Corporal. But, takino- 
sick, he died at Young's Point, Miss., January 12, 1863. Mr. and Mrs. 
Terpany had five children, three living — Charles H. ; Alice, wife of James 
Hesson; and Mary, wife of B. F. Kunyan. Johnnie and George are de- 
ceased. Mrs. Terpany continued to reside in Marion, rearing her children, 
and died February 16, 1883. Mr. C. H. Terpany acquired a fair educa- 
tion, took up his trade when sixteen with parties at Gralion, Ohio, serving 
two and a half years: he then returned to Marion, working for a hrm a brief 
time. In the autumn of 1870, he became a partner with Michael Stoll, un- 
der the firm name of Stoll & Terpany. In 1881, this partnership was dis- 
solved, and Mr. Terpany located where he now is, carrying a stock of $6,000. 
In 1873, he married Elizabeth M. Zuck, and their three children are Jennie 
B., Fred and Leroy. Mrs. Terpany is a member of the Methodist Episco- 
pal Church, and he of the K. of P. and K. of H. 

P. B. THEW was born in Richland, now Huron, County, Ohio, Decem- 
ber 26, 1823. He is a son of Richard and Martha (Botbomly) Thew, who 
were natives of Lincolnshire, England. They came to America in 1821. 
and settled in Plymouth Township, Huron Co., Ohio, where he entered 
eighty acres of land. He went to New Orleans on a business trip in 1832. 
and died of the cholera. Mrs. Thew had departed this life in 1826. At 
the death of his father, Mr. P. B. Thew was bound out to Joseph Curtis, a 
farmer. In 1841, he came to Marion, and learned the shoe-maker's trade; 
in 1840, he engaged in the boot and shoe business, which he followed till 
April 1, 1881, when he sold out, and with his son, John W., embarked in 
the grocery trade, under the firm name of P. B. Thew & Son. He was 
married, in May, 1851, to Miss Matilda E. Dutton, daughter of Israel Dut- 
ton. Mrs. Thew was born in Marion County September 4, 1832. Of nine 
children born to this union,six are living, viz., Emma L., Frank D., John W., 
Kittie, Joseph B. and Susie. William, Bettie and Robert L. are deceased. 
Mr. and Mrs. Thew are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He 
is a Republican, and was a member of the Board of Township Trustees une 
term. 

F. \\\ THOMAS, M. D., was bom in Franklin County, Ohio, Sep- 
tember 4, 1853. He is a son of D. AY. and Laura (Hutchinson) Thomas. 
of Franklin County, and a grandson of Col. Griffith Thomas, who was an 
officer in the late war with Great Britain. Dr. Thomas is next to the 
youngest of seven children. At the age of seventeen, he entered upon a 
collegiate course in the Ohio AYesleyan University, of Delaware, and at- 
tended two years. He subsequently took a full course in the Wooster Uni- 
versity, and graduated in June. 1878. During his senior year, he road 
medicine with Dr. L. Firestone, of AVooster, and after his graduation he 
continued his medical studies with Dr. Starling Loving, of Columbus. 
He attended lectures at Starling Medical College, and received his diploma 
in February, 1880, after which he entered upon the practice of medicine 
at Dublin, where he practiced two and a half years. May 20, 1S81, while 
holding a post mortem examination, he received a wound in the index tinker 
of the left hand, and suffered from that dread disease, pyaemia (blood poi- 
soning), but recovered after five months of serious illness. In September, 
1882, he located at Marion, where he has established a good practice and 



636 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

enjoys the confidence of the people. June 20, 1881, he was married to 
Miss Mary, daughter of Theron and Annis (Fuller) Lee. who were pronii- 
nentlv identified with the establishment of Central College. Mrs. Thomas 
was born at Central College, Ohio, February 13, 1854. She graduated at 
Mount Holyoke Seminary, Mass., in June, 18 1 8, and taught one year in 
the public schools of Marysville and one year in a private family of Phil- 
adelphia, Penn. Dr. Thomas is a member of the Masonic order and Royal 
Arcanum. He is Secretary of the Marion County Medical Society, and 
member of the State and Central Ohio Medical Associations. 

JOHN H. THOMAS, Clerk of the Courts, was born in Prince William 
County, Va., May 25, 1846. When seven years of age, his parents, Ben- 
jamin F. and Sarah A. (Howison) Thomas, removed to Washington, D. O, 
and in 1856 to Delaware County, Ohio, where Mr. Thomas was reared to 
manhood. He acquired the elements of his education in the Prospect Se- 
lect Schools and in the Ohio Wesleyan University at Delaware. He taught 
during the winters of 1867, 1868. 1869, then engaged in farming and hand- 
lino- stock, shipping to eastern markets. This business he followed suc- 
cessfully till elected to his present position. He is a member of the firm of 
Wottrino- & Co., importers of French horses. In October, 1881, he was 
elected Clerk of the Common Pleas Court, and assumed the duties of his 
office in February, 1882. December 19, 1876, Mr. Thomas was married to 
Miss Ella Cook, daughter of Dr. E. R. Cook. Mrs. Thomas is a native of 
Scott Township, this county, where she was born in 1852. Their two chil- 
dren are both living, viz., Emma R. and Alice A. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas 
are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Prospect. Mr. T. is 
also a member of the I. O. O F., and is a Knight Templar. He owns a 
well-improved farm, of 180 acres, in Prospect Township. 

JOHN C. TITUS, foreman of the Huber Works, was born in Kingsville, 
Ashtabula Co., Ohio, September 22, 1843. His parents, Solon and Rachel 
(Hoyt) Titus, were natives of New York State and Vermont respectively. 
They removed to Crawford County, Penn., from Ohio, where Mr. Titus died 
in 1847.' In 1854, Mrs. Titus and her two children removed to Mahoning 
County, Ohio, where she married Alphonso Hazen, and in 1858 removed to 
Doniphan County, Kan., at which place she died in October, 1879. John 
C. was brought up on a farm, and March 2, 1862, he enlisted, to serve in 
Company C, Tenth Kansas Volunteer Infantry. He served three years, and 
participated in the battles of Camp Clark and Prairie Grove with the In- 
dians on the frontier, and in the engagements at Franklin and Nashville, 
Tenn. He was discharged at New Orleans March 1, 1865, while Sergeant. 
He then returned to Kansas, and made a trip with a team to Colorado, and 
in 1867 came to Cleveland, Ohio, where, in the McNarian Claffen Bridge and 
Car Works, he served an apprenticeship at the machinist's trade. In 1868, 
he came to Marion, and in 1875 was employed as machinist in the Huber 
Works, and in 1877 was given charge of the machine shop. He has been 
a stockholder and Director in the company since January 1, 1879. In Oc- 
tober, 1870, he was married to Miss Barbara, daughter of William Kraner, 
by whom he had two children, of whom Willie E., only, is living. Septem- 
ber 24, 1879, he again married, this time Mrs. Frederica Reiser, widow of 
John Reiser. She had five children by her former husband — Henry, Hattie, 
Emma, Ida and Bertha. Mr. Titus is connected with the Masonic order 
and G. A. R. 

BARTHOLOMEW TRISTRAM, the subject of this sketch, was born in 
Liverpool, England, June 1, 1830. In April, 1832, his parents, Bartholo- 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 637 

mew and Ann (Rogers) Tristram, emigrated to thfi United States, and land- 
ed at New York City, where Mr. Tristram died the following July, leaving 
a widow and four children. Mrs. Tristram, soon after her husband's 
death, removed to Fairfield County, Conn., where she died in September, 
1857. Their children were Elizabeth, now Mrs. H. Stevens, of Fairfield 
County, Conn. ; John, of the same county: Catharine, wife of James Corzen, 
and Bartholomew, the subject of this sketch. When Mr. B. Tristram, the 
subject of this sketch, was fourteen years of age, he began an apprentice- 
ship at the shoe-maker's trade, in New Canaan, Conn., serving three and a 
half years. At the expiration of this time, he engaged in his trade at South 
Norwalk, Conn. In 1854, he came to Marion, and formed a partnership 
with Mr. Bouton. He remained here but three months, and returned East, 
to South Norwalk, where he continued in business till 1860, at which time 
he came back to Marion and opened a boot and shoe store in the Bennett 
Block. The following year, W. H. Searles was admitted as a partner, and 
the firm of W. H. Searles & Tristram continued till 1865, when they die 
solved their business relation, and Mr. Tristram took in his brother, John 
Tristram, and B. Tristram & Bro. did business one year. Then the firm 
changed, and Mr. B. Tristram was the sole owner till February, 1882, 
when his son, Fred H. , took an interest in the business. Mr. Tristram 
started in life upon his own personal resources, first learning his trade, 
and continuing as a practical workman until he had accumulated sufficient 
capital to stai't a small business; and by his judicious management has built 
lip and established a large and successful irade. Mr. Tristram has served 
in different important official positions in the town and township, and has 
worthily discharged his duties. He was two years a member of the City 
Council, and of the Board of Health ten years, and has also served on the 
Board of Education. He is now filling the office of Trustee of the town- 
ship. He is a member of the Blue Lodge, Chapter and Commandery of 
the Masonic order, and in politics is Democratic. November 2, 1852, he 
was united in marriage to Miss Frances A. Hanford, daughter of Charles 
and Eliza (Brown) Hanford, the former a native of Connecticut, and the 
latter of New York City. She was born in Fah'field Countv, Conn., June 
13, 1830. Their two children are Fred H. and Estella F. 

DR. HENRY A. TRUE was born in Knox County, Me., August 10, 
1812. His uncle, John Z. True, was one of the first settlers at Marietta, 
Ohio. He prosecuted a literary course of study at Bowdoin College, grad- 
uating in 1832. He then entered the Boston Medical College, graduating 
in 1834. Ho was employed as Surgeon at the Insane Asylum at Somer- 
ville, Mass., one year. He then practiced in New York City until 1839, 
when he came to Marion. In connection with his practice here, continuing 
ten years, he was engaged in the mercantile and banking business. In 
1843, he became Cashier of the Marion County Bank, occupying this 
position until 1865, when he was succeeded by R. H. Johnson. He re- 
mained a stockholder until his death. He married Elizabeth Reed, who 
was born January 7, 1821. He was City Surveyor from 1872 to 1875; also 
an Elder in the Presbyterian Church. His death took place December 12, 
1876, and that of his wife September 24. 1881. 

HENRY TRUE, son and only child of the preceding, was born in 
Marion January 26. 184S. He was educated in the Marion schools and at 
Harvard University, spending two years at the latter place. In 1871, he 
engaged in the drug business, continuing ten years, when he was appointed 
Assistant Cashier in the above bank, he boinsr a stockholder in the same. 



638 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

He has been interested in real estate and active in building; in encouraging 
railroads, manufactories and all the elements that contribute to the pros- 
perity of the town and county. September 13, 1876, ho married Miss 
Flora P. Bo wen, who was born October 19, 1851, a daughter of Judge O. 
Bowen, and their two children are Henry A., surviving, and Mary A., who 
died, aged twenty -three months. August 12, 1879. Mr. True is a member 
of the Masonic order and is a Knight Templar. Himself and wife are 
members of the Presbyterian Church. 

CLARK TURNEY, jeweler, was born in Franklin County, Ohio, De- 
cember 2, 1842, son of John H. and Harriet (Scofield) Turney, the former 
a native of Pennsylvania, and the latter of New Jersey. He was reared 
on a farm till seventeen years of age, when he went to the jeweler's trade, 
learning with W. A. Turney. of Marion, with whom he remained till the 
fall of 1867. at which time he established himself in business in a room ad- 
joining the post office; from there he removed to the Conrad Building in 
187^, and in 1883 to his present place of business. His stock is made up 
of a full line of jewelry, silverware, etc. In 1864, he enlisted in the One 
Hundred and Thirty-sixth Regiment, Ohio National Guard, and served four 
months. He marriod. May 16, 1867, Miss Susan, daughter of Solomon and 
Catharine Corn, and a native of Grand Prairie Township. They have had 
five children, four of whom are living — Carrie, Leo, Florence and Kittie. 
Mr. Turney is serving his second term as a member of the City Council, and 
is a member of tho K. of P., K. of H. and I. O. O. F. 

W. A. TURNEY, the oldest jeweler in Marion, was born in Franklin 
County, Ohio, August 15, 1823. His parents, Joseph and Margaret Tur- 
ney, were married in Westmoreland County, Penn., of which county they 
were natives, and in 1820 removed to Franklin County, Ohio, settling in 
Mifflin Township, where they resided till 1827, when they removed to Del 
aware County. Joseph Turney died January 29, 1876, his wife having pre- 
ceded him October 27, 1859. Their union was blessed with eleven chil- 
dren — four sons and seven daughters. W. A Turney is the third son. 
July 18, 1838, he went to Columbus, and served a six years' apprenticeship 
at his present trade with William A. Piatt, and July 20, 1846, he came and 
established himself in Marion with an outfit of tools, shop fixtures and 
stock of goods, which amounted to $275. Mr. T. has been continuously 
engaged in his business, and without an absence of more than two weeks at 
any time, since 1846. He now carries a full line of jewelry, silverware, 
fancy goods, etc., to the amount of $6,000, and enjoys a good trade. His 
present room he has occupied since 1854. October 18. 1846, he was united 
in marriage to Miss Catharine E., daughter of Richard Williams, of Del- 
aware, Ohio. Mrs. Turney was born in South Wales, Montgomeryshire, 
England, August 1. 1830. Mr. and Mrs. T. have six children- -Joseph R.; 
Alice M., wife of M. Thompson; George W., married Flora Page, of Chi- 
cago; Henry M.. Merrill A. and Gertrude J. Mr. Turney and family are 
members of the Episcopal Church. Mr. T. has been identified with the I. 
O. O. F. for thirty five years. 

IRA TJHLER, one of the old merchants of Marion and member of the 
firm of Yake & Uhler, was born in Lebanon, Penn., February 15, 1835. He 
is a son of Levi and Mary (Light) I Tiler, both natives of Lebanon. Penn. 
They were of German descent, their ancestors having emigrated from Ger 
many in 1732, and settled in the Lebanon Valley in Pennsylvania. John 
Uhler and John Light, both grandfathers of Mr. Uhler, were soldiers in 
the war of 1812. The subject of this sketch is the fifth of a family of ten 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 639 

children, eight of whom are now living. He was reared in his native city, 
and educated in the public schools. "When sixteen years of age, he en- 
tered a store in Quarryville, Lancaster Co., Penn. , as clerk, and occupied 
that position till April, 1855. when he came to Marion and assumed the 
position in the store of J. S. Reed & Co. He remained with this firm till 
1858, when he, in partnership with R. H. Johnson and T. S. Cummin, pur- 
chased the stock of J. S. Reed & Co., and conducted the business, under the 
firm name of Johnson. Uhler & Co. This firm continued, doing a success- 
ful trade, till 1874. when they dissolved partnership. Mr. IThler retiring. 
In 1877, he again resumed the mercantile business, with Daniel Yake, with 
the style of the firm as Yake & Uhler. In addition to his mercantile pur- 
suits, Mr. Uhler has carried on agriculture to considerable extent for the 
last twenty years. He owns a farm of 331 acres, located two and a half 
miles from Marion. July 7, 1858, Mr. Uhler was married to Mariah T. 
"Williams, daughter of Abram J. and Emma P. (Trimble) Williams, who 
came to Marion County in 1840. Mr. Williams died September 19, 1849, 
and his widow in May, 1851, each at the age of thirty-seven years. To 
Mr. and Mrs. Uhler, four children have been born, viz., Harry L.. Edward 
K., George H. and Emma M. In 1863, Mr. Uhler was Secretary of the 
County Military Committee, and May 11, 1864, he enlisted in Companv B, 
One Hundred and Thirty-sixth Regiment Ohio National Guard, in which he 
was elected First Sergeant, and served on garrison duty at Alexandria. Ya.. 
till his discharge the following September. Mr. Uhler then returned to 
merchandising. He served as a member of the City Council two years, and 
of the Board of Education one term. 

DANIEL UNCAPHER. first son of Joseph Uncapher, was born in 
Marion Township December 21, 1837. He obtained a good education, at- 
tending the Marion Academy a few terms. When nineteen, he commenced 
teaching, continuing nine winters. In 1863, he purchased 225 acres, locat- 
ed in Big Island and Green Camp Township, living there till 1867. when 
he removed to Pleasant Township. March 1, 1869, be bought his present 
farm of seventy- eight acres. He was married, April 2, 1863, to Rebecca 
Riley, also a native of Marion Township, born February 22, 1840, and a 
daughter uf Elias and Sarah A. (Moore) Riley. The names of their two 
children are J. Herman and Luther Y. He and family are members of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church, he officially connected, and served four years 
as Superintendent of the Sunday school. He is an active Prohibitionist. 

EDWARD W. UNCAPHER (deceased) was born in Marion Township 
October 6, 1827, the eldest son and second child born to Solomon and Han- 
nah (Shoemaker) Uncapher. Having obtained such an education asjthe 
common schools of that primitive day afforded, he married, November 6, 
1857, Miss Nancy J. Cunningham, a daughter of James and Nancy (Barks) 
Cunningham. She is also a native of Marion County, born February 25. 
1831. The names of their children are Everett N. , James O. and Olive Y. 
Mr. Uncapher bought eighty acres adjoining the homestead in 1855, and 
seven years later fifty-seven 'acres near the cemetery. He owned at his 
death 240 acres of land. He made all the improvements upon the home 
farm, building, in 1864-65, a $3,000 residence. He was an extensive raiser 
of fine stock, usually keeping from 200 to 300 head, and was among the 
Urst to introduce Spanish Merino sheep into the county. At one time he 
paid $400 for a Vermont sheep. He was associated with L. C. Haines, 
in the wool trade, for many years; was a member of the Agricultural Board, 
and identified with the county fair in many ways. He also reared the 



640 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

French and Clydesdale horses. He was an industrious and enterprising 
citizen; was one of the movers in obtaining county pikes, having thirty 
shares of the Marion & Waldo pike (was Director and Overseer of the same, 
and twelve shares of the Marion & Prospect pike. He began life a poor 
boy, but through hib indomitable perseverance left an estate valued at $24,- 
000. He was a Democrat and a member of the United Brethren Church. 
He was stricken with paralysis in the autumn of 1875, and died April 11, 
1877. Mrs. Uncapher has added thirty-three acres to the farm. 

JAMES O. UNCAPHER was born on the old homestead May 30, 1855, 
the second son and child of Edward W. Uncapher; obtained a common 
school education, and became associated, in his twentieth year, with his 
father in the rearing of hue sheep. Since his father's death, he and his 
brother, Everett N., have been continuing the business very satisfactorily. 
They keep, also, Clydesdale horses, some of the finest in the county, and a 
high grade of Durham cattle and Poland- China hogs. 

JOSEPH UNCAPHER was born in Westmoreland County, Penn., July 
12, 1809, a son of George and Catherine (Eddleman) Uncapher, of Virginia. 
They were among the earliest settlers in Western Pennsylvania and were 
the parents of twelve children, ten of whom they reared to maturity. He, 
with his son John, came to Marion County and entered land in 1824. 
Joseph was raised upon a farm and educated in the common schools. He 
first came to Marion in the fall of 1832, but returned to Pennsylvania the 
following spring. He continued upon the homestead until 1837, 
when he brought his wife, in a wagon, to this place and bought 
160 acres of his father, paying $750. He has cleared and improved 
this, and owns at present 303 acres, adjoining the corporation. He 
has always followed farming and stock-raising. February 16, 1837, 
he married Rebecca Stonebarger, a daughter of Daniel and Elizabeth 
(Nesbitt) Stonebarger. She was born in Indiana County, Penn., 
October 16, 1817. They had eight children, six living — Daniel, Silas, 
Deri as, Thomas J., John A. and Hiram L. Isaac and an infant son are 
deceased. Mr. U. keeps his farm in a high state of cultivation. A few 
years since, he built a fine brick house, thirty feet square, at a cost of 
$1,550. He is a member of the Grange; was a charter member, and served 
as Chaplain. He is liberal with his means, and has contributed to the 
building of every Protestant church in Marion. He is an active Democrat, 
first voting for Andrew Jackson. He was Trustee of the township one term 
and School Direct* >r twenty vears. 

MARTIN V. UNCAPHER was born May 1, 1840, a native of Marion 
Township and the son of Solomon and Hannah Uncapher, who came from 
Pennsylvania at an early day (when Marion had but one shingle roof) and 
entered 160 acres of land. Prosperity attended this father's labor, so that 
at one time he owned 600 acres of good land, and cleared eighty acres of 
farm land himself. He had a family of sixteen children, twelve of them 
boys. The district school gave Martin V. his education, and March 28, 
1861. he married Elizabeth L. Bush. The names of their three children 
are Margaret J., wife of William Smith; Louis S. and Mary A. Mr. Un- 
capher bought his farm of 138 acres in 1877, paying $59 per acre. It is 
in good repair, drained by 400 rods of tile, and is worth $90 per acre. 
Mr. Uncapher is a Democrat and a member of the Royal Arcanum. 

H. T. VAN FLEET, attorney, was born in Big Island Township, 
Marion Co., Ohio. March 9, 1837.' He is a son of Miles W. and Evelyn 
Caroline (Knapp) Van Fleet, the former a native of Ontario County, and 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 641 

the latter of Warsaw, N. Y. Joshua Van Fleet, grandfather of H. T. Van 
Fleet, emigrated from Holland to America with his brother, John Van 
Fleet, when twelve years of age. He served during the last three years of 
the Revolutionary war, enlisting when fourteen years of age. He was sub- 
sequently a member of the New York Legislature, and was a member of the 
Committee that drafted and reported the bill which was made a law abolish- 
ing slavery in the State of New York. He also served on the bench of the 
County Court for a term of years. He camf to Marion County in 1832, 
and bought 320 acres of land in Big Island Township, where he settled. 
He died January 8, 1848, at the age of eighty-four years. Miles W. Van 
Fleet and Evelyn Caroline Knapp were married in 1830, and the same year 
came and settled in Big Island Township. Mr. Van Fleet entered 100 
acres of land in Dudley Township, Hardin County, where he now resides. 
H. T. Van Fleet, the subject of this sketch, was brought up on the home- 
stead farm in Hardin County and educated in the schools of Marion and 
Bellefontaine. He taught two years, 1856-57, and in 1858 came to Marion 
and took a course in J. A. Field's Commercial College, and graduated. He 
read law with Judge John Bartram, and June 14, 1860, was admitted to 
the bar of Ohio. He entered upon his profession, and practiced till July 
2, 1862, when he entered the ranks of the Union army as Second Lieu- 
tenan of Company E, Ninety-sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, having recruit- 
ed that company. He served till January 10, 1863, when, on account of 
ill -health, he resigned. On his return home, he resumed the practice of 
law, which he has since followed. He tilled the office of Prosecuting At- 
torney from 1867 to 1869, and was City Solicitor of Marion for three years. 
He is now serving his second term as President of the School Board of 
Marion Union Schools, and has held various other local offices. Mr. Van 
Fleet has an extensive and successful practice in all the courts of the State, 
and also in the United States Courts. For a number of years he had a 
large criminal practice, but of late years has devoted his attention to civil 
cases. He has taken an active and prominent part in all political cam- 
paigns for twenty years, and has been one of the leading stump speakers 
of the Democratic party in the county. He has represented his party as a 
Delegate in nearly every State Convention since the war. In 1868, he was 
a Delegate to the Democratic National Convention at New York City; and 
it was by his motion in the caucus of the Ohio delegates that the delegation 
voted solidly for Horatio Seymour, securing his nomination. Soon after his 
return from the war in 1863, Mr. Van Fleet was nominated by his party 
for State Senator. He made a vigorous campaign, and although defeated 
by the Republican candidate, William H. West, he ran far ahead of his 
ticket. In addition to his legal practice, he has dealt in real estate, and 
now owns 540 acres of land, located in Marion - and Hardin Counties, and 
is also engaged in stock-raising. September 29, 1861, Mr. Van Fleet was 
married to Miss Eleanor S. Shields, daughter of M. P. Shields, of Marion, 
and has one son — George H. The portrait of Mr. Van Fleet is given in 
this work. 

THOMAS P. WALLACE, one of the oldest bankers of Marion, was 
born in Cumberland County, Penn., May 21, 1824. His grandparents were 
of Scotch-Irish extraction. His paternal grandparents, Patrick and Sarah 
(Officer) Wallace, came from the North of Ireland, and his maternal grand- 
parents, William and Esther (Patterson) Harper, were natives of Cumber- 
land County, Penn. His parents, Thomas and Mary (Harper) Wallace were 
both natives of Cumberland County, Penn.. and died there. Mr. "Wallace, the 



642 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

subject of this sketch, was roared on the old homestead till sixteen years of 
age, and with his father's hired hands performed manual labor. His edu- 
cational advantages were confined to the log schoolhouse of primitive times, 
although at the age of twelve years he had read Plutarch's Lives, Rollin's 
Ancient History, Joseph.ua and other works of a similar character, besides 
many books of travel. In October. 184), in company with an elder brother 
— William H. Wallace, now residing in Colorado — he came to Marion. 
He found employment with a watch-maker for about six months, and his 
employer moving to Michigan, he abandoned the trade. He then began an 
apprenticeship at the printer's trade, ou the Marion Saturday Visitor, pub- 
lished by George W. and Alexander Sprung In this situation he contin- 
ued till May, 1844, when he commenced the publication of a Whig paper 
entitled the Buckeye Eagle, edited by S. A. Griswold, now editor of the 
Lancaster Gazette, of Lancaster, Ohio. Mr. Wallace issued the first copy 
of his paper on the 20th of May, the day before he was twenty years of 
age. He continued its publication until 1847. In October, 1849, he 
formed a partnership with Orren Patten, and engaged in the mercantile 
business, in the room now occupied by D. B. Krause & Son. At that time 
there was no railroad at Marion, and merchandise was hauled from San 
dusky City, a distance of sixty miles. They purchased their dry goods in 
Philadelphia and New York, and had them shipped by rail and water to 
Sandusky City. Their groceries came from Cincinnati, and were hauled 
from Kenton in wagons. The remoteness of the railroads from Marion 
rendered it the center of trade for a large extent of country. June 10, 
1854, Patten & Wallace established the Marion Deposit Bank (in connec- 
tion with their store), of which Mr. Wallace became Cashier, Mr. Patten re- 
maining in charge of the mercantile business. Their banking business in- 
creased to such an extent that in March, 1855, tney removed to the Godman 
& Spaulding building, now the I. O. O. F. Block, which was erected in 
185 i. The Deposit Bank continued to enjoy such an increasing patronage 
that Mr. Patten's services were required to transact the business, and in 
1856 the store was sold and Mr. Patten entered the bank. This partnership 
was a very successful one; for although it extended over a period of twenty- 
five years, it was always marked by great harmony and the most entire con- 
fidence between the partners. The firm of Patten & Wallace soon took a 
high position as bankers in the confidence of the people, and won a most 
extraordinary deposit patronage. They conducted their bank through all 
the panics without an hour's suspension, and promptly met every engage- 
ment. This partnership continued strong in the confidence of the peo- 
ple till it was dissolved by the death of Mr. Patten October 31, 1872. 
Under the then existing contract of partnership, the business continued to 
be conducted without change for three years. In 1875, Mr. Wallace pur- 
chased Mr. Patten's interest and became the sole owner of the bank, which 
he has since conducted. An important lesson is deducible from the career 
of Mr. Wallace. His parents dying when he was a boy, and without 
wealthy or influential friends, he was thrown upon his own personal resources. 
He resolved to succeed only by a regular business course, and to avoid all 
hazai-dons adventures of speculation; also to deal honestly, meet all his ob- 
ligations promptly and according to the letter and spirit, and be content with 
regular and legitimate profits. These resolves of his youth he has rigidly 
adhered to, and has achieved throngh them, combined with his business en- 
ergy and industry, a good success. Mr. Wallace has performed his part in 
all the public enterprises of the community for the last thirty years, and 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 643 

there is not an important improvement that marks the growth of the town 
that did not receive his support. He is a stockholder and Director in the 
Huber Manufacturing Company, and Treasurer of the Marion Gas-Light 
Company, of which he served as Secretary for many years. He was one of 
the original members of the Marion County Agricultural Society, and has 
been identified with it as Treasurer for a number of years. In 1867. he 
aided in founding the Marion County Importing Company, and has acted 
as Secretary and Treasurer since its organization. He is a stockholder in 
the Chicago & Alton Railroad, and was also in the Columbus & Toledo, At- 
lantic & Great Western and the Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati & In 
dinapolis Kailroads. Mr. Wallace is the owner of a large library, and is a 
great reader of books of travel. From these he acquired a taste for travel, 
in which he has indulged of late years. In 1867, he made a trip to Europe, 
and after attending the Paris exposition he visited Switzerland, Germany, 
Belgium and England. Three years later he made a second trip, and vis- 
ited England, Ireland and Scotland, and in 1873, accompanied by Mrs. 
Wallace, made a tour through California. He has made six trips to Flor- 
da, for pleasure and recreation. He owns a plantation of sixty acres near 
the Atlantic coast, on Merritt's'Island, Indian River, near Rockledge Post 
Office, on which he has erected a neat cottage, and has now growing 500 
orange trees and 10,000 pineapple plants, besides a large variety of South- 
ern fruits and flowers, making one of the most desirable homes in Florida, 
where the climate is perpetual summer, and hunting and fishing are unsur- 
passed. July 20, 1S46, Mr. Wallace celebrated his marriage with Miss 
Jane E. Busby, daughter of Maj. George H. Busby, a prominent citizen of 
Marion. To this union seven children have been born, namely, Evaline 
A., wife of E. J. Fairfield, of Marion; Mary H, wife of William R. Whit- 
marsh, of Chicago; Lucretia B. , wife of Charles S. Burkholder, of Chicago; 
Jennie E. ; Maggie H. , wife of L. L. Patten; Susie B. and Carrie P. Mr. 
Wallace and family are members of the Presbyterian Church of Marion. 

JAMES C. WALTERS, deceased, was a "Buckeye," born in Marion, 
April 16, 1847. He was the son of Thomas and Mary (Cunningham) Wal- 
ters, of Wales. Mr. Walters crossed the ocean, married in this country 
and died here. He was the older of two children; Mary, wife of Thomas 
Campbell, was his sister. James C. obtained his growth in Marion, grad- 
uating at the union schools. He taught four years in the township, com- 
mencing when eighteen. He began his trade, harness-making, in his seven- 
teenth year, but ill health compelled him to abandon it. After teaching as 
above, he resumed the business, iinder T. J. Magruder, continuing as an 
amateur three years. In 1869, he united in business with Mr. Brigel. and 
Walters & Brigel prosecuted their trade together two years. The firm 
dissolving, Mr. Walters continued alone till death. He was upright in 
character and successful in business. He 'consummated his marriage April 
20, 1869, with Ida M. Campbell, a daughter of Francis and Elizabeth Camp- 
bell, and a native of Mai'ion Township. There were born to them three 
children, two surviving — Claude C. and Bertha B. Gloria B. died Febru- 
ary 13, 1883. having been born October 23, 1877. Mr. Walters erected a 
tine brick residence in 1879; also a fine business room, 17 South Main 
street. He was Township Treasurer, and a member of the Council four 
terms. He was connected with the I. O. O. F., and ; he closed his earthly 
career February 8, 18S0, a member of the Baptist Church, with which his 
widow continues in communion. 



644 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

THOMAS P. WATKINS, of the firm of Watkins Bros. , importers and 
dealers in French horses, was born in Prospect Township, and at the forma- 
tion of the firm of Watkins Bros., of Prospect, he became a member, and 
has since been identified with its extensive business. Since June, 1881, he 
has had charge of the livery business in Marion. This firm keeps the 
leading livery and hack stable in the town, and their horses and carriages 
are first-class. 

JOHN H. WEAVER was born in Womelsdorf, Berks Co., Penn., No- 
vember 26, 1830. "When about two years old, the family moved to Leba- 
non, Lebanon County, the same State. When fourteen, he went to learn 
the shoe-making trade, serving four years in its mastery. He followed this 
during his resideuce in Pennsylvania, except one year, while he was in the 
express and freight business between Lebanon and Philadelphia. Coming 
to Marion, Ohio, in October, 1805, he continued in the shoe business, man- 
ufacturing the celebrated Star Boots, until January, 1872. Having been 
elected Sheriff of the county the previous fall, he assumed the duties of 
the office January 3, 1872, becoming his own successor. He thus filled the 
position satisfactorily two terms. In politics, he is a Democrat. He served 
on the School Board three years, on the Agricultural Board two years, and 
at present represents the Fourth Ward in the City Council. He is also a 
member of the Masonic order. 

O. W. WEEKS, physician and surgeon, was born in Thompson Town- 
ship, Delaware Co., Ohio, May 22, 1841. His father, Samuel C. Weeks, 
was a native of Baltimore, Md. , and his mother, Jane, nee Cunningham, of 
York County, Penn. They were married in Frederick County, Md., and 
about the year 1830 removed to Licking County, Ohio, and to Delaware 
County in 1838, where they resided till 1867, when they moved to Cale- 
donia, at which place they both died, the former in 1870 and the latter in 
1868. Dr. Weeks is the youngest of seven children; lived on the home- 
stead till sixteen years of age, and then engaged in teaching. August 13, 
1862, he enlisted in Company A, One Hundred and Twenty-first Regiment 
Ohio Volunteer Infantry. On the 8th of October, he participated in the 
battle of Perryville, Ky., receiving a severe wound in the left leg and foot. 
He subsequently contracted disease of the lungs, from exposure to rain and 
inclement weather, while in the line of duty, and in consequence came 
home on a furlough, and returned to the hospital at Camp Chase. Some 
time afterward, he was transferred to the Seminary Hospital, at Columbus, 
where he served as Chief Clerk, and in the Medical Director's office in the 
same situation till discharged January 12, 1864. He then located at Rich- 
wood, and resumed the drug trade — a business in which he had been en- 
gaged from 1861. He took a course of lectures in the Starling Medical 
College in the winter of 1863-64. He graduated at Cincinnati June 19, 
1865, after attending another course of lectures. He received a diploma 
of graduation from the Columbus Medical College February 29, 1876. In 
June, 1865, he graduated in the Medical and Scientific Society, and June 19, 
1878, the Bethany College of West Virginia conferred on him the honorary 
degree of Master of Sciences. Dr. Weeks entered on the practice of medi- 
cine in Delaware County, and in October, 1865, removed to Caledonia, 
where he continued to practice till June, 1878, when he located in Marion. 
Dr. Weeks is a successful physician, arid enjoys an extensive practice. 
November 22, 1866. he was appointed Assistant Assessor of District No. 
12, of the Eighth Collection District of the State. He is now serving his 
third term as member of the Ctiy Council, and is President of the Marion 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 645 

County Medical Society. He is a member of the Blue Lodge, F. k A. M., 
Chapter, R. A. M. , and Commandery of the Knights Templar, and is also 
connected with the Eoyal Arcanum, Grand Army of the Republic and 
Knights of Pythias. Dr. Weeks was married, at Tiffin, Ohio, September 
4, 1865, to Miss Flora S. Dana, daughter of Dr. Marquis Dana, deceased. 
They have one son — Dana. 

JOHN A. WOLFORD, attorney, was born in Green Camp Township 
March 15, 1853. He is the youngest son and only living child of John and 
Louisa (Gephart) Wolford. He remained on the farm till the fall of 1871, 
when he entered upon a collegiate course in Hillsdale (Mich.) College, and 
graduated in the classical department in 1877. He had begun the study 
of law in 1876, and after his graduation he continued his legal studies 
with J. F. McNeal. In December, 1878, he was admitted to practice by 
the Supreme Court, and January 1, 1879, he formed a law partnership with 
his preceptor. July 1, 1882, he was admitted to practice in the United 
States' Courts. Mr. Wolford has taken the front rauk among the younger 
lawyers of the Marion County bar, and as an attorney he has good success. 
November 1, 1877, he was married to Miss Mary A. Johnston, daughter of 
Daniel Z. Johnston, of Monroe County, Mich. Mrs. Wolford was born in 
Humberston, Ontario, February 3, 1S53, and graduated in the scientific 
course of Hillsdale College, in the class of 1877. Mr. Wolford is a mem- 
ber of the Masonic order, and is the youngest High Priest ever elected to 
preside over Marion Chapter, No. 62. 

BENJAMIN WILLIAMS, of Welsh parentage, was born at Salem, N. 
J., in 1775. Soon afterward, his parents removed to Romney, Va. In 
1801, he was married to Jane Hood, in Alleghany County, Md. ; removed 
to Salt Creek Township, Ross Co. , Ohio, in 1804, and from there to Dela- 
ware, Ohio, in 1812, and from there to what is now Waldo Township, 
Marion County, in 1814, and from there to Pickaway County in 1817. This 
last move was caused by the severe cold year of 1816, by which entire crops 
were destroyed. He returned to Waldo Township in 1822, and from there 
he removed to the village of Marion in 1825, and he died in Marion in 
1843. Jane, his wife, survived him fourteen years, and died in Marion in 
1857. They had three sons and six daughters, to wit: Deborah, who died 
in Ross County, at the age of seven years; Martha, married Alfred Randall, 
in Waldo Township, in 1824, and died near Indianapolis, Ind. ; Sarah, 
married Levi H. Randall, in Marion, in 1826, and died in Marion; Eliza- 
beth, married James Beatty, in Marion, in 1826, and died in Erie County, 
Ohio; John H., married Volinda Lampson, of Sandusky City, Ohio, and 
died in that city; Joseph J., married Jane S. Beatty, in Sandusky City, 
and died in Marion; Benjamin H. , married Nancy Leonard, in Mar- 
ion, and now resides at Peoria, 111.; Jane D., married Walter Williams, 
and is now living at Shelby, Ohio; Tabitha D. married B. F. Clark, October 
4,1848, and died in Allenton, Mo., September 13, 1859. No deaths oc- 
curred in this family for thirty years, and since then all these families have 
been separated by death, with the exception of Benjamin H. and wife. All 
the rest have died except Jane D. , the youngest child, and Volinda, the 
widow of John H. In 1825, when Mr. Williams came to the village of 
Marion, there were fourteen families then living in the place, to wit: Eber 
Baker, Benjamin Davis, John Tootle, George Holloway, H. Gorton, G. H. 
Busby, A. C. Priest, Andrew Smith, John O'Harra, James Hillman, Henry 
Peters, William and Samuel Holmes, Adam Uncapher. All the above adults 
are dead, with the exception of Henry Peters. 



646 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

G. H. WRIGHT has led a worthy and successful career. Born upon a 
farm August 16, 1828, in Jefferson, Washington Co., N. Y., his facilities 
for obtaining an education were limited; but having an intense love for 
study, he attended the Argyle Academy the winter term of 1844-45, upon 
his own resources. In 1847, he made arrangements with his brother, Prof, 
D. \Y. Wright, the Principal of the academy, to prosecute his studies fur 
ther, by sawing wood for board and tuition; but his brother's untimely 
death, the same year, suddenly closed his literary pursuits. He then re- 
turned to his fathers home, in Jackson, Washington Co., N. Y. , on "Baton 
Kill," a branch of the Hudson River. Mr. Wright entered the pedagogic 
held in early life. Notwithstanding his academic career was cut short, he 
thoroughly mastered the principles of the common branches and taught 
many terms. For two years he was Superintendent of Schools in his native 
State. He taught his first term, however, when aged nineteen years, in 
Clinton County, amid the Adirondack Mountains, on the Au Sable River. In 
all, he numbered six winter terms, two in Abram Monnett's district, Scott 
Township. Marion County, and several terms in Macon County. 111. In 
1853, he came to Huron, Erie Co., Ohio, and began buying cattle for his 
brother, F. H. Wright, and Hiram Slocum, Mayor of Troy, N. Y. He con- 
tinued with them four summer seasons, cattle dealing and beef packing, 
teaching during the winters; the last summer or two he was engaged in 
Illinois. He returned to Ohio in the spring of 1857, purchasing 480 acres 
of land, located in Portage Township, Wood Co., Ohio, paying 15.000 for 
it. He made all the improvements, and the same year built a frame resi- 
dence, said to be the finest house of its kind in the county. He- 
bought this farm in partnership with his uncle, Clark Woodard, 
then of Huron, now of Cambridge, N. Y. His outlay, above pur- 
chase money, was over $5,000 for the improvements, and the farm 
was known as the "old Cady farm." December 29, 1857, he was 
united in marriage with Martha E. Monnett, eldest daughter of Abram 
Monnett, and they moved to their farm the following March. Mr. Wright 
organized there, in 1858, the first Sabbath school, and was active in its 
behalf; that point became a regular preaching place thereafter. In the 
spring of 1861, he sold his interests there and removed to Bucyrus Town- 
ship, Crawford Co., Ohio, purchasing a farm of 120 acres, which numbers 
to-day 385 acres, in a good state of cultivation. He owns 700 acres in 
Crawford, Wyandot, Henry and Marion Counties, and 480 acres in Portage 
and Adams Counties, Wis. Thus he is the owner of 1,180 acres of arable 
land. Mr. Wright has made all the improvements of his home farm, 
which did consist of 225 acres, but having added 160 acres in 1881, it 
numbers as above. He did not abate his stock-dealing until he acquired 
his residence in Marion. This he carried on most extensively, and was very 
successful. February 8, 1865, he met a serious loss by having his residence, 
while undergoing repairs, entirely destroyed by fire, together with the fur- 
niture: and other misfortunes overtook him, to the extent of $28,000. He, 
however, recovered himself, by handling stock and by calling into activity 
his unlimited energy, expended in various directions. He is gratified to 
say. too, that he received through his wife a handsome legacy in land and 
money. He became a resident of Marion October 3, 1882. Mrs. Wright 
is a native of Scott Township, born November 26, 1838. They have had 
ten children — Mattie E. (deceased), Earl P., Helen A. (died from an injury 
January 1. 1881, aged eighteen years). Gertrude M., AdaM., Libbie B., 
Charles H., Carrie. Clark W. and George A. While in Crawford County, 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 647 

Mr. W. and family were identified with the Methodist Episcopal Church, 
the former very actively; but in 1879 they united with the Presbyterian 
Church. He was formerly a Democrat, but at present a Republican, east- 
ing his first Republican vote for Salmon P. Chase. Mr. Wright still takes 
great pride in raising stock, keeping usually about two hundred head. He 
is one of the solid, influential men of Marion County, and he can well 
afford to retire to the enjoyment of the products of his well-directed en 
ergies. 

JAMES B. WYATT, hardware merchant, and a descendant cf one of 
the first pioneer families of Marion County, was born in Marlborough — 
now Waldo — Township, September 7, 1886. He is the youngest son of 
Rev. Samuel D. and Lovina (Brnndige) Wyatt. He was reared on the old 
homestead, one of the first cleared farms in Marion County; he spent two 
years. 1856-57, in the Ohio Wesleyan University, after which he returned 
to the farm and followed this pursuit until 1874. He then moved to 
Marion, and engaged in the hardware and implement business, now carry- 
ing a stock of $10,000 and having a good trade. June 4, 1861, he was 
married to Miss Sarah J. Bailey, daughter of Israel and Elizabeth Bailey. 
Mrs Wyatt was born in Delaware County. Ohio, March 12, 1838. To them 
two children were born, only one of whom — Anna May — is living. Nellie 
died at the age of two and a half years. In 1864, Mr. Wyatt was First 
Duty Sergeant of Company C, One Hundred and Forty-fifth Regiment 
Ohio National Guards. He was honorably discharged August 26, 1864. 
Mr. Wyatt and lady are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church of 
Marion. 

JOHN J. YAKE, deceased. The subject of this sketch was born in 
Opfingen, Baden, January 13, 1793. He grew to manhood on a farm, and 
when of age he learned the stone-mason trade, which he followed through 
life. In 1833, he emigrated to the United States with bis wife and two 
children, and settled in Richland Township, this county, where he pur- 
chased eighty acres of land. He cleared up most of this farm. He was 
one of the pioneer settlers of the township, and died on the homestead May 
8, 1848, leaving a widow and four children, three children having died. 
They were as follows: Anna, born May 19, 1821, and died May 27, 1821; 
Anna (second), born March 15, 1823, and died July 12, 1823; Judith, born 
December 12, 1824, wife of Rev. A. Ernst; Catharine, born November 3, 
1826, wife of August Kraner: John J., born November 15, 1831, and died 
April 2, 1833; Christina, born June 6, 1836, widow of Cyrus Seibert; and 
Daniel, born December 25, 1840. Mrs. Anna Yake was born in Opfingen, 
Baden, July 26, 1799, and was married to Mr. Yake March 5, 1820, and 
died at Marion, Ohio, August 8, 1873. Daniel Yake, the youngest child, 
and member of the firm of Yake & Uhler, merchants, was born on the 
homestead in Richland Township. When eight years old, he removed to 
Marion with his mother, and for two years and a half found employment 
with B. R. Durfee. In 1857, he began as a clerk for Lucas & Seffner, mer- 
chants, and occupied that position with this firm eleven years. He then 
became a member,' of the firm of Reed & Yake, which partnership contin- 
ued until 1876. Immediately, he engaged in business with Mr. Uhler, un- 
der the present firm name. Mr. Yake has acquired a good success in the 
pursuits of mercantile business, first starting as a clerk and finally rising 
to the head of a large mercantile establishment. October 5. 1863, Mr. Yake 
was married to Miss Rachel L. Bridge, daughter of Dr. \V. W. Bridge, 
formerly of Marion. Mrs. Yake was born in Prospect, Ohio, August 16, 



648 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

1846. To this union three children were born, viz., William W., Eva B. 
and Harry D. Mr. Yake owns a substantial brick residence on East Center 
street and one-half of the store room which is now occupied by Yake & 
Uhler. He is a member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church. 

B. G. YOUNG, attorney, was born in Washington County, Penn., Feb- 
ruary 2, 1850. His parents were Stewart and Aurilla Young. His father 
emigrated from Ireland and settled in New York, where he married. He 
removed with his family to Washington County, Ohio, in 1852, and in 
1854 to Ford County, 111.; thence to Iroquois County, 111., where he now 
resides. Mr. Young, the subject of thin sketch, took a course in the Ohio 
Wesleyan University, at Delaware, and in 1874 took up the study of law, 
under the preceptorship of W. Z. Davis, of Marion, and remained with him 
until his admission to the bar in July, 1876. He then opened a law office, 
and the following fall was elected Prosecuting Attorney. He served till 
1880, when he was appointed to the Board of School Examiners, which 
position he still holds. At the Democratic convention of the county, held 
in August, 1883, Mr. Young received the nomination for Representative to 
the Lower House of the Legislature. November 16, 1882, he was married 
to Miss Anna E. Irey, daughter of Joseph Irey. Mr. Young holds a mem- 
bership in the I. O. O. F., and with his wife is a member of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church. 

ISAAC YOUNG, a native of Perry County, Penn.. was born March 22, 
1823. His parents, Christian and Ann (Ulsh) Young, were both natives 
of Pennsylvania, the former of Lebanon and the latter of Perry County. 
Mr. Young was born January 12, 1792, and Mrs. Young November 18, 
1789. They were married in Perry County, Penn., September 12, 1815, 
and in the spring of 1838 removed to Ohio, and settled near Marion. In 
1827, Mr. Young walked from Pennsylvania to Marion County, and pur- 
chased 240 acres in the western part of the county. He resided on his 
farm, near the county seat, till 1871, whence he moved to Crawford Coun- 
ty, and in 1876 to Galion, where he died March 10, 1878. Mrs. Young 
died in Marion County October 12, 1848. Mr. Young was at one time 
Justice of the Peace in this county, and a man much esteemed. He was 
many years a traveling preacher in the German Methodist Episcopal 
Church. He was the father of seven children, of whom Isaac, the subject 
of this sketch, is the fifth. He was reared on the farm, and educated in the 
Ohio Wesleyan University of Delaware. He studied surveying, and in 
1844 was elected Surveyor of Marion County, and re-elected in 1846. In 
1851, ho was chief of an engineer corps on the Bellefontaine & Indiana 
Railroad — now the Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati & Indianapolis Rail- 
road — an( j i u 1853 he went to Iowa. The following year (1854), he was 
employed as Chief Engineer on the Marion & Mississinawie Valley Rail- 
road in Indiana. He returned to Marion in 1856, and in 1863 was elected 
to the office of County Treasurer, and x-e-elected to the same position in 
1865. He served as City Engineer a number of years, and in 1878 was 
elected County Surveyor and served one term. Mr. Young has also filled 
the offices of City Clerk and Treasurer, Township Treasurer and Trustee, and 
Justice of the Peace, and was a member of the Board of School Examiners 
nine years. He has served the people of his county in many important offi- 
ces, and in every public trust he has performed his duties with credit to 
himself. Mr. Young was married, March 31, 1852, to Miss Isabella Baker, 
daughter of John Baker. She died October 8, 1864, leaving two children 
— Sydney and Harry R. Mr. Young again married, May 11, 1865, this 



>N 



MARION TOWNSHIP. 649 

time Mrs. Lydia A. White, widow of Geoi'ge White, and a daughter of 
George Ulsh. Mr. and Mrs. Young are members of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church, and Mr. Y. is also identified with the Masonic order and the I. O. 
O. F. 

SOLOMON ZACHMAN, a native of Waldo Township, was born July 
12, 1837. He is a son of Francis X. and Mary E. (Beckman) Zachman, 
natives of Germany and early settlers of Waldo Township. He was reared 
od a farm, and followed that vocation until 1858, when he took up the car- 
penter trade, which he continued to follow till the war broke out. Novem- 
ber 12, 1861, he enlisted to serve in Company D, Eighty-second Regiment 
Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was engaged in the battle of McDowell, 
Chancel lorsville, second battle of Bull Run, Gettysburg and all the engage- 
ments of the campaign of the Shenandoah Valley. He lost his limb Octo- 
ber 2, 1863, while in the service, by an accident on the railroad, near Dot- 
son Station, fifteen miles from Dayton, Ohio. He was honorably discharged 
at Camp Dennison, Ohio, May 30, 1864. He returned home, and after at- 
tending the Prospect school he taught school until 1868, when he came to 
Marion, and in 1869 engaged in merchandising with L. P. Gross, under 
the firm name of L. P. Gross & Co., and afterward as a member of the firm 
of Muntsinger & Zachman. This partnership dissolving in February, 1881, 
Mr. Z. has since retired. January 2, 1876, he was married to Kate Krause, 
daughter of Ferdnand and Sophia A. (Moser) Krause, and has three chil- 
dren — Cicero Z. , Florence Eva and Gertie Irene. Mrs. Zachman was born 
in New York City February 18, 1856. Mr. and Mrs. Z. are members of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. 




650 HISTORY OF MARLON COUNTY. 



CHAPTER II. 



BIG ISLAND TOWNSHIP. 

ORGANIC. 

BIG ISLAND TOWNSHIP was doubtless organized in the early part 
of the first session that was held by the Commissioners after the organ- 
ization of Marion County, which convened June 7, 1824; but a diligent 
search of the records has failed to reveal any formal entry of such organiza- 
tion. But that its organization was effected then there can be no question, 
for on the third day of that session the following entry in which Big Island 
Township is recognized as an established township, appears: 

Thursday, June 10, 1824. 
Commissioners met pursuant to adjournment. Present, same as yesterday. Or- 
dered, that there be made four districts in Marion County, for the purpose of collecting 
the county tax, agreeable to the following boundaries: First District, composed of 
Scott, Washington, Claridon and Canaan Townships. Second District, composed of 
Green Camp, Pleasant, Richland and Morven Townships. Third District, Big Island, 
Salt Rock, Center and Grand Prairie Townships. Fourth District, composed of 
Bucyrus, Sandusky, Grand and Whetstone Townships. 

There is no entry on record defining clearly the original limits of this 
township, but it at present comprises the whole of surveyed Township 5, 
Range 14, which consists of thirty- three full sections and three fractional 
sections of Congress lands. At one time the south tier of sections "were set 
off to Green Camp Township, as will be observed from the following por- 
tion of an entry from the Commissioners' record: 

Marion County, June 6, 1825. 

Ordered, That the south tier of sections now belonging to Big Island Township 
* * * be, and the same is hereby set off to Green Camp Township. * * * 

It also appears that this township for a time had secured and held 
within its limits a portion of Marion Township — then called Center, as 
will be observed from the following: 

" Wednesday, June 6, 1827. 

Ordered, That from and after the 1st day of July next, that part of Big Island 
Township belonging to Center Township shall be considered to be set back to said 
Center Township. 

When the boundaries of Green Camp Township were finally fixed and 
determined as they now stand, the south tier of sections taken from Big 
Island in 1825, was restored as appears from the following portion of an 

entry of that date: 

March 5 (first Monday), 1838. 
Commissioners met pursuant to the statute in such case made and provided. 
Present, Charles Merriman, John Shunk and George Beckley. Whereupon, on petition 
of John Britt and others, it is ordered that the half-mile strip taken off the west end 
of Township 6, Range 15, in this county, and attached to the township of Green Camp, 
in said county, also' the whole of Township (5, Range 14, in this county be, and the 
same is hereby detached from said township of Green (amp. ami attached to the town- 
ship of Pleasant, in this county. Audit is further ordered that the strip of one mile 
heretofore taken off of the south end of Township 5, Range 14, in this county, and 
attached to the township of Green Camp aforesaid, be and the same is hereby detached 
from said township of Green Cam/' and attached to the township of Big Island in said 
county. * * * 



BIG ISLAND TOWNSHIP. 651 

The lands of this township for the most part are greatly diversified by 
hill and dale, the soil is rich, and no more productive farm land smiles un- 
der the rays of the sunshine and answers to the refreshing draughts of 
spring and summer showers with more luxuriant grasses and golden grain 
than can be found here. An abundant supply of spring water is accessible 
in all parts of the township, and a number of small streams and creeks 
afford a good system of drainage. The Scioto River passes along the greater 
portion of its southern border, and the Little Scioto runs through the 
southeastern corner of the township for a distance of more than two miles. 
The low lands have generally been properly drained, and now but few 
waste places can be found in its entire territory. 

FIRST SETTLER8. 

But few of the townships of this county contained any settlers prior to 
1819. Those portions of Waldo and Prospect Townships lying south of 
the Greenville treaty line had received a few settlers at an earlier date, and 
in some instances the townships adjoining them had received a few " squat- 
ters," while the central and northern townships remained uninhabited by 
the whites until a later date whan the lands north of the treaty line had 
been thrown upon the market by the General Government. Yet, even then, 
there were a few of the early settlers of these townships, who, at first, 
neither bought nor entered lands, but located on them without even the 
shadow of a title, thus securing for themselves the name of " squatters. " 
Big Island Township was not wholly free from this class of settlers, but in 
fact was at first particularly favored with them. Among the " squatter 
sovereigns" of this township were Jacob Croy and Joshua Cope, Sr. , who 
came in the latter part of the winter of 1819, built cabins, and in the 
spring moved into them without chimney, floor, door or window, Mr. Cope 
moving in April 5, and Mr. Croy two weeks afterward. Mr. Cope's was a 
mile and a quarter north of Big Island, on the old Radnor road, on the 
farm now owned by Orange Messenger. Mr. Cope was elected the first 
Justice of the Peace, and Lydia Cope was the first white female born in 
Big Island Township. 

About the same time came the Widow Neville and hor two bachelor sons, 
John and William, the last three of whom located on Neville Run and lived 
together for several years, employing much of their time in hunting and 
paying but little attention to agricultural pursuits. They were not skillful 
hunters, however, and as th« country grew older and the game began to 
disappear, they were compelled to seek a more favorable location for their 
accustomed pursuit. Accordingly in the summer of 1835, they left Marion 
County, going northwest through the Black Swamp, cutting their road as 
they went, and late in the autumn of that year arrived at the St. Joe settle- 
ment in Indiana, where they again located and where they were last 
heard of. 

Soon after the lands north of the Greenville treaty line came into the 
market in 1819, there were a number of families who located in this town- 
ship, and among them were those of Jacob Dickerson, William Britton, 
Alexander Britton. Samuel Jones. Dr. Alson Norton and Hezekiah Gorton. 
During the next two years there came several others, of whom the following 
are a portion: Leonard Metz, Newton Messinger, Col. Everett Messenger, 
Portius Wheeler, David Thompson, Elder David Dudley and Caleb John- 
son. Quite a settlement was thus early formed near where the town of Big 
Island now stands, and although there was no laid out or platted town there 



652 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

at the time, yet it was thought by the inhabitants of that vicinity that there 
was the most suitable site for the government seat of the county soon to be 
organized, and they strove to make it such; but they were too far from the 
geographical center. The Commissioners appointed for the purpose of select- 
ing a suitable site for the county seat in the year 1822, after viewing 
several localities, among which were Claridon, Big Island and Marion, se- 
lected the last-named place, which, in the judgment of a great number of 
the settlers of the county at least, was then the most unsuitable and un- 
promising situation of all in contemplation. The people of Claridon and 
Big Island were sorely vexed and disappointed; and although the town of 
Big Island was not platted until in 1826, the settlers there and in the sur- 
rounding community contended for the county seat, even for many years 
after it was established at Marion, and the hope of success was not wholly 
abandoned until at the time the court house was erected in Marion in 1832. 
Then they quietly yielded to the inevitable, and the place remains a mere 
hamlet to this day. 

Col. Samuel Everett, one of the earliest citizens of this township, was 
born in Brattleboro, Vt. , in 1786, where he learned the saddler's trade as 
he grew up. He enlisted in the war of 1812 under command of Gen. Hull, 
and was one of Hull's men at the infamous surrender of Detroit. 
He came to this county in 1825, entered a farm in the northeast corner of 
Big Island Township, on Section 1, where he lived until his death, Febru- 
ary 2, 1842. He raised a family of four daughters and two sons. On the 
southeast quarter of Section 1 is situated 

THE NOTED INDIAN FOET. 

This fort is on the highest point of land in the township. It really 
consists of two forts, the principal one being surrounded by a deep ditch. 
The smaller one contains about three-fourths of an acre, and is connected 
with the larger one by a narrow passage. They are said by good en- 
gineers to be well laid out. Part of the fort is still in good preservation — 
the ditch, embankment, etc. — showing unmistakably the design of the con- 
structors, notwithstanding there are many large oaks, three and four feet 
in diameter, standing in the bottom of the ditch. 

The story of Samuel Britton and his siege by the wolves is given in 
the first chapter. 

One of the ancient relics of this township is an Indian graveyard, on 
the farm of James Harraman. 

BIG ISLAND VILLAGE IN EARLY DAYS. 

The principal hotel in Big Island in 1837 was the brick building then 
kept by Mr. Morgan, afterward by D. Thurlow,. John E. Knapp, Sr., 
Peter Frederick, Hiram Halsted, etc. Willey Fowler also kept a hotel, 
and after his death he was succeeded by Daniel Thurlow, and he by his 
widow. Later, William Wiley erected a fine frame building on the site of 
the edifice known as the " Old Mansion." 

The first dry goods store of any importance was opened by Messrs. 
Norton, Royce & Topliff. John Hudson at a very early period kept a gro- 
cery in the frame building opposite the brick tavern; it was long ago torn 
away. Later, Ira Halsted ran a grocery store in one corner of the brick 
building, and Jacob Young a dry goods store in the Norton building. 

The early blacksmiths were David Ross, Levi Hammond, John Grice 
and James Lefever. Israel Jones and Dexter Pangborn were the wagon- 



BIG ISLAND TOWNSHIP. 653 

makers. Maj. Pangborn, a patriot of the Revolution, was the oldest citi- 
zen and was highly respected. Royal Miller and Alfred Walker were shoe- 
makers. Old Mr. Awkinbaugh also made shoes — at least, says Mr. Knapp, 
"he made Jakee wear shoes in hay-making time to prevent ' his biting him- 
self mit a snake.' " Jonathan and George O. Ross were coopers. Tbe 
chief carpenters were Milton Pixley and Samson and Paul Jones. The 
physicians, Drs. Alson, and John C. Norton and Russell C. Bowdish. Tail- 
ors, Joshua S. Batch and James Green. 

Some of the most prominent and widely known citizens of Marion Coun- 
ty were natives of Big Island Township. Among the number may be men- 
tioned Col. Everett Messenger and Judge Isaac E. James, both of whom 
were members of the State Legislature; John R. Knapp, for many years a 
leading editor of the county, now of Washington, D. C, and H. T. Van 
Fleet, a prominent member of the Marion County bar. 

In militia muster days, the village of Big Island was a favorite point of 
rendezvous on Saturday afternoon, when drinking and fighting constituted 
the chief attractions. On one Christmas Day in Big Island might be seen at 
one moment thirteen fights going on! Imagine twenty-six men, all 
"paired" and stripped, and fighting at one time! It was what was called a 
free fight, and "outsiders" therefore did not attempt to check its progress or 
interfere in any way. To have " commanded the peace" that day would 
have been considered a breach of decorum unpardonable, and, indeed, not 
a safe undertaking. 

CHURCHES. 

Free-Will Baptist Church of Big Island. — This church was organized, 
according to the old church records, by the Rev. David Dudley at his 
house, July 6, 1822. The first members were Rev. David Dudley, Betsey 
Dudley, Robert and Nancy Hopkins, John Page, Margarette Page, P. 
Wheeler and wife, Mrs. E. James, Benjamin F. Wheeler, Asa Davis, John 
Bates and wife, John C. Bates, Mehala Thomson, George Southwick and 
wife and D. Thompson and wife. The society grew in numbers and sub- 
sequently erected a small church building on the northeast quarter of Section 
12, which they used for several years, but which has since been destroyed. 
They afterward helped build the old Union Church, R. Hopkins donating 
the site, one and one half miles east of Scott Town, on the northeast quarter 
of Section 5, in 1842, and it has ever since been their regular place of 
meeting. It has been used by the Methodists and Presbyterians also. In 
1868, they helped build the Pleasant Hill Union Church, on the northeast 
quarter of Section 10, and in 1873 they built at Big Island Village their 
present church, four miles from the Union Church edifice, which was 
dedicated July 6, 1873. The church holds regular services at both places. 

The Rev. David Dudley acted as the pastor of this church for about 
eighteen years after its organization. He was followed by Revs. E. Hutch- 

ings, Bradford, David Marks, Aaron Hatch, John B. Wallace, G. 

W. Baker, Isaac Dotson, Oscar E. Baker, Gideon Moon, Kendall Higgins, 
John Collier, S. D. Bates, R. J. Poston, W. Whitacre, J. F. Tufts and 
Rev. J. A. Sutton, the present pastor. This church has been a " tower of 
strength unto the Lord " for upward of sixty years and numbered among 
its members many of the most worthy pioneer settlers of Big Island Town- 
ship. 

Bryan Church of the Evangelical Association was incorporated May 15, 
1879, by the election of Trustees. 

The German Methodist Episcopal Church is situated on Section 17. 



654 



HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 



RAILROADS. 

Big Island Township is now traversed by two railroads, running the en- 
tire length o it east and west. On the Indianapolis Division of the Cleve- 
land, Columbus, Cincinnati & Indianapolis Railroad— the oldest railroad in 
the county, being built about thirty years ago — are Bryan and Gurley sta- 
tions, and on the Chicago & Atlantic Railroad, just completed, are Hord s 
and Espyville. The Columbus & Toledo Railroad nearly touches the 
iiortheast corner of the township. 

AGRICULTURAL STATUS IN 1883. 

The following is an annual report, made in the summer of 1883: 
Wheat, acres, sown, 2,423: bushels produced, 30,452, number of acres 
sown for harvest of 1883, 1,587. Oats, acres sown, 513; acres sown for 
crop of 1883, 270; bushels produced, 10,113. Corn, acres planted, 3,451: 
acres planted for crop of 1883, 3,556; bushels produced, 135.250. Meadow, 
acres, 1,604; tons of hay. 2,026. Clover, acres, 204; tons of hay, 234; 
bushels of seed, 166. Potatoes, acres planted, 77| acres for crop of 1883, 
65; bushels produced, 6,945. Butter, 39,505 pounds. Bees, 144 hives: 
pounds of honey, 1,445. Eggs, 16,065 dozen. Apples, acres occupied, 
179; bushels produced, 2,630. Lands, number of acres cultivated, 5,553, 
number of acres pasture, 6,200; number of acres woodland, 3,074; total 
number of acres owned, 15,652. Wool, 36,483 pounds. Milch cows, 171. 
Stallions, 1. Dogs, 75. Sheep killed by dogs, 72; value, $168. Sheep in- 
jured by dogs, 50; value, $30. Hogs died, 207; value, $1,234. Sheep 
died, 64; value, $175. Cattle died, 20; value, $430. Horses died, 18; 
value, $1,410. 

BIOGRAPHICAL. 

The following personal notices form an important feature of the history 
of Big Island Township. They contain the chief facts connected with the 
lives of those who, by their industry and energy, cleared up and improved 
it to its present, prosperous condition: 

DR. RUSSELL C. BOWDISH was born in Delaware County, Ohio, 
November 19, 1826. He is the son of Elijah and Sarah Bowdish, who 
were natives of the States of Rhode Island and Connecticut. Eljiah Bow- 
dish came from Rhode Island to Columbus, Ohio, in the year 1815; re- 
mained there about three years, when he removed to Radnor, Delaware Co. , 
Ohio, where r he was married to Sarah Russell in 1821. They came to Mar- 
ion County in 1830, where they resided during the remainder of their 
lives. Dr. R. C. Bowdish is a sociable, intelligent, well educated, respect- 
ed gentleman, living on a beautiful farm of 227 acres, which he owns, sit- 
uated near the village of Big Island. He was a medical student of Dr. J. 
C. Norton and Dr. T. B. Fisher, of Marion, Ohio, and of Cleveland Medi - 
cal College. He has practiced medicine for more than thirty years, over 
twenty-live of which have been at his present location. He is a skillful 
and successful physician. He was married to Irene Hardin, at Delaware, 
Ohio, December 28, 1848, and they had two children, a son and a daugh- 
ter, who both died in childhood. Mrs. Bowdish died in 1876. 

ALBERT J. BRADY is the son of S. L. and Mary J. Brady, natives 
of Big Island Township, who live at present in Morrow County, Ohio, hav- 
ing brought up a number of children. Albert was born February 1, 1859, 
and at the age of sixteen he started out for himself and worked by the 
month for live years — four years with his uncle, William Brady. July 3, 



BIG ISLAND TOWNSHIP. 655 

1879, he married Ida M. Corey, daughter of Mary B. Corey, of this town 
ship. Mrs. B. was born June 22, 1861. Their two children are Ebenezer, 
who was born April 9, 1880, and Lura Irene, born January 12, 1882. 
Since 1881, Mr. Brady has attended the Lemuel Fite farm, of 500 acres, 
being paid by the year. This season (1883) he has eighty acres of corn 
and thirty acres of wheat. 

B. D. BRADY was born January 29, 1858, in Big Island Township, 
the son of John C. and Elizabeth Brady. His father died in early man- 
hood, so that he obtained but little education. He was married in the 
spring of 1877 to Miss Sarah Frederick, daughter of Jacob Frederick, of 
Marion. Their one child is Merrill Leroy. He purchased forty acres, 
where he resides, in 1870, for $2,000, but sold since twenty acres for $1,100; 
ne is cultivating the remainder. 

JOHN BRICKER was born in Germany December 18, 1845, the son of 
John and Barbara (Bricker) Bricker, who emigrated to America in 1853, 
sti. pping in Delaware County, Ohio, eight years, then settling in Green Camp 
Township, where they still reside. Securing a practical education, John 
Bricker remained with his parents till marriage, which occurred March 17, 
1870. His wife is the daughter of George and Fanny (King) Court (see 
sketch of George Court), and they are the parents of three children — Mary 
O. , Albert F. and Rosa. Immediately after marriage, he purchased, 
where he now resides, eighty acres, having then few improvements. He has 
erected an attractive home, surrounded by substantial outbuildings; is a 
thorough farmer, raises considerable stock, is a good citizen and votes the 
Democratic ticket. 

JAMES BRITTON was born February 16, 1834, a native of Big Island 
Township, the son of William and Sarah Britton, who came from the State 
of New York, entering eighty acres. Having raised a family of nine chil- 
dren, Mr. "William Britton died in 1871, aged eighty-two years. James' 
grandfather, William Britton, came from England; was engaged in both 
the Revolutionary war and that of 1812. January 16, 1857, the subject of 
this sketch was married to Miss Lydia McNabb, daughter of Augus and 
Lydia McNabb, of Massachusetts, and of Scotch extraction. Eight chil- 
dren blessed this union, three dying young. The names of the living are 
Asa M., Sarah R. , James, Jr., Lydia R. and May M. Mr. B. inherited the 
old homestead, consisting of 102 acres, which he values to-day at $70 per 
acre. His farm is stocked with the best varieties. He has owned a two 
thirds interest in an Aultman & Taylor thresher for twenty-seven years, but 
he refuses to follow it longer. Both himself and wife hold a membership 
in the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

MRS. MARY S. BRITTON is the widow of Gitto Britton, whose par- 
ents came from New York in an early day. She was born Februray 26, 
1823, the daughter of James Cram, who came to Big Island Township in 
1836; his grandfather, Sanborn Cram, was a soldier in the Revolutionary 
war. Mr. and Mrs. Britton were married in the autumn of 1841, and 
their three children are "William H. , Sarah, wife of Harrison Deal, and 
Louis M., an enterprising farmer, living near his parents. After their 
marriage, they rented about live years, purchasing their present residence, 
then of sixty acres in 1850, which subsequently was increased to 132 
acres. Mr. B. died in 1863, aged forty-three years, having done a large 
amount of hard labor, though never a strong man, and was kind to the 
poor. Mrs. B. is still hale and hearty, and enjoys the confidence of the 
neighbors generally. 



656 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

C. COONS is one of Big Island's strong temperance men, born in the 
State of New York, April 1, 1836, the son of Henry and Mary Coons, who 
arrived from New York in 1840, settling in Big Island and rearing a fam- 
ily of four children. Mr. Coons remained with his parents only until he 
was fourteen, when he went out and worked by the day and month until he 
was twenty-one years of age. His marriage to Miss Lucina Edmonds oc- 
curred in January, 1857. She was the daughter of Thomas and Mary Ed- 
monds, of Indiana. She lived only three years after marriage, leaving one 
son — Leroy R. Mr. Coons married again in the autumn of 1866, Cath- 
erine Uncapher, daughter of Isaac and Susan Uncapher, of Marion. To 
this union were added two children — Sarah J. and Alondoah. Mr. Coons 
rented the first three years of married life; then worked at saw milling 
two years; rented again for eleven years, and finally bought his present 
residence in 1877, 120 acres, paying $50 per acre — valued today at $65 per 
acre. He has made many improvements; a good house in 1878; a substan- 
tial barn in 1879. His fences are fine, and he has already put out 400 to 
500 rods of tile. He raises considerable grain annually. Both Mr. and 
Mrs. Coons are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, he acting as 
Class-Leader and Trustee. 

JOSEPH B. COUTTJ was born in St. Phelix, Canada East, April 7, 
1846, the son of Pierre Coutu, whose people originally hailed from 
France. He remained with his parents until his seventeenth year, when, 
working out for two months at $7 per month, he obtained sufficient funds 
to carry him to Toronto. He soon met parties with whom he engaged to 
work upon the old broad-gauge railroad, and he continued with that com- 
pany until 1865, when he came to Marion for one year; thence to Big 
Island. July 21, 1867, he married Susan M. Payne, daughter of Abraham 
and Philo A. Payne, of this place. Their children are four — Princess A., 
Philolelia, Stella and Hayes. At present he is renting the " Gurley farm," 
of 160 acres, and he has continued in this business for the past thirteen 
years. The education he acquired in the schools of Canada was very lim- 
ited, but he enjoys the full confidence of his neighbors, not having been 
out of office since coming into the township; serving as Constable nine con- 
secutive years, and as Township Clerk for three years — which office he now 
holds. 

A. O. CRANMER, who was born April 19, 1831, in Portage County, 
Ohio, was the son of Israel M. (of New York) and Lusina Cranmer (of 
Vermont), who came to Marion County in 1840, rearing a family of six 
children. He married, September 4, 1851, Miss Ann J. Smith, daughter 
of John D. Smith, of Marion County. They have had five children, four 
dying young. The only survivor is Eliza J., wife of Thomas Miller. They 
bought their present residence in 1860, then fifty acres, now 112 acres, 
valued at $75 per acre: fences good; tiling 525 rods. His fine house, cost- 
ing $3,000, was built in 1881. At a cost of $800, he built a good barn in 
1873. He enlisted in Company B, Sixty-fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer 
Infantry, first as private, but promoted as Corporal and finally as Sergeant. 
He served in nearly all the leading battles— Murfreesboro, Chickamauga, 
Mission Ridge, Knoxville, Blaine's Cross Roads, Buzzard's Roost, Dalton, 
Resaca, Dallas, Kenesaw, Atlanta, Peach Tree Creek, and was captured at 
Franklin, Tenn., November 30, 1864. He was a prisoner four months and 
two days in Andersonville Prison, when he was exchanged. He was aboard 
the " Sultana" when she blew up, and nearly burned to death. In oue bat- 
tle he was wounded in the feet twice. October 6, 1872, his left arm was 



BIG ISLAND TOWNSHIP. 657 

nearly dissevered by a drag saw. and it is but of little service to him now; 
nevertheless, he is very industrious, and has cleared in his time eighty-five 
acres of timber land. Mr. Cranmer commands the respect of his neighbors, 
and himself and wife are members of the Christian Church. 

ALLEN DAY, living in the northwest part of the township, is a native 
of Big Island, born April 7, 1836, the son of Ovington and Jane Day. His 
father was a soldier of 1812, while his grandfather, Samuel Day, and his 
great-grandfather were both engaged. in the Revolutionary war. His peo- 
ple are of Scotch extraction. In 1878, his father died, aged eighty- four 
years, having cleared seventy-five acres of land. All the education that 
Allen obtained ha acquired before his thirteenth year. From his fifteenth 
to hi£ seventeenth year he was learning the jewelry trade, at Upper San- 
dusky, Ohio, of S. H. Chapman. He never followed this business, how- 
ever. Mr. Day purchased and inherited the old place of 141 acres, which 
he has increased to 161 acres, the west twenty acres being in Montgomery 
Township. He values his farm at $75 per acre. It is already drained with 
1,000 rods of tile, and he intends adding about two hundred rods annually. 
He has the finest graded stock. His inviting house he built in 1877, at a 
cost of $2,000. He first married, January 28, 1858, Miss S. J. Mears, 
daughter of Samuel and Sarah Mears, of Wyandot County, Ohio. Seven 
children were added to this union, three surviving — Florence, Ferris and 
Gertrude. This wife died in 1872, aged thirty-six years, and Mr. Day 
married again, October 8, 1874, M~s. N. J. Lee. daughter of William and 
Lvdia Burns, formerly of Iowa. 

BENJAMIN P. DUTTON is a native of the State of Delaware, Sus- 
sex County, born August 26, 1829, the son of Jesse and Mary Dutton, who 
came to Big Island Township in 1835, settling on the old Townsend farm, 
rearing a family of three children. The father died in 1845, aged fifty- 
seven years. Benjamin P. Dutton remembers distinctly of hearing wolves, 
wild cats, and seeing deer near their door, his father killing many of the 
last. Having obtained a limited education, he commenced to work for him- 
self in his seventeenth year, laboring by month or by day ten years. De- 
cember 13, 1855, he married Miss Maria E. Riley, daughter of J. J. and 
Betsey M. Riley; the latter died August 11, 1883. Seven children com 
plemented bis marriage, six now living — Martha, wife of Edward Wood: 
Eliza A., wife of W. W. Miller; Mary M, wife of J. C. Williams; George 
F., Charles A. and Eva. After renting three years, Mr. D. bought his 
present farm of eighty acres, paying $1,600; but the Chicago & Atlantic Rail- 
road has taken some of this ground. He has but 73i acres at present, val- 
ued at $75 per acre; is now tiling his farm. He owns two fine horses — 
"English Glory" and " Heenan." Since 1870, he has had an interest in a 
thresher; one-sixth interest at first, one-third at present. Mr. Dutton is a 
hard worker, having cleared in his day 125 acres of forest land. He has 
been Trustee of the township; also its Clerk. He is a worthy citizen. 

J. B. FISHER is an- enterprising farmer, located north of the Cleve- 
land, Columbus, Cincinnati & Indianapolis Railroad, above Longville, in 
a neat house surrouuded by comfortable buildings. He is the son of Dr. T. 
B. and E. P. Fisher, of Marion, where he was born October 20, 1843. He 
received a good education, but at seventeen years of age he enlisted in his 
country's defense, in Company K, Fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer In- 
fantry. He served in many important engagements — Chancellorsville, 
Gettysburg, Mine Run, Wilderness and Petersburg. He was honorably 
discharged in the spring of 1805. Remaining with his people only one 



658 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

year, he went "out West," becoming a farmer, stock buyer and general trader 
until 1873, when he returned to Ohio and to his present home. He mar- 
ried, November 26, 1873, Miss Jennie A. Phelps, daughter of T. D. Phelps, 
of Franklin County, Ohio. Their children are four — Eleanor, Jessie, 
John S. and Clarissa. He is a faithful member of the Masonic lodge at 
Marion, No. 70. 

HIRAM K. FOOS, nn enterprising young man, living in the northern 
part of Big Island Township, is a native of Scott Township, his birth tak- 
ing place February 3, 1857. He is of German descent. His parents are 
James H. and Rhoda Foos. Mr. Foos, in his twenty-third year, November 
25, 1879, was married to Miss Nerva E. Clark, an intelligent lady, daugh- 
ter of R. T. and Harriet Clark, of Marion Township. Their only child, 
Harry, died when an infant. In 1882, he bought his home, consisting of 
forty acres, paying $50 per acre; he values it at $60 per acre. He keeps 
good stock. Both Mr. and Mrs. Foos have been consistent members of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church for the past three years. 

H. C. FRAME is a young, enterprising farmer, born November 3, 
1850, a native of Big Island Township and the son of Smith and Lovey 
Frame. The former was born in Pickaway County, Ohio, in 1803; his 
death occurred in 1876, aged seventy-two. The latter was born in Ross 
County, Ohio, in 1811; her death occurred in 1882, aged seventy-cne. 
His parents moved to Marion County in 1835, bought 160 acres and in time 
accumulated considerable property. They reared a family of five children. 
Mr. H. C. Frame owns 191 acres of the old homestead, in Section 6, valued 
at $75 per acre. He makes a business of raising and fattening stock for 
market. He is tiling the farm to some extent annually, having buried 
already about two hundred rods. His farm is one of the most desirable 
in the county. Mr. Frame is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and a 
charter member of Marion Commandery, No. 36, K. T. 

CHRISTOPHER GRACELY is a native of Richland Township, born 
August 15, 1846, the son of Jacob F. and Sophia Gracely, who came from 
Germany in 1832, locating in the above township. Cholera raged upon 
the vessel upon which they came, and forty eight of their fellow-passengers 
died. They were six weeks moving, with an ox-team, from Cleveland to 
their place of settlement. They removed to Big Island Township in 1873. 
The mother died in 1857. Their children numbered nine; one son is Rev. 
David Gracely, of the German Methodist Episcopal Church. The old 
gentleman, born in 1806, is still vigorous. Christopher, having received a 
fair education, married, April 18, 1871. Miss Angeline Bauer, daughter of 
Croft Bauer, of Pleasant Township. The name of their only child is 
Emanuel W. Mr. Gracely purchased his home of eighty acres in 1871. 
paying $5,000, adding since forty acres, all worth $65 per acre. As a 
farmer, he has a tine beginning. His $1,000 barn is just completed. His 
farm is stocked with the best grades. This is the fourth year of his Town 
Trusteeship. Himself and family are members of the German Methodist 
Episcopal Church, which he has served in all official relations. He is a 
highly respected citizen. 

J. F GRAY is one of Big Island's highly respected and thrifty farm- 
ers; is the son of Judge George and Mary Gray, and was born October 23, 
1834. They came from the State of Delaware in 1817, locating in Salt 
Rock Township, where they remained till 1850, when they moved to Big 
Island Township. He served two terms as Probate Judge. Of his seven 
children, five were boys. J. F.'s grandfather, Frazer Gray, was on military 



BIG ISLAND TOWNSHIP. 659 

duty at the hanging of Maj. Andr6, the British spy, and he often conversed 
with Gen. Washington. Mr. G. was married, June 1, 1865, to Miss 
Amelia E. Riley, daughter of Patterson and Sarah A. Riley, of Marion 
Township. Their union has been supplemented with six children, two dy- 
ing infants; the surviving are David, Robert, Cora and Eddie. Mr. Gray 
rented several years, but purchased his present farm in 1872, consisting of 
J 60 acres, paying $45 per acre, worth to-day $80 per acre. He takes great 
pride in his farm, having a good barn, fences, etc., and $340 worth of tiling 
done. Every rod of his land is arable. This summer (1883) he is build- 
ing one of the finest houses in the township, at a cost of $3,000. His vari- 
eties of stock are of the best. Both himself and wife belong t to the New 
Jerusalem (Swedenborgian) Church at Urbaua, Ohio. Mr. Gray is Town 
Treasurer, and has been for five years; the Trusteeship he has also held. 
He is a member of the Masonic Blue Lodge at Marion, No. 70, also an offi- 
cial member of the Chapter. He is a respected and thrifty farmer. 

J. H. GUTHRIE is a stirring, vigorous young man, of only eight- 
een summers; was born June 30, 1865, the son of John D. and Susan 
Guthrie, of Bowling Green Township. He has been prosecuting his stud- 
ies at the Ada and Danville Normal Schools, but this spring (1883) he has 
been conducting the "Longacre farm," owned by his father, and consist- 
ing of 126 acres. On this farm are twenty-five acres of wheat, seventy- 
five acres of corn and good live stock In all probability Mr. Guthrie will 
make this his permanent residence. The farm is supplied with good stock. 

AARON HA.RRAMAN was born in Green Camp Township in 1834, the 
son of Davis and Betsey Harraraan, she dying when he was aged six weeks. 
His father was a soldier of the war of 1812. He remained at home until 
his eighteenth year; then worked by the month until marriage, for his 
brother, David Harraman, for seven years. In the autumn of 1864, he 
married Miss Julia Carr, daughter of David and Polly Carr. Their two 
living children are Orris W. and Clarence G. In 1871, he purchased twen- 
ty acres near Big Island, where he lived until the spring of 1883, when he 
bought, where he now resides, eighty-one acres, paying $3,200 — sixty acres 
in timber. His property is worth $50 per acre. Mr. H has ever been a 
hard worker, clearing in his time some fifty acres of forest land. 

JAMES HARRAMAN was born November 21, 1825, in Big Island 
Township, son of David and Elizabeth Harraman — the latter from Penn- 
sylvania. They located in Big Island about 1818.* His father, David, 
served in the war of 1812, and was surrendered by Hull, at Detroit, August 
16, 1812. His grandfather, David Harraman, of English-Scotch descent, 
served during the entire war of the Revolution, and was granted a pension; 
he died in Darke County, Ohio, aged one hundred years. Mr. H. continued 
with his parents until he was aged twenty-one years; then worked by the 
day and month thrte years, receiving from 3 to 4 shillings per day. He 
has always been a hard worker. In the autumn of 1846, he married Abigail 
Van Fleet, daughter of John K. Van Fleet. Eleven children have been 
born to them, five dying infants. The living are Charles, Morton, Curtis, 
Louisa, James B. and Edward. About 1850, he bought forty acres, where 
he now lives, whi^h has multiplied to 282 acres. His property is worth, at 
present, $25,000. He is building this season (1883) a large, handsome 
house, costing $2,000, located upon the site of an ancient Indian grave- 
yard. A half a mile of hedge runs in front of his house. His farm is 
excellent for fruits and grain of all varieties, having some three aci'es of 
orchard. 



660 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

JACOB HECKER was born in Baden, Germany, April 29, 1829, the 
son of Jacob and Mary Hecker. Upon the death of the latter, thf> father 
brought the family of three sons to America in 1847, locating at Galion, 
Ohio. They remained there six years, when they moved a little south to 
Marion, living there thirteen years. They came to Big Island Township 
in 1866, where the father died in 1871, aged seventy-three years. Mr. 
Jacob Hecker acquired a knowledge of the tinner's trade in the fatherland. 
He was married, in February of 1853, to Susan Schweinfurth, also of Ger- 
many. Four children blessed this union, one dying young— Louis (do- 
ceased), Jacob, Jr., Catherine and John. His wife died in 1865, aged 
thirty-six years. In the spring of 1866, Mr. H. married again, Mary 
Krouse, daughter of Ferdinand and Sophia Krouse. Eight children have 
been born to them, six surviving — R. Ferdinand, Susan, Magdalene, George, 
Richard, Sophia and Wesley Gustavus. He purchased his present farm, 
then of 240 acres, in 1866. adding since forty acres, valuing it all at $65 
per acre. He also owns a beautiful and valuable residence in Marion, into 
which he intends moving^ in the immediate future. His home buildings 
are good, substantial and convenient. Himself and family belong to the 
German Methodist Episcopal Church, he connected officially. He is a 
worthy and exemplary citizen. 

JOHN HEINER was born August 17, 1837, in Richland Township, son 
of John G. and Neclanna Heiner, who came from Wittenberg, Germany, in 
1835, locating in Claridon Township, where they had twelve children, only 
two surviving. John G. served three years in the late war, in Company K, 
Fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, under Capt. and Col. Brown, 
of Marion. John left home at the age of nineteen, and jobbed about un- 
til he learned the carpenter's trade, which he still plies at odd hours. 
April 1, 1856, he married Miss Mary Frummer, daughter of Caleb (from 
Germany) and Anna Frummer (from an island near Germany). Their six 
children are Amelia, wife of Frank Jones; Catherine, deceased; Josephine 
M., John F., Flora L. and Clara. Mr. H. rented for four years; then 
bought eighty-four acres in Auglaize County, remaining for five years; from 
there he went to Iowa, purchasing 120 acres, continuing there four years; 
he then returned to Marion Township, buying eighty acres, stopping four 
years, but bought present farm in 1874, consisting of 300 acres, paying 
$11,000, now worth $80 per acre. His tine house he built in 1879, at a cost 
of $2,500; also good barn in 1881, costing $700. He is tiling some 150 
rods annually. In stock, Mr. H. keeps the best grades of all varieties. He 
is a prosperous farmer, an esteemed citizen, and himself and wife are con- 
sistent members of the Marion Lutheran Church. 

FREDERICK G. HETTLER, the son of Jacob and Catherine Hettler, 
was born in Germany November 20, 1827. He sailed for this country in 
1854, coming six years before his parents did. He settled in Pennsylvania 
about two years, then lived in Mariun for seven years, and then moved to 
Big Island Township, purchasing 100 acres of wild land in 1872. He, 
with the assistance of his sons, have cleared and improved the most of this 
farm, and erected suitable buildings. He married, in 1854, Catharine 
Pfeil, and three children crowned this union — Frederick, Mary and Jacob. 
Their mother died in 1864, aged thirty -five years. The following year he 
again married, Margaretta Haberman, and four children were born to them. 
This wife died in 1878. also aged thirty -five. His third union occurred in 
L879, with Lena Wissinger, daughter of Gottleib and Margaret (Ritman) 
Wissinger. natives of Germany, and the parents of nine children, four liv- 



BIG ISLAND TOWNSHIP. 661 

ing — Margaretta L. , Louisa Lena, Jacob G. and William. Frederick and 
three others are deceased. Mr. Hettler is an industrious and worthy citi- 
zen. He is a Democrat, politically, and himself and wife are members of 
the Lutheran Church. 

ENOCH HOCH is a native of Franklin County, Penn. , born September 
27, 1827, the son of Gideon and Magdeline Hoch, who trace their lineage 
into Germany. Enoch came to Fremont, Ohio, in 1854, engaging in the 
mercantile business for three years. He then established himself at Card- 
ington, Ohio, until 1860, manufacturing carriages. Coming then to Marion, 
in 1867, he continued the same business. He purchased his farm, then of 
380 acres, in 1863, which has increased to 500 acres. He also owns 180 
acres located near the Scioto River. He employs five laborers regularly. 
His beautiful farm is laid out in square forty- acre fields, upon which he 
raises extensive quantities of grass, having this season (1883) 150 acres of 
meadow. He also cultivates fruit of all varieties, twelve acres being de- 
voted to orchard. His attractive and commodious home, admitting a beau 
tiful lawn in front, was built in 1853. He married Miss Mary C. Garvin, 
daughter of Henry Garvin, of Tiffin, Ohio. This union was crowned with 
four children, two dying young. The two living children are Mary C. and 
Frederick S. Mr. and Mrs. Hoch have been members of the Reformed Church 
since childhood. Mr. Hoch is an estimable and worthy citizen of Marion 
County. His portrait appears on another page. 

ARCHIBALD HOPKINS, an old and respected citizen, is a native of 
Big Island Township, the son of Robert and Nancy Hopkins, who hailed 
from the State of Delaware. Archibald's grandfather, John Hopkins, 
arrived in Ohio in 1797, bringing Robert, aged three years, and five older 
children, settling in Pike County, Ohio, but he died in Pickaway County. 
Archibald's father, Robert, came to Big Island in December, 1822, locat- 
ing on the "Heiner farm." He taught the first school in that district, 
continuing two or three terms. He was a prominent member of the Free- 
will Baptist Church, at Big Island Village; its Deacon for forty-three 
years, its Clerk, and also Secretary of its quarterly and yearly meetings. 
He reared a family of seven children, one of whom — Robert— was Judge 
of the Probate Court of this county, and his youngest daughter married Dr. 
J. Copeland, of La Rue. He owned at one time 400 acres of land, and 
was worth some $20,000. He represented Marion and. its districts in both 
branches of the State Legislature. He was also an old soldier of the war 
of 1812, his wife receiving, on that account, a pension from 1872 to 1881. 
Robert's father, John Hopkins, participated in the Revolutionary war. 
Robert died in 1864, aged seventy years, Miilehis wife survived until 1881, 
when she died aged eighty-five years. In their veins mingled the Scotch, 
Irish and English blood. Mr. Hopkins recalls seeing about his father's 
door deer, wolves and Indians, and knew personally Armstrong and Mat- 
thew Walker. He injured his health, when only sixteen, and has been 
paralyzed more or less ever since. His first marriage took place April 14, 
1853, to Miss Cordelia Higgins. She died at the birth of her only child, 
which did not survive. February 28, 1861, he married Miss Alvira Brocket, 
daughter of Alonson Brocket, of Trumbull County, Ohio. She, too, died 
three years later. His last marriage was solemnized with Miss Mary P. 
Langdon (a Quaker), daughter of William and Lucinda Langdon. In 
1856, Mr. H. bought, in Boone County, Iowa, 160 acres, paying $500. He 
has added since eighty-one acres more, and he values it all now at $30 per 
acre. He purchased his present home, consisting to-day of only six and 



662 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

a half acres, in 1862, where he and his wife live very contentedly. They 
are both members of the Free-Will Baptist Church, of which he has been 
Deacon several years. 

MRS. SARAH A. HUDSON was born November 23, 1823, in Harrison 
County, Ohio, the daughter of Rev. William and Margery Kenyon, who 
came from the Isle of Man in 1821, settling in Harrison County. They 
reared a family of eight children, one a minister, Rev. Henry Kenyon. 
Mrs. Hudson remained with her parents until September 30, 1856, when 
she was married to Rev. William Hudson, of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church, North Ohio Conference. Mr. Hudson was a thorough scholar and 
a self-made man. He served twenty-two years as pastor, commencing in 
1850; failing health compelled him to cease his labors. A severe attack of 
typhoid pneumonia caused his death May 2, 1879, aged sixty-two years. 
Mr. and Mrs. Hudson had four children, one dying an infant. The living 
are William W., Henry M. and Lulu J. M. Rev. Dr. Hudson bought, in 
1869, where the family now resides, a farm of 160 acres, paying $3,700; 
havinf improved it with a fine house and good outbuildings, it is now val- 
ued at $10,000. Mrs. H. belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Church, of 
which she has been a consistent member for the past fifty years. 

WILLIAM G. JOHNSON. Sk., was born May 24, 1814, in Providence, R. 
I. His parents, Philip and Priscilla Johnson, came to Marion County about 
1818. Philip Johnson dying soon after this, Mrs. Johnson returned to her 
native State. At five years of age, William was bound out to E. D. Bates, 
with whom he remained eighteen years, and by whom he was taught the 
tailor's trade. He was married to Elizabeth Bickford. daughter of John 
and Amy Bickford, of Marion. They have had nine children— John B., 
Samuel G, Mary P. (wife of Edward Kesler), Newton M., Amy E. (wife of 
Benjamin Burns), Alexander (Baggage Master), Thomas R. (dead), William 
G. and Lydia A. (wife of Ross Burns). The first three years of married life 
were passed in Big Island Township; then he weut to Marion till 1857, 
supporting a family of fourteen by digging wells and moving buildings. 
He worked seven years upon the Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati & In- 
dianapolis Railroad. Mr. J. has always been a hard worker, having 
cleared in his time seventy acres of forest land. He bought a farm of 
eighty acres at Gurley Station in 1857, but has disposed of that property. 
Mr. J. has been failing the past few years, losing his right eye by brain 
fever, 1869. Mrs. J. , by breaking both arms, at different times, is permanent- 
ly crippled. 

W. G. JOHNSON, Jr., is the son of W. G. and Elizabeth Johnson, 
and was born November 9, 1853,' in Marion. He obtained bis education in 
the common school — sufficient for most practical purposes. He is one of 
Big Island's enterprising young men, having been engaged the past nine 
years in manufacturing and shipping lumber — often 150,000 feet to one 
city. He has also handled 85.000 railroad ties, and followed agriculture 
to a considerable extent. At present, he and a partner are building the 
" Rayl & TJncapher pike." four miles in length, at $2,100 per mile. He 
owns five acres within the corporation of Marion, upon which he intends 
building a good house this fall (1883). He is a bachelor, and lives with 
and cares for his parents. 

ELMUS LONGACRE was born February 16, 1836. in Wyandot Coun- 
ty, Ohio. He is the son of Daniel and Harriet Longacre. His father's 
u'raiulfather came to this country from Germany early in this century. His 
father, a soldier of the war of 1812. came from Pennsylvania in 1833 to- 



BIG ISLAND TOWNSHIP. 663 

Wyandot County, remaining two or three years; then to Big Island Town- 
ship, remaining until his death in 1867, aged ninety-one years. Mr. Long- 
acre remained with his parents until his twenty -fifth year. October 25, 
i860, he married Sarah J. Morthland, 'daughter of Solomon and Sarah 
Morthland, of Marion, she dying within a year. He married again, No- 
vember 27, 1862, Miss Lydia Frederick, daughter of John and Polly Fred- 
erick, of Illinois. Their children are three — John F. , Eugene D. and Isaac. 
Mr. L. has moved many times, renting first home property three or four 
years; then was in Missouri four years; then in Ohio, on the old home 
place, four years; again 1 in Missouri for fourteen months; then, returning, 
buying the old Longacre farm, living there seven years; but he purchased 
his present desirable residence in 1879, consisting of 237 acres, now worth 
$15,000. His fine tract of land lies between the C. &. A. and the C, C, C. I. 
Railroads, upon the Green Camp road. He raises large quantities of wheat 
and corn annually. Mr. L. has been a member of the Baptist Church for 
three years. He is a reliable and respected citizen 

DANIEL LUVISI was born in Italy August 15, 1832, son of Vincennes 
and Elizabeth Luvisi. He was a soldier in Garibaldi's war of 1848. He 
came to America in 1856; was robbed of his entire possessions ($15) on 
the voyage. He peddled the first year or two; then worked upon the Cleve- 
land, Columbus, Cincinnati & Indianapolis Railroad for six years; then 
farmed fifteen years, and came to the village of Big Island in 1876, where 
he has since been engaged as grocer and saloonist. His stock amounts to 
about $1,200, and his annual sales to $2,000. He married, June 22, 1873, 
Mrs. Elizabeth Brady, John Brady's widow. He is a member of the Cath- 
olic Church, and she of Pleasant Hill Church. 

JOHN MATTHEWS was born May 14, 1844, in County Deny, Ireland, 
whose parents, James and Jane Matthews, came to Philadelphia in 1851, 
landing June 30, after one month's passage. They continued five years at 
the above place. He remained with his parents until his twenty-second 
year, wheu he rented farms for thirteen years. He bought his home in 
1877, consisting of 160 acres, paying $7,300; it is worth to-day $10,000. 
Upon this farm are 900 rods of tile. Mr. Matthews makes a specialty of 
wheat and corn. He and wife have been members of the United Presbyte- 
rian Church for several years. January 21, 1869, he married Miss Louisa 
Mason, daughter of Joseph Mason, of Scott Township. Their children are 
six in number — Minnie J., Wesley J., Florence A., David K., Isabella and 
John F. Matthews. 

MRS. ELIZABETH M. MESSENGER is the widow of Col. Everett 
Messenger. She was born July 20, 1820, the only child of Caleb and Jane 
Johnson. Her father was a native of Rhode Island, and her mother of 
Vermont. The Johnsons were originally from London, England, while 
her mother's people were from Wales. Her grandfather, Ezekiel Johnson, 
was a Revolutionary soldier. Her parents moved to Champaign County, 
Ohio, in 1819, but they came to Big Island Township in 1820, entering 
400 acres. Mr. Johnson drove to this place twelve cows, twenty sheep and 
several hogs. The Indians were plentiful in that early day. Mrs. M. re- 
calls "Gray Eyes," "Big Trees," "Johnny Cake" and "Between the Logs." 
Deer and wild cats were numerous. Her father built the first grist mill 
(horse power) in Marion County. Mr. J. died in 1833, aged forty -nine 
years; his wife in 1861. Mr. and Mrs. Messenger were married August 27, 
1834, ten children crowning this union, three dying young. Their names 
are Lucy A. (who married Mr. Smith and since deceased), Reuben W., 



664 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Newton J., Mary E. (wife of William P. Van Houten), Everett, Jr., John- 
son C. and Ira J. Mr. M. first purchased eighty acres, just east of Mr 
Johnson's estate, but in time he increased his farm to 1,800 acres, and he 
was worth at one time not less than $100,000. For thirty-five years, he 
was an extensive stock-buyer, driving to Detroit and later shipping to New 
York. He had an office at the Chicago Union Stock Yards. From 1865 to 
1878. he shipped regularly to New York as high as eight to twenty cars of 
live stock per day. He invested in railroad stocks and the lead mines of 
Missoiiri. He was made Colonel of a home company, and passed by that 
designation ever afterward. He was a man of uncompromising integrity 
and liberal views, and was elected to the Lower House of the State Legisla- 
ture one term. His family associate with the Pleasant Hill Church, of 
which he was Elder and Treasurer. He died in 1880, aged sixty-eight 
years. 

EVERETT MESSENGER was born June 20, 1845, a native of Big 
Island Township, and the son of Newton and Patience Messenger. He re- 
mained at home until the war, when he enlisted, in March, 1861, in Com- 
pany B, Sixty -fourth Regiment OhioVeteran Volunteer Infantry. He engaged 
at Rocky Face Ridge and Resaca, where he was wounded in the head. His 
father brought him home, after lying some time in the hospital. The fol- 
lowing October he returned, and was with Hood's x-aid. His discharge 
dates December 6, 1865. He was also wounded in the left side. June 28, 
1866, he married Miss Jane Irvin, daughter of James and Elizabeth Irvin, 
of County Tyrone, Ireland. His death took place September 16, 1880, 
leaving six children — Elizabeth A., Charles N., Mary J., James, Alice and 
Everett. He is a trader and general jobber and a member of the G. A. R. 

ORREN MESSENGER is the oldest male resident of Big Island 
Township, having been born May 29, 18*22. at Marietta, Ohio, whose par- 
ents, Reuben and Hannah Messenger, came from Connecticut in 1818, and 
to Big Island Township in 1821, locating the following year where Orren 
now lives. His primitive home was surrounded for years by tierce wild 
cats, wolves, deer and Indians. Orren's grandfather, Payne, was a Revo- 
lutionary soldier. His father was Magistrate for thirty consecutive years. 
Mr. M. married, in 1816, Miss Nancy Prettyman, daughter of James and 
Sarah Prettyman. She died two years later, leaving one child — Matilda, 
wife of Charles Thompson. In 1850, he married again, Miss Sarah Wolff, 
daughter of Henry and Susan Wolff. Their children number eight; they 
are Henry, Wayne, Susan (wife of Thomas Smith), Van, Jane, Elsworth 
(dead), Albert and Almon (twins). Mr. M. began buying out the old 
homestead in 1849. He owns at present 180 acres, worth $70 per acre. 
He is making a specialty of wheat this year (1883), having sixty-five acres. 
Mr. M. has done many a heavy day's work; for example, in 1850, he 
cradled five acres of oats in a single day; another day he cut three acres 
of timothy. He was never excelled in mowing, outstripping the noted 
" Tommy Smith." He never found the man who could keep up raking and 
binding after him. He has split 300 rails in one day, and sheared eighty 
sheep in the same length of time, and fifty sheep upon the average His 
mother died in 1870, aged ninety-four years. 

MRS. PATIENCE MESSENGER is the widow of Newton Messenger. 
She was born April 14, 1812, in Maine, the daughter of John and Amy 
Bickford, a soldier of 1812, who came to Marietta in 1815; then in Zanes- 
ville and Morgan County until 1831, when they moved to Marion County, 
locating where she now resides. Mrs. Messenger is one of seven children. 





J^a^^^cZ^t ^?-v-&( 



BIG ISLAND TOWNSHIP. 665 

Both her grandfathers, Benjamin Bickford and Jonathan Stevens, engaged 
in the Revolutionary war. About her father's door came the deer to skip, 
the wolves to howl and the Indians to beg. Her people went to Delaware 
and Urbana to mill. Mr. and Mrs. Messenger's marriage took place De- 
cember 11, 1831. He was a native of Connecticut, born in 1804. His 
parents came to Marion County in 1825. Their children have been eleven, 
one dying young. Tbey are George, Amy (wife of James Smith), Norman, 
David, Elizabeth (wife of Simon Shepperd), Everett, John. Maria (wife of 
AVilliam Worington), Harriet (wife of John C. AVeston) and Rivirius. At 
marriage, Mr. M. entered forty acres, which he increased in time to 1,200 
acres, his property being worth at leas $50,000. For twelve years he was 
engaged buying stock, driving, at one time 1,500 hogs to Detroit. He was 
a hard laborer, one day raking and binding five acres of good wheat. They 
were both members of the Christian Church, of which he was a Trustee. 
Mr. M. was highly respected by his neighbors, continuing in office nearly 
the whole of his life. In the township he was Trustee, Treasurer, Asses- 
sor, Justice of the Peace for thirty-six years, and he held the office of Coun- 
ty Commissioner for sis years. His death occurred in 188'2, aged seventy 
seven years three months and twelve days. Mrs. M. still survives, the 
grandmother of forty-one and the great-grandmother of three children. 

REUBEN W. MESSENGER, a native of Big Island Township, was 
born April 8, 1844, the son of Col. Everett and Elizabeth Messenger. He 
obtained a good education, having attended the Marion High School and 
Delaware College a few terms. Returning home, he continued with his 
parents until his marriage, which occurred October 22, 1867, to Miss Violet 
Wiley, daughter of William and Fanny Wiley. Their children have been 
eight, five surviving — Lillie B., Erne M., Col. W., Beatrice A. and Nevey 
D. Since marriage, Mr. M. has been renting five years before coming 
where he now lives, which was in 1871. At present he has charge of 160 
acres. He is an industrious young man. 

LEONARD METZ, aged eighty- nine years, is, beyond question, the 
oldest man in Big Island Township. His birth took place November 10, 
1794, in Washington County, Penn., the son of Margaret and Leonard 
Metz, both from Germany. His father acted as gun-cleaner in the Revolu- 
tion, and he himself volunteered for the war of 1812, and was on the march 
for Norfolk when peace was declared. Leonard came to Big Island Town- 
ship in 1822, entering the northwestern section of the township, all of 
which he has given to his children save 140 acres, upon which he continues 
to reside. When he first arrived, his neighbors were the Woods, the Car- 
penters and the Hopkins. .The following year came Hugh Smith, Mahlon 
Marsh and Enoch Clark. Wild cats, deer and bears were plenty in that 
primitive day; the first year of his residence, Mr. Metz killed 160 deer. 
For fifteen years the family went to the Indian mill at Upper Sandusky. 
He was acquainted with many of the Indians — Walkers, Abe Williams and 
the chief Warpole. Mr. M. first married Miss Barbara Michaels, in 1815, 
and there were sixteen children born to this union, eight dying young, and 
but six living to-day. Mrs. Metz died in 1868, aged seventy-one years. 
April 4, 1870, he married Ellen C. Potter, daughter of Samuel and Cyrene 
Potter, of Cardington, Ohio. They have two children — Lara E. and Belzon 
L. Mr. Matz has cut and split 200 rails in a day, and has reaped with a 
sickle thirty-five dozen of wheat. He is at present quietly farming, rearing 
good stock of all kinds, and is well preserved in body and mind. 



666 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

JOHN PFEIFFER is a blacksmith, living in Scott Town. His birth 
took place in Delaware County, Ohio, October 18, 1846, the son of Gregory 
and Mary P. Pfeiffer, who came from Germany in 1834. Of their eleven 
children, seven are still living. Joseph learned his trade of his father, and 
has plied it as follows: Four years with John McElroy and George Pugh; 
two and a quarter years with Levan Miller; two and one-sixth years with 
Conrad Fritchey, and four months with Mr. Null. He came to Scott Town 
in 1878, buying soon after his present residence, a neat house, lot and shop, 
worth $1,500. His hammer is pounding the year round. Mr. Pfeiffer was 
threatened by death three different times, viz., by being kicked by a horse, 
falling off a building and by being run over by a hand-car. He communes 
with the Catholic Church, while his wife is a member of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church. His marriage to Miss Minnie Essig, daughter of 
Andrew and Veronica Essig, of New Orleans, La., occurred in the fall of 
1869. Four^children have blessed this union — Louisa, Frank, Joseph and 
Bessie. 

J. W. REDDING is a native of Pickaway County, Ohio, born January 
20, 1828, the son of Joseph and Sarah Redding, of Scotch-Irish de 
scent. At the death of his father, his mother moved with her family, 
when J. W. was aged four years, to Union County, Ohio. In 1840, they 
came to Marion County. The most of the time he worked by the day, until 
his marriage, which took place June 5, 1849, to Miss Axey E. Williams, 
daughter of Abraham and Sarah Williams. Her death occurred January 19. 
1880, aged fifty-four years. At first Mr. Redding, the subject of this para- 
graph, purchased the "Benjamin Dutton farm," holding it two years; then 
he moved to Illinois for nine months; thereupon, he returned to the "Grace- 
ly farm" nine or ten years. He purchased his present home, however, in 
1873, consisting of sixty acres. Later, he added forty acres more, all of 
which he values at $65 per acre. His good barn he built in 1874. Here 
is an index to his laboring ability: The clearing of thirty-seven acres of 
forest land in two years, and during his life 125 acres. He was an invalid 
for two years, the effect of a falling log. In 1864, he enlisted in Company 
C, Sixty-sixth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He found no actual serv- 
ice, but accompanied Sherman's march to the sea. His discharge dates 
June I s , 1865. His uncles, William, John and Joseph Redding, were 
soldiers of the war of 1812. Several of their sons were engaged in the 
Confederate army during the late war. Mr. R. has good stock of all kinds. 
He is a worthv, upright citizen. 

GEORGE' RHO ADS was born February 1, 1810, in Pickaway County, 
Ohio, the son of James and Susan Rhoads, who came to Big Island Town- 
ship in 1828, entering 120 acres, where George now lives. Subsequently 
he (James) added several hundred acres, and reared a family of ten chil- 
dren. George Rhoads married, March 17, 1839, Drusilla Yoakam, daugh- 
ter of Absalom Yoakam, of Virginia. They have had twelve children, 
three dying young. The names of the living are James M., John. Absa- 
lom P., Jesse B. , Rachel A. (deceased),Winiield S., Mary E., Francis M. and 
Alpha O. Both her father, Absalom Yoakam, and his father, James 
Rhoads, offered themselves for the war of 1812, and her grandfather, 
Michael Yoakam, and his grandfather, were Revolutionary soldiers. Mrs. 
R.'s father died aged eighty-five years, and her mother attained the remark- 
able age of ninety-nine years. Mr. R. bought the old homestead of 172 
acres, which by industry he increased to 700 acres, and was worth at one 
time $45,000. He built his house in 1853. He has good stock upon his 



BIG ISLAND TOWNSHIP. 667 

place. Mr. 11. nearly died of the cholera in 1844, but when young he was 
extraordinarily stout; a seven-pound ax was his choice. With wheat, he 
often did a two days' work in one. He has been Trustee of the township 
for fifteen years. Himself and wife are members of the Methodist Episco- 
pal Church. Mrs. Rhoads is still strong, and refers with pride to the fact 
that, when aged thirteen years, she "spun twenty-four cuts of wool in one 
day," and that for twenty years she "spun and wove and made the clothes 
for the family." 

HORACE W. RILEY was born December 27, 1848, in Marion Town- 
ship, son of John P. and Sarah Riley, of Scotch-Irish descent, who came 
from Pennsylvania about 1830, locating in Marion. They raised a family 
of six children, and the mother still survives. September 6, 1873, he mar- 
ried Miss J. Briseudine, daughter of James and Martha Brisendine, of 
Georgia. They have four children— Almeda, Maud, James and John. In 
1881, he sold his Hardin County farm, purchasing, where he now resides, 
160 acres, paying $60 per acre; it is valued now at $80 per acre. His farm 
is drained by 700 rods of tile. Two good barns are on his place, the larger 
being built in 1882, costing $800. Mr. Riley owns two registered horses 
— "Marquis" and " Belmont Hamlet." Marquis is a full blooded Clydes- 
dale, imported in 1879 by the Powell Brothers, of Pennsylvania, from 
whom Mr. Riley bought him; he is five years old. Belmont Hamlet is 
only three years old, and a full-blooded Hambletonian, Kentucky breed. 
Mr. Riley is fitting him for the track. 

JOHN A. SAPPINGTON was born October 17, 1839, the son of Elias 
and Mary Sappington; she a native of New Hampshire, he a native of 
Pike County, Ohio. They moved to Big Island about 1830. John A. was 
a three months' soldier. He married, in June, 1862, Miss Mary King, 
daughter of James King. She died three years later, leaving one child — 
Narcissa. Mr. S. married again in 1868, Miss Rachel Postle, daughter of 
John and Mary Postle, of this place. Their children are three, one dying 
an infant; Bertha and John survive. Mr. S. inherited the old homestead 
of seventy acres, valued at $60 per acre. He and wife belong to the Meth- 
odist Episcopal Church. 

J. K. SMITH is one of the solid, thriving citizens of Big Is- 
land Township. He was born July 26, 1842, a native of Marion 
County and son of John P. and Naomi Smith, who arrived from Vir- 
ginia in 1829, settling in this county, where they still live, aged eighty 
years. Originally, the family were from German}". At twenty one, J. K. 
left home, and rented farms for four years. September 25, 1867, he was 
married to Miss Mary Beaver, daughter of William and Marian Beaver, 
who hail from England. They named their four children Harry, Ralph W., 
James C. and Florence I. After marriage, he worked upon rented farms 
for three years more, when he bought 109 acres in Grand Prairie Township, 
continuing five years. In 1876, he purchased his present home of 240 
acres of valuable land, at $33 per acre, now worth $65 per acre. This sea- 
son (1883) he has built a large bank barn, at a cost of $1,000, and ao at- 
tractive house costing $2,000. He is improving all his property. The 
Chicago & Atlantic Railroad bisects his farm. He was Town Trustee for 
two years. 

JOSEPH SULT was born February 26, 1841, in Cass County, Ind. , but 
his parents, Daniel and Henrietta Suit, were natives of Ohio. His father's 
people came from Germany, and his grandfather Bloeksom was in the war 
of 1812. When Joseph was eleven years old his father died, but he re- 



068 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

mained with his mother until his twenty- first year, when he enlisted in de- 
fense of his country, in 1802, in Company E, Ninety sixth Regiment Ohio 
Volunteer Infantry. His service continued three years, engaging at Chick- 
asaw Bluffs, Arkansas Post, Vicksburg, Jackson, Grand Coteau, Sabine 
Cross Roads and Forts Gaines and Morgan. He was honorably discharged 
May 25, 1805. December 21, 1805, he married Ellen Berry, daughter of 
John Berry, of Marion, but her death took place three months later. He 
married again, April 7, 1807, Mary A. Holverstott, daughter of Jacob and 
Mary Holverstott, of Marion. Their union has been crowned with three 
children, one dying an infant; the living are Joseph W. and Mary Ella, 
Mr. Suit rented, first ten years of married life, but bought, where he now 
resides, in 1877, eighty-two acres, paying $44 per acre; he values it to-day 
at $5,000. He is draining and improving his farm generally. He raises 
considerable grain annually, and keeps the best of stock. Mr. Suit owns a 
one-half interest in an Aultman-Taylor traction engine, a Huber separator 
and a Victor huller. He was the first to introduce the Aultman Taylor 
machines into the county He has threshed as high as 18,000 bushels of 
grain in a season. With horse-power, he threshed 1,010 bushels of oats in 
nine hours! He and his wife have been consistent Christians since early 
life, holding a membership at present with the Evangelical Church, he 
having acted in all official relations. He is a thrifty, substantial citizen. 
,~ ISAIAH UNCAPHER is one of Big Island's strong men. His birth 
took place October 29, 1842, and he is the son of Isaac and Susan Uncaph- 
er, of Marion County, who came from Pennsylvania about 1838. His fam- 
ily originated in Germany, and his grandfather, Rimal, was a Revolutionary 
soldier. His marriage to Jennie E. Riley, daughter of Elias and Susan 
Riley, occurred November 5, 1807. The names of their two children are 
True and Belle. Mr. Uncapher purchased his present residence in 1870, 
eighty acres, paying $35 per acre; worth at present $70 per acre. He has 
good fences, and 500 rods of tile buried. He makes a specialty of corn, 
having this season thirty-five acres. Mr. and Mrs. Uncapher belong to the 
Free Will Baptist Church, of which he is both Deacon and Clerk. 

JOHN A. UNCAPHER is an enterprising young man, having a fine 
farm of 100 acres, located near the Scioto River. He purchased this place 
when heavily timbered, in 1871, at $25 per acre. By tbrif t and energy he 
has cleared sixty acres, and now tiles 005 rods. He has also made many 
other improvements, building, in 1877, a neat little house, with fine, up- 
ground cellar and a double corn crib and shed. Mr. Uncapher raises large 
crops of potatoes: 1881, 400 bushels; 1882, 800 bushels; 1883, acres. 
He is also Commissioner of the "Rayl & Uncapher pike," in course of con- 
struction. Mr. U. was born August 8, 1850, in Marion Township, son of 
Joseph and Rebecca Uncapher, who came from Pennsylvania, settled in- 
Marion in 1840, and brought up six children. He was married, February 
27, 1877, to Miss Phcebe J. Cummins, daughter of Widow Cummins. Their 
children are William H. and Jesse D. 

JOHN G. UNCAPHER was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, No- 
vember 23, 1831, the son of John and Anne E. (Williams) Uncapher, of 
Welsh-German ancestry, and natives of Pennsylvania and Virginia respect- 
ively. John Uncapher was born May 14, 1790, and was a resident of 
Ohio for forty years. His wife was born about 1808, buf is now deceased. 
They had a family of ten childreu, five living — Eliza, Mary M., Margaret, 
John G. and Urbane. The deceased were Thomas, Caroline, Andrew, 
Joseph (an infant) and Sarah. John G. resided with his parents, in East- 



BIG ISLAND TOWNSHIP. 669 

em Ohio, working as tanner for fourteen years. He then followed farming 
with his father until 1872, with the exception of seven years at Clarkson, 
Ohio. In that year (1872) he came to Marion County, settling where he 
now resides. The farm consists of 333 acres, one half of which has been 
cleared and put in a good state of cultivation by himself and sons. He has 
a large, attractive home, and suitable buildings surrounding. March 22. 
1860, he married, at New Lisbon, Ohio, Miss Sarah De Wolf, daughter of 
Peter and Saloma (Sheffer) De Wolf, of German descent, and the parents of 
five children, four surviving — Maria M., Rebecca, Caroline and Sarah; the 
deceased was Lewis. Mr. and Mrs. Uncapher have six children — Charles 
E., Byron D., Mary L., Emma M., Lewis F. and Caroline L. Mr. Un- 
capher is a thorough farmer, an esteemed citizen, and, with his wife and 
son Charles, a member of the Disciple Church at Marion. He is a stanch 
Republican. 

THOMAS J. UNCAPHER was born June 12, 1846, the son of Joseph 
and Rebecca (Stonebarger) Uncapher, of German ancestry. Having received 
a common school education, Mr. U. remained with his father farming until 
1871, when he moved to his present home, remaining one year; he then re- 
turned to the homestead, engaging in the dairy business two years; then 
removed permanently to his farm, consisting of 101 acres. The same year, 
he married Hannah A. Simons, a daughter of John and Mary Simons. Her 
death took place in 1880. Mr. U. again married, August 10, 1881, Miss 
Ida Kenyon, adopted daughter of Martha (Kenyon) Moore. When he lo- 
cated here his farm was a wilderness, but during the ensuing years he has 
cleared many acres, erected a comfortable house and accompanying build- 
ings; he has also put in several hundred rods of tile. He is an exemplary 
citizen, and at present is serving his second term as Justice of the Peace in 
the township. Politically, he is a Democrat. 

JOHN WIXTEAD is the third son of John and Winifred (McCough) 
Wixtead, natives of Ireland, who emigrated to America about 1852, settling 
in Marion County. The father, with the assistance uf his sons, cleared 160 
acres of land, which is now in a good state of cultivation. They were the 
parents of nine children, six living — William, Charles, Patrick, Mary, John 
and Katie; Michael, Charles and William are deceased. John, having a 
fair education, married, April 19, 1875, Katie Dwyer, daughter of John 
and Bridget Dwyer, whose family consisted of four children — Bridget, 
Mary, John and Kate. John Dwyer died in Ireland about 1855; his wife 
died October 17, 1870. Mr. and Mrs. Wixtead have had born to them 
three children, two now living— Kate M. and Winifred, aged five and three 
years respectively. Mary W. is deceaspd. Mr. W. owns the old home- 
stead of eighty-three acres, and has the management of eighty acres belong- 
ing to his brother Patrick, a dealer in timber and lumber in Marion. He 
gives his attention wholly to farming and to rearing fine stock. Himself 
and wife are members, of the Catholic Church. 

WILLIAM WIXTEAD is a native of Ireland, born in 1848. the son 
of John and Winifred Wixtead. He remained at home until he was mar- 
ried, in 1874, to Mary Kerse, daughter of John and Kate Kerse, also na- 
tives of the Emerald Isle. These people were the parents or four children, 
three surviving— Thomas, James and Mary. Mr. and Mrs. Wixtead have 
had born to them three children— Michael (eight years old), Kate (five 
years) and an infant. Mr. W. began life a poor boy, but through industry 
and perseverance he owns at present eighty acres of land, mostly well im- 
proved. His faim is a part of the old homestead. He keeps good stock. 



670 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Ho is a member of the Democratic party, and, with his wife, of the Catholic 
Church. 

F. M. WOOD is one of the reliable men of Big Island Township, a na- 
tive of the same, and the son of Isaac and Hannah Wood, who came here 
from New Jersey. Mr. Wood was the youngest of thirteen children. Sep- 
tember 20, 18G5, he married Miss A. Z. South wick, daughter of Jonathan 
Southwict, of Big Island Township. This union has been crowned by two 
daughters — Ada F. and Ira A. Mr. W. inherited forty-eight acres from 
his father, which by thrift he has increased to 110 acres, worth $70 per 
acre. He has improved this farm with a good house, a new barn and suit- 
able buildings generally. Nearly every rod of his farm is arable. Ho 
makes a specialty of corn and grass. His farm is stocked with the best 
varieties. Mr. W. was Township Trustee for one year, and himself and wife 
are exemplary members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which he 
has been Steward for several years. 

GEORGE S. WOOD is a native of Big Island Township, born October 
7, 1854, the son of Hampton and Susanna Wood. His marriage to Miss 
Sarah E. Tufts, daughter of Rev. John Tufts, of the Free-Will Baptist 
Church, took place October 1, 1877. The names of their three living chil- 
dren are Clarence, Ethel and Jeannette. In 1879, he bought and inherited 
his home of ninety acres, valued now at $75 per acre. He is draining and 
improving his farm generally, and anticipates building soon. He has fine 
stock of all varieties. Mr. W. has owned a one-fifth interest in a Huber 
thresher and a Gaiion engine for three years. They threshed in one day 
900 bushels of oats, setting twice, and 650 of wheat another day, setting 
the same number of times. 

HAMPTON WOOD is the oldest living settler in Big Island Township. 
He was born in 1813, a native of New Jersey and a son of Isaac and Sarah 
Wood, of Scotch-Irish descent, who came to Marion County, from Clark 
County, Ohio, in the spring of 1822, entering 160 acres of land, raising 
a family of twelve children. They drove an cx-team and wagon, bringing 
plow and farm implements with them. Around him were Taylor, Beech, 
Clark, the Carpenters, Croy and Jones Cope; the latter he said was the 
first settler in this county. Isaac Wood was a great worker, raising fre- 
quently 100 acres of both wheat and corn. In that very early day he 
would split 100 rails for a bushel of corn, and take it thirty miles to mill. 
At first, his children were compelled to go barefooted all winter. Mr. 
Hampton Wood commenced teaching when aged twenty-one years, and 
taught fourteen terms very successfully. He married, in 1846, Miss Sus- 
anna Marsh, daughter of Mahlon and Mary A. Marsh, of Salt Rock Town- 
ship. Twelve children were born to this union, two dying young; they are 
Olive (Jacob Yauger's widow), Marsh, John, Dr. James Wood (of La Rue), 
George, Scott, Eliza (wife of Absalom Rhodes), Pearl, Lawrence and Myrta. 
He purchased his present residence in 1843, then of .eighty acres, which by 
industry he has increased to 488 acres. He owns land, also, elsewhere, 
having a total of 800 acres. His property was valued at one time at $45. - 
000. He has given each child $3,100. He, together with his wife, inher- 
ited $2,900 from their parents. Notwithstanding Mr. W. has been lame all 
his life, he has done some good days' work. In one season he mowed thir- 
ty days for his father, averaging two acres per day; he cradled 120 dozen 
of wheat in a day; split 400 rails in same time, and, with ten other hands, 
he reaped 480 dozen of wheat, with sickle. His brother Jeremiah cut 180 
dozen stout wheat in a day, requiring a raker and two binders to follow. 



BIG ISLAND TOWNSHIP. 671 

He could also split 200 rails per day easily. He and wife have been con- 
sistent members of the Free-Will Baptist Church, he holding nearly every 
office. His wife died in 1878, aged fifty -five years. His neighbors have 
honored him with many township offices — Constable, Treasurer, Clerk and 
Justice of the Peace. He is still strong, though somewhat deaf, waiting for 
the call of the Master. His portrait is found upon another page. 

ISAAC M. WOOD, son of the above, was married, September 11, 
1873, to Miss Irene Young, daughter of Jacob and Mary Young. Their 
three living children are Grace, Harry and Dever. Mr. W. rented for three 
years in Salt Rock Township, and boagdit there, in 1876, a farm of eighty 
acres. He sold that, and purchased, where he now resides, in 1882, eighty 
acres, paying $48 per acre, worth at present $62.50 per acre. He is buy- 
ing considerable tile, and keeps fine grade stock. He ha3 followed thresh- 
ing for five seasons. He is an Odd Fellow, belonging to Kosciusko Lodge 
of Marion, No. 58. 

WILLIAM B. WOOD is one of the old and respected men of Big 
Island Township. He was born November 24, 1825, the son of Isaac and 
Hannah Wood, settlers of this placa (See Hampton Wood's sketch for 
further particulars.) In the winter of 1847, Mr. W. married Miss Malinda 
Wooley, daughter of Nicholas Wooley, of Hardin County, Ohio. Two 
children were born in this family, Milton M. surviving. Mrs. W. died in 
1854, aged twenty-three years, and Mr. W. married again, February 1, 1855, 
Miss Rebecca Skates, daughter of Malachijah and Barbara Skates, of this 
place. Eleven children have been born to them, three dying young; the 
living are William, Flora C. (wife of Samuel Strutter), Malinda (wife of 
Daniel Strutter), Edwin, Clara M., Louella A., Nellie M. (most severely 
scalded February 27, 1883). Mr. W. received, by inheritance, fifty-five acres 
of his home, to which be has added forty acres, all valued at $75 per acre. 
He owns, also, 150 acres in Iowa. He lives in a respectable house, built in 

1879. He has been a hard worker, having cleared fifty acres of timber 
land. In a single day he has cut and split 250 rails, mowed three acres of 
grass and cradled five acres of wheat, and during the winter of 1845-46, he 
split 5,000 rails, at 50 cents per hundred. 

MRS. MARY O. YAUGER is the widow of Jacob A. Yauger, the 
daughter of Hampton Wood, and was born November 10, 1848. In 1871, 
she married Mr. Yauger, a soldier of the late war, of Company K, Fourth 
Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was first a bugler, and then a 
member of an army band, serving three years, His death took place in 

1880, the Free-Will Baptist Chui-ch losing a valuable worker. Mrs. Y. , his 
widow, continues in faithfulness, ministering to her father's declining 
years. Her only child — Georgie — died soon after his father, aged about 
six years. 




672 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 



CHAPTER III. 



BOWLING GREEN TOWNSHIP. 

ORGANIC. 

BOWLING GREEN TOWNSHIP, at the organization of Marion County, 
was included in the territory first given to Grand, as will be seen from 
the following order of the Commissioners, made on the first day of their 
first session: 

" June 7, A. D. 1824. — Commissioners of Marion County met for the 
first time after the organization of said county. Present, Matthew Merrit, 
Amos Wilson, Enoch B. Merriman. Auditor, Hezekiah Gorton. 

" Ordered, That surveyed Townships 3, 4 and 5, in Range 18, and so 
much of the Virginia Military Tract as lies south of said townships in 
Marion County, be and the same is hereby set off as a new township, by the 
name of Grand Township." 

This included the territory that is now Grand, Montgomery and Bowling 
Green Townships, in Marion County, and also one township which has since 
been cut off and added to Wyandot County. It will be observed that it em- 
braced the entire western tier of townships of Marion County as they were 
then numbered, and as they are now arranged. 

The first division of this territory made in this county, was effected in 
1831, by the erection of Montgomery Township, which was then made to 
include the present Montgomery Township and Bowling Green Township, 
as will appear from the following entry in the Commissioners' record, made 
at that date: 

" Monday, December 5, 1831. — Ordered by the Board, That Township 
No. 5 south, Range No. 13, and all the Virginia Military Land lying due 
south of Township No. 5, Range 13, within said county, be and the same 
is hereby set off as a new township, by the name of Montgomery." 

Seven years later, Bowling Green Township was formed, and was made 
to include all of the Virginia Military Lands mentioned in the above entry, 
or all of that portion of Montgomery Township then lying south of the 
Scioto River, as will be seen from the following entry: 

"March 5 (first Monday), 1838. — Commissioners met, pursuant to the 
statute in such case made and provided. Present, Charles Merriman, John 
Shunk and George Beckley. And whereupon, on petition of Thomas Parr 
and others, it is ordered that a new township, to be called and named Bowl- 
ing Green Township, be and the same is hereby erected and set off as fol- 
lows, to wit: Beginning at the southwest corner of the county of Mar- 
ion; thence north to the north bank of the Scioto River; thence down said 
river, with its meanderings, until it intersects the range line dividing 
Ranges 13 and 14 in said county; thence south on the line of Green Camp 
Township, to the line dividing Marion and Union Counties; thence west- 
wardly on said line dividing said counties of Marion and Union, to the 
place of beginning." 



BOWLING GREEN TOWNSHIP. 678 

Since the erection of this township, its boundaries have not been changed 
or disturbed, except in one single instance, which is briefly told in the fol- 
lowing entry: 

Monday, June 22, 1840. 
At an extra session of the Commissioners, held this day, present Nathan Peters 
and David Miller. 

Ordered that Survey 9983 be attached to Bowling Green Township. 

Nathan Peters, 
David Miller, 
topographical. 

Bowling Green Township is composed wholly of Virginia Military Land, 
which, for richness of soil, compares very favorably with other portions of 
Marion County. The surface in the middle and eastern part of the town- 
ship is generally level, and the soil consists of a rich, black loam, while in 
the extreme western portion, the surface is generally undulating, and the 
soil contains much clay and gravel. Upon much of the level portion of 
the township, at an early day, during a greater portion of the year, stood 
considerable water, which not unfrequently became stagnated at certain 
seasons of the year, and produced a miasma that caused much sickness 
among the early settlers. But, in later years, since the driftwood has been 
removed from the numerous creeks and runs, with which the township is 
traversed, and which flow into the Scioto River, that washes its entire 
northern borders, and since ditching and tiling have added to the drainage, 
the most unpromising of the waste places have been cleared of the waters, 
also much of the timber, and have been made to smile in the sunlight of 
Heaven, and are now subject to the tillage of the farmers, or afford them 
excellent pasture land, while the atmosphere is becoming free from malaria 
and the air is more pure and healthful. The principal streams are Rush 
Creek, McDonald Creek, Dudley Run and Wild Cat Run. Of these, 
Rush Creek is the largest. It takes its rise in Logan County and runs 
through a portion of Union County, and in a northward direction through 
the eastern portion of this township, and empties into the Scioto. Into 
this creek, McDonald Creek, Dudley Run and a number of rivulets con- 
stantly flow, thus affording ample natural water-courses. 

Bowling Green is a timbered township, and when first secured by the 
whites — and for many years subsequently — some of the finest hard wood, 
consisting of maple, hickory aud cherry, as well as some of the finest wal 
nut and ash timbers, could readily be found in its extended forests, and 
even to this day such timbers are by no means entirely exhausted. 

THE GREAT " WINDFALL " OF 1824. 

This tornado took its rise in Logan County, near the village of West 
Liberty, and in its course passed over Bellefontaine, destroying a number 
of the buildings in the northern portion of that town, and carrying bits 
of shingles and pieces of clothing as far as the plains of Big Island Town- 
ship. It swept on, with increasing force and velocity, through Washington 
Township, Union County, and entered this township about four miles south 
of La Rue. The tornado had been gradually widening its track until, at 
the time it entered this county, its path extended over three- fourths of a 
mile of territory. Its course in this township was in the direction of Dud- 
ley Run and Rush Creek, down to the Scioto, which it crossed, and spent 
its fury in the adjacent woods of Big Island Township. The tornado swept 
everything in its path; trees of the greatest magnitude were upturned by 
the roots, trees of smaller size and the undergrowth were broken, hurled 



674 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

and scattered in every direction, and in a year or two it presented the ap- 
pearance of one vast deadening. 

It was the custom of the Indians to burn the woods over in the autumn, 
for convenience in hunting, and the tires of four successive annual burn- 
ings consumed the fallen timber, brush, weeds and grass, and rendered the 
lands along the "Windfall" almost free from logs and brush, and made it 
available for cultivation. Such was its condition in the spring of 1829, 
when a few squatters came in from Big Island, as mentioned below. 

SETTLEMENT. 

The settlement of this township was not commenced at a very early 
date. Jesse Bell was, perhaps, the first permanent white settler. He lo 
cated on the east bank of Rush Creek in February, 1831. There had been 
a few squatters and persons of roving and restless dispositions, who had 
built cabins here and occupied them for a short time previous to this, but 
they were indeed few. Among them was Moses Dudley, who is said to 
have been the very first white settler of the township He, with Hiram 
Shutes (father of William G.), and Gardner Hatch, his brother-in-law, 
arrived from Big Island in the spring of 1829. attracted by the cleared 
ground made by the tornado, and raised a crop of corn, on ninety acres of 
land — lately the I. F. Guthery farm. This corn they raised without either 
fencing or plowing, and from a measured half-acre in the fall they husked 
forty -four bushels. This fact being noised abroad, a number of squatfers 
rushed in during the succeeding winter. Dudley sold his surplus — over 
900 bushels — to Bennett & Hardy, of Marion, for 6^ cents a bushel, and 
they sold the same to Maj. La Rue for 14 cents a bushel, delivered. 
Shutes sold 700 bushels to La Rue, who exchanged 200 bushels of it for a 
horse. Hatch's- share was destroyed, he saving only enough to get a chest. 

Other pioneers were Benjamin Sager, William Graham, David Harra- 
man, John Burnet, Edward Williams, Aaron Bell, Thomas Welling, John 
Welling, Elisha Daniels, Thomas Andrews, Jotham Johnson, AVilliam Price, 
Joseph Guthery, John D. Guthery, I. F. Guthery, David and John Hook- 
enberry and Thomas Parr. The last-named pioneer, Thomas Parr, was in- 
strumental in having the township organized, giving it the name " Bowling 
Green," in reference to a township of that name in Licking County, this 
State, from which he had emigrated to this place. He also laid out a town 
in the center of thft township, naming it " Holmesville." This place at 
one time had a tavern, a dry goods store, two or three groceries, a post 
office, a blacksmith shop, a wagon shop, etc. ; but when La Rue was estab 
lished, the incipient little town of Holmesville had to go down. 

Mr. Parr also erected a horse mill, which was a great convenience to the 
pioneers, as they had previously to go twenty and thirty miles to get grind- 
ing done. 

The first school was taught by P. Lampheare, in a rude log cabin, with 
slab benches, greased paper windows and mud-and-stick chimney, where 
the fire was built upon the ground for a hearth. Soon after organization, 
this township was divided into three school districts, and furnished with 
the same style of schoolhouses. They have long since been superseded by 
eight fine frame buildings. 

The first election in this township was held at Thomas Parr's residence 
in the spring of 1838. Parr was elected Township Treasurer, and Silas H. 
Cleveland, Clerk. The first Justice of the Peace elected after the organiza- 
tion of the township was Joseph Guthery, father of John D. and Isaae F. 



BOWLING GREEN TOWNSHIP. 675 

Guthery, who was commissioned May 14, 1839. William Graham, who re- 
sided in the township, was commissioned Justice of the Peace April 13, 
1838, having been elected before Bowling Green was set off from Mont- 
gomery. 

MODERN TIMES. 

The character of the soil, the relative position of the township and the 
class of citizens being such as they are, it is but to be expected that the 
■community would bring order out of chaos, wealth out of crude material 
and general prosperity out of pioneer privations. From the small begin- 
nings of 1829-31, described on preceding pages, the agricultural develop- 
ment of this territory has grown to such proportions as can only be ex- 
pressed in figures, and even then but feebly. The following are the agri- 
cultural products, etc., of the township, for 1883. 

Wheat, acres sown, 1,803; bushels, 17,992; acres sown for harvest of 
1883, 1,274 Oats, acres sown, 194; acres sown for crop of 1883, 195; 
bushels, 6,553. Corn, acres planted, 2,579; acres planted for crop of 1883, 
3,429; bushels produced, 149,530. Meadow, acres, 1,076; tons of hay, 
1,541. Clover, acres, 193; tons of hay, 260; bushels of seed, 36. Pota 
toes, acres planted, 56|; bushels produced, 6,330. Butter, 40,125 pounds. 
Sorghum, acres sown, 12^; gallons sirup, 934. Bees, 247 hives; pounds 
of honey, 5,070. Eggs, 48,650 dozen. Grapes, pounds gathered in the 
year 1882, 1,700. Apples, acres occupied, 227; bushels produced, 2,825. 
Peaches, bushels produced, 124. Lands, acres cultivated, 7,309; acres of 
pasture, 2,776; acres woodland, 4,849; acres lying waste, 145; total num- 
ber of acres owned, 14,555. Wool, 32,824 pounds. Milch cows, 284. 
Stallions, 2. Dogs, 107. Sheep killed by dogs, 105; value, $278; in- 
jured by dogs, 646; value, $243. Hogs died, 1,095; value, $6,563. Sheep 
died, 505; value, $1,138. Cattle died, 16; value, $407. Horses died, 24, 
value, $2,195. Losses by flood: Live stock, value, 3445; grain, etc., 
value, $3,725; fences, etc., value, $668. 

Bowling Green Presbyterian Church. -—This church was organized in the 
latter part of May, 1843, by Peter Marsh and John Gilmer, who were 
elected Elders. The following were the first members: Peter Marsh and 
wife, John Gilmer and wife, Thomas Pierce and wife, and Mrs. Thomas 
Parr. The meeting was held at Parrtown Schoolhouse, adjoining Winne- 
mac. Rev. Miller was the Moderator. Rev. Cephas Cook was the first 
minister, who died the following October. The first communion was held 
at the Parrtown Schoolhouse, where meetings were held until 1853. Then 
a frame church, 32x38 feet, with a seating capacity vi 200, was erected in 
Winnemac, at a cost of $500. The Building Committee were Peter Marsh, 
John Gilmer and M. A. Mustain. This church was built by subscription, 
except that $50 was appropriated for the purpope by the Board of Church 
Erection. The lumber for the seats was drawn from near Bucyrus, thirty 
miles distant. At this time, the name of the congregation was changed to 
" Winnemac Church." In 1862, the building was moved over into La Rue 
and for its further history see Montgomery Township. 

The Sabbath school in connection with this church was organized about 
May, 1845, with Peter Marsh as Superintendent, and John Bonner, As- 
sistant Superintendent. It was organized as a "Union" Sunday school, and 
so continued until the removal of the church to La Rue, when it dis- 
banded. 

United Brethren Church. — This chm*ch has numbered nearly a hundred 
members. Among the first were Joseph and Hannah Guthery, Isaac F. and 



676 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Rachel Guthery, Joseph A. Williams and wife, John Dodd and wife, James 
Reed and wife, Philip Stokely and wife, William Wilson and wife, Solo- 
mon Jones and wife, and others. The ministers have been Revs. T. J. Hen- 
dricks, Mr. Snell, Thomas Downing and Daniel Downing. In 1862, when 
the people were sensitive over the issues connected with the war, the min- 
ister took strong ground with one party, resulting in breaking up the con- 
gregation. 

The house of worship which these people occupied was built in 1855, 
by contributions from citizens of all denominations, on land donated for 
the purpose by J. D. and I. F. Guthery. It was 24x32 feet and cost, 
including furniture and seats, about $800. After the United Brethren dis- 
continued the use of the church in 1862, it was used by the Methodists and 
Baptists until about 1874 or 1875, since which time it has not been used as 
a house of worship. 

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 

The following are the biographical sketches of many of the pioneers and 
citizens of Bowling Green: 

DAVID M. BELL was born in Bowling Green Township February 3, 
1860, and is the son of Jonathan and Sarah (Harraman) Bell, mentioned 
elsewhere. David M. obtained a good practical education at the common 
schools, and at the " National Normal University " at Lebanon, Ohio. At 
the age of eighteen years he began teaching school, which occupation he 
followed at intervals for three years. He was married April 4, 1882, to 
May Severns, a daughter of Wilson and Sarah (Stumbaugh) Severns. Her 
parents were natives of Pennsylvania and were of English and German de- 
scent. Mr. Bell resides on and is conducting a part of his father's farm in 
Bowling Green Township, five miles south of La Rue, giving his entire 
attention to agriculture and the raising of stock. He is an enterprising 
citizen, and politically is a Democrat. 

SAMUEL BADER was born August 20, 1852, in Richland 'Township, 
this county, where his parents settled in 1843, and where they still reside. 
His parents, Samuel and Elizabeth (Freeh) Bador, are of German descent 
and natives of Ohio. Samuel lived with his parents until he was twenty- 
one, and nine years was engaged in the saw milling business, at which he was 
very successful. October 6, 1876, he was married at Cardington, Ohio, to 
Mollie E. Lewis, a daughter of Thomas and Emily (Look) Lewis, the lat 
ter natives of Ohio and of German and English ancestry. From the above 
marriage there are two children — Samuel E., born March 24, 1878, and 
John W., born November 24, 1879. Mr. Bader is an energetic and well-to- 
do farmer, highly respected in the township, a member of the F. & A. M. 
at La Rue, and in politics a Democrat. 

LAFAYETTE BELL, son of Jonathan and Sarah (Harraman) Bell, was 
born in Bowling Green Township March 14, 1852, where he has always re- 
sided; during his minority he secured a good practical education. He is now 
farming the homestead of 160 acres belonging to his father. He was mar- 
ried December 8, 1875, to Rcxey J., daughter Ephraim H. and Sarah 
(Cheney) Watkius. They have one child — Florence — born September 25. 
1876. Mr. Bell is a prominent and well-known young farmer, is a member 
of the I. O. O. F. at La Rue, and politically he is a Democrat. 

MRS. MARGARET BELL, widow of Jesse Bell, was born in Ken- 
tucky, January 17, 1804; her maiden name was Margaret Sanders, and she 



BOWLING GREEN TOWNSHIP. 677 

was the daughter of Samuel and Nancy (Eeed) Sanders; her parents were 
of German and Irish descent, but were natives of Maryland and Virginia 
respectively and the parents of eleven children, five sons and six daughters, 
of whom Mrs. Margaret Bell is now (1883) the only surviving one. Jesse 
and Margaret Bell were married April 9, 1822, and fettled in Bowling 
Green Townsbip in 1831. They were the eighth family that had settled in 
the township, and Mr. Bell cut the timber from the spot where he erected 
his cabin. Nine children were born to them, five sons and four daughters. 
Mrs. Bell has been a member of the L>isciple Church for forty-five years. 
She is now in her seventy- ninth year, and is a remarkably intelligent and 
interesting woman. Jesse Bell was a son of Daniel and Hannah (Under- 
bill) Bell, who were natives of New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Jesse died 
in 1873. (For further particulars of this family, refer to the sketch of 
Joseph H. Sifritt.) 

HARRISON BONHAM, son of Elisha L. and Catherine (Dusthemer; 
Bonham, was born August 18, 1815, in Licking County, Ohio. The parents 
were of English and French extraction and natives of Maryland and Vir- 
ginia. They emigrated to Licking County, Ohio, where he subsequently served 
as a soldier in the war of 1812 and helped to build the " block-house" at 
Mansfield, Ohio. He was born February 29, 1774, and died October 22, 
1858. His wife, Catherine, was born August 6, 1792, and died September 
25, 1855. They settled in Bowling Green Township in October, 1838, and 
lived there until their death. Their children are Harrison, Amanda M., 
Oliver P., Jacob, Sarah, Mary, Harvey, Lydia, Huldah and Hiram, all of 
whom are living. Eliza, Elisha and Andrew are deceased. Harrison Bon- 
ham lived with his parents until 1821, during his minority securing a f ail- 
ed ucation at the common schools. At the age of twenty -three, he learned 
the carpenter's trade, in which occupation, together with farming, he has 
been engaged. He was married, March 22, 1838, to Mary A. Catlin, a 
daughter of Timothy and Elizabeth (McKnatt) Catlin, of English and Irish 
extraction and natives of the State of Delaware; both died in Licking 
County, Ohio. Mr. Bonham is the owner of 104 acres of well-improved 
land, almost all under cultivation. He served his township two terms as 
Trustee, is a member of the " Church of God," and is an honored and re- 
spected citizen. Politicallv, he is a Democrat. 

TIMOTHY C. BONHAM was born in Licking County, Ohio, March 16, 
1840, and is a son of Harrison and Ann (Catlin) Bonham. He was reared 
on a farm, educated in the common schools, and had prepared to enter col- 
lege; but at th6 breaking-out of the civil war he volunteered as a soldier in 
defense of the Union. He enlisted October 14, 1861, in Company B, Forty- 
third Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was present at the battles of 
Corinth, May 28, 1862; Iuka, September 19, 1862; Corinth, October, 1862; 
and with his company during the Atlanta campaign up to June 9, 1864, 
when he was detailed as a clerk in the Commissary Department, which po- 
sition he held seven months, and then rejoined his company at Atlanta, and 
went through with Sherman's army on its " march to the sea. " He served 
until the close of the strife, and was honorably discharged at Columbus, 
Ohio. At the expiration of his first three years' enlistment, he re-enlisted 
as a veteran and returned home'on a thirty days' furlough, and while home 
wa-i married, February 4, 1864, to Elizabeth Lee, and February 11, 1S64, 
rejoined his company. Mr. and Mrs. Bonham have a family of six chil- 
dren. Himself and wife are members of the " Church of God," and polit- 
ically he is a Democrat 



678 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

GEORGE S. CLARK is a prominent and well-known citizen of Bowl- 
ing Green Township, was born January 27, 1827, in Licking County, Ohio. 
His parents were John and Rhoda (Merideth) Clark, of Scotch and Welsh 
descent, and natives of Pennsylvania and Ohio respectively. They settled 
in Bowling Green Township in 1858, where he died in 1877 and his wife 
about 1868. Their six children survive, namely, George S. and Samuel ; 
the daughters are now all widows — Elizabeth Stultz, Mary Clayton, Martha 
Johnson and Eliza Small wood. George S. Clark, whose name heads this 
sketch, received a good practical education in the schools of Licking County: 
at the commencement of his career, after attaining his majority, he had 
very little means, but by energy, good management and industrious habits, 
he has accumulated a comfortable fortune. He has a pleasant and attractive 
residence and is the owner of 208 acres of land, valued at $80 per acre. 
He is a Democrat and has served his township as Justice of the Peace 
three terms; was Township Clerk for fifteen years, and served the township 
in nearly all of its various offices, and is one of its most substantial and en 
terprising citizens. 

NATHAN CLARK was born in Montgomery Township, this county,. 
June 15,1840; he passed his youth with his parents, receiving such an ed- 
ucation as was afforded by the common schools, and was married January 
2, 1870, to Victoria Johnson. Their children are Letta, born January 21, 
1871; John H, May 19, 1872; Luddy, born June 27, 1874, and died April 
28, 1875; Alta, born April 2, 1876; Earnest O. was born September 27, 1878, 
and died November 2, 1879. On attaining his majority, Mr. Clark taught 
school for two winters, and August 11, 1862, he enlisted as a soldier in 
Company D, Ninety-sixth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was 
present at the battles of Vicksburg and Arkansas Post. At the latter place 
he was wounded six times, the last time in the knee by a minie ball; this 
disabled him, and he was carried from the field. He was sent to the hospi- 
tal at Camp Chase, Ohio, where, on account of wounds received in battle, 
he was honorably discharged from the service. He returned home, and has since^ 
engaged in farming and dealing in stock. He is a substantial and highly 
honored citizen, and is a Republican. The parents of Nathan Clark were John 
and Huldah (Messic) Clark; they were natives of Delaware and Ohio respective- 
ly, and of Scotch and French extraction ; they settled in Montgomery Town- 
ship, Marion County, in 1829. Their children were Hannah, Noah, George 
\\\, Patience, John H, Nathan, Jane, Elizabeth, Sarah E. and David M., 
who are all living; Lettie E. and Demeriss are dead. The father of this 
family entered 160 acres of land, where he settled, in Montgomery County; 
nearly all of this land he cleared and improved prior to his death, which 
occurred September 19, 1875; his wife, Huldah, died November 7, 1879. 
John Clark, Nathan's grandfather, was born in the State of Delaware, No- 
vember 11, 1776, and died in 1861; his wife. Pauline, to whom he was 
married June 14, 1801, was born October 30, 1783, and died in the winter 
of 1862. The parents of Mrs. Victoria Clark were Heury G. and Martha 
(Smith) Johnson; their children were Jacob R., Isabel, Robert H. , Sarilla, 
Victoria, Philip G., Mary E., Paulina J. and Henry O., who are living; 
Rachel is deceased. 

SAMUEL "W. CLARK was born in Bowling Green Township April 
19, 1850, and is a son of George and Elizabeth (Debolt) Clark. He passed 
hi^ early years on a farm and obtained a good education in the common 
schools of Marion; at the age of twenty years, he engaged in teaching 
school, an occupation that he followed at intervals for eight years. He was 



BOWLING GREEN TOWNSHIP. 679 

married January 30, 1873, to Wilrnet Patrick, a daughter of William and 
Sarah (Manly) Patrick. They have had seven children, named as followH: 
Elmer J., Ester Lulu, Addie E. and Blanch, all living; three infants are 
deceased. Mr. Clark is one of the thoroughly representative and enter- 
prising men of the township and held in high esteem by all. He has held 
various offices. among which have been Township Clerk four years; Clerk 
and member of the School Board of the township, and was elected Justice 
of the Peace, but resigned. He is a member of the F. & A. M. at La Rue, 
and politically he is a Democrat. Himself and brother own 100 acres of 
land, and are now managing some 840 acres of farming land. He devotes 
his time to the raising of grain and stock, and is a dealer in wool during 
the wool season. 

WILLIAM E. DENMAN was born in Knox County, Ohio, July 5, 1849. 
His parents, William, Jr., and Sarah A. (Davidson) Denman, were natives 
of New Jersey and Ohio respectively. They are now residents of Morrow 
County, and have been for the past thirty-two years. They have been the 
parents of thirteen children, of whom three sons and seven daughters are 
living William E. Denman during his youth acquired a thorough English 
education in the schools of Morrow County and Chesterville, Ohio, and 
when twenty -one years old, engaged in teaching schools, an occupation he has 
followed during the winters for twelve years. He was married, March 31, 
1874, to Sarah Howser, a daughter of Anthony and Eliza E. (Wise) How 
ser; her parents were natives of Ohio and Pennsylvania respectively, and 
were the parents of ten children, six of whom are living. William E. Den- 
man and wife have one child — Elva — who was born November 3, 1879. 
Mr. Denman resides on his farm of 103 acres, which is well improved, and 
valued at $60 per acre. In politics, he is a Prohibitionist. 

THOMAS P. DODD was born in Bowling Green Township, this coun- 
ty, July 7, 1853. He is the son of John and Margaret (Chapman) Dodd; 
they were natives of Delaware and Virginia. On first coming to Ohio, they 
settled in Pickaway County, living there three years, when they came to 
Marion County and located in Bowling Green Township on a small farm, 
whei'e they resided a few years. He died March 26. 1881. His widow 
still resides on the old homestead, in the limits of La Rue Village. They 
had six children, all now living, named Hannah, Celia A., Thomas P., Su- 
san M., Maggie P. and Lola. John Dodd was born January 10, 1804; his 
wife Margaret was born March 13, 1819. They were married August 9, 
1846; she was a daughter of Thomas and Hannah Chapman, who were na- 
tives of Virginia and of English extraction; her parents had thirteen chil- 
dren, nine of whom are living. Thomas P. Dodd was educated in the 
schools at La Rue, and on attaining his twenty-first year began teaching 
school, an occupation that he has followed at intervals up to the present 
time. He has been Mayor of La Rue and member of the Council one year: 
is a member of the F. & A. M., and is a Republican. 

HON. JOHN D. GLTHERY. This well known and honored citizen 
of Marion County is of Scotch-Irish and English ancestry, though his par- 
ents, Joseph and Hannah (Dever) Guthery, were natives of Pennsylvania 
and Kentucky respectively. They came to Pike County, Ohio, at a very 
early day, and from there to Marion County in 1827, settling in Salt Rock 
Township. Joseph Guthery was born in Greene County, Penn., March 29, 
1790, and died in Marion County, Ohio, February 5, 1856. His wife 
Hannah was born January 17, 1796, and died in Marion County, Ohio, in 
1864. They had four children, all sons — John D., born September 16. 



680 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

1819; and Isaac F., born October 24, 1821, are the only surviving ones. 
Mr. John D. Guthery obtained a good English education under tbe tutor 
ship of Joseph M. Dickinson, in the common schools of the township, and 
from the age of twenty to twenty-seven years taught school at intervals. He 
was married, April 23, 1854, by the Rev. J. K. Ford, of the Methodist Epis- 
copal Church, to Susan Frederick, a daughter of John and Lydia (Earhart) 
Frederick By the above marriage, there were the following children: 
Joseph D., March 12, 1855; James B., October 28,1856; Rachel A.., March 
29, 1859; William L., February 15, 1862; John H., June 30, 1864; Isaac 
S., February 8, 1866; Frederick E. and Alma Dell, twins, born January 13, 
1868, all of whom are living except Alma Dell, who died December 14, 
1869; and Emma C. was born February 18, 1858, and died August 8, 1868 
John D. Guthery, the subject of this sketch, is the largest landholder in 
the township, owning some 1,240 acres, a large proportion of which is under 
cultivation. He is a Democrat in politics, and has served the township and 
county in various official positions, always with credit to himself and to the 
satisfaction of his constituents, among which were nine consecutive years as 
Township Clerk, Land Appraiser three times, Justice of the Peace twenty 
one years, and for two terms represented his county in the Ohio State Leg- 
islature. He is a man of excellent judgment, strict integrity and of rare 
executive ability, and his whole public career is without a stain. He has 
retired from active farming, renting most of his land to tenants, but still 
resides on the homestead in Bowling Green Township. The parents of his 
wife were of German extraction, but natives of Pennsylvania and Maryland 
respectively. Their children were Matilda, Ann, Catherine, Simon, Rachel, 
Philip E. and Susan, who still survive. Sarah, Elizabeth, Lydia, John F., 
Eve and Mary are deceased. All these children lived to have families, ex- 
cepting Sarah, who died at the age of sixteen years. The father, John 
Frederick, died December 23, 1853, and the mother of this family, Lydia, 
died August 29, 1859. 

JOSEPH D. GUTHRIE, son of John D. and Susan (Frederick) Guth- 
rie, is a native of Bowling Green Township, born March 12, 1855. He 
finished his educational career by completing a commercial course at Leb- 
anon. Ohio, in 1873; he then became a pedagogue, teaching the winter 
months until his marriage. This important event occurred May 29, 1877, 
with Miss Mary E., daughter of John G. and Elizabeth Wolford. Their 
union has been crowned with the birth of Erven, aged four years, and Ber- 
nard, one and a half years. Mr. Guthrie is a respected and energetic 
voung man, having under his control about 600 acres of land. He ranks 
among the leading farmers and stock dealers in his township. He votes the 
Democratic ticket. 

PHILIP E. GUTHERY, son of Isaac F. and Rachel (Frederick) Guth- 
ery, was born in Bowling Green Township July 31, 1857. His parents 
were early settlers in Marion County, and now are living at Marion. Philip 
E. was reared on a farm, in the meantime obtaining a good English educa- 
tion. Since the age of nineteen, he has depended on his own resources and 
is now the owner of 120 acres of land, valued at $65 per acre. He was 
married, July 4, 1877, co Lizzie M. Clark, a daughter of George S. and 
Elizabeth Clark. From this union there are three children — Mabel, born 
June 11, 1878; George M., January 21, 1880; and Sybil, born February 
5. 1882. Mr. Guthery is an enterprising farmer and citizen, well and fav- 
orably known. He is a member of the F. & A. M. and a Democrat. 



BOWLING GREEN TOWNSHIP. 681 

JOHN HARRIS was bora in Darby Township, Union Count)-, Ohio, 
December 9, 1829. His parents, Garrett and Sarah (Orr) Harris, settled 
in Darby Township about the year 1810. He was Assessor of that township 
thirty-live years. and Justice of the Peace forty years. He was a highly re- 
spected citizen and a pioneer. He died on the old homestead in that town- 
ship in 18--; his widow still resides in Darby Township with her sou, 
George Harris, and is in her seventy-eighth year. Their children's names 
were William, George, John, our subject, Mary and Warren, all of whom 
are living. John Harris was married, Juno 10, 1818, to Hannah Brown, who 
was born in 1830, and died February 9, 1850, leaving one child — Hannah 
— who died at the age of eighteen years. He was married a second time tu 
Jemima Benson, a daughter of John and Charlotte Benson. Eight chil- 
dren were born to this union, all of whom are living, named Garrett, 
George, Ellen, Louisa. John, William, Mary, Charlie E. and Elton; all of 
these children live within two miles of the homestead. Three of them 
were married the same day and by the same ceremony. Mr. Harris moved 
from Union to Marion County in 1868, and purchased 100 acres of partly 
improved land in Bowling Green Township at $10 per acre. This land is 
all now thoroughly improved and under cultivation. He has erected a 
comfortable frame house, in which he resides, and other outbuildings. He 
has served the township as Trustee for several years, which office he now 
tills. Himself and wife are members of the Regular Baptist Church, and 
politically he is a Democrat. He enlisted as a soldier in the great civil 
war, August 29, 1861, in Company B, One Hundred and Seventy-fourth 
Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was present at the battles of "Over- 
alls Creek," and of the Cedars, at which engagement he was wounded in 
the right side by the explosion of a shell. He was disabled for duty and 
sent to tne hospital at Murfreesboro, Tenn., and thence to the Nashville 
barracks, where he was honorably discharged from the service June 8, 
1865. 

JOHN JOHNSON was born March 18, 1827; his parents, Allen and 
Elizabeth Johnson, were early settlers in Montgomery Township and had a 
family of thirteen children, seven of whom are still living: Allen Johnson 
died January 11, 1858, aged sixty-eight years; his widow is seventy-eight, 
and is still living. John Johnson was reared on a farm, attending during 
his youth the district schools. He was married, September 11, 1852, to 
Jane Van Buskirk, a daughter of Michael and Anna Van Buskirk, by whom 
there were eight children. His wife died February 8, 1867, and he was 
married again February 1, 1868, this time to Adeline Longberry, a daugh- 
ter of Michael and Margaret Longberry. By this marriage there were five 
children. Mr. Johnson has a farm of tifty acres, on which he has re- 
cently erected a good frame house. He is one of the oldest residents, hav- 
ing lived in the countv forty-seven years. He is a Democrat. 

ALBERT JONES was born in Montgomery Township August 28, 1810. 
His parents, Mires and Mary (Prettyman) Jones, were of Welsh and En- 
glish origin, but they were natives of the State of Delaware. They settled 
in Montgomery Township in 1837. Mires Jones died there in 1811, and 
his wife in 1812. They had two children — Albert, the subject of this 
sketch, and Mary, who died in 1813, On the death of his parents, Albert 
went to live with his uncle, John Jones, with whom he remained until he 
was twenty-one years of age, during this time obtaining a limited education 
at the district schools. He was married, November 4, 1862, to Martha J., 
a daughter of John and Esther (Smith) Leslie. Her parents are both de- 

BB 



682 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

ceased. They were formerly residents of Bowling Green Township. AI - 
bert Jones and wife have six children — John W., Mires. Albert L., Elizabeth 
E., Mary M. and Mintie D. Mr. Jones owns a farm of sixty acres, on which 
he resides, and is a highly respected citizen of- the township. Politically, 
he is a Democrat. 

ANDREW J. JONES is the second son of John and Elizabeth (Lynch) 
Jones, and was born in Montgomery Township November 24, 1849. When 
aged eighteen, after obtaining a fair education, he taught school during the 
winter seasons for four years. Mr. Jones was married, April 22, 1873, to 
Catherine Price, daughter of John and Ethelinda (Blue) Price. The chil- 
dren from this marriage are Alfred W., Ida B. and Zoa May, who are liv- 
ing, and two infants deceased. Mr. Jones is Township Trustee and is a 
Democrat. He has 100 acres of land, and is a well-to-do farmer. 

JOHN JONES was born in Sussex County, Delaware, October 2, 1816; 
his parents were both natives of that State. His father, Loudon Jones, was 
of Welsh extraction, and his mother, Margaret (Jackson) Jones, was of 
Irish origin; they both died in their native State. Only two of their eight 
children are now living; one is the subject of this sketch and the other is 
Nancy, the widow of William McClerg, and resides in Indiana. John 
Jones had but few advantages in his youth, and consequently his educa- 
tion is a practical one, acquired from observation and experience. From 
the age of seventeen, he was thrown upon his own resources. The first 
dollar he ever earned was a silver one and he now has it in his possession. 
In the commencement of his career he worked as a laborer on the canal and 
railroad for eight years. In the fall of the year 1837, he came to Marion 
County, Ohio, and settled in Bowling Oreen Township. April 10, 1841, 
he was married to Elizabeth Lynch, who was born in Delaware Sep- 
tember 1, 1826, and a daughter of Jeremiah and Mary (Dutton) Lynch. 
Her parents were of English ancestry, but natives of the State of Delaware, 
where they lived and died. Jeremiah Lynch was born December 15, 1791, 
and died in 1833; his wife Mary was born October 10, 1790, and died in 
1872. Although John Jones commenced a poor boy, by habits of industry 
and economy then formed, combined with rare good judgment and fore- 
sight, he has accumulated a large fortune, and is now (1883) the owner of 
1,492 acres of land, that, at a fair valuation, is worth $50 per acre. He 
still gives his whole attention to the management of his farm and performs 
manual labor daily. The home place is stocked at present with 1,300 
sheep, 100 or mere of cattle, a large number of hogs, with horses, etc., 
sufficient to attend to with the labor on his extended possessions. He has 
always given more attention to the raising of stock, although he raises an- 
nually large quantities of grain. He has lived in Bowling Green Town- 
ship ever since his settlement, with the exception of two years spent in 
Indiana. Mr. Jones is a temperate man, never having used tobacco in any 
of its forms. He has served his township one term as Trustee, and politi- 
cally he is a Democrat. Mr. Jones and family live on his farm, near La 
Rue, surrounded by the comforts and conveniences of life. It is quite a 
contrast to their first housekeeping, as they then had neither a chair, bed- 
stead, table nor stove. Himself and wife have a family of seven children, 
namely, Jeremiah, Mary J., Andrew J., John W., Josephine and Emma, 
all living, and most of them married and residing in homes of their own. 

JACOB KOLB, only son of Jacob and Catherine Kolb, was born in 
Germany April 10, 1829. He obtained a good education ir the Fatherland, 
and emigrated to America, locating at Marion, this county, in 1856, where 



BOWLING GREEN TOWNSHIP. 683 

he worked and lived about twenty years. He was married, August 25, 1868, 
to Mary Katie Fullmer, born in Germany November 18, 1836, a daughter 
of Simon and Dorotha Fullmer, both natives of Germany, where her par- 
ents died. Mrs. Kolb came to America, locating in this county, in 1854. 
Mr. and Mrs. Kolb's children are Jacob W., John, Charles, William, Frank, 
Arthur, Susie and Mary, all of whom are living. George and an infant 
unnamed are deceased. In November, 1876, Mr. Kolb bought eighty-three 
acres of land in Bowling Green Township, where he has resided with his 
family ever since. This farm is well improved, sixty acres under cultiva- 
tion, and he has erected a comfortable residence and other outbuildings. Mr. 
Kolb is a well-to-do farmer; himself and family are members of the Lu 
theran Church. He is a Democrat. 

WILLIAM P. LA RUE was born in Iowa May 10, 1856; his parents, 
Luther R. and Ann (Keech) La Rue, were natives of Ohio and Pennsylvania, 
andpf French and Scotch descent respectively. After marriage they Fet- 
tled in Montgomery Township about 1847-48; after remaining there six 
years, they removed to Iowa. They returned in 1868, since which time they 
have been residents of Marion Coimty. They have four living children — 
David H., Albert N, William P. and Mary C. Two 'of their children are 
deceased, namely, William and Oliver P. William P. La Rue received his 
early education in the common schools, and later entered as a student at the 
Northwestern Ohio Normal School, which he attended from 1875 to 1877. 
When eighteen years of age, he engaged in teaching school, which he has 
continued to follow at intervals for about nine years. He was married, 
March 23. 1882, to Maggie M. Bain, a daughter of* John and Eliza (Scribner) 
Bain. Her parents were natives of Scotland and Ohio respectively. Will- 
iam P. and Maggie La Rue have one child — Harley G. — born February 5, 
1883. Mr. La Rue is a well-to-do farmer; himself and wife are members 
of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Politically, he is a Republican. 

LUKE LENOX was born in Baltimore County, Md., June 13, 1823. 
His parents, John and Maggy (Phillips) Lenox, were of English and 
Welsh ancestry, but natives of Maryland. They removed to Ohio in 1836, 
settling in Knox County, thence to Delaware County in 1837, where they 
lived until their death. She died in 1840 and he in December, 1853. They 
were the parents of the following-named children: Ruth, Mary, Susannah, 
Luke (our subject) and Richard, who are still living. Nathaniel, Sarah, 
John T., Elijah and William H. are deceased. Luke Lenox received the 
advantages of a common school education, and remained at home with his 
parents until their death. He was married, April 16, 1846, to Mary E. 
Mealey, and from this anion there were the following-named children: 
Mary E., born April 18, 1854; Lenora V., born Januarv 7, 1857; Harriet 
A., born April 19, 1847, died May 18,1866; Charles, born Juue 23. 1849, died 
August 3, 1 849; and Perry, born June 20, 1850, died December 4, 1857. Mr. 
Lenox resides on a farm of 156 acres, one mile west of La Rue village, that he 
purchased in 1862, which has ever since been his home. It is one of the best 
farms in the township, with fine improvements, which are mostly the results 
of his judicious labor; several miles of tiling underdrain this farm. Mr. 
Lenox is a Republican, and, although living in a township with a strong 
Democratic majority, was elected Justice of the Peace for three successive 
tei-ms. Besides his farming interests, Mr. Lenox has been in the past years 
largely interested in buying and shipping stock, though now he has retired 
from active business and rented his land. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. 
and the F. & A. M. Lodges at La Rue. and himself and amiable wife are 



684 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

members of the Methodist Protestant Church. The parents of Mrs. Mary 
E. Lenox were Michael and Elizabeth (Marrimore) Mealey, and were na- 
tives of Ireland and England respectively; were brought to this country 
when small children and have since become the parents of nine cihldren, 
of whom but three — William, Michael and Mary E. — survive, the last 
named being Mrs. Lenox. 

THOMAS McNEFF was born in Ireland in 1838; his parents, Thomas 
and Mary (Rane) McNeff, both died in Ireland. Mr. McNeff emigrated to 
the United States in 1853, landing on the shores of America a poor boy, 
with only his two hands and a stout heart with which to make his way in 
the land of his adoption. The same year, he came to Marion County and 
engaged as laborer on the railroad. He followed that occupation for twelve 
years, and then engaged in agriculture on his own farm of eighty -three 
acres in Bowling Green Township, which he has made by his own labor a 
valuable, well -improved farm and a comfortable home. He has been a res- 
ident of the county for about thirty years, and is a well known and re- 
spected citizen. He was married, February ; 17, 1861, to Winnie Gilrain, 
a daughter of Thomas and Mary (O'Harra) Gilrain; her parents were na- 
tives of Ireland. Mr. and Mrs. McNeff have had seven children, named as fol- 
lows: Mary A., Sallit?. James, Ella and Maggie, all of whom are living; 
John and Michael are deceased. Mr. McNeff |,and family are members of 
the Roman Catholic Church, and in politics he adheres to the principles of 
the Democratic party. 

MRS. ELIZABETH (ADAIR) MELVIN, widow of Bartholomew Mel- 
vin. was born in Madison County, Ohio, July 13, 1806; she was the 
daughter of John and Jane (Ross) Adair. They were natives of Virginia, 
and settled in Madison County, Ohio, in 1804, where Mrs. Adair died June 
3, 1838; Mr. Adair's death occurred in 1858. Elizabeth, our subject, was 
married to Bartholomew Melvin August 1, 1826. He was a son of John 
Melvin, a native of Tennessee. He came with his parents to Madison 
County, Ohio, in 1805, where he lived until his death in 1856. Twelve 
children were born to this marriage, viz.: William A., Margaret A., Charles 
D., Mary A., John J., Augusta A., Eliza M., Joseph B. and Benjamin L. 
are living; Samuel, Jane B. and Nancy M. are deceased. All are married 
excepting Augustus A. , who is the main support of his aged mother. Mrs. 
Melvin has been a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church 
for over sixty years, and is a very intelligent, highly esteemed lady. She 
is now in her seventy -seventh year. 

WILLIAM A. MELVIN, a substantial citizen and farmer, was born in 
Union Township, Madison County, July 27, 1830. He remained on the farm 
with his father until twenty-three years of age, in the meantime securing a 
good education. From this time he depended on his own resources. He 
was married, October 19, 1853, to Margaret, a daughter of James and 
Sarah Ewing. By this union there were four children, all deceased. His 
wife died July 13, 1877, and he was married the second time, April 27, 
1883, to Sarah J., daughter of James and Elizabeth (Sherrick) Self, for- 
merly of Hocking County, but now of Bowling Green Township. James 
Self served three years in the war of the rebellion. Mr. Melvin is the owner 
of seventy-one acres of valuable land, on which he resides. He has served 
as Trustee of the township four years, is a member of the F. & A. M. and 
of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and is a Democrat. His father, Bar- 
tholomew Melvin, was born in Tennessee in 1796. and came with his parents 
to Ohio in 1806. They were early settlers in Madison County, where he 



BOWLING GREEN TOWNSHIP. Ii85 

(Bartholomew Melvin) died March 10, 1856. His wife Elizabeth is still 
living. 

MATHEW G. MILLER was born in Cumberland County, Penn.. 
May 16, 1839; his parents, John and Hannah (Gelvin) Miller, were both 
natives of Pennsylvania; the first was born in April, 1815, and the latter 
in 1807. They came to Ohio in 1846 and settled in Montgomery Town- 
ship, where Mr. Miller purchased ninety-six acres of land. Mrs. 
Miller died on this farm in 1879; Mr. Miller now resides at Agos- 
ta. Mathew G. Miller lived on the farm with his father till the 
commencement of the civil war, when he volunteered as a soldier, 
to serve in the ranks of the Union army. He enlisted November 
14, 1861, in Company G, Eighty-second Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infan 
try, and was present and participated in the battles of second Bull Run. 
Chancellorsville and Gettysburg. At the last-named battle, he received a 
gunshot wound through the hip, disabling him from duty. He was sent to 
the field hospital, remaining there fifteen days; thence to Harrisburg. 
Penn., and from there to the hospital at Camp Chase, Ohio, where he recov- 
ered. After an absence of five months, he returned to his company, then 
stationed at Chattanooga, Tenn. , about November 30, 1863. Subsequently 
he was present at the battles of Dallas, Buzzard's Roost, Resa^a, Duck 
River, Kenesaw Mountain, Peach Tree Creek and Atlanta. He was with 
Sherman's army to the sea, and was captured by the rebels during the en- 
gagement at Bentonville, N. C. He was a prisoner for two weeks and was 
confined in the famous Libby Prison; he was paroled and sent to Camp 
Chase, Ohio, where he was honorably discharged from the service, June 12. 
1865, having served in the war three years seven months and two days. He 
returned home, and December 28, 1865, was married to Clara A., daughter 
of Hormal and Nancy (Berry) Porter. By this marriage there aretwochil 
dren— John S., born December 15, 1866;" and Mathew N., born May 30, 
1870. Mr. Miller resides on his farm in Bowling Green Township*; is a 
member of the I. O. O. F. at Green Camp, and is a Republican. 

JOHN E. MOORE, a farmer of Bowling Green Township, was born in 
Pleasant Township, this county, September 25, 1854. His parents, David 
C. and Margaret R, (Berry) Moore, were natives of Ohio and Virginia re- 
spectively and of Irish and English descent. They now reside on their 
homestead in Pleasant Township, where they have lived for about thirty- 
three years. They have five living children— Rebecca S., Benjamin F., John 
E., Mary A. and Clara. One of their children died in its second year. 
John E. Moore was raised to the life of a farmer, and remained with his 
fathpr until his marriage, which occurred September 11, 1877. to Princess 
Topliff, a daughter of Lewis and Dorcas (Bent) Topliff. Then he took up 
his residence in Bowling Green Township, on a farm consisting of 152 acres 
of land, formerly owned by Lewis Topliff. He now devotes his attention to 
farming and the raising of stock. His home is located one-half mile west 
of La Rue. Himself and wife have two children — Gracie, born April 9, 
1881 ; and Delia, born June 23, 1882. Mr. Moore is a substantial, well-to- 
do citizen, and in politics is a Republican. 

JOSEPH ORR was born in Licking County. Ohio, July 12, 1848; his 
parents, James D. and Elizabeth Orr, were natives of Ohio and of English 
and German origin. James D. died in Licking County. Ohio, in 1851; his 
widow resides in Bowling Green Township. Joseph Orr obtained his early 
education in the common schools of Licking and Union Counties, and came 
with his mother to Bowling Green Township, Marion County, in 1S60, and 



68(5 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

finished his education at the schools of La Rue. On attaining his major- 
ity , he taught school one term and was married October 2, 1877, to Clara 
E., a daughter of John and Christena C. Littell; her parents are natives of 
Ohio, and of English and German descent. Joseph and Clara Orr have two 
children — James W. and Noah L. Mr. Orr is the owner of 102 acres of 
well- improved land, and is an enterprising and substantial farmer, and 
much respected in his community. Politically, he is a Democrat. 

WILLIAM L. RAUB was born in Mercer County, Penn., October 27. 
1833; his parents, Henry and Hannah (Aultman) Raub, were of German 
descent and natives of Pennsylvania. They came to Ohio in 1838, and set- 
tled in Mahoning County; two years afterward, they removed to Knox 
County, where Henry died in 1868; his widow moved to Marion County and 
died in 1871. They had seven children — Eli, Henry A, William L. , Sam- 
uel H. and Andrew J. are all living; Levi and Elizabeth are deceased. 
William L. Raub received a fair common school education in Knox Coun- 
ty, Ohio, and at the age of eighteen, commenced to depend on his own re- 
sources. He has made farming the business of his life, and is now the 
owner of 430 acres of land on which he has recently erected a fine frame 
residence and barn. He is a thorough farmer, highly esteemed, and pos- 
sesses the confidence of the community in which he resides in an eminent 
degree. He is Treasurer of the township, and has been for the past twelve 
years; and has also served as Township Trustee. In politics, he is a Dem- 
ocrat. He was married in January, 1865, to Jane Baldwin, a daughter of 
James and Ellen (Love) Baldwin, formerly of Madison County, Ohio. 
Their children are Henry J., Emma G, Ella R., Mary, Lillian, Susie D. , 
Silas A, George W. and Dessa, are living; Romma, aged three years, and 
an unnamed infant are deceased. Mr. Raub is a member of the Cumber- 
land Presbyterian Church. 

JOHN H. RIDGWAY, son of Bazzle and Catherine (Houghn) Ridg- 
way, was born in Virginia July 14, 1834. His parents were natives of 
Maryland and Virginia respectively, and were of Irish and German descent. 
They came to Union County, Ohio, in 1836; thence to Eranklin County, 
Ohio, where Catherine Ridgway died in 1855. Mr. Ridgway subsequently 
moved to Marion County, where he died in January, 1879. They had six 
children; *but three of them are living, namely, John H. , whose name heads 
this sketch; Joseph and Lovina. John H. Ridgway lived with his father 
until be was twenty-one years of age, having, during his minority, ob- 
tained a limited education. He has always given his time and attention to 
farming, and now owns eighty-two acres of well improved land, on which 
he has a fine frame residence and other improvements, the result of his own 
labor. He is a substantial farmer and respected citizen. He was married, 
December 11, 1862, to Margaret J. McNeer, born April 25, 1842, a 
daughter of John and Eliza (Hawn) McNeer. They have three children, 
namely, Rachel O, born November 3, 1863; Ida J., born February 26, 
1865; and John W. , July 21, 1871. Mr. and Mrs. Ridgway are members 
of the Methodist Episcopal Church at La Rue, and, politically speaking, he 
is a Democrat. 

BENJAMIN SAGER was born in Loudon County, Va., August 12, 
1800; his parents, George and Clmstenia (Firestone) Sager, emigrated with 
their family to New Salem, Jefferson County, Ohio, in 1803, where Chris- 
tenia, the mother, died in 1804. His father, George Sager; moved to 
Darby Township, Union County, in 1808, where he died in 1824, aged eighty- 
five years. Benjamin Sager was married in June, 1823, to Deborah Duvall, 



BOWLING GREEN TOWNSHIP. 687 

a daughter of William and Sarah (Hinton) Duvall. By this marriage 
there? were ten children, three sons and seven daughters. Deborah, his 
wife died in 18+4, and he, in 1845, was married to Sarah Cursey. who was 
a widow of Samuel Gale. By this marriage there was one child--Eliza. 
Benjamin Sager was divorced from his second wife, and he was married 
November 23, 1852, to Mary Ann Stiner, a daughter of Abraham and Eliz- 
abeth (Lewis) Stiner, of Union County. Two children were born by this 
marriage, viz., Elizabeth, November 10, 1853; and Marquis L., March 23, 
1857. Of Mr. Sager' s children eight are living, as follows: Louisa, Mi- 
nerva, Benjamin F. , Mary, Lucas L., Elijah, Elizabeth and Marquis. Mr. 
Sager is still quite vigorous and resides on the 200 acres of land in Bow- 
ling Green Township that he purchased in 1834. He has been a longer 
resident of the township than any other person within its boundaries, and 
claims to have been the first citizen of the township that purchased land 
within its limits, and voted when there were but fifteen votes cast in the 
township. He was a licensed minister in the Christian Church for about 
four years, and has been a member of that church for over fifty years. Po- 
litically, he is a Democrat. He is one of the very few pioneers still living, 
and is honored and respected by all as an honest man and a good citizen. 

BENJAMIN F. SAGER was born in Bowling Green Township August 
13, 1833, and is the son of Benjamin and Deborah (Duvall) Sager, who are 
mentioned elsewhere. Benjamin F. obtained his early education in the 
old-fashioned log schoolhouse, this being the first schoolhouse in the 
township; it did not contain a sawed board, a pane of glass or a nail; not 
a piece of iron of any kind was used in its construction. This building 
was replaced by a hewed-log house with a puncheon floor. The hinges to 
the doors in place of wood, were made of scrap iron. He attended school 
during part of the year until he was fourteen, and for those days acquired 
a fair education. He was left motherless at the age of eleven, and his 
father breaking up housekeeping at the age of thirteen, his advantages were 
very limited. From about this age he began to work and manage for himself. 
He was engaged in various business enterprises, among which was lumber- 
ing, traveling and boating on the Wabash & Erie Canal two years, at the 
expiration of which time he returned to farming and followed that vocation 
of summers and lumbering of winters until the year 1854. During 
the summer of 1855-56 he worked on the farm, and during the winter went 
to school. He was married, February 8, 1857, to Sarah C, daughter of 
Abel and Phebe (Dice) Couger, of Pendleton County, W. Va. From this 
marriage there are the following children: William A., A. F., Henry W.. 
Edward F., James D., Minnie E. , all living at home. Mr. Sager is the 
owner of 500 acres of valuable land, located on the La Rue & Essex pike, 
three and one-half miles south of La Rue. It has the highest chattel as- 
sessment of any une in the township of Bowling Green. To the improve- 
ment of this farm, and the raising of stock he devotes the most of his time. 
He has been called upon to fill several offices of honor and trust in the town- 
ship, such as Assessor, Clerk, and in 1881 was elected Justice of the Peace, 
in which capacity he is now acting. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. 
Lodge at Rush Creek. He is the oldest native citizen now living in Bowl- 
ing Green Township and is one of its most substantial and prominent men. 

LUCAS L. SAGER, son of Benjamin and Deborah (Duvall) Sager, was 
born in Bowling Green Township, January 1, 1837. He resided with his 
parents till he was eighteen years of age; was married September 2S, 1863, 
to Lydia, daughter of David Harraman, of Marion County. Four children 



688 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

were born to them, two living, Lenora L. and Hattie May. The deceased 
were Jonathan E. and Annie S. Mr. Sager commenced with nothing for 
a start in a financial sense, and has accumulated a fine farm of seventy nine 
acres, on which he resides. He is a highly respected citizen and a Demo 
crat. 

HENRY SCHOTTE was born in Prussia May 17, 1832, and lived there 
until a man grown. He served as a soldier in the Prussian Army from 
1852 to 1855, and emigrated to America in 1858. He was married at Co- 
lumbus, Ohio, October 12, 1861, to Rosena Barth, a daughter of Henry and 
Christena Barth, who were all bom in Germany, and emigrated to F ank- 
lin County, Ohio, in 1850, where he died January 3, 1879, and his wife 
Christena in 1878. Henry Schotte, for the past twenty years, has given his 
attention to farming. He first bought forty -six acres of wild land, covered 
with a heavy growth of timber, which he cleared and improved. He now 
owns ninety-two acres of land worth $75 an acre. Mr. Schotte is a pros- 
perous farmer, and politically speaking is a Democrat. His six children 
are Charley, Rhena, Frank, Herman, Rosa and Caroline. Mr. Schotte's par 
ents, John G. and Frederica Schotte. were also natives of Germany, where 
his mother died in 1863. His father emigrated to Ohio, in 1864, and set- 
tled in Montgomery Township, this county, and died in Bowling Green 
Township in 1876. 

HENRY L. SHORT resides west of La Rue Village, and is a farmer on 
his father's place near La Rue. He is the son of John and Isabel (Gil- 
man) Short, and was born in this township May 15, 1858. Obtaining a 
good education, he began teaching school at the age of eighteen years, an 
occupation that he has followed more or less for seven years; in the mean- 
time he was engaged at farming in the spring and summer seasons. He 
was married, July 25, 1882, to Caroline L. Pratt, a daughter of Lincoln and 
Marv Pratt, of Auglaize County, Ohio, and they have one child. 

JOHN SHORT was born in Fayette County, Ohio, October 16, 1821. 
His parents, Henry and Lydia A. (Williams) Short, were natives of Virgin- 
ia, who came to Ohio at a very early day before their marriage. Henry 
Short was a soldier in the war of 1812. After his marriage to Lydia Will- 
iams, they settled in Fayette County, Ohio, and in 1828, he, with his fam- 
ily, moved to Logan County, Ohio. He died in 1879, aged eighty-eight 
years seven months and twenty days. His wife died near West Liberty, 
Ohio, in December, 1882, aged ninety years one month and two days. John 
Short remained on the farm with his father until August, 1840, when he 
was married to Isabella Gilmer, a daughter of John and Nancy (McCor- 
mick) Gilmer. After his marriage, he engaged in farming on 100 acres of 
land in Logan County, for four years, when he engaged in milling about 
four years; then sold out his interest and became a dealer in stock, which 
he continued about three years. In 1857, he moved with his family to 
Bowling Green Township and purchased fifty acres of land, on which they 
located; he has since added to this purchase so that the homestead now 
consists of 150 acres. It is situated one mile west of La Rue 'Village, and 
is one of the best farms in the township. Mr. and Mrs. John Short have 
had a family of the following- named children: William G., Henry L. and 
Margaret Ann, who are now living; Mary Louisa and Newton A. are de- 
ceased. Mr. Short has retired from active farming, his farm being now 
conducted by his son, Henry L. John Short enlisted as a soldier in the 
civil war. April 21, 1861, in Company H, Fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer 
Infantry, to serve for three months, and re-enlisted in the same company 



BOWLING GREEN TOWNSHIP. 689 

aDd regiment to serve three years. He was present at the battles of Blue 
Gap, Cross Keys, Winchester and various other engagements, and was hon- 
orably discharged at Washington, D. O, having served for about two years. 
JOSEPH H. SIFRITT is the sixth son and ninth child, and the only 
surviving member of a family of eleven children He was born in Madison 
County, Ohio, July 9, 1836; his father, John Sifritt, was a native of Vir- 
ginia, and while a single man came to Ohio at a very early day and located 
in Madison County. Here he was married to Harriet Chapman, a daughter 
of Thomas and Mary (Stone) Chapman, who was also a native of Virginia. 
They lived in Madison County about twenty- four years, when they moved 
to Green Camp Township, Marion County, where he died in 1850, and his 
wife Harriett in 1873. They had eleven children, all except the subject of 
this sketch dying between the ages of twenty-one and forty -four years. 
Joseph M. Siffritt was reared to the occupation of farming, and has made 
it the business of his life. January, 1862, he was married to Mary Bell, a 
daughter of Jesse and Margaret (Sanders) Bell; the last named were natives 
of Pennsylvania and Kentucky respectively, and came with their parents to 
Ohio when quite young. After their marriage, which occurred April 9, 
1822, they settled in Union County; subsequently they settled in Bowling 
Green Township, February, 1831. Mr. Bell afterward moved to Union 
County, but fiually returned to Marion County, where he died in 1873. 
His wife Margaret is still (1883) living, in her seventy-ninth year. They 
had nine children, seven of whom are living, namely, William, Samuel, 
Jonathan, Nancy, Hannah, Elizabeth and Mary. Joseph H. and Mary (Bell) 
Sifritt have had a family of four children — James W., born August 12, 
1864; Newman and Truman (twins) were born April 10, 1871, and Tru- 
man died September 2, 1872; Lenora A., was born October 24, 1862, and 
died September 2, 1864. Joseph H. Sifritt was brought to Green Camp to 
this county by his parents, when he was but three months old. Thirty 
years afterward he moved to his present home in Bowling Green Township, 
where he has lived sixteen years. Thus it will be seen he has been a con 
stant resident of this county for forty-six years. He owns 201 acres of 
land, finely improved, with a commodious frame residence and outbuild- 
ings. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. at La Rue, is a Republican in 
politics, and himself and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. 

ALBERT THOMASSON was born in East Virginia October 9, 1814. 
His parents, Henry and Elizabeth (Lovin) Thomasson, were of English ex- 
traction, but natives of Virginia, where they both lived and died, he at the 
age of forty-eight, and his wife aged fifty-eight years. Albert Thomas- 
son, at the age of twenty-one years, commenced to work for himself; he 
served an apprenticeship to learn the trade of brick mason, and on com 
plefcing his trade he came to Ohio and settled in Bowling Green Township 
in 1838, and followed his trade for forty years. He is now carrying on 
tile works and also owns a farm of 200 acres, valued at $85 per acre. He 
was married, December 14, 1837, to Emily Manly, a daughter of Richard 
Manly; from -this marriage twelve children were born, seven daughters and 
five sons, six only are living. Mr. Thomasson has bean Trustee of the town- 
ship for several years; is a member of the F. & A. M., and is an adherent of 
the Democratic party. 

JOHN D. THOMASSON. fourth son of Albert and Emily (Manly) 
Thomasson, was born in Bowling Green Township, November 25. 1847. 
He was reared to a farmer's life, an occupation he has always followed. 



6!><) HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

He was married, February J 2, 1877, to Emma E. McCurmick, a daughter 
of James and Minerva McCormick; they have two children — Orlieand Eva. 
Mr. Thomasson is an energetic and prosperous farmer, and is devoting most 
of his time to gardening and an apiary, a business he has followed for 
seventeen years with good success; he is political lv Democratic. 

RICHARD H. THOMASSON, first son of Albert and Emily (Manly) 
Thomasson, was born Sepeinber 9, 1842, and was reared at his father's 
homestead in Bowling Green Township. He enlisted to serve as a soldier 
in the Union army during the war of the great rebellion, on November 
16, 1861, in Company A, Second Battalion United States Infantry, and par- 
ticipated in many battles of that war, receiving at the battle of Resaca, 
May 15, 1864, a gunshot wound in the right shoulder. He served until the 
close of the conflict, and was honorably discharged July 17, 1865, and re- 
turned to his native place, engaging in farming. He was married, Decem- 
ber 15, 1874, to Elizabeth, a daughter of John A. Johnson, by whom there 
have been four children — Samuel H, J. Dalzel and Holden F., that are liv- 
ing; and Albert T. deceased. Mr. Thomasson owns fifty acres of land, on 
which he resides with his family, and is a substantial citizen of the town- 
ship. 

EMANUEL TRUMBO, deceased, was born October 12, 1822, in Pen- 
dleton County, Va. He removed with his wife, -Hannah (Couger) Trumbo, 
and children, to Fayette County, Ohio; thence to Marion County, Ohio, 
settling in Bowling Green Township in 1856, where he purchased a large 
tract of land and engaged in sawing lumber; his wife died February 1(5, 
1864. By this wife there were five children — William H., Noah L., George 
O., Pleasant and Asenath S. , all except the last named are living. Mr. 
Trumbo was married the second time, December 20, 1864, to Sarah A. 
Elland, who was born in Big Island Township November 20, 1835. She 
was a daughter of John and Hannah Elland, who were natives of England. 
By Mr. Trumbo's last marriage there was one child — Hannah E. — who was 
born February 20, 1866. Emanuel. Trumbo was a man of fine ability and 
a good scholar. He was elected and served as County Surveyor three terms, 
and in other ways was a prominent citizen. He died March 9, 1870; his 
wife and five children still survive him. The widow resides "on the home- 
stead of eighty-seven acres. She is a member of the Baptist Church. Mrs. 
Trumbo's parent^, John and Hannah Elland, came from England to Amer- 
ica in 1833, and settled in Big Island Township, where they lived eighteen 
years, when they moved to Montgomery Township and lived there until his 
death, which occurred in 1849, aged sixty-seven years. His wife died in 
1875. Their children were Hannah, Sophia, Susan, Sarah A. (the widow 
of Mr. Trumbo) and William, all living. Francis and John are deceased. 
Emanuel Trumbo's parents were William and Susan Trumbo, of German 
ancestry, and natives of Virginia. Their children were Anna, Lavina, 
Elijah, Susan, Mary, George, who still survives; Samuel Rahama, Jose- 
phine, Caroline and Emanuel are deceased. 

HENRY TRUMBO. son of Emanuel and Hannah (Couger) Trumbo, 
was born in Pendleton County, W. Va., June 28, 1846. He received a fair 
practical education in the schools of Bowling Green Township, and was 
married, March 16, 1871, to Maggie Sifritt, born in Green Camp Town- 
ship September 26, 1854, a daughter of Andrew and Nancy (Bell) Sifritt; 
from this union there is one child — Myrtie V., born December 14. 1872. 
Harry H. Hopkins, an adopted child, was born near Saline City, Clay Co., 
Ind., August 9, 1875. Hannah Trumbo, the mother of Henry, died Febru- 



CLARIDON TOWNSHIP. 691 

■ary 15, 1864, aged forty years; Emanuel, his father, died March 9, 1870, 
aged forty-seven years. Henry Truinbo, the subject of this sketch, is one 
of the substantial and well-to-do farmers of the township, has always lived 
upon a farm, and now owns 115 acres of land, valued at $60 an acre. Po- 
litically, he is a Democrat. 

EPHRAIM H. WATKINS was bom in Bradford County, Penn., July 
1, 1831. His parents, Ephraim and Fannie (Palmer) Watkins, were natives 
of the States of Connecticut and Vermont respectively, and came to Ohio in 
1835, settling with their family of eight children in Bowling Green Town- 
ship. He was born July 31, 1796, and died October 11, 1882. His wife 
preceded him March 28, 1878. They were of Welsh and English extrac- 
tion. The subject of this sketch lived on the farm with his parents until 
the age of twenty-five, in the meantime during his minority receiving the 
advantages of a common school education. September 11, 1856. he was 
married to Sarah Cheney, a daughter of Francis O. and Roxcy (Mathers) 
Cheney. The latter were of English and Welsh ancestry, but natives of 
Ohio; they died many years ago. Ephraim H. Watkins and wife have had 
the following children: Roxcy J., Allen E., David P., Emma O. , Harvey 
S., Mary A., Marcus A., Louisa E., Lilla B. and Nancy E., all living; 
Benjamin, W. F. and Owen G. are deceased. Mr. Watkins resides on his 
farm of 137 acres of land, to the care of which and raising of stock he de- 
votes the most of his time. His residence is about live miles south of La 
Rue, in Bowling Green Township. He is a Republican in politics and one 
of the leading citizens of the township. He enlisted to serve in the late 
civil war September 1.1, 1862, in Company E, One Hundred and Twenty- 
first Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was present at the battles of 
Perryville, Chickamauga, Kenesaw Mountain, Buzzard's Roost, Dalton, 
Resaca, Peach Tree Creek, Atlanta, Goldsboro, Benton ville, N. C, and vari- 
ous skirmishes, and was honorably discharged at the close of the war, June 
8, 1865, at Washington City, D. C. He was taken prisoner by Lyon's 
rebel cavaliy December 23, 1864, paroled the same day, and on his ex- 
change re-engaged in the war. 



CHAPTER IV. 



CLARIDON TOWNSHIP. 

INDESCRIBABLE thoughts and feelings are awakened in the mind and 
heart of one, when contemplating the mighty work done by the fearless, 
hardy and brave army of pioneers, whose untiring efforts have subdued the 
mighty forests of this county and caused her waste places to smile in the 
sunlight of Heaven and yield an abundance of grain and fruit, and who have 
cleared her myriads of hills and valleys, which are annually covered with rich 
harvests or crowned with green pastures. To the early settlers of Claridon 
Township who endured the privations incident to establishing homes in a 
new and unbroken country, and who bravely battled to remove her majestic 
forests and to make it possible to cultivate her fertile plains are due their 
full portion of credit and the everlasting gratitude of their posterity. 



692 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

ORGANIC HISTORY. 

Claridon was taken from the territory of Canaan Township and was one 
of the first townships organized in Marion County. Although there is no 
entry od the records of the county defining clearly its exact limits as first 
created, yet there is no doubt but that it has always included the constitu- 
tional requirement of territory — a full surveyed township of six miles 
square; and although Scott Township has made repeated efforts to obtain 
its northern tier of sections, they have always proved unavailing, and to-day 
this township remains as one of the only two townships containing the 
full constitutional area in Marion County. Just how fierce the struggle 
was on the part of the people of Claridon Township, to retain their full 
territory, or just how vigorous and determined the efforts were on the part 
of the citizens of Scott to obtain the northern tier of sections, we are, at this 
late date, unable to chronicle; but a simple record of the proceedings will 
show that repeated efforts were made, and that they were invariably re- 
sisted. The residents on the territory in controversy were divided in their 
opinions as to the propriety of detaching these six sections from Claridon 
and attaching them to Scott Township, as will appear from the following 
entry taken from the record: 

Auditor and Commissioners' Office, Marion, Marion County, Ohio, March 7. 1848. 
This day came Lawrence Van Buskirk and others, being a majority of the householders 
residing within the boundary of the portion of Claridon Township hereinafter named, 
and made application, by petition, for an alteration of the boundaries of the town- 
ships of Claridon and Scott, as follows, to wit: To attach to the said 'township of Scott 
one tier of sections from off the north side of said township of Claridon, and it appear- 
ing to the satisfaction of the Commissioners that legal notice had been given, and that 
all things appertaining to said application have been done in due form of law, it is 
ordered that the said one tier of sections from off the north side of said Claridon Town- 
ship be and the same is hereby attached to the township of Scott. 

Hugh V. Smith, ) „ 
John Uncapher, \ 

For some reason that does not appear from the record, which possibly 
was some defect in the proceedings that invalidated them, that, doubtless, 
was taken advantage of by those opposing the movement — the order was an- 
nulled. The following year a petition of similar import, asking that the 
very same territory be attached to Scott Township, was presented to the 
Commissioners, and the prayer of the petitioners was granted, and this tier 
of sections was again set off to Scott, as appears in the following entry: 

Auditor and Commissioners' Office, Marion County, Ohio, / 

March 5, 1849. f 

This day the Commissioners met pursuant to the statute. Present, John Unca- 
pher, Hiram Knowles and Lewis Topliff, Commissioners, and Lawrence Van Buskirk, 
County Auditor. 

This day came Adam Hipsher, James Tight and others, and presented their petition 
to the County Commissioners in the words and figures following, to wit: "To the Honor- 
able the Commissioners of the County of Marion and State of Ohio: Gentlemen— We 
your petitioners would humbly represent that Claridon Township is six miles wide from 
north to south, and that Scott Township is but four miles wide from north to south, 
and that we believe it would conduce to the public benefit if one tier of sections were 
set off of the north side of Claridon Township and attached to said Scott Township. 
We, your petitioners, therefore pray your honors to attach one tier of sections from 
off the north side of said Claridon Township to said Scott Township, thereby making 
tin- said townships equal, or nearly so, and we, your petitioners, as in duty bound, will 
ever pray, etc., etc. January 30, 1849." And said Commissioners being satisfied that 
said petition is signed by a, majority of the householders residing within the boundaries 
of the proposed change or alteration, and it having been proven to them that notice of 
such intended application had been i^iven by advertisement set up in three public 
places within the hounds of such proposed change or alteration, for the period of thirty 
days and more previous to this date, and it appearing necessary to said Board of Com- 



CLARIDON TOWNSHIP. 693 

missioners, that so much of the territory of Claridon Township, in said county of 
Marion, as is included in Sections 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 , in Township 5, south of base 
line, in Range 16 east, be and the same is hereby attached to and made part of Scott 
Township. Whereupon came Garry Clark, one of the householders residing upon said 
territory, and gave notice of his intention to appeal to the Court of Common Pleas. 

This was accordingly done, aad in due time a bearing was had, the 
Commissioners' proceedings were duly reversed, and the territory restored 
to Claridon Township. But Claridon was called upon to make another 
struggle for the retention of this same territory. Scott Township had ir- 
retrievably lost two tier of sections from off its northern boundary, that then, 
as now lay in Crawford County, thus leaving it only twenty-four sections, or 
two-thirds of a regularly surveyed township, and its people seemed desper 
ately determined to acquire more territory. So in March, 1851, another 
effort was made to secure the same territory, as appears from the following 
entry : 

Auditor and Commissioners' Office, Marion County, March 4, 1851. 

This day the Commissioners of Marion County met pursuant to statute. Present, 
Thomas Parr and Hiram Knowles, Commissioners, and E. Peters, Auditor of Marion 
County, Ohio. 

This day came S. C. Parcel, James Bell and others, and presented their petition 
to the County Commissioners in the words and figures following: "To the Commis- 
sioners of Marion County: We, the undersigned residents of Claridon Township, pray 
your honorable body that you will take one tier of sections from off the north side of 
Claridon Township and attach it to Scott Township, which will make them of equal 
dimensions; Claridon Township is six miles square, and Scott Township is four by six 
only. Your humble petitioners. January 31, 1851." 

And the said Commissioners being satisfied that the said petitioD is signed by a 
majority of the householders residing within the boundaries of the proposed territory 
of land petitioned to be struck off from Claridon Township, and it having been proven 
to the satisfaction of the said Commissioners, by the affidavit of James Parcell, George 
Boyles, Jr., and James Osborn, that lawful notice has been given by advertising in 
three different public places, on said territory proposed to be struck off and attached to 
said township, of the intention of said petitioners, for the period of thirty days and 
more previous to the presentation of this petition, and it appearing necessary, just 
and right to said Board of Commissioners, that the alteration as prayed for in said 
petition should be made. It is therefore ordered by said Board of Commissioners, 
that so much of the territory in Claridon Township, in said county of Marion, as is 
included in Sections 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 in Township 5, south of base line, in Range 16 
east, be and the same is hereby attached to and made a part of Scott Town>hip. 
Whereupon came Garry Clark, James M. Brigs, two of the householders residing upon 
said territory, and gave notice of their intention to appeal the same to the Court of 
Common Pleas. 

The appeal made, and after a careful view of the proceedings in the 
Common Pleas Court, that tribunal annulled the proceedings of the County 
Commissioners and restored the territory to Claridon Township, and no 
effort has since been made to disturb the boundaries of the two townships 
as was fixed and determined. 

Of course these en trios do not show what part the citizens of both town 
ships outside of those on the territory in controversy did for its possession, 
but that the struggle was fierce and prolonged and that the citizens of both 
townships were much interested in the result, and that their influence and 
possibly some of their time and money were given to maintain their re- 
spective rights, there can be no doubt. Scott Township apparently laid no 
stronger claim to it other than that it would equalize the territory of the two 
townships, and Claridon did not seem disposed to yield quietly and sub- 
mit passively to the loss of one-sixth of her valuable territory on such a 
flimsy pretext. Had Scott Township succeeded in securing and retaining 
this tier of sections, the village of Calodonia. which is now the pride of the 
township, would have been lost to Claridon, for it is located in Section 1 
of this township. 



694 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

PHYSICAL FEATURES. 

The surface of the land throughout this territory is generally level, and 
the southern and eastern portion of the township consists of timbered lands, 
while the northwestern part includes a portion of the Sandusky Plains. 
The soil is excellent and unexcelled where thoroughly drained for farm: 
land or for grazing grounds to the hundreds of sheep and cattle kept here 
by stock -raisers. Much water stood upon the plains and other portions of 
the lands of this township at an early day, but a system of liberal drainage 
has relieved the surface of the greater portion of it and made the entire 
township tillable land that responds readily and generously to the efforts of 
the skillful husbandman. The Whetstone flows through the eastern por 
tion of the township, and not a few smaller streams and rivulets join it in 
its onward course. 

TWO PRECINCTS. 

In December, 1863, this township was divided by the County Com- 
missioners into two election precincts by a " parallel line running directly 
through said township east and west, said division line being marked by a 
township road leading through the center of said township east and west, 
just south of the residence of the late Jonathan Miles; the portion of the- 
township lying north of said road to form the North or Caledonia Pracinct, 
and that portion lying south of said road the South or Claridon Precinct, 
of Claridon Township." 

EARLY SETTLEMENT. 

The early settlers of this township for the most part were from England- 
Few of them are still living, while many others have passed away, leaving 
their descendants to enjoy the fruits of their early labor. Among the for- 
mer is Joseph Hornby and wife, who came to this township in 1820 and 
located near where Claridon now is; also William Thew and hin wife, who 
came direct from England with other families, and all located near each 
other in the southeastern portion of the township, where they struggled 
together as a common community to establish permanent and comfortable 
homes. Success crowned their efforts, and prosperity attended and blessed 
their industry. Soon much of the gigantic forests were cleared away, and 
many broad acres of cultivated land appeared. Mr. Thew, who died in 
August last, outlived that entire number, his wife having died twelve or 
fifteen years ago, and the others, each one by one, have taken his chamber 
in the silent halls of death. (See Chapter II.) 

The other early English settlers who located here were Vincent Douce 
and family, John Hinds and family, Matthew Fields and family, William 
Dickson, Mr. Warwick, Robert Boulton, George Bayles, John Hooten, 
George Welbourn, Mr. Sergeant, John and Michael Welbourn, William 
Parker, Henry Hatfield, Comfort Olds and famil}", Hugh Osborne, William 
Welbourn and others. Joshua B. Bearse. Amos Earl and James Lambert 
were also early settlers in and about the vicinity of Claridon. These all 
came between the years 1820 and 1823 and formed what would now be con- 
sidered a sparse settlement, but which was then looked upon as quite a lit 
tie colony. And so in truth it was an English settlement of no small pre- 
tension, which at once gained the ascendenc\ that has ever since been 
maintained throughout the township, and to-day the descendants of those 
English settlers are in the majority there. The)' were a thrifty, indus- 
trious, economical, Christian people, whose work and principles have loft 
their imprint on the present generation, and nowhere in the county can be- 



CLARIDON TOWNSHIP. 695 

found a better class of citizens than in the southern portion of Claridon 
Township. 

As early as 1821, they laid out a town near the Whetstone and strove 
to make it a suitable plac« for the county seat. The site selected was on 
the place then owned by Joshua S. Bearse, and was surveyed and platted 
by Col. James Kilbourne, which plat was duly recorded August 25. 1821. 
The location was a beautiful one, and at that time the center of the terri- 
tory then constituting Marion County. The town was laid out in what was 
then considered magnificent style, covering an area of 102 acres, containing 
even at first nearly a 100 regularly laid out building lots, besides abundant 
territory for extra additions. In the center of the town, a large square was 
donated for a site for county building* and a park, or if not required for 
that, to be used for buildings for literary purposes. It contained avenue s 
and streets of no narrow dimensions, the former being six rods in width , 
while the latter assumed a breadth of four poles. This town was given the 
beautiful and historical name of 

CLAEIDON. 

It was the first village or town platted within the limits of Marion Coun- 
ty, Marion not having been laid out until in the following year. Is it 
strange that the good people of Claridon, having the largest settlement, 
perhaps, within the territory at that time, and being located near the cen- 
ter of the same, with a town of ample area already laid out in splendid 
style, with sufficient ground donated for county buildings, should expect 
and hope for the location of the county seat here at the organization of the 
county, which must needs soon take place? It certainly was no unreason- 
able expectation, and the hamlet soon began to grow and flourish. Dwell- 
ings began to be erected, shops built, and that ever essential structure — the 
log tavern —with its quaint appearance, arose and towered above them all. 
George Shippy was the genial and accommodating landlord, who then 
served the public and dispensed the substantial and wholesome food that 
was then obtainable to his guests, and, upon the whole, they no doubt 
fared equally as well as do the traveling public to-day in the more modern 
hotels. True then, meals then consisted of one plain course, but, doubtless, 
with its variety, no plum pudding, to strawberry short-cake, no highly- 
seasoned dishes graced the board of the early inn- keepers, yet what to them 
was far more palatable, the " pone," the venison, the " pumkin pie," were 
ever at haud, and were served in no sparing quantities. Among the early 
business men of the place were Mr. Broman, a cabinet-maker and furniture 
dealer; Mr. Norton, a tanner and vender of leather, both of whom did quite 
a business in his respective line. Ansel Matoon, from Worthington, was 
the village blacksmith, of whom it doubtlessly could have been truthfully 
said : 

"You can hear him swing his heavy sledge, 

With measured beat and slow, 
Like a sexton ringing the village bell, 

When the evening sun is low." 

Other business and other trades were also here represented in a limited 
degree, and soon the village began to attract immigrants, and the prospects 
for the capital town of the new county grew quite flattering. 

But there came a frost, a killing frost, and nipped the rising ambition 
of the little village in the bud, and left it to wither and decay, and even to 
this day only a comparatively few houses sland as a monument to mark the 
spot and tell the sad tale of blighted hopes and cheriehed desires of the 



696 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

early English settlers, at least so far as the securing of the county seat is 
concerned. For in the spring of 1823 a committee was appointed by au- 
thority of the State and sent out to select a suitable site for the county seat. 
After viewing the different localities and considering well the claims of 
each, the present site of Marion was decided upon as the most proper point. 
Marion had just recently been laid out, and at that time presented a less 
promising appearance than Claridon, but the wisdom of the selection has 
since been proven, as the division of the territory since made has placed it 
nearer the center of the county, besides other natural advantages. It is 
said that the settlement in Big Island Township maintained that the site 
where the village of Big Island now stands was the most suitable place, and 
made strenuous efforts to secure the location of the county seat at that 
place. Even for many years after its location at Marion, and yet after the 
town of Big Island was laid out in the year 1828, the people at that point 
long contended for its removal thither. 

Claridon felt the blow at once, and the effect of the failure to secure 
the county seat was soon visible, for owing to this fact and the unusual 
sickness and death prevailing there during the autumns of 1822 and 1823, 
many removals were made and emigration in that direction ceased for a 
time. But it was only temporary. 

FURTHER SETTLEMENT. 

The country about Claridon, especially along the valley of the Olen- 
tangy, or the Whetstone, as it is more recently called, was too fertile and 
productive and possessed too many wild and enchanting beauties to be 
long neglected by those who were seeking desirable locations for homes, 
and while the village of Claridon never recovered from the shock men- 
tioned, and while, for a number of years, it received but few aceessions, the 
country in that vicinity was being settled by a steady flow of immigrants. 
Among them were Thomas Boyce and wife, who came in 1828; William 
Mitchell and family came the following year and located about one mile 
and a half south of the village. John Underwood and family settled two 
and a half miles east in 1829. Also Peter Gable and Henry Holverstott, 
who came in 1830; Joseph Smith, James Lawrence and Charles Owens, 
who located in 1832; Jefferson Smith, Obadiah Miller, and Matthew 
-Fields, who, with their families, took up their abode here in 1834. 

Numerous others came at a later date, and among them were Jacob How- 
ser and family and Dr. J. W. Devore and family, the former from Harrison 
County, Ohio, and the latter from the neighboring county of Knox. They 
both located near the village of Claridon and both have been unusually 
prosperous, and they now number their possessions in lands by the hundreds 
of acres, and the live stock owned by them is of a superior quality. They 
are both honorable and influential gentlemen, and have done rnuch to for- 
wai'd the material interest of Claridon Township. Each has his residence 
near the village of Claridon, and each is living in a comfortable manner and 
in handsome style. Dr. Devore was called upon to represent this county in 
the halls of legislation at Columbus in the years 1870 to 1872, and did so 
with much credit to himself and satisfaction to his constituents, leaving a 
record well worthy of high ambition, and one of which his friends may 
well be proud. 

The northern portion of the township received a few settlers at an 
early date, but the settlements there did not at first increase as rapidly as 
the one around the village of Claridon. Capt. George Beckley in his 





Robert Kerr 



CLAR1D0N TOWNSHIP. 697 

reminiscences of the early settlement of the Whetstone Valley, in Marion 
County, Ohio, written by him and published in 1875, says that when he 
came to this part of the township with his father and his father's family in 
1821, Daniel Wyatt and Thomas Van Horn lived near where Caledonia now 
stands. In fact, Caledonia is located on a part of the land then owned by 
them. He also speaks of Jeremiah Colden and Isaiah Mattix as haviug 
been employed by his father to erect his cabin, and, doubtless, they, too, 
were located near the same place. 

Nathan Clark, his wife and a four-year old son, natives of Connecticut, 
came to this part of the township in the spring of 1820. Mr. Clark also 
entered a part of the lands on which Caledonia now stands, and located on 
the bank of the Whetstone, a short distance south of the site ot the town, 
where the family resided until in 1828, when they removed to the farm now 
occupied by the son, C. N. Clark. In June, 1812, C. N. Clark, Esq., mar- 
ried Miss Sarah Garberson, a daughter of William Garberson. one of the 
early settlers of this section of the county, and upon the farm just men- 
tioned both families continued to reside until a short time before his death, 
when the old genleman moved to Caledonia, in which village he peace- 
fully passed the evening of his life. 

William Garberson, one of the old pioneers, who recently passed away, 
emigrated from Westmoreland, Penn., in 1823 with his wife and one child, 
and located here near the present site of Caledonia, and here started a 
tannery, which proved to be a great convenience in supplying the early set- 
tlers with leather, and also quite a source of revenue to Mr. Garberson. 

George Ulsh, also a native of Pennsylvania, having been born in Perrv 
County, came, bringing with him his wife and four children, to Marion 
in the winter of 1828, and theie remained with his uncle, Maj. Ulsh, until 
the following spring, when he moved out on the farm on which he still re- 
sides. The farm was a portion of what was the " Turnpike Lands," which 
belonged to the "Columbus & Sandusky Turnpike Company. " and which 
then had just recently been established. Although this was in the year 
1829, Mr. Ulsh was the first settler along that road or turnpike within the 
limits of Claridon Township. Mr. Ulsh's first cabin, intended, for tempor- 
ary purposes only, was constructed of large poles; in dimensions it was 
about 12x16 feet, with stick chimneys, mud jambs, paper windows, etc, ; but 
in this the family lived four years, at the end of which time they erected a 
larger, more substantial, more convenient and more comfortable dwelling, 
which Mr. Ulsh "had erected near by, and in which the family kept tavern 
for a period of more than seven years; and received, for those days, consid 
erable patronage, as there was considerable travel at that time on the Co- 
lumbus & Sandusky Turnpike running by Mr. Ulsh's place. Mr. Ulsh has 
since built a neat, substantial brick residence, which he and the remainder 
of his family now occupy. Benjamin Bell came to this township at an 
early day and located on Bee Run, and was one of the first settlers; also 
George Hollman, who then lived on apart of the place since purchased and 
owned by Mr. Ulsh. Christopher Croft came in about the year 1834, and 
located where his son, Samuel Croft, now resides. 

Dr. Booth was one of the early doctors of this vicinity, and lived where 
Montgomery Lindsay now resides. Here the Doctor, in common with the 
practice of that day, freely administered extract of white oak and Peruvian 
bark, and jalap and calomel. Joseph and Philip Strawbridge lived near 
Dr. Booth's home. 

Philip Slick came in the year 1831 and located on the mud pike, at the 



698 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

crossing of the railroads, and within a year or two established and kept a 
public house for the accommodation of the traveling public, and for many 
vears it was known as Slick's tavern, and to this day the place is called 
"Slick's Station." 

William S. Aye was the first whi + e child born within the limits of this 
township, he having been born January 19, 1821. His father, Jacob Aye, 
in the year 1820, entered the farm now owned by Mrs. Douce, and during 
that year he, with his wife, moved on to this place. They lived there but two 
or three years and then sold the farm to Vincent Douce, and at once entered 
another place, a little southeast of where Caledonia now stands. From 
thence, in a few years, they moved to the farm now owned and occupied by 
William S. Aye, just across the line in Canaan Township, Morrow County. 
From here, the family moved to Delaware County, where Mr. Aye engaged 
in running a mill for a short time, but soon returned again to the farm in. 
Morrow County, where Mr. Jacob Aye died in the year 1871. 

SQUIRREL8. 

The early settlers of this township experienced much trouble, for the 
first few years, in protecting their crops from the ravages of the squirrels, 
which were so numerous that in a few days they would destroy and take a 
small crop of corn, such as our pioneer fathers then planted. Mr. Rice, an 
early pioneer, relates that in the spring of 1822, he planted four or five 
acres of corn, on a patch of ground he had succeeded in getting cleared, 
and it grew nicely and had nearly ripened, when the squirrels made a raid 
on it in droves, and in three days they had destroyed the entire crop, stalks, 
ears and all. Often, in those early days companies were organized and certain 
days set for all to assemble and take a grand squirrel hunt, and as a greater 
incentive and inducement, a prize was generally offered to him who would 
kill the greatest number of squirrels during such hunts. Mr. Rice. Mr. 
Olds, Mr. Aye were all excellent " shots " and very often their expeditions 
against the squirrels resulted in their securing about an equal number of 
these little animals. Nor was this the only game that then abounded. 
The original forests teemed with deer, pheasants and wild turkey, while 
the waters were covered with innumerable flocks of ducks and wild geese. 



A number of the Wyandot Indians still lingered here at the commence- 
ment of the early settlement of the township. Among them were the noted 
Tom Lyons, " Standing Stone," "Between the Logs," and others. 

The early settlers usually held their elections at some private residence. 
Two cabins in this township have been mentioned as having been used for 
this purpose. One was that of Mr. Gaylord, who lived a short distance 
north of Claridon, and the other was that of Niger Royce, who then lived 
in the northern part of the township, on the mud pike, near where the 
railroads now cross it. 

SCHOOLS. 

The early settlers of Claridon Township, soon after location here, estab- 
lished schools and church societies, which fcr a time were held in the var- 
ious cabins of these pioneers. Of the former, the first was taught by Re- 
becca Aye in her own house, during the summer of 1822. The wages, of 
course, were very meager, and for the most pari were paid in produce. The 
foregoing picture is one extreme; the other extreme is that of the present 



CLARIDON TOWNSHIP. 699 

day, when a comfortable schoolhouse is provided in every neighborhood. 
Some of these rural academies are built and furnished at considerable ex- 
pense. The Claridon brick schoolhouse in District No. 6, was built in 
1875, at a cost of Dearly $4,000. It is two stories high and has two de 
partments. S. G. Smith is the Principal. 

CHURCHES. 

Claridon Methodist Episcopal Church. — The first religious sooiety in 
Marion County was of the Methodist Episcopal denomination, and was 
formed at the log cabin of Jacob Aye, near the village of Claridon, in the 
autumn or winter of 1820. This was prior to the erection of the county, 
and even before Claridon, the prospective county seat, was laid out. The 
society as it was first organized, was composed of seven members, viz., Vi- 
na] Steward and wife, Jacob Aye, Jr., Rebecca Aye and Henry Aye. Vinal 
Steward was a local minister and Class Leader. This society formed a 
part of Columbus Circuit of the Scioto District, Ohio Conference. Meetings 
were held at the house of Jacob Aye, Jr., until the spring of 1S23, and at the 
house of William Parker, Sr., until 1832 or 1833, when they erected ahewed- 
log house thirty feet square one mile northeast of Claridon and gave it the 
name of "English chapel." In 1855, the Claridon old church house was erect- 
ed; it is 30x48 feet in size. The church has eujoyed a gradual prosperity since 
it was founded in the primitive forest, until it has attained a membership 
of sixty- eight. James Owen and James L. Douce are Stewards, and M. C. 
Aye, H. C. Garvin, William Haley and W. P. Wittred, Class Leaders. The 

following pastors have served this church, viz.: Revs. Murray, Har 

vey Camp, Uriah Heath, Alexander Blaupied. J. G. Bruice, H E. Pilcher, 
W. C. Pierce, Peter Sharp, William Boggs, J. M. Longfellow, T. J. Mon- 
nett, Stephen Fant, B. Herbert, W. S. Paul, R. D. Ahlfield, D. D. S. 
Reagh, F. Howison, Jchn Graham, S. Fant, B. F. Bell, M. D. Chilson, N. 
J. Close, G. E. Scott, T. J. Gard and W. B. Taggart. 

In the spring of 1846 or 1847, a series of revival meetings were con- 
ducted by Rev. William Nap, resulting in about seventy conversions. 
Many of the accessions to the church became ardent and substantial mem- 
bers. 

Likins Chapel, Methodist Episcopal. — The society of this church was 
organized in 1857, at Showers' Schoolhouse, by Rev. T. H. Wilson. Tw -lve 
members constituted the society, as follows: Robert T. Clark and wife, 
James Zook and wife, John Little and wife, Shelby Jump and wife, Ami 
Cluff, Mrs. Starch, Mrs. Ann Brown and Mrs. Mary Harvey. Robert T. 
Clark was one of the first officials. The meetings continued to be held in 
the Shower Schoolhouse till 1871, when the present commodious building 
was erected. It is 34x40 feet in size, and cost $1,400. The society has a 
present membership of forty, and with Robert T. Clark and Thomas Cluff 
as Stewards and R. T. Patton and Ami Cluff, Class Leaders. In the spring 
of 1869, a series of revivals were conducted by Rev. A. D. Matthews, re- 
sulting in the conversion of over forty souls. Rev. G. E. Scott, in 1878, 
carried on revival meetings, and about forty more were converted and 
united with the church. Rev. S. Fant also enjoyed successful meetings 
during his pastorate. The following is a list of the pastors who have 
served this congregation, viz.: M. D. Chilson, 1871 and 1872; Stephen 
Fant. from 1872 to 1875; N. J. Close, from 1875 to 1877; G. E. Scott, 
from 1877 to 1879; T. J. Gard, from 1880 to 1881; and AV. Ben Taggart. 
the present pastor. 



700 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Claridon Free-Will Baptist Church. — The first meeting of this denomi- 
nation was held December 5, 1870, by Rev. S. D. Bates, in the Morrow 
Schoolhouse. At the same place, July 2, 1871, Rev. Bates organized a 
church here, with nineteen members, comprising P. W. Holverstott and 
wife, L. J. Holverstott and wife, C Clendennen and wife, E. Rush and 
wife, C. L. Haines and wife, Mrs. J. Howser, Mrs. S. A. Curtis, Maria 
Howser, John Martin and wife and two daughters, and L. Clendennen. 
The official members were, Deacons, P. W. Holverstott and C. Clendennen; 
Clerk, L. J. Holverstott. A church building was erected on the mud pike 
near Clendennen's residence, and dedicated in the fall of that year, 30x45 
feet, and costing $1,500; but, from some unknown cause, this building 
was burned during the summer of 1876, at midnight; no insurance. The 
people rallied and erected another building, about a mile south of the old 
one, dedicating it February 4, 1877. It is about two miles east of Clari- 
don, where the mud pike crosses the Marion & Mount Gilead road. 

The membership has numbered as high as fifty or more at one time; at 
present it is thirty four. Thev maintain a good Sunday school and a 
Woman's Mission Society. Rev. S. D. Bates has been pastor from the 
commencement to the present time. Deacons, C. Clendennen and P. W. 
Holverstott; Clerk, J. H. Howser. 

The Evangelical Church, on Section 36, was built about 1874 or 1875. 
It was erected on the site of one that was destroyed by fire. 

Bright 1 s Chapel, Church of the United Brethren in Christ. — This 
church was organized at the log meeting-house on the banks of the Whet- 
stone, December 13, 1851, by Rev. William Mathers. Nine members con 
stitutyd the society. Among them were John Fields and wife, Matthew 
Fields, Sr, Matthew Fields, Jr., and William Mills. In 1860-61, the 
church at Claridon was erected, where they have since worshiped. The 
society has a membership of fifteen, and has in connection with its regular 
services a Sabbath school. The following pastors have served, viz., Will- 
iam Mathers, G. G. Nickey, James Long, J. Jacoby, T. T. Rose, J. F. 
Siler, and J. F. Cender, the present minister. The present Trustees are 
Andrew Hinds, William Garvin and E. D. Fields. 

CEMETERIES. 

^7/The " Underwood Bury ing-G round" was laid out about 1835 as a pri- 
vate cemetery. There are now about a hundred graves contained within 
this inclosure, among them those of Adam Hines, a soldier of 1812, and 
Jesse Underwood, a soldier in the last war. 

The " Gable Cemetery " is situated on the A. Gable farm, and is also a 
private burying ground. Here lie the remains of Joseph Wyant, a soldier 
of the last war. 

The "Thew Graveyard," situated on the west half of the southwest quar- 
ter of Section 9, was laid out at a very early day and was used by the people 
as a public burying-ground. It contains about a half acre and contains 
the remains of many of the oldest pioneers of Claridon Township. 

The "Lawrence Burying-Ground" is on the late James Lawrence's farm 
and was used as a family burying place. 

PRESENT STATUS. 

The following report of the Assessor for 1883 gives some idea of the 
comparative agricultural standing of Claridon Township: Wheat, acres 
sown, 2,585; bushels produced, 35,974; number of acres sown for harvest 



CLARIDON TOWNSHIP. 701 

of 1883, 2,088. Rye, acres sown, 6; bushels produced, 140. Oats, acres 
sown, 1,004; acres sown for crop of 1883, 877; bushels produced, 24,99]. 
Barley, acres sown, 20; bushels produced, 513. Corn, acres planted. 
4,003; acres planted for crop of 1883, 4,125; bushels produced, 162,395. 
Meadow, acres, 1,620; tons of hay, 1,867. Clover, acres, 744; tons of hay, 
868; bushels of seed, 1,052. Potatoes, acres planted, 72i; acres for crop 
of 1883, 69J; bushels produced, 7,152. Butter, 52,762 pounds. Sorghum, 
acres planted, 9; gallons sirup, 484. Maple sugar, 395 pounds; gallons 
sirup, 40. Bees, 450 hives; pounds of honey, 1,595. Eggs, 74,977 dozen. 
Grapes, 11,380 pounds. Apples, acres occupied, 257 J; bushels produced, 
4,103. Lands, acres occupied, 15,112; acres of pasture, 6,682; acres of 
woodland, 1,845; total number of acres owned, 20,714. Wool, 53,251 
pounds. Milch cows, 555. Stallions, 6. Dogs, 100. Sheep killed by 
dogs, 60; value, $156; injured by dogs, 11; value, $33. Hogs died, 61; 
value, $263. Sheep died, 153; value, $553. Cattle died, 28; value, $457. 
Horses died, 18; value, $2,505. 

TOWNSHIP OFFICIALS SINCE 1850. 

Trustees — 1851- -Charles Owen, Charles Clendennen and John Parker. 

1852 — William Van Buskirk, Henry Hartmann and C. Clendennen. 

1853 — Hannibal Irey, William P. Thew and Charles Clendennen. 

1854 — C. Clendennen, William Garberson and John Underwood. 

1855-56 — C. Clendennen, Jesse W. Mills and John Underwood. 

1857 — L. C. Haines, Peter Gabler and James McKinstry. 

1858-59 — C. Clendennen, W. J. Smith and James McKinstrv. 

1860— C. Clendennen, R. B. Elder and William J. Smith. 

1861 — C. Clendennen, R. B. Elder and Samuel Adams. 

1862— William Van Buskirk, R. B. Elder and W. J. Smith. 

1863— W. H. Mouser, E. D. Fields and George Beckley 

1864— L. C. Haines, William P. Thew and W. H. Mouser. 

1865-66— William P. Thew, P. W. Holverstott and J. R. Garberson. 

1867— William P. Thew, Jacob Howser and W. J. Smith. 

1868 — Jacob Howser, Charles Owen and William Brocklesby. 

1869 — John A. Foos, Samuel Devore and George Beckley. 

1870— William Conaway, W. J. Smith and William Brocklesby, Jr. 

1871 — Samuel Devore, T. W. Roberts and William Brocklesby, Jr. 

1872 — T. W. Roberts. John A. Foos and Charles Owen. 

1873— W. J. Smith, E. D. Fields and J. F. Apt. 

1874 — Samuel Devore, T. W. Roberts and William Brocklesby, Jr. 

1875 — T. W. Roberts, Samuel Devore and John A. Foos. 

1876 — William Devore, T. W. Roberts and William Brocklesby, Jr. 

1877 — William Brocklesby, T. W. Roberts and James Smith. 

1878 — John A. Foos, George Fetter and James Smith. 

1879 — James Smith, George Fetter and J. G. Giddis. 

1880— J. G. Giddis, Ami Cluff and M. C. Ave. 

1881— J. G. Giddis, Ami Cluff and M. F. Epley. 

1882— Ami Cluff, George Fetter and J. W. Bush. 

1883— Ami Cluff, J. W. Bush and F. M. Eplev. 

Clerks— Jesse W. Mills, 1851 to 185:5; C.N.Clark, 1854-55; P. B. 
Owen, 1856; C. N. Clark, 1857; E. F. Underwood, 1858; C. N. Clark, 
1859 to 1862; Samuel Adams. L863 to L865; P. B. Owen, 1866; J. R. Gar 
berson, 1867-68; James L. Bell. 1869; C. N. Clark, 1870; J. L. Bell, 
1871-72; J H. Howser. 1873; William Garvin, 1874 to 1877; W. M. 
Nellaus, 1878; F. W. Brooks, 1879-1881; S. G. Smith, 1882-83. 



702 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Treasurers — John R. Garberson, 1851 to' 1854: J. W. Devore. 1 855— 
56; \. C. Mitchell, 1857-58; L. C. Haines, 1859 to 1861; William P. 
Thew, 1862; J. W. Devore, 1803-64; H. Iiw. 1865 to 1868; H. Hunter, 
1869 to 1872; A. M. Williams, 1873; J. W. Devore, 1874-75; A. At. Will 
iains, 1876-77; H. A. Hipsher, 1878 to 1881; George W. Williams, 1882. 

CALEDONIA. 

The first cabin erected on the present site of Caledonia stood on the 
west bank of the Whetstone, a short distance east of where the depot now 
stands. This, however, was before Caledonia was thought of as a town. In 
1830, John Parcel purchased of Daniel Wyatt, the original proprietor from 
the Government, the land upon which Caledonia was originally laid out, 
and upon which a portion of it is now built, at a cost of $145 for forty 
acres. He a'- once cleared a few acres of the northern portion of the land, 
and a year or two later he opened a kind of a county store at a spot a short 
distance south of the little run that passes through the southern part of the 
town as it now stands, and by and by a little hamlet in the woods ap- 
peared at that point, and Mr. Parcel was not the only merchant, for Will- 
iam T. Farrington had also established a little store there. 

In 1833, William T. Farrington bought twenty-two acres of land from 
John Parcel, a part of it being a portion of the forty acres just mentioned 
and a part of it from the north half of the west half of the northeast quar- 
ter, all of it, however, lying on the west side of the Whetstone. This 
twenty acres extended down near the south line of the original plat of Cal- 
edonia. In fact, it is a part of the southern portion of the original plat. 

These stores supplied the settlers around here with many of the neces- 
saries of life, and soon a demand was created for greater supplies, and in 
the early part of the following year, Mr. Farrington and others began 
to contemplate the propriety of laying out a town Accordingly, in Decem- 
ber, 1834, William T. Farrington, Richard Wilson and Charles H. Weed 
purchased of John Parcel about five acres additional, paying therefor $100, 
which purchase is located and described as follows: " Being a part of the 
east half of the southwest quarter of Section 1, Township 5, Range 16, in 
Marion County, Ohio, commencing at a stake standing in the center of the 
two roads running north and south and east and west, near the store now 
owned and occupied by Hunter & Hipsher; thence west thirty-five rods; 
thonce south twenty-four rods; thence east twenty-three rods; thence north 
ten rods; thence east twelve rods; thence north fourteen rods to the place 
of beginning." At the same date, Richard Wilson and Greenville Cherry 
bought about one and a third acres of land from the same owner, John 
Parcel, at a cost of $300, the boundaries of which strip is given as follows: 
" Commencing twenty-four rods south of a stake in the center of the street 
near the store of Mr. Farrington; thence south eighteen rod3; thence west 
twelve rods; thence north eighteen rods; thence east twelve rods, to the 
place of beginning." 

Upon these two lots of land and a small portion of the twenty-two acres 
formerly purchased of John Parcel by William T. Farrington, the town of 
Caledonia was laid out by these two men as proprietors, it having been 
surveyed and platted by Samuel Holmes, April 11, 1834, who was then 
Surveyor of Marion County; but it was not acknowledged by them until 
December 30, 1834. 

The town in its original survey, contained thirty-three full lots of uni- 
form size, they being 4x9 poles, and ten lots of various sizes, some along the 



CLARIDON TOWNSHIP. 703 

river containing a half acre, while others comprised only one- eighth of an 
acre. A square of 10x12 poles was left vacant and the three principal 
streets, Marion, Main and Water, were made sixty-six feet in width. Lots 
were at once sold and houses erected thereon, and soon many of the differ- 
ent branches of trade were represented; also the professions to a limited ex- 
tent. Dr. Disbrough was perhaps the first practicing physician of the 
place, and he was succeeded by Dr. Lee. 

Since the town was originally laid out, there have been thirteen new ad- 
ditions made, and the number of town lots altogether now is 129, which in 
all extend over quite an area. 

On the second day of September, 1873, a petition was circulated by J. 
Blanchard, signed by T. A. Cross and forty-eight other citizens of Caledo- 
nia, alleging that the town then contained a population of 500, and praying 
that it should be incorporated and given all the rights, privileges and im- 
munities of an incorporated village. The prayer of the petition was 
granted by the Commissioners, and* on November 12, 1873, that dignity was 
duly bestowed upon Caledonia, and the following territory was incorporated 
within the boundaries of said village: "Beginning at the southeast corner 
of the east half of the southwest quarter of Section 1, Township Five (5), 
south of Bange Sixteen (16) east; thence on the half section line north to 
the northwest corner of lands owned by William Hinds, the same being 
the southwest corner of Ephraim Glatharts' lot; thence east to the old 
channel of Whetstone Creek; thence in the center of said channel, north to 
the section line, thence on said line west to the southwest corner of the 
graveyard; thence on the west line of said graveyard north to the north- 
west corner thereof; thence along the center of the old road north, 15 de- 
crees east, to the north line of the southwest quarter of the northeast quar- 
er of section, township and range aforesaid ; thence west 108 rods to the 
northwest corner of the southeast quarter of the northwest quarter of said 
Section No. 1, aforesaid; thence on the west line of said tract and on the 
west line of the east half of the southwest quarter of the section, township 
and range aforesaid, 234 rods to the southwest corner thereof; thence on 
the section line east 81 rods to the place of beginning." 

January 12, 1877, the corporation boundaries were again extended and 
a small piece of territory between Water street and Whetstone Creek was 
annexed to the village, which is included in the following boundaries: 
" Beginning on the west bank of the Whetstone Creek at the northwest 
corner of lands owned by the heirs of William Hinds, thence eastwardly 
down said creek on the north line of said William Hinds' lands and lands 
of J. H. Coulter, excluding his flouring mill, following his east and south 
lines west to his southeast corner; thence west on the center of the State 
road to the east line of the present incorporated limits of said village on 
Water street; thence on said line north to the northwest corner of lands of 
the heirs of John Hinds aforesaid; thence on the north line of said lands east 
to the* place of beginning, including all the lands within said bounds ex- 
cept the mill as specified." 

MILLS. 

The first mill, which was a water-power mill, was built, together with 
the race, about 1834, by Mr. Parcel. It was only one story high and had 
two run of buhrs. It ran for some years, the only mill in this section of 
the country, except a tread-mill in Tully Township. It has long since 
been destroyed. 

Merchants'' Mills. — This was built about 1859, bv Mr. Harmon; it was 



704 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

two stories high and had one pair of wheat buhrs and one of chopping. 
After running the mill until 1S67 or 1868, Mr. Harmon sold it to G. G. 
Freeman, who put in new works. A year or two afterward, he sold it to 
Frederick Fisher, by an assignee, who made some repairs and then sold to 
J. H. Coulter, Roberts, Rinker, McNutt and Coulter. J. H. Coulter now 
owns the Merchants' Mill. 

Eureka Mills. — These were built in 1875, by W. J. Miller. It is a two 
and a half story structure, with three run of buhrs, costing $9,000. In the 
fall of 187G, it was purchased by Noah Lee and Silas J. Hipsher, who 
added another pair of buhrs and nearly all the present machinery. The en 
gine is 50 -horse power. Three men are employed to run it, and they man- 
ufacture both merchants' and custom flour. Capacity of the mills, forty 
barrels of flour per day. 

A tilt & Apfs Saw and Planing Mill. — In 1874, G. W. Ault pur- 
chased a portable saw mill of Lee & Hipsher, and in 1875 he added a plan- 
ing mill. At the same time, J. F. Apt and R. Th* j w became partners, un- 
der the style of Apt & Thew. In May, 1876, they established their present 
business. During the year 1882, they added the "Universal Wood- worker," 
and now the buildings cover an area of 120x35 feet. Recently Mr. Thew 
passed out of the firm, and the name has since been Ault & Apt. The mil] 
gives employment to twelve men, manufacturing building material of all 
kinds, and making a specialty of hardwood lumber. They deal also in 
all kinds of building material, both hardwood and pine, purchasing at 
wholesale sash, doors, blinds, etc. They enjoy a successful run of trade. 

WAREHOUSE AND ELEVATORS. 

In 1855, a warehouse, two stories high, was built by Carry Clark at a 
cost of $1,500, situated on the south side of the railroad. It was run until 
1872, when it was moved further west and another story added by Carpen- 
ter, Webb & Co., who converted it into an elevator, ran it three years, and 
sold it to Charles Webb; the latter leased it to Harrison & Irey until 1877, 
when Underwood, Dilts & Co. leased and ran it until 1880. Then James. 
Carpenter purchased it and conducted the business there until March, 
1882, when it was destroyed by tire. 

MERCHANTS. 

The first merchant in Caledonia was W. S. Farrington, who laid out 
the town. He died while in business. R. & N. House came next and 
built a store, one and a half stories high, where the furniture store now is. 
They were succeeded by Lawrence Van Buskirk, for whom the post office 
was named; he was Postmaster from December 15, 1832, to April 23, 1842. 
Van Buskirk was succeeded by Greenville P. Cherry in the same building, 
who, about 1848, removed his stock to Galion, and three or four years 
afterward bought a store of Dr. J. M. Briggs, ran it a short time, failed 
and moved to Indiana, where he now resides. 

Previous to 1848, probably in J846, Parcel & Hipsher started a store at 
Farrington's old stand; a year afterward Parcel was succeeded in the firm by 
Dr. Briggs, and the firm of Briggs & Hipsher continued two or three years, 
when Mr. Hipsher retired. Dr. Briggs in a few months sold out to Green- 
ville P. Cherry. 

About 1850, Capt. George Beckley established a store on a part of the 
ground where Rinker & Bush's furniture store now is, but closed in two 
years. He was succeeded by S. V. Harkness and he by Search & Dumble, 



CLARIDON TOWNSHIP. 705 

who were burned out in 1858. Shurr & Bailey succeeded Cherry; a year 
afterward, Shurr retired, Bailey continuing two years alone, when he sold 
to Trusdell & Osborne, who moved their stock to Mount Gilead. 

About 1855, Neal & McKinstry opened a store in Caledonia. Near the 
same time or shortly afterward, Henry Speaker erected a store building 
where Marggraf & Hind's store now is, and failed about 1857. Neal sold his 
interest to his partner, McKinstry, and the latter sold to Ruehrmund & 
McBride, who ran the store one year. Then Mr. Ruehrmund was alone 
until 1863, when he was succeeded by Bell & Hunter. H. A. Hipsher was 
a silent partner in the firm of Bell & Hunter from 1863 to 1871, when the 
firm changed to Bell. Hunter & Co.; in 1875 it became Hunter & Hipsher, 
when Mr. Bell moved to Marion. 

In 1859, Messrs. Underwood & Hunter started in the Speaker building; 
in 1862, Hunter retired; the next year, Annis Whitaker was admitted as a 
partner, and the firm of Underwood & W hi taker continued until the death 
of the latter in February, 1866. Moses Carr bought Whitaker' s interest, 
April 17, following, but the next year he retired. In January, 1868, Mr. Un- 
derwood formed a partnership with his father, under the style of E. F. Under- 
wood & Co. May 1, 1877, A. M. Dilts was admitted into the company, 
forming the firm of Underwood, Dilts & Co. , but since February, 1882, the 
firm name has been Underwood & Dilts. These gentlemen are now the 
principal merchants of Caledonia. In 1872, Neal & Kennedy started a 
store on Marion street, and two years afterward Mr. Kennedy retired, and 
in 1876 Mr. Neal failed. 

In 1865, R. L. Highly established a tin and stove store on Water street, 
and in 1878 removed to Marion street, where he was burned out, July 23, 
that year. 

In 1869, Kiefer Bros, started a hardware store on Marion street. They 
were succeeded by Milford Lewis; he by Apt & Highly in 1872; they by 
Campbell & Rice; subsequently Apt & Thew, and finally Mr. Thew became 
sole owner. 

July 1, 1883, the merchants of Caledonia were Underwood & Dilts, 
Hunter & Hipsher, T. J. Anderson, Marggraf & Hinds; hardware mer- 
chants. R. Thew, T. W. Roberts. & Son and R. L. Highly; druggists, J. M. 
Coe and Kelly & Brook; grocers, John Hanly, O. L. De Shong, and J. P. 
Walterhus; furniture dealers, Rinker & Bush; dealers in boots and shoes, 
C. Pommert and R. Vannatter; proprietors of planing mill, Ault& Apt; liv- 
ery stable keeper, R. C. Layton. 

CALEDONIA DEPOSIT BANK. 

This monetary institution was established July 24, 1883, with William 
Rowse as President, and J. T. Monnett, Vice President. The other stock- 
holders are Josephus Monnett, E. B. Monnett and M. W. Monnett. C. H. 
Rowse is cashier. The bank has a capital of $25,000, while the stock- 
holders represent $400,000. 

CALEDONIA " ARGUS. " 

The first venture in journalism at this place was made in June, 1875. 
by Will H. Warner and J. Blanchard, who continued to issue the paper, 
which was the Caledonia Argus, for a short time, when the firm changed. 
It finally passed into the possession of the present editor and proprietor, 
George Henness, who conducts it in a creditable manner. 

The town of Caledonia has grown considerably within the last ten years. 



706 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

During that time the Underwood brick block has been erected. It is 36x80 
feet, two stories high, and cost $7,500. The Deposit Bank is in the north- 
east corner room on the first iloor, and stores occupy the other rooms, while 
in the upper story are two halls, one for the G. A. R. and I. O O. F., and 
one is occupied by the printing office. In 1880, the Temple Block was 
built by Kelly & Brooke and J. Blanchai'd. The third story, 50x70 feet in 
size, is owned by the Freemasons and Knights of Pythias. In 1868, H. 
Hunter erected a two- story brick on AVater street. In 1867. Anderson & 
Dunhill erected a two-story brick building near the railroad. It is now 
owned by Charles Webb, of Monroe. N. Y. 

CONFLAGRATION. 

July 23, 1883, at 2:30 in the morning, there broke out the most destruc- 
tive fire that ever occurred in Caledonia. It originated in T. J. Ander- 
son's warehouse, from some unknown cause, and ceased not its insatiate 
fury until it had destroyed seventeen buildings, with much of their con- 
tents. Fire engines were telegraphed for from Marion and Gabon, which 
arrived in time to do good service. The area burned over is best described 
by naming the principal losers, as follows; T. J. Anderson. $5,000; J. 
W. Hinds, $2,500; R. L. Highly, $4,500; R. Thew, $10,500; Odd Fel- 
lows building, $2,000; Dr. Weeks, $2,000; J.' Hanley. $5.5u0; Jacob 
Weber, $3,200; J. M. Coe, O. L. DeShong, J. G. Wortman, Maris Hart 
and railway company, smaller amounts. 

CALEDONIA UNION SCHOOLS. 

Organized in April, 1873. The first Board of Directors comprised A. 
M. Dilts, Chairman; J. F. Apt, Treasurer; and Noah Lee, Clerk. The fol- 
lowing summer, a two-story brick schoolhouse was erected at an expense of 
$13,000. The main building is 30x60 feet, with a wing 30x35 feet, and 
is situated on a plat of one and one-half acres, between North High and 
North Main streets. It contains six rooms besides the Superintendent's 
office. Until 1881, there were four departments of the school: since that 
date there have been five. From the time of organization to the present, 
there has been expended for teaching $16,000, besides $3,000 for other ex- 
penses. For the building of the schoolhouse, bonds to the amount of 
$8,000 were issued, to run ten years, interest payable semi-annually at 8 
per cent, and the last bond was paid in October, 1883. The following are 
the Principals who have had charge of the schools: James A. K. Weber. 
1874-75; G. W. Snyder, 1875 to 1877; Z. E. Rutan, 1877 to 1879; U. K. 
Guthery, 1879 to 1881; C. G. Harriman, 1881-82; Lewis Ranck, 1882 to 
1884. The present School Board is composed of H. Hunter, Chairman; 
Noah Lee, Clerk; J. F. Apt, Treasurer. 

CHURCHES. 

The village of Caledonia is the center of a large religious community, 
and has several well established church organizations. 

The Methodist Episcopal Church, the oldest religious denomination at 
this place, was organized at the house of William Garberson about the 
year 1830, by William Garberson, G. P. Cherry, Isaac Cherry, Nathan 
Clark, and others. The following were some of the first members: Will- 
iam Garberson and wife, G. P. Cherry and wife, Isaac Cherry and wife, 
Garry Clark and wife, Nathan Clark and wife, John Lee and wife, Jacob 
Geyer and wife, Benjamin Bell and wife, Michael Welbourne and wife, 



CLAR1D0N TOWNSHIP. 707 

Father Stater, George Welbourne and wife, and others. William Garber- 
son, Nathan Clark, Isaac Cherry and G. P. Cherry were officers. 

The first church was erected on the northeast corner of the public square 
in 1833. It was 35x40 feet in size and cost $800. This building was used 
until 1862, when it was disposed of and the proceeds went to a new house, 
which was built on the southwest corner of Church and Main streets. It 
is 40x50 feet in size, two stories high, and cost $2,500. The following is 
a partial list of the early pastors with the years they served: Harvey 
Camp and Philip Nation, 1834-35; Harvey Camp and J. W. White. 1835- 
36. This appointment was a part of Marion charge for several years, then 
organized to Waldo and Westfield charge, and in 1872 was organized as 
the Caledonia charge, with its present limits. The pastors who have served 
since that time were B. F. Bell, 1872-73; S. R. Squiers, 1874-75; G. L. 
Hanawalt, 1876 to 1878; C. Baldwin, 1879-80: G. E. Scott, 1881 to 1883. 
Under the present organization, the following-named Presiding Elders 
served, viz., Henry Whiteman, 1872; John Whitworth, 1873 to 1876; Sam- 
uel Mower, 1877 to 1880; and A. Pollock, 1881 to 1883. 

The church of Caledonia has a roll of 240 members. The present offi- 
cers are W. Brocklesby, William P. Thew, J. G. Giddis and Joseph Fields, 
Stewards, with W. Brocklesby, Recording Steward. 

The Thew Log Church. — In 1824, a round log church was built at 
Thew's graveyard and used for religious worship a few years. Revs. Gaff 
and Gilruth were pastors. 

The First Universalist Church of Caledonia was organized in the Pres- 
byterian Church building by Revs. Crosley and Root, February 17, 1867, 
with twelve members, viz., George Beckley, T. A. Cross, Mercy Parcel, J. W. 
Thatcher, S. M. Thatcher, James Miller, Mary Miller, Perry Kellogg, Daniel 
Lee, John Bentley, F. C. Beckley and Eliza Beckley. George Beckley and 
James Miller were elected Deacons; J. W. Thatcher, Secretary; T. A. 
Croes, Treasurer. Meetings were held at the Presbyterian Church until 
1871, when the society erected a house of worship of their own on Water 
street, at an expense of $3,284.33. Universalist preachers, as Revs. George 
R. Brown, Frank Monroe, E. R. Wood and others, visited Caledonia in a 
very early day. The pastors since organization have been Revs. M. Cros 
by, one year; W. B. Woodberry, three years; E. Morris, one year; N. S. 
Sage, two years; E. R. Wood, one year; Frank Evans, three years; N. H. 
Saxon, two years; A. C. Lander, six months; B. F. Rice, six months; and 
J. D. Laner, two years. The present membership is thirty-five. Deacons: 
G. W. Ault and N. Lee; Secretary, S. H. Rice; Treasurer, Mrs. Jane Pitt 
man; Trustees, R. J. Monroe, G. W. Ault and Martin Koch. 

Presbyterian Church. — This religious denomination was formed May 
13, 1867, and elected A. W. Hayes, R. C. Layton and Augustus Marggraff 
Trustees; James McKinstry and Ebenezer Burt were the first Elders. The 
church has a present membership of eleven; David Christy and J. F. Mor- 
row are the Elders. 

The Catholic Church comprised about fifteen families soon after the war, 
but there are only seven families of that faith here now. They have a 
house of worship on Water street, erected in 1866-67, at a cost of about 
$800. Rev. John Mackey was the first priest. 

The "Reformed Zion's Congregation, of Caledonia, to stand in connec- 
tion with the Reformed Church in the United States," was organized a few 
years ago. 



708 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

SECRET SOCIETIES. 

Calanthe Lodge, No. 116, Knights of Pythias. — Dispensation was re- 
ceived January 28, 187U, and the lodge was organized by F. W. Brooke, A. 
J. Anderson and C. P. Bargar, with the following members: A. J. Ander- 
son, P. C. ; C. P. Bargar, C. C. ; F. W. Brooke, V. C. ; J. M. Coe, P. ; J. 
M. McLaughlin, M. of E.; John Kail, M. of F. ; T. J. Anderson. K. of R 
and S. ; H. G. Cooper, M. at A. ; P. Meister, I. G. : S. White, O. G. ; C. E. 
Warwick, Albert Hines, J. M. Ball, W. Fell, E. A. Benfield, T. Layton, 
Samuel White and J. B. Her. The present M. at A. is L. Chamberlain; 
I. G. is F. W. Brooke; and O. G., W. C. Coulter. From the time of or- 
ganization to December, 1881, the lodge met in the hall at the northwest 
corner of the public square, and since December 15, 1881, in their hall in 
Temple Block. The present membership is forty- four, and the officers are 
F. W. Brooke, D. D. G. C. ; J. M. Coe, P. C. ; E. S. Giddis, C. C. ; J. C. 
Hauser, V. 0.; W. S. Green, P.; George Henness, M. of F.; A. M. Dilts, 
M. of E. ; J. K. Rogers, K of R and S. The lodge has $1,200 in the 
treasury; meets Monday evenings. 

Alpha Lodge, No. 1, Prudential Order of America. — This society was 
organized Setpember 8, 1881, by J. Blanchard and others, with over thirty 
members. First Eminent Ruler, W. S. Clark; Eminent Ruler, 1882, Mrs. 
M. E. Dilts; 1883. J. K. Rogers. The present membership is twenty- 
eight, who meet every Thursday evening in Temple Block. 

Oliver Lodge, No. 447, F. & A. M. — A dispensation was granted by tho 
Grand Master, July 26, 1870. On the 8th day of the following August, 
the lodge was organized by F. C. Ruehrmund, a Past Master of Marion 
Lodge, with ten members, as follows: Peter Beerbower, W. M. ; Oliver 
W. Weeks, S. W. ; William C. Neal, J. W. ; John Rice, Treasurer; Ernst 
Cauzler, Secretary; William T. Way land, S. D. ; Solomon Pittman, J. D. ; 
John Weiss and Jacob Rice, Stewards; and V. O. Harrison, Tiler. By- 
laws were adopted and meetings were held in a rented hall in the second 
story of a two- story frame building standing on the northeast corner of the 
public square. On the 19th day of the following October, a charter was 
granted by the Grand Lodge in session at Springfield, Ohio. On the 4th 
day of November, of the same year, the lodge was constituted by Julius 
Strelitz, of Marion, Ohio, by a special proxy of the Grand Master of Ohio 
An election of officers occurred the same evening, resulting in the election 
of Oliver W. Weeks, W. M. ; John Weiss, S. W. ; William T. Way land, J. 
W. ; John Rice, Treasurer; William C. Neal, Secretary; Solomon Pittman, 
S. D. ; Jacob Rice, J. D. ; William Boughton and Joshua Crawford, 
Stewards; and George W. Ault, Tiler. These were duly installed 
into office by Julius Strelitz, of Marion. The lodge meets on the first arid 
third Monday evenings of each month, in their new hall on the south side 
of the public square, built in 1881. Present officers, George W. Ault, W. 
M. ; William Boughton, S. W.; J. A. Francis, J. W.; William W. Hinds, 
Treasurer; Noah Lee, Secretary; T. B. Rogers, S. D. ; J. D. Hinds, J. D.; 
John Gracy and S. B. Rice, Stewards; John Witcroft, Tiler. 

Caledonia Division, No. 4, Sons of Temperance.— This lodge was organ- 
ized by E. J. Bradley, of Cleveland, and dispensation received November 
20, 1878. The first members under the dispensation were G. T. Harding. 
Daniel Lee, Ella Chambers, Streeter G. Smith, C. E. Criswell; Smith 
Woodcock, C. A. Beckley, W. A. Baldwin, W. W. Thew, Sarah Cunning- 
ham, T. B. Rogers, John Street, Mary Dilts, William Conaway, Warren 
Harding, C. P. Woodcock and Emma C. Boughton. The following persons. 



CLARIDON TOWNSHIP. 709 

were chosen as officers, viz.: W. P., Daniel Lee; W. A., Ella Chambers; 
11. S., S. Gr. Smith; A. R. S., C. E. Criswell; T. S., Smith Woodcock; 
Treasurer, C. A. Beckley; Con., W. W. Thew; A. C, Mary Dilts; J. S., 
T. B. Rogers; O. S., John Street; Chaplain, M. S. Bowser; D. G. W. P., 
G. T. Harding. The present officers are W. P., J. D. Hinds; W. A., Tilla 
Marggraf; Li. S., T. B. Rogers; A. R. S., Anna Anderson; F. S., C. E. 

Boughton; Treasurer, Mary Dilts; , C. S. Tedron; C, George 

Hinds; A. C, Ada Dorwin; J. S., Wilbur Tedron; O. S. C, Marggraf; P. 
W. P., D. B. Hart; D. G. W. P., D. B. Hart. This society convened for 
two years in the Webb Block, and since that time in the Temple Block. 
Wednesday evening is the time of regular meetings. The society has a 
membership of seventy, and is prosperous financially. 

The orders of Knights of Honor, Legion of Honor and Grand Army of 
the Republic have each organizations here, but no account was ever re- 
ceived of them. 

CALEDONIA GRAVEYARD. 

This graveyard was laid out and dedicated to its solemn purpose about 
the year 1824-25. It is situated on the west bank of the Whetstone and 
within the corporate limits of the town. This was the first burying ground 
in the township, and many of the pioneer settlors of the Whetstone Valley 
now repose in its silent graves. It contains the remains of two or three 
patriots of the Revolutionary war, and one or more soldiers of the war of 
1812. Time has obliterated the inscriptions on many of the marble slabs 
erected at the first graves, and some of which are crumbling and falling to 
the earth, leaving nothing but a little mound to mark the resting place of 
the honored pioneer. The following inscriptions were obtained from some 
of the most ancient tombstones, and no doubt many of them were intimately 
identified with the early history of Claridon and adjoining townships. 

James Larrabee was born March 13, 1767, and died June 26, 1835. 
Mary Larrabee (his wife), born April 18, 1774, and died August 31. 1838. 
Phebe Van Buskirk, wife of William Van Buskirk, died May 31, 1839. 
aged thirty-six years and seven months. In memory of Mary, wife of 
George Plotner, who died October 12, 1834, aged thirty-one years. In 
memory of John C. Smith, who departed this life August 23, 1833, aged 
twenty-three years, nine months and sixteen days. In memory of Margaret 
Parcel, who died December 1, 1835. aged fifty-three. In memory of John 
Parcel, who died October 20, 1836, aged fifty-three years three months and 
seventeen days. In memory of William S. Farrington, who died at Cale 
donia, September 14, 1838. aged thirty years and five days. Eliza, wife of 
Nelson Farrington, died November 19, 1836, aged twenty years, eleven 
months and eight days. In memory of Samuel A. Porter, who died June 12, 
1832, aged twenty-seven years. In memory of Massy, wife of John Irey, 
who died May 27, 1836, aged twenty-nine years. In memory of John Irey, 
who died December 20, 1837, aged eighty yeara, ten months and twenty- 
two days. 

This old graveyard was used by the public till April, 1875, when the 
Caledonia Cemetery Association was formed. 

CALEDONIA CEMETERY ASSOCIATION. 

This cemetery association was composed of the citizens of Caledonia 
and the surrounding country. A committee, consisting of J. L. Bell, Mar- 
tin Koch and G. C. Rinker, was appointed and authorized to purchase 
grounds appropriate for a cemetery. Seven acres of land, situated on the 



710 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

east bank of the Whetstone, opposite the village, was secured at a cost of 
$1,300. The land was laid out in uniform lots and platted by Capt. George 
Beckley, and now affords an admirable burying place. 

VILLAGE OFFICERS. 

Mayors — F. C. Beckley was elected Mayor in April, 1874, and served 
until May 5, 1875, when he resigned and A. M. Dilts was appointed to 
serve until a special election June 10 following, when T. A. Cross was 
elected. E. F. Underwood served in 1876-1877; J. B. Harrison, from 1878 
to December 3, 1879, when D. O. Smith was chosen at a special election. 
In April, 1880, he was re-elected. From April, 1882, to the present time, 
J. Blauchard has held the office. 

Recorders — Smith Woodcock served from 1874 till April 19, 1876; 
C. P. Bargar from that time till May 1, 1881, since which date F. W- 
Brooke has filled the office 

POSTMASTERS. 

Lawrence Van Buskirk, December 15, 1832; Henry Bretz, April 23, 
1842; Greenville P. Cherry, August 24, 1844; Russell C. Bowdish, March 
20, 1850; James M. Briggs, August 17, 1851; Henry Speaker, July 16, 
1853; James Bell, December 29, 1855; F. C. Ruehrmund. May 24, 1861; 
Elihu F. Underwood, March 23, 1863, to the present time. 

August 31, 1835, the name of the post office was changed from Van 
Buskirk to Caledonia. 

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 

Most of the settlers of Claridon Township were poor, having barely 
means enough to enable them to purchase their lands at the Government 
price, get their families and household goods transported through the 
trackless forest to their lands. After they had succeeded in erecting their 
cabins, with persistent energy, they set to work, and the heavy forests, 
which were but a short time before the home of the red man, began to dis- 
appear. It was soon found to be one of the most fertile tracts in this sec- 
tion for agricultural purposes, and to-day is one of the best and richest di- 
visions of the county. The subjoined personal sketches form a very impor- 
tant feature in the history of the township. They go to prove what indus- 
try and energy can accomplish, and lay down precedents which, if fol- 
lowed, will lead to most prosperous results. 

JOHN W. ANSELMENT, is a native of Claridon Township, where he 
was born September 23, 1845, the son of Joseph and Catherine (Zuck) An- 
selment. His father was born in Germany and immigrated to America in 
1829. He married i n Marion County, but moved to Missouri in 1866, where he 
died December 6, 1882. His wife was born in Ross County, Ohio, and 
died March 12, 1851. They were the parents of seven children, five surviv- 
ing — Sarah, Rebecca, John W., Charles and Lydia. Mary and Catherine 
are deceased. Our subject obtained a fair education in the common school. 
and married, December 26, 1872, Rebecca J. Bird, daughter of Simon and 
Mary (Starr) Bird, and five daughters were born to them — Ettie M. , born 
September 20, 1874; Maude E., December 23, 1876; Leotie, September 22, 
1S<9: Blanch, January L7, 1881; and Alzora, February 23, 1883. Mrs. 
Anselment was born October 31, 1852. Mr. Anselment has always pursued 
the avocation of farming, and so successfully that he owns to-day (1883) 
323$ acres of fine land, valued at $75 per acre. Himself and wife are mem- 
bers of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In politics, he is a Republican. 



CLARIDON TOWNSHIP. 711 

GEORGE W. APT, mechanic, is a son of Harry and Sarah (Klinefel- 
ter) Apt, natives of Pennsylvania. He was born in Canaan Township, Mor- 
row County, Ohio, March 21, 1851. He spent his early life upon a farm 
and obtained such an education as the common schools afforded. He was 
married, July 14, 1872, to Miss Ada Osborne, a daughter of James S. and 
Minerva (Hipsher) Osborne. They have had dve children— Laura, born 
May 16, 1873; Merta, born September 26, 1876; Loberta, born July 27, 
1878; Pearl, born May 2, 1881; and Mabel, born July 7, 1883. Merta 
and Mabel are deceased. When seventeen, Mr. Apt took up the carpenter 
trado, and has followed it successfully ever since. He owns an attractive 
residence on Watts street, Caledonia, and is an industrious and respected 
citizen. He is a prominent member of the I. O. O. F., having passed 
through all the chairs; is filling the office of Dictator in the K. of H. ; is a 
Republican and a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

CAPT. JACOB F. APT, of the firm of Ault & Apt, is a native of Mar- 
ion County, and was born February 25, 1836. He is a son of Henry and 
Sarah (Klinefelter) Apt, of German lineage and natives of Pennsylvania. 
They came to this county before marriage, the former in 1824, in his eight- 
eenth year. They were married in 1834, and were the parents of seven 
children, four surviving — Jacob F., John W., Sampson and George W. 
Harry W , James K. and Sarah E. are deceased. Capt. Apt obtained only 
a limited education, and mastered the carpenter's trade before his twenty- 
first year. April 23. 1857, he married Mary J. Deardorff, daughter of Henry 
and Catherine (Collins) Deardorff. The former was of German and the lat- 
ter of Irish ancestry. Their two children are John C. , born February 5, 
1858, and Franklin S., born November 28, 1860. The Captain enlisted in 
the defense of his country, December 16, 1861, in Company D, Sixth Regi- 
ment Ohio Volunteer Cavalry. His company was detached from this regi- 
ment, and, together with Companies A, B and C, was sent to Fort Laramie, 
W. T., "to protect the innocent and valuable. " He continued on frontier 
duty during all the service. He was Second Duty Sergeant, by first ap- 
pointment; then Quartermaster Sergeant about one year; then Second 
Lieutenant in 1863, serving nearly two years, and was appointed Captain 
and assigned to Company I, Eleventh Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, in the sum- 
mer of 1864, continuing as such to the close of the war. He was discharged 
at Omaha, Neb., May 6, 1865, then of the Eleventh Ohio Volunteer Cav- 
alry. He participated in a number of battles with the Indians, and was a 
good soldier and officer. Since returning, he has been busy in various pur- 
suits, always making a success in whatever he turned his hand to. He was 
Trustee of the township two years, one of the first elected Councilmen of 
Caledonia, serving six years, and a member of the School Board ten years. 
He belongs to the I. O. O. F., to the K. of H. , to the Republican party, 
and, with his wife, to the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

GEORGE W. ATJLT, of the firm of Ault & Apt, was born in Belmont 
County, Ohio, February 7, 1837, the son of John A. and Leah (Nace) Ault, 
of German and French descent respectively, and natives of Ohio and Penn 
sylvania. His grandparents on both sides were natives of Pennsylvania. 
Mr. Ault having acquired a fair practical education, "went West," engaging 
in various pursuits, such as lumbering, teaming, etc. He was a member of 
a company thai, made the county seat, Iola. of Allen County, Kan. He re- 
turned, after an absence of four years, August 25. 1862. He enlisted in the 
late war. Company D, Eighty-second Regiment Ohio Veteran Volunteer Infan- 
try, and participated in the following battles: Gettysburg, Lookout Mount- 



712 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

ain, Mission Ridge, and through the entire Atlanta campaign. He was 
Wagon Master, having in his care at one time thirty-three wagons. He 
was also assigned to the artillery corps, having in charge the ammunition 
train, until the close of the war. He served nearly three years, was en- 
gaged in nearly all the severe battles, was never captured nor wounded, 
and honorably discharged at Columbus, Ohio, June 27, .1865. He married, 
in June, 1866, Miss Maggie Lee, a daughter of John C. and Louisa 
(Spurgeon) Lee. Two children were born, both deceased; and the wife 
died in 1869. He married again, September 30, 3873, Annie Hays, daugh- 
ter of Alexander and Rebecca (McKinstry) Hays, and one heir was born to 
this union — Milford H — dying at the age of one year. His wife died Jan- 
uary 16, 1875. He married for his third wife Mintha Ault, a daughter of 
Washington and Louisa (Wilson) Ault, and two children were born to 
them. Howard L., born September 14, 1880, survives. Mr. Ault estab- 
lished himself in his present business in 1875. In 1876. he admitted 
Jacob F. Apt and Richard Thew into partnership. The firm then bore the 
name of Ault, Apt & Thew. They did an extensive business; Mr. Thew 
retired in 1878. The firm is still doing a large business under the name of 
Ault & Apt, employing twelve hands on the average. They deal in lumber, 
sash, frames, etc. Mr. Ault is an enterprising citizen, Master Mason in 
the Masonic order, member of the K. of H., of the G. A. R. , of the Repub- 
lican party, and, with his wife, of the Universalist Church. 

MELVILLE C. AYE, second son of William S. and Sarah J. (Mitch- 
ell) Aye, was born in Canaan Township, Morrow County, Ohio, July 24, 
1851. His father, of German stock, was the first male white child born in 
Claridon Township, which important event took place September 19, 1821. 
His wife, of Irish extraction, was born in Ross County, Ohio, March 27, 
1829. Mr. Aye, whose name heads this paragraph, secured a love for 
learning in the district schools of his native township. He attended the 
Ohio Wesleyan University in the autumn of 1869, teaching the subsequent 
winter. He then turned to farming, and November 18, 1874, he formed a 
partnership for life with Miss Arminda J. Devore, eldest child of Dr. De- 
vore. Their two children are OdaD., born November 17, 1876; and an 
infant, born July 10, 1883. Mr. Aye is a Democrat in matters of politics, 
and was elected Trustee of the township in 1880. He is a class leader of 
the Methodist Episcopal Church and a liberal supporter not only of his own 
church, but also of all charitable causes. 

MORRIS J. AYE, son of William S. and Sarah J. (Mitchell) Aye, was 
born in Canaan Township. Morrow County, Ohio, February 26, 1849. He 
attended the district school and finished his educational career at Mount 
Gilead at the age of nineteen years. He made his father's home his place 
of abode until he married, January 13, 1876, Miss Elizabeth Jacoby, a 
daughter of Michael and Elizabeth (Worline) Jacoby. Two children are 
the fruit of this marriage — Florence E., born November 1, 1876; and 
Elias J., born December 14, 1879. Mrs. Aye was born July 20, 1849. The 
subject of this sketch has been engaged exclusively in farming and rearing 
graded stock, principally sheep and horses. He has ninety acres of arable 
land, valued at $70 per acre. He is an industrious citizen, and a Democrat. 

MRS. ELIZA BECKLEY (Capt. George Beckley's widow), was born in 
Williainsport, Lycoming Co. , Penn., February 4, 1812, the daughter of 
Thomas and Sarah (Corns) Miller. Her father was a native of England 
and her mother of New Jersey, and both of Irish extraction. Captain and 



CLARIDON TOWNSHIP. 713 

Mrs. Beckley were joined in marriage in the winter of 1882, and four chil- 
dren blessed their union — John, foreman in an extensive manafacturing es- 
tablishment at Springfield, Ohio; Andrew, engaged in mining in Nevada; 
Frank C. , recently elected Sheriff for this county; and Emerline, wife 
of Jacob Thomas, of Springfield, Ohio. Capt. Beckley was a highly re- 
spected and very useful citizen; he was accidentally killed, May 13, 1878, 
on the New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio Railroad. His widow is an 
estimable lady, hale and hearty for her years. She is a member of the 
Universalist Church. 

SAMUEL BERRIDGE, stock-dealer, a native of Nottinghamshire, En- 
gland, was born March 10, 1818. He is a son of William and Sarah 
(Thorp) Berridge, who immigrated to America in 1851. They settled in 
Claridon Township, where they resided fourteen years; then removed to 
Illinois, and three years and a half later to Kansas, where they now reside. 
They had nine children, all of whom are living. Our subject was reared on 
a farm and educated in the common schools. He was married. August "21, 
1869, to Alcinda A. Irey, a daughter of John and Ann (Hornby) Irey, both 
deceased. Mrs. Berridge is the only surviving member of a family of six 
•children. Mr. and Mrs. Berridge have five children —Sarah E. , Flora, 
Abbie M. . Mistie and Charles. Mr. Berridge, our subject, devoted his en- 
ergies to the farm until 1873, when he moved to Caledonia and began buy- 
ing and shipping stock. He is doing a thriving business, and is well 
known throughout the county. He is a stanch Republican and a member 
of the F. & A. M. 

JOHN BLANCHARD, Mayor of Caledonia, was born in Yorkshire, 
England, June 15, 1815, the son of Raimes and Ann (Mason) Blancha d, 
who immigrated to Ame ica in 1850, settling in Scott Township, and locat- 
ing upon land now owned by Joseph Mason. They were the parents of 
three children, our subject being the only surviving one. Robert M. and 
George W. were both soldiers in the late war, the former having enlisted in 
June of 1861 in Company C, Eighth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry; 
participated at Bull Run, Gettysburg, the siege of Vicksburg, and many 
other hard-fought battles. In a skirmish he detected a rebel taking steady 
aim at him; both fired instantly, the rebel was silenced and our hero re- 
ceived his bullet between his second and third fingers, and had his arm 
shattered to the elbow. This occasioned the amputation of the arm at onc«, 
and he was discharged from further duty. He applied, however, for 
further service, but was rejected on account of disability. He settled in 
Fayette County and died while serving his second term as Clerk of the 
Courts. His brother, George W., having enlisted August 2, 1862, in Com- 
pany D, Ninety-sixth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, was killed in a 
battle at Grand Coteau, La. , November 3, 1863. Mr. John Blanchard, hav- 
ing acquired a fair education by attending the Bucyrus Schools two terms, 
taught three or four winters, and having moved to Fayette County, com 
meneed the study of law under the instruction of Charles A. Palmer, con- 
tinuing one year. He then returned to his former home, assisting his 
mother about the farm. In the autumn of 1871, he located at Caledonia 
in the photograph business, following it successfully one year. Hh then 
commenced the practice of law, having been commissioned Notary Public 
December 21, 1872. He has been doing a good business since, and was the 
principal mover in incorporating the village of Caledonia. He was elected 
Justice of the Peace in 1879, and re-elected in 1882; also Mayor in 1879. 
He owns a beautiful residence on Main street, and has accumulated a good 

DD 



714 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

property. January 1, 1873, he married Hannah E. Black, daughter of 
William and Lydia (Rice) Black, natives of the Buckeye State. Her 
mother was born July 20, 1820, and died February 9, 1863; her father is 
still living, a resident of Morrow County, Oliio. They were the parents of 
five children, four living — Hannah E., Henrietta, Samuel and Isabel. John 
died in January, 1863. Mr. Blanchard and wife are the parents of Maude 
M. and Claude R. Mr. Blanchard's history is largely associated with the 
growth and development of the municipal affairs of Caledonia. He is al- 
ways ready to aid every public improvement. He was founder of the Su- 
preme Lodge of the Prudential Order of America. He is a Democrat, and. 
with his wife, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

CASHIUS BOYNTON, a son of Amos and Mary A. Boynton, was 
born on the old homestead in Claridon Township October 10, 1852. 
He was brought up on a farm and received his education in the common 
schools. He married, March 29, 1877, Miss Rachel Alban, a daughter 
of John and Jeanette (Carr) Alban, residents of Wyandot County, Ohio. 
Two children have blessed this union — Emma L., born March 4, 1878; and 
Charles O, January 27, 1880. Our subject is an enterprising young man, 
and has the charge of a part of the home place of ninety-three acres. In 
politics, ho is a Republican. 

WILLIAM BROCKLESBY was born .in Lincolnshire, England, De- 
cember 30, 1833. He is the son of William and Emma (Thew) Brocklesby, 
who immigrated to this country in 1844, locating in Claridon Township. 
Being a wagon and carriage maker, he bought property, and located in 
Claridon. where he lived and died. They had five children, of whom two 
survive — William, our subject, and Robert, a resident of Morrow County. 
Ohio. John, Bettie and Emma M. are deceased. The father was born 
February 29, 1807, and died in June of 1878. The mother was born about 
1809 and died in 1844. William having obtained the rudiments of an ed- 
ucation, lived with his uncle, William Thew, from his tenth year to his 
marriage, which took place January 1, 1856, to Miss Abigail Curtis, a 
daughter of Joseph and Mary (Wondhouse) Curtis, natives of England. 
Eight children have been born to them, four living — Joseph C, born Feb 
ruary 19, I860; Emma, May 15, 1863; John B., October 22, 1865; and Ella 
A.. November 2, 1878. William T. was born December 29, 1857, and died 
October 25, 1874; Charles Y., born July 1, 1868, died October 25, 1877; 
.Mary O., born August 9, 1875, died October 28, 1877. An infant died un- 
named. Their mother was born June 3, 1835 Mr. Brocklesby is one of 
the leading farmers of the township, having the control of and owning 410 
acres of arable land. He is an enthusiastic Republican, serving the town- 
ship as Trustee for eight years; he also made a creditable race for County 
Commissioner one year, and in 1882 for Infirmary Director. His brother, 
John Brocklesby, enlisted in 1862, in Company B, One Hundred and 
Twenty-first Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was wounded at Kenesaw 
Mountain and died in a hospital at Nashville, Tenn. , and his remains lie in 
the United States Cemetery at that place. Mr. Brocklesby, the subject of this 
paragraph, is a member of the I. O. O. F., and, with his family, of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church; has belonged to this denomination thirty-four 
years, been class- leader fifteen years, and its Recording Steward twelve 
years. He is a useful citizen, exemplary in life, and an honored gentle- 
man. The portrait of Mr. Brocklesby appears on another page of this 
volume. 

FREDERICK BUSH, of the firm of Rinker & Bush, is a native of Ger- 
many, born March 5, 1850. At the age of nineteen years, he immigrated 



CLARIDON TOWNSHIP. 715 

to Caledonia and worked at the carpenter's trade and such other employ- 
ment as came to hand, for one season, when he engaged with C. C. Rinker to 
work at the cabinet business, which he had previously learned. After 
continuing for nine years as an employe, he became a member of the firm, 
carrying on a successful business, theirs being the only establishment of 
the kind in the place. Our subject was married April 23, 1879, to Mary 
L. Rinker, a daughter of G. C. and Sophia Rinker, of German extraction. 
The names of the two children are Charles L., born June 6, 1880; and 
Loreta S., born February 4, 1883. Mr. Bush is an energetic and respected 
citizen, a member of the I. O. O. F., and of the Democratic party. 

JOHN CHRISTANZ, merchant tailor, was born in Geluhaussen, Ger- 
many, May 9, 1831, the son of John and Barbara (Roush) Christanz. He 
came to Marion County in 1868, engaging to work in the stone quarry and 
in masonry three years, but at the end of that time he moved to Caledonia 
and engaged in tailoring, which he has continued to prosecute sines, conduct- 
ing a flourishing business, employing at present three hands regularly. He 
was married, April 24, 1861, to Maggie Ort, and the names of their two 
children are Nellie, burn August 7, 1859; and Katie, born December 1, 
1861. Their mother's demise occurred October 17, 1864. John Christanz 
again married in the spring of 1865, Catherine Haberman, a daughter of 
Conrad Haberman, who died in Germany. Catherine came to America in 
1868. Mr. Christanz has a good education, is an industrious citizen, a 
successful business man, a member of the Druids, of the German Army 
(formerly), of the Democratic part\- and of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

WILLIAM N. CLARK, first 'son of Charles N. and Sarah (Garberson) 
Clark, was born at Caledonia May 22, 1843. He obtained bis education in 
the Caledonia Schools, and remained with his parents until his thirtieth 
year, when he married, January 1, 1874, Mary L. Douce, a daughter of 
Robert and Elizabeth (Thew) Douce. Four children have been born to 
them, three surviving — Bertha, Elizabeth S. and Charles N. Harriet A. died 
July 25, 1882. The mother was born January 23, 1850, and died Novem- 
ber 24, 1882. Mr. Clark has always devoted his attention to agriculture; 
he owns a farm of 112 acres of valuable land, estimated at $100 per acre 
He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and affiliates with the 
Republican party. 

JEROME N. CLINE, only son of William H. and Rachel (Darst) 
Cline, is a native of Claridon Township, where he was born February 3, 
1852. He obtained such an education as the common schools of his day 
afforded, and was married to Clara A. Maxwell August 10, 1879. She was 
born September 25, 1862, and is the daughter of Johnson and Nancy J. 
(Stanton) Maxwell, natives of Marion County and residents of Richland 
Township. The names of their two children are Harry A., born August 24, 
1881, and Orra M. . born July I, 1883. Mi*. Cline is a promising young 
farmer, having sixty acres of arable land worth $60 per acre. He belongs 
to the Democratic school of politics, and, with his wife, is a member of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church at Claridon, of which he is a liberal supporter. 

WILLIAM H. CLINE (deceased) was born in Marion February 20, 
L828. His father, Abraham Cline. was among the first settlers of Marion, 
a tanner by trade, living there until his decease, about 1853. at the age of 
thirty-five years. His wife. Nancy (Moore) Cline, died only a few days 
prior. The subject of this memoir resided with his uncle, Henry Cline, in 
Delaware County, Ohio, until be was wedded. January 2T>, 1850, to Rachel 
Darst, a daughter of William and Rebecca (Moyer) Darst. Five of their 



716 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

six children «[rew to maturity — Priscilla J., born May 10. 1851; Jerome N. 
see sketch); Caroline M., September 2, 1856; and Martha E., July 8, 1859. 
Laura J., born October 1, 1861, died December 20, 1862 Mrs. Cline was 
born in Fairlield County, Ohio, February 13, 1829. Our subject enlisted in 
his country's defense May 10, 1861 , in Company H, Fourth Regiment 
Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He fought at Rich Mountain, July 12, 1861, and 
lit Beverly, Va., the next day. He was taken sick at Washington, and 
after lingering three mcnths with chronic diarrhoea and knowing death 
was imminpnt, wrote to his wife, their circumstances being moderate, not to 
be to the expense of bringing his remains home. His death occurred at 
Camp Chase, Ohio, October 17, 1862, and his body was buried in the Na- 
tional Cemetery at Washington. Their six children were left to the care of 
his widow. He bequeathed also his farm of 149 acres. Mrs. Cline has 
reared and educated the children in a worthy manner. She also receives a 
pension of $8 per month, and holds a membership in the Methodist Episco 
pal Church of Claridon. 

AMI CLUFF is a native of Canada, born November 26, 1834 the son 
of Josiah L. and Olive (Lester) Cluff. The former is a native of Vermont 
and the latter of Canada. They were married in Canada, remaining there 
several years, then they came to Ohio, settling near Cardington, Ohio, 
where they resided until 1856. Two of their seven children are living — 
Lenora and Ami. The deceased were Lucinda, Weltha, Isaac, Thomas and 
David. The father died in 1856; the mother survived until May 10, 1876. 
Mr. Ami Cluff, having secured such an education as the common schools 
afforded, married, January 13, 1856, Joanna Jumf, a daughter of Shelby 
and Eunice (Slyter) Jumf, natives of Maryland and Vermont respectively. 
They were married in Pleasant Township, February 14, 1836. He settled 
here in 1834, on a portion of the land now occupied by the city of Marion. 
He was a large land-holder and well known throughout the county. His 
death occurred October 29, 1879, but his widow, born January 3, 1813, 
still survives, residing with the subject of this sketch. Mr. and Mrs Cluff 
have four children — Olive E., born October 18, 1856; Weltha A., January 
16, 1858; Thomas H, April 19, 1859; and Walter S., December 31, 1860. 
Mr. ClufT has a tine farm of 100 acres, valued at $75 per acre. He served 
one year in the civil war, but was discharged for disability. He was a 
member of Company D, Sixty-fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. 
He was elected Trustee of the township in 1880, and is acting in that ca- 
pacity at present. He and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church, and he votes the Democratic ticket. 

JOHN CRISSINGER, lumberman, only son of Daniel and Mary 
(Plotner) Crissinger, was born in Scott Township April 26, 1837. His 
father, a native of Pennsylvania, was born January 1, 1807, and came to 
Marion County. He married and settled in Tully Township. They were 
the parents of two children — John and Mary. The father's demise took 
place in 1845; the mother still lives upon a part of the old homestead, with 
her daughter, Mrs. Frederick Winch. Our siibject obtained only a limited 
education, for he was dependent upon his own resources. When aged 
thirteen years, he labored one year for his uncle, Daniel Crissinger, receiv- 
ing $37. He worked here and there until his marriage. November 22, 
1859, to Mrs. Margaret Dunham, a daughter of Daniel and Catherine (Got- 
ner) Ganshorn. They have had two children — Daniel R. , born December 
10, 1860; and an infant son deceased. Mrs. Crissinger was born in Ger- 
many December 22, 1836, and came with her parents to this country in 



CLARIDON TOWNSHIP. 717 

1846. Her father died in Caledonia June 3, 1872; and the mother is a 
resident of Tully Township. In 1803, our subject moved to Caledonia, en- 
gaging in the grocery business about a year; then, after an interval in 
the grocery business, shipping in one year 133,000 pounds of pressed poul- 
try. At present he is extensively engaged in the lumber business, having 
the leading lumber trade in the county. He employs fifteen men and four 
teams regularly. In politics, he is a Democrat. 

JOHN H. CRISWELL, M. D., was born in Morrow County, Ohio, De- 
cember 22, 1 850, the son of George and Hannah (Ackerman) Criswell, na 
tives of M aryland and New York respectively. They came to Ohio soon 
after the war of 1812 and settled in Knox County. John H. Criswell is the 
eldest of seven children, and having obtained a good education in the 
Mount Gilead High School, began teaching in his seventeenth year, con- 
tinuing five years. He then 'took up the study of medicine, in December. 
1872, under the direction of Dr. N. Tucker, of Mount Gilead, and read 
three years. In 1874-75, he attended a course of lectures at the Starling 
Medical College, also at the Cincinnati College of Medicine and Surgery, 
graduating June 19, 1876. In the autumn of the same year, he settled at 
Caledonia and has established a good practice. January 28, 1874, he mar 
ried Miss Cassie E. Barton, a, daughter of Samuel and Mary Barton, of 
Mount Gilead. Dr. Criswell is Supreme Medical Examiner of the P. O. of 
A. for the United States He is a member of the I. O. O. F. and A. L. of 
H. ; he is also a member of the City Council. His politics are Democratic. 

JOHN CBOFT was born in "Crawford County, Ohio, October 27, 
1843, the son of Christopher and Catherine (Clink) Croft, natives of Ger- 
many, and immigrated to America about 1831, stopping in Trumbull 
County, Ohio, for a short time, then coming to Crawford County, where 
they remained several years, but settling permanently in Marion County. 
They had a family of thirteen children, eleven now living — Catherine, 
Eliza, Lewis. Caroline, Mary. Elizabeth, Hannah, Christian, John, Susan. 
and Samuel. Jacob and Lydia are deceased. The father died in his 
eightieth year; the mother in her sixty-eighth year. John Croft, having 
received a limited education, turned his attention to farming until his mar- 
riage, which took place February 2, 1871, to Sophia A., daughter of George 
and Caroline (Wagman) Pfahler, who was born March 79, 1849. , They 
have three children— Emeline, born April 18, 1872; Ida, November 7, 
1874; and Mary C, November 11, 1878. Mr. Croft is the owner of 103 
acres of good land, valued at $100 per acre, upon which he has recently 
erected suitable buildings. He has acquired the property principally by his 
own hands. He is a respected citizen and in politics a Democrat. 

SAMUEL CROFT, fifth son of Christopher and Catherine (Chink) 
Croft, is a native of Ciaridon Township, born August 27, 1852. Having se- 
cured an ordinary education, he made his home at his father's until mar- 
riage, which occurred April 12, 1867, to Miss Lillie Brown, a daughter of 
Christian and Catherine Brown, natives of Crawford County, Ohio. Two 
children have crowned this marriage — Flora L.. born January 23, 1878: 
and Clara E., born March 23, 1881, dying September 7, 1881. Mr. Croft 
has been a farmer from his youth up. and has a farm of 113| acres, valued 
at $70 per acre. He is an energetic young man and a stanch Democrat. 

MRS. SARAH E. CURL, widow' of Henry C. Curl, and daughter of 
George and Elizabeth Bates, was born near Caledonia January 28, 1847. 
Her husband was born April 10. 1844, and they were married October 13, 
1870. Four children were born to them — Lillie J., born July 28, 1871; 



718 HISTORY OF MARION OoUNTV. 

Mary F., October 31. 1872; and Alonzo C, April 14, 1874; Cora D. was 
born June L3, 1875, and died December 14, 1879. Mr. Curl was reared 
and educated upon a farm in Morrow County. He was a good citizen, a 
stanch Republican and a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. His 
death occurred January 3, 1875. His widow resided in Morrow County 
until April 1. 1880, when she moved to Caledonia, purchasing a good 
home on North High street, where she continues to reside with two of her 
children. She owns a small farm in the above county, and is a respected 
and industrious lady. 

HON. JAMES W. DEVORE, M. D., is a highly respected citizen of 
Claridon Township, born in Knox County, Ohio. May 16, 1827. His 
father, Cornelius Devore, was born in Pennsylvania September 17, 1789, 
of French descent; his mother, Mary (Porter) k Devore, was born in Mary- 
land January 17, 1795. of English extraction. They were married in the 
latter State and moved to the above county in Obio, about 1818, stopping 
until 1839, when they came to near Mount Gilead, Morrow County, Ohio 
There were born to them seven children, three still surviving — Samuel, 
James W. and Nancy. The deceased were Jacob, Sarah and two infants. 
Mrs. Devore died September 21, 1843; and Mr. Devore survived her until 
May 5, 1852. Dr. Devore, having attended the common schools of his day 
and some select schools at Woodbur}', Ohio, commenced reading medicine 
in 1847 under the instruction of McWright & Geller, of Mount Gilead, 
Ohio, graduating at the Eclectic Medical College, Cincinnati, Ohio, in 
1850, and locating in Claridon Township for parctice in August L of that 
year. For thirty-three years he has had an extensive and successful ride. 
April 10, 1851, his wedding nuptials with Miss Ann E. Martin, born Oc- 
tober 28, 1832, were celebrated. She is the daughter of Lewis and Eliza 
beth (Kimble) Martin, natives of Pennsylvania, of German and English an- 
cestry, who were early settlers of Ashland County, Ohio, and came to Mar- 
ion County in 1850. Six children were born to the above union — Arminda 
J., born February 13, 1852; Flora L., October 9, 1855; Martha E., Jan 
uary 18, 1858; Minerva V., April 20, 1860; Mary E., August 12, 1863; 
and Juliett P., January 15, 1854. Dr. Devore is one of the principal farmers 
of Claridon Township, owning 700 acres of arable land, which he has ac- 
quired by his practice and industry, not $1 having been bequeathed him. 
He makes a specialty of fine graded stock of all varieties. Politically, he 
is a Democrat. He represented Marion County in the State Legislature 
daring 1870-71; he is also a member of the F. &. A. M. 

AUSTIN M. D1LTS, the son of Peter and Sarah (Knight) Dilts, was 
born in Muskingum County, Ohio, July 13, 1838. He is a merchant at 
Caledonia, Ohio, of the firm of Underwood & Dilts, dealers in dry goods, 
groceries, etc. Having obtained a practical education in the common 
t.chools, he remained with his father farming until his twenty-third year, 
when he embarked for himself, laboring upon the farm four years. In 
1864, he moved to Caledonia, acting as foreman over a party of men who 
were improving the public highways. He continued at this business, work- 
ing for a salary, four years; since then he has been a merchant at the above 
place. February 2, 1870, he married Miss Mary E. Boyer, daughter of 
William and Sarah (Plotner) Boyer, natives of Crawford County, Ohio. 
The father died there in 1878, but thn mother still survives him, living 
upon the old homestead. Mr. Dilts is a prominent and well respected cit 
izen, and is largely identilied with the interests of his village. He served 
as Chief Magistrate three years, and is at present member of the Town 



CLARIDON TOWNSHIP. 71!) 

Council. He is a member of the Democratic party, of the I. O. O. F., of 
the K. of P., of the Prudential Order of America, and, with his wife, of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. 

PETER DILTS is a native of Muskingum County, Ohio, born August 
7, 1814, the son of Peter and Elizabeth Dilts, who emigrated to this State 
in 1812, entering land. They were joined in marriage August 15, 1791; 
the father was born in New Jersey January 24, 1769, and died in 1848; 
the mother was born October 16, 1765, and died December 24, 1835. Peter 
Dilts, the subject of this sketch, having received such an education as those 
early days afforded, married Sarah A. Knight March 15. 1837, making his 
abode with his father until 1852; since that time he was a resident of Mor- 
row County, Ohio, until he came to[this county. Nine children have blessed 
this home, five now living — Austin M. ; Louisa, wife of Mr. Monroe; 
Amanda, wife of Mr. Hipsher; Sarah A., wife of Mr. Cunningham, and 
Elizabeth A. , wife of another Mr. Hipsher; all are residents of Marion 
County. The deceased are Rebecca, Franklin P., Freeman, and Cordelia, 
the wife of Levi Uleh. The last named was shot during the absence of her 
husband, while sitting in her home in the twilight, knitting. The fatal 
missile came from without the house, and no light has ever been thrown 
upon the matter; it remains to this day a painful mystery. 

MRS. ANN DOUCE (widow of James Douce), was born in Lincolnshire, 
England, January 13, 1822. Her parents, Edward and Martha (Steeper) 
Lawrence, were also natives of the same place, and after marriage crossed 
the ocean in 1835, settling in Claridon Township. Four of their eight 
children survive — Jane, widow of George Welbourn, of Union City, Ind.; 
George, of Marion; Ann and Rev. Richard Lawrence, of Hardio County, 
Ohio; James, William, Elizabeth and Sarah are dead. James Douce was 
born October 2, 1819, in the same locality as our subject. He came to the 
United States with his parents when only two years of age, locating in 
Claridon Township, where our subject is residing. The pioneer schools 
afforded him but limited educational advantages. He became a farmer, and 
May 29, 1845, was joined in marriage to the subject of this sketch, and six 
children crowned this union — James L., born September 28, 1846; Martha 
A.. February 29, 1852: Sabina J., March 22, 1854; Sarah P., January 24. 
1857; Charles W., February 28, 1860; and Marshall F., June, 21. 1864 
The deceased was a prominent farmer, having acquired an estate of 340 
acres of valuable land, worth $75 per acre. He was an active member of 
the Methodist Episcopal Church (a Trustee at time of death), and a gener- 
ous giver to all its interests. His death occurred February 23, 1871. His 
widow is a respected and estimable lady, a member of the same church. 

GEORGE W. DOUCE, the fourth son of Robert and Elizabeth (Thew) 
Douce, was born in Claridon Township October 13, 1860: his parents 
were natives of England, the father being born June 1, 1812, and the 
mother June 1, 1822. His father emigrated with his parents to America 
in 1822; they were Vincent and Mary Douce. They settled in Claridon 
Township at an very early day; their children were nine, five sons liv- 
ing—Richard R,, William T, John T., George W. and James. The de- 
ceased were Mary J., Ann, Elizabeth and Mary L., who was the wife of 
^ illiam N. Clark. The father died in 1873; the mother in 1877. George 
W. obtained a good common school education at Caledonia and at Ada. 
After closing his school career, he taught one term, and |has since devoted 
his attention to farming and stock-raising. He is the owner of seventy 
acres of cultivated land, valued at $80 per acre. He is a member of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church and votes the Republican ticket. 



720 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

JAMES L. DOUCE, son of James and Ann (Lawrence) Douce, was 
born on the old homstead in Claridon Tonwship September 28, 1846. He 
obtained the rudiments of an education in the common schools, and com 
pleted a commercial course at the "Ohio Business College" at Delaware. 
He lived on the farm wilh his parents until he was thirty-five years of age. 
August 31, 1881, his marriage to Mary A., daughter of Samuel and Cath- 
erine (Jacoby) "Waddel, was solemnized. She was born April 8, 1875, and 
their one child — Lawrence J. — was born June 28. 1882. Mr. Douce has 
given his attention exclusively to farming and the rearing of fine stock, of 
which he makes a specialty. He owns 160 acres of arable land, on which 
he has recently erected a frame residence. He is a highly respected citizen, 
a stanch Eepublican and a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, 
being the Recording Steward of the Letimberville Circuit. • 

RICHARD R, DOUCE, first son of Robert and Elizabeth (Thew) Douce, 
v^as born in Claridon Township July 28, 1852. His parents were natives 
of the British Isle, his father coming to America in 1822, his mother in 
1824. Their marriage took place in Claridon Township, and nine children 
grew up around them— Richard R., William T., John T., George W. and 
James living. The deceased were Ann, Elizabeth, Mary J. and Mary. 
Mr. Douce died in 1873, and Mrs. Douce survived until 1877. The subject 
of this memoir acquired the rudiments of an education in the common 
school, but completed his literary attainments at Delaware College in 1876. 
He then turned his attention to farming. April 4. 1877, his marrage was 
solemnized with Miss Rebecca, a daugther of Matthew and Phebe (Garber- 
son) McKinstry, of Marion County. The names of their three children 
are Grace E., born January 9, 1878; Matthew G., March 5,1880; and Rob- 
ert, January 15, 1882. Mr. Douce has always pursued farming and the 
raising of stock. He is the owner of 131 acres of desirable land, which is 
worth $70 per acre. At present he is erecting a tine frame residence and 
making other improvements. As a citizen, he is well and favorably known. 
He is connected with the Methodist Episcopal Church and with the Re- 
publican party. 

WILLIAM T. DOUCE, son of Robert and Elizabeth (Thew) Douce, 
was born on the homestead, where he still resides, January 28, 1855. The 
district school gave him a practical education, and he turned to agriculture 
for a life work. His marriage was celebrated July 3, 1879, with 
Miss Priscilla Fields, a daughter of Edward and Ann S. (Nesbitt) Fields. 
The subject of this sketch has 160 acres of land, 100 acres of which are in a 
high state of cultivation, valued at $70 per acre. He devoted his entire at- 
tention to the farm, and the rearing of stock, making a specialty of the « 
Poland-China hog. He is an enterprising farmer, a Republican in politics 
and a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

JOHN EBERHARDT, deceased, was born in Germany June 20, 1809, 
emigrated to America in 1830, and was an early settler in Claridon Town- 
ship. He was married, February 16. 1845, to Sarah Yager. By this mar- 
riage there were eleven children, eight of whom are (1883) living, namely, 
John, born June 25, 1846; Laner, October 11, 1847; Maggie, August 1, 
1854; David, September 9, 1856; Jacob A., September 6, 1858; William, 
February, 1861; Frederick, July 27, 1863; and Emma, born November 
7, 1865. The deceased were David, born March 27, 1850, and died August 
27, 1851: George, born June 19. 1852, and died November 22, 1860; and 
an infant. John Eberhardt, the subject of this sketch, died April 8, 1873, 
leaving a widow and eight children, who still survive him. He was a man 



CLARIDON TOWNSHIP. 721 

much respected for his many good qualities. His widow, Mrs. Sarah 
(Yager) Eberhardt, is the owner of sixty-four acres of land and a comforta- 
ble home in Claridon Village, where she resides. She is a member of the 
Lutheran Church, and a lady much beloved for her many kindnesses. She 
was born in Germany, March 25, 1825, and was brought by her parents, 
Lawrence and Mary Yager, who emigrated to America and settled in Pleas- 
ant Township, this county, in 1830, where they purchased land, and when 
they lived until their death, which occurred, the father's August, 1846, 
aged sixty-two vears, and the mother's April, 1855, aged seventy -one years. 

JOHN EHLERS is a native of Germany, born August 23, 1832, the son 
of Henry and Arenozena Ehlers. He emigrated to the land of the free in 
1852, settling in Grand Prairie Township, and was married in Marion 
County, Ohio, February 2, 1858, to Eliza Russel, a daughter of Elijah Rus- 
sel, and six children have been born to them — Elijah, Phcebe D. , Sarah J., 
John W. and Henry U., twins, and Frank. Mr. Ehlers commenced in 
life a poor boy, but through industry and economy owns at present a valua- 
ble farm of 135 acres. He is a stanch Democrat; himself and wife are 
members of the German Reform Church. 

FRANCIS M. EPLEY is a native of Claridon Township, born April 
18, 1852, the son of David and Sarah (Dunbar) Epley, who settled in Mar- 
ion in early times. The father died September 8, 1863, while the mother 
continues to reside with her son Francis. Mr. Epley obtained a good edu 
cation from the district schools, and remained at home until he formed a 
life partnership in August, 1876, with Lydia U. Ulsh, a daughter of John 
and Jemimah (Cunningham) Ulsh. They had one heir — Marion J. — born 
October 16, 1878. Mrs. Ulsh was born February 29, 1857, and departed 
this life August 7, 1882. Mr. Epley has ninety-live acres of well improved 
land, worth $60 per acre, which is stocked with good grades. He is indus- 
trious and highly respected. He was elected Trustee of the township in 
1881, and has continued to serve in that capacity. He has also served as 
School Director nine years and is Clerk of the Board. Politically speaking, 
he is a Democrat. 

GEORGE FETTER, Jr., first son of George and Elizabeth (Kyle) 
Fetter, is a native of Claridon Township, born October 30, 1836. His peo- 
ple emigrated from Germany before marriage. He became familiar with 
the English branches, and his union to Miss Mary Mautz, a daughter of 
Gottleib and Christina Mautz. took place April 27, 1858. Their eight chil- 
dren are George F., born March 29, 1859; Jacob D., September 15, 1861; 
Mary A., June 16, 1864; Samuel H.. October 5. 1866; William P., Janu- 
ary 15, 1868; John F., November 5, 1870: Mary C, January 9, 1872; and 
Harmon E., October 30, 1875. Mrs. Fetter was born February 6, 1836. 
Mr. Fetter has always devoted his attention to agriculture. He is a sub- 
stantial farmer, owning 266 acres of valuable land, worth $75 per acre. 
He recently erected a brick residence costing $5,000. Mr. Fetter is a Dem- 
ocrat, and has served as Trustee of the township three years, and as a mem- 
ber of the School Board eight years. With his family he belongs to the 
Lutheran Church in Richland Township, to which he contributes liberally. 

EDWARD D. FIELDS is a native of Lincolnshire, England, born 
April 22, 1829. He was the son of Matthew and Elizabeth (Hatfield) Fields, 
who crossed the Atlantic in 1833, locating in Claridon Township. He re- 
mained with his parents until his twentieth year, obtaining from the dis- 
trict school a practical education. He was wedded Decemb ar 31, 1857, to 
Ann S. Nesbitt, boru December 8, 1837, a daughter of Joseph and Ann 



722 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

(Grubb) Ncsbitt. Children— Priscilla E., born October 2, 1858; Joseph C, 
August 24, L860; Edward F., November 15, 1862; Sylvester N., February 
6, 1800; Henry O, July 13, 1872; and Elma P., February 14, 1878. At 
twenty years of age, Mr. Fields began to learn the carpenter's trade, and 
followed it twenty-nine years, his family then residing in Claridon. Aban- 
doning his trade in 1878, he purchased a farm consisting of eighty acres in 
a wild state, for which he paid $44 per acre. He has cleared and improved 
this land and erected good buildings upon it. It is now valued at $75 per 
acre. He served one term as Trustee of the township. Himself and fam- 
ily are members of the United Brethren Church; he is Superintendent of 
the Sabbath school. He is a Republican and an advocate of temperance, 
and a member of the F. & A. M. 

JOHN FIELDS was born in Lincolnshire, England, December 12, 
1805, and was married there, September 6, 1830, to Sarah Foster, born 
December 22, 1812, a daughter of John and Mary (Lane) Foster. He was 
a son of Matthew and Elizabeth (Hatfield) Fields. He emigrated to America 
with his wife and one child and his father's family in 1834, settling in 
Claridon Township. His parents both died in an early day. Mr. and 
Mrs. Fields are the parents of ten children, five living — Henry W., born 
February 2, 1S32; Elizabeth H., September 9, 1837; George A., Septem- 
ber 10, 1848; Charlotte P., June 17, 1851; and Sarah R., April 12, 1854; 
Eliza A. was born November 30, 1834, and married John Boyce January 4. 
1855; John C. was born September 5, 1845, and died February 16, 1851, 
Matthew F. was born November 24, 1842, and died January 18, 1863, a 
soldier at Bowling Green, Ky. ; Jesse was born April 18, 1857, and died 
one month later; Mary A. was born February 27, 1840; she was the wife of 
Thomas Parker and died March 20, 1879. Mr. Fields commenced in life 
with nothing, but through his indomitable will and through economy, has 
now a farm of 120 acres, two comfortable frame residences and ten town lots. 
He has retired from the farm and has been living in Caledonia some time. 
He is an estimable citizen, a zealous Republican, and he and his wife are 
members of the United Brethren Church. 

JOSEPH FIELDS, the son of Matthew and Elizabeth (Hatfield) 
Fields, was born in Wylingham, by Stow, Lincolnshire, England, March 29, 
1820. He -came to America with his parents in 1834, settling in Claridon 
Township July 2 of the same year. He was one of a family of twelve chil- 
dren, ten surviving — John. Ann, Mary, Matthew, Henry, Joseph, Sarah, Wil- 
liam, Edward and Dinah. Elizabeth died in England and Benjamin inLouis 
ville, Ky. Mr. Fields died December 2, 1851, and Mrs. Fields lived until 
1869. Joseph secured an education at the district school and lived with 
his father until ho married, January 1, 1845, Miss Mary McGinley, a 
daughter of John and Elizabeth McGinley, of Irish ancestry. Their union 
was blessed with three children, two of whom are living — John H., born 
October 3, 1845; and Sarah E., February 13, 1848. Joseph, born Decern 
ber8, 1850, died July 27, 1851. Mrs. Fieldh died January 1, 1851, and 
Mr. Fields was married again October 27, 1853, to Sarah J. Badger, daugb 
ter of Joseph Badger, who emigrated to America at the age of seven from 
Ireland. Mr. Badger was married to Miss Mary Erwin, of Fairfield Coun- 
ty, Ohio, and seven children were born to them — Mary C, born July 28, 
1854; Asa E., January 6, 1857; Matthew and Joseph A. (twins), February 
21, I860; William F., August 25, 1862; Robert C, born August 31, 1855, 
died July 29, 1863; and Ada A., born August 5, 1862 (twin with William 
F.), died July 11, 1863. Mr. Fields embarked in life a poor boy, but has 



CLA1UD0N TOWNSHIP. 723 

wrought out by hard blowH a comfortable home and a valuable farm of 
195 acres. 145 in Marion County and fifty in Hardin County. His 
home farm is estimated at $80 per acre. He is a thoroughgoing farmer, 
and has been a resident of Claridon nearly fifty years. He found his home 
covered with forest and abounding with game, but he has cleared and im- 
proved 100 acres. He is a Republican, a prominent member of the Meth- 
odist Episcopal Church, having been a local minister several years, is a 
generous man. an earnest advocate of the cause of temperance, possessing a 
spirit of enterprise, and always aids movements that are intended to benefit 
the community. The portrait of Mr. Fields appears on another page of 
this volume. 

MRS. ELIZABETH FINK, the widow of Eli Fink and the daughter 
of Joshua and Catherine Martin, was born March 18. 1837. Her parents 
werefof Irish and German extraction, but natives of Virginia and Pennsyl- 
vania respectively. They were married in Marion County in 1834, and 
were the parents of thirteen children. The two deceased were Martha, dy- 
ing at the age of forty-one years; and Eliza, aged twenty months. The 
living are Socrates, Julian. Elizabeth, Catherine, Nancy, Leonard, Emma 
J., Jacob, Margaret, Mary M. and Ida M. Mr. and Mrs. Fink were mar- 
ried in January, 1858, and four children were born to them — Orilla, born 
October 17, 1858; Samuel F., February JO, 1860; DoraB., August 25,1864; 
and Lulu E., April 18, 1869. Orilla was married September 1, 1878, 
to C. S. Bittner: Dora B. was married March 2, 1882, to Dr. W. C. Arous. 
of Columbus, Ohio. Mr. Fink was an honorable citizen, loved by all, and 
was doing an extensive mercantile business at the time of bis sudden 
death. This occurred August 2, 1875, and a jury, impaneled to consider 
his mysterious demise, arrived at the conclusion that his death was caused 
by an unknown hand. 3Trs. Fink has continued to keep the family to- 
gether and has recently erected a frame residence on North Main street. 
She commands the respect and sympathy of all who know her. 

JOHN A. FOOS was born in Delaware County, Ohio, October 31, 1819, 
the son of John and Mary (Aye) Foos, of German stock, but natives of 
Tennessee and Virginia respectively. The father was born November 15, 
1787, and when two years of age came to Kentucky for a brief period, but 
settled in Franklin County, Ohio, six years. In 1806, they came to Dela- 
ware County, remaining until 1831, when they moved to Marion County for 
a number of years; then they went to Indiana, where the father died, Au- 
gust 10, 1876. Mr. John A. Foos was brought up on a farm. He married, 
December 28, 1843, Elizabeth Lindsay, and six childi'en have been born to 
them, three surviving — James M. , Nathan and Andrew B. Benjamin F., 
George B. and Elizabeth J. are deceased. Mr. Foos has resided in the 
county one-half century, and is a prominent farmer, making a specialty of 
registered stock. His farm comprises 463 acres of excellent land, valued at 
$100 per acre. His wealth is not less than $40,000, the product of his own 
hands. He served a number of years as Trustee of the township, and is a 
faithful Democrat. 

JOSEPH A. FRANCIS, M. D., was born in -Waldo Township April 
13, 1839, the son of Philander K. and Clarinda (Armstrong) Francis, of 
French and English extraction, respectively, and natives of New York Mr. 
Francis obtained a good education, attending the Mount Hesper Seminary 
two years. He commenced teaching in his sixteenth year, and continued 
twenty-one terms. In 1873, he began reading medicine under the tutorship 
of Dr. Charles Bates, of Nettle Lake. Ohio; graduated at the Columbus 



724 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Medical College in the spring of 1877, and at once commenced practice at 
Bell Point, Ohio. He came to Caledonia in 1880 where he is receiving a 
fair share of patronage. He enlisted April 23, 1861, in Company H, 
Fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, to serve three months. His term 
expiring at Camp Denison, he returned home, and was married, December 
21, 1861, to Mary J. Anderson, a daughter of Andrew and Lucinda (Smith) 
Anderson, natives of Westfield Township. Five children have been born 
to them, two surviving — C. Grant, born June 27, 1864, and Edna C, born 
November 18, 1870. He re-enlisted August 13, 1864, in Company I, One 
Hundred and Seventy- fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, to serve 
one year. He was made Second Sergeant, and later Orderly Ser 
geant, and after participating in several skirmishes was honorably dis- 
charged at Cleveland, Ohio, May 30, 1865. He is a member of the F. & 
A. M., of the K. of H, of the I. O. O. F., of the G. A. R. (charter mem- 
bers) and of the Democratic party. 

ABRAHAM GABLE was born November 20, 1839, the son of Peter and 
Mary (Boyer) Gable, natives of Pennsylvania and both of German stock, 
who had eight children, seven surviving — Susan, Mary, Abraham, Elizabeth, 
Christena, Catherine and Lovina. Solomon died aged nineteen years. Mr. 
Gable was born February 11, 1806, and died March 15, 1879. Mrs. Gable 
born March 11, 1808, resides with her son Abraham. Mr. Gable obtained 
from the district school a practical education. He enlisted in the Union 
army November 19, 1861, Company D, Eighty-second Regiment Ohio Vol- 
unteer Infantry, participating in the following battles: McDowell, Cross 
Keyes, Cedar Mountain, Bull Run (second battle), Chancellorsville, Gettys- 
burg, Wauhatchie and Mission Ridge; also in these skirmishes: Franklin, 
Port Republic, Freeman's Ford, Rappahannock Ford, Sulphur Springs and 
Water Bridge. He marched during this time not less than 2,500 miles, 
find was honorably discharged December 31, 1863. Re-enlisting again in 
the same company, January 1, 1864, he fought at Valley Fort, Lookout 
Mountain, Mission Ridge, Tenn. , going through the Atlanta campaign and 
with Sherman to the sea. He was captured at Goldsboro, and after lying 
in the rebel lines ten days was paroled, being sent to Annapolis, Md., thence 
to Camp Chase, and was discharged June 23, 1865. Returning to his home 
in Claridon Township, he married, October 19, 1865, Catherine Heverly. a 
'laughter of John and Christena (Miller) Heverly. Their sir children were 
Elmore E., born June 23, 1868; Ida L., April 6, 1873; Cora B., July 2, 
1876; Emma A.. October 16, 1880; Samuel G., October 17, 1866, dying 
February 28, 1869; Willis W. and Wilson H. (twins), June 28, 1870: the 
former died January 11, 1871, and the latter December 12, 1873. Their 
mother was born July 17, 1838. Mr. Gable has a farm of 115 acres of 
valuable land, worth $75 per acre. As a citizen, he commands the respect 
of his neighbors. He is an influential member of the Evangelical Church 
and an extorter in the same. He is Superintendent of the Sabbath school, 
a liberal contributor to all deserving objects and a Republican in sentiment. 

JUDGE JOHN R. GARBERSON, whose portrait appears in this work, 
is one of the leading citizens of Marion County. He was born in Holmes 
County, Ohio, November 20, 1821, and is a son of David and Rosannah 
' Eiesley) Garberson. His father was born in New Jersey November 15, 
L759, and his mother in Maryland July 8, 178(5. They were of Welsh 
and German descent respectively, and were married in Knox County, Ohio, 
February 24, 1820, and settled in Holmes County, where they lived five 
years, and at the expiration of that time returned to Knox, in which coun- 



CLARIDON TOWNSHIP. 725 

ty they resided until 1838, when they removed to Claridon Township and 
settled on the farm now occupied by the subject of this sketch. Their mar- 
ried life was blest with four children, three of whom are now living, viz., 
John R. ; Mai inda, wife of Nickson .Baker; and Amanda, wife of Levi 
Irey, of Fayette County, 111- Mr. Garberson departed this life A.pril 29, 
1843, and his widow July 6, 1852. Judge Garberson passed his early life 
on a farm, and obtained his education principally in the public schools of 
Marion. He spent eight years in the profession of teaching, after which 
he turned his attention to farming, to which he has devoted a larger portion 
of his life. He has been a resident of Marion County since 1838, and is a 
prominent and extensive farmer. He owns 790 acres of land, 6G0 acres of 
which are improved, and 300 acres under a high state of cultivation. He 
makes a leading pursuit of keeping registered stock. Judge Garberson has 
achieved a merited success in the business relations of life, and stands as 
one of the foremost citizens of the county. Ho is a man of public enter- 
prise, and every legitimate movement that was intended to contribute to the 
benefit of the community or county has always received his generous sup- 
port. As a man and a citizen, Judge Graberson is honorable and upright, 
and as a public officer he has a record that reflects upon him the highest 
credit. In 1854, he was elected to the office of Count v Clerk and re- 
elected in 1857, serving two terms. Eight years after his retirement from 
this position (in 1868), he was appointed Probate Judge to fill the vacancy 
caused by the death of Maj. Busby; so satisfactory were his services in this 
capacity that he was chosen to serve a full term. He has served in nearly 
every local office of his township. In politics, Judge Garberson is a stanch 
Republican, and has been prominent in the affairs of his party in the coun- 
ty for many years. April 30, 1844, Judge Garberson celebrated his mar- 
riage with Miss Susan Irey, daughter of Samuel and JenHa (Bean) Irey, 
both deceased. Six children have crowned this union; of these four are 
living — Loretta, born August 22, 1848; Charles F., June 6, 1851; Johu 
M., June 14, 1853; and William ft., August 1, 1856. David S., was born 
August 12, 1845, and died March 19, 1846; Irey was born November 4, 
1846, and died June 16, 1847. Mrs. Garberson was born December 3, 
1823, and died September 26, 1857. Judge Garberson again married. 
March 12, 1859, Miss Sarah Curtis, of Richland County. He and wife 
are earnest members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

HENRY C. GARVIN was born in Franklin County, Penn., January 18, 
1827, the son of Henry and Catherine (Omwake) Garvin, also natives of 
Pennsylvania, but of Irish and German ancestry respectively. Having mar- 
ried, they removed to Ohio, stopping at Tiffin a short period, but settling 
in Fremont, where he became a merchant for many years. They were the 
parents of fourteen children, nine now living — Hezekiah, Henry C, Will- 
iam, Samuel, Jacob, John, Susan, Catherine and Malinda. Mrs. Garvin 
died at Fremont March 3, 1873, and then Mr. Garvin moved to Big Island 
Township, this county, and died March 3, 1883, being eighty-five j years uf 
age. Henry C. was joined in marriage August 2, 1849, to Rebecca J. 
Staley, born December 28, 1829, and eight children have been born to them 
— Columbus, Virginia, Anna R. , Alice R. and Emma, living. The deceased 
were John F. and two infants. Mr. Garvin, finding himself afloat in Lhe 
world at the age of thirteen, had very little opportunity to advance his ed 
ucation; at nineteen years of age, he mastered his trade, that of carriage 
and wagon making, at Leightersburg. Md., beginning in 1843. In 1845. 
he located at Germantown, Montgomery County. Ohio, continuing there 



726 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

four years. He then returned to Hagerstown, Md., where he resided sixteen 
years. March 22, 1864. he landed in Marion,- Ohio, and having worked at 
his trade a short time, established himself in lumbering at Gurley Station 
seven years. In October, 1872, he removed to his present site, Claridon, 
Ohio, and has become a permanent citizen, working at his trade. In 1873, 
he was elected Chief Magistrate, and will have served in that capacity his 
fourth term by the 15th of April, 1884. He owns property in the village. 
He belongs to the Democratic school of politics, and is a member of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church, to which his wife also belongs.. 

WILLIAM GARVIN, of the firm of Garvin & Weiss, carriage and 
wagon makers, was born in Franklin County, Penn., June 13, 1835. His 
parents, Henry and Catherine Garvin, were natives of Pennsylvania, where 
they were married. Tbey came to Seneca County, Ohio, in 1852 or 1853, 
and resided near Tiffin for eighteen months, when they moved to Fremont, 
Ohio, where his wife, Catherine, died in 1873, aged sixty-eight years. He- 
died in 1883, aged eighty-live years. William Garvin received a common 
school education, and at the age of sixteen commenced learning his trade 
at Green Castle. Penn. After completing the same, he removed to Car- 
dington, Ohio, where he was employed at his trade for six years, at the ex- 
piration of which time he removed to Marion. October 20, 1857, he was 
married to Ann L. "Wilcox, who was born September 14, 1837. She was a 
daughter of Jacob and Rebecca Wilcox. This union was blessed with three 
children, only one of whom is living, namely, Harry D. , bom November 6, 
1858. Mrs. Garvin died April 17, 1862, and April 8, 1869, Mr. Garvin 
was married to Su^an Hock, a daughter of John and Almira Hock, by whom 
he has had three children — George, born January 11,1870; Laura B., April 
5, 1873; and Lee M., born December 5, 1877. Mr. Garvin remained in 
Marion until 1862, when he enlisted in Company E, Ninety sixth Regiment 
Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and participated in the following battles of the 
rebellion: Vicksburg, Sabine Cross Roads, Forts Morgan and Gaines, the 
taking of Mobile, etc. His term of enlistment for three years having ex- 
pired, he was honorably discharged from the service at Camp Chase, Ohio. 
He then returned to Marion, and moved to Claridon in 1867, where he has- 
since resided and been engaged in business. The present firm gives em- 
ployment to eight hands. Mr. Garvin has served the township as Township 
Clerk four years. Is a Democrat, a member of the F. &. A. M. and of the 
United Brethren Church. 

JOHN J. GIDDIS is a native of Somerset County, N. J., born July 12, 
1841, a son to Thomas and Rebecca (Saunders) Giddis, natives of the same 
State and of Scotch and English extraction. The father was born October 
2, 1808, and died in 1867; the mother was born January 30,1810, and died 
October 11, 1865. John G. Giddis came to Ohio iu 1860, stopping in 
Morrow County two years; he then settled in Claridon Township, where he 
has since resided. April 16, 1863, he married Caroline Van Buskirk, a 
daughter of Lawrence and Sarah (Debow) Wooley. This union has been 
blessed with four children, three living — Minnie V., born January 31, 
1864; Cyreu F., February 16, 1866; andOraE,, September 3, 1869. Jessie 
S., born January 11, 1874, died December 28, 1877. Mr. Giddis is a farmer, 
having fifty-two and one-quarter acres of excellent land, most of it valued 
at $100 per acre. He has served three years as Trustee of the township, is 
a respected and industrious citizen, believes in the Democracy, is a member 
of the I. O. O. F., and, with his wife, of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 



CLARIDON TOWNSHIP. 727 

MRS. MAHALA F. HAINES, widow of Columbus L. Haines, is a 
native of Claridon Township, where she was born October 18, 1844. Her 
parents, Jacob and Mary Holverstott, of German ancestry, were natives of 
Ohio and Pennsylvania severally. They settled in this county in very early 
days, and became prominent farmers, owning 360 acres of valuable land. 
Mr. Holverstott died in 1860 or 1861, aged about sixty-seven years. His 
wife still survives him, living upon the old homestead in her sixty-ninth 
year. Columbus L. Haines was the son of Lemmon C. and Eleanor (Bo- 
gan) Haines, also of German extraction. His birth took place June 5, 1844, 
and he married our subject March 27, 1863. Their two children are Mary 
E., born December 30, 1864, and EvaE., October 25, 1869. Mr. Haines 
entered the late war in the spring of 1861, and was wounded at Pittsburg 
Landing, lying in the hospital at Camp Dennison, Ohio, seven months. He 
was honorably discharged in 1862. His earthly career closed August 14, 
1879, leaving an estate of sixty-seven acres. He was an industrious citizen, 
a live member of the Free-Will Baptist Church, and charitable to all de- 
serving objects. 

JOHN HANLEY. grocer, a native of Ireland, was born June 21, 1852. 
He is a son of John and Ann (Kelley) Hanley. He came to America in 
1871, stopping in York State one year, learning the cooper trade. He then 
came to Marion County, temporarily moving to St. Louis in 1873. He re- 
mained there but t*vo years, when he returned to Marion, clerking in a gro- 
cery, and attending to the books and general business of a company grad 
ing a railroad. He has a good education, having attended the national 
schools in Ireland and the public schools in this .country. September 27, 
1881. he married Julia Breen, also a native of Ireland. The name of their 
one child is John, born February 3, 1883. Mr. Hanley is an energetic 
citizen and a successful business man. He owns a residence on High street 
and is building a fine frame store and large hotel, 40x50 feet, three stories 
high. Politically speaking, he is a Democrat. 

MICHAEL R. HARRISON, stock-dealer, is a native of Morrow Coun- 
ty, Ohio, born February 20, 1844, the son of Jacob and Rachel (Rice) Har- 
rison, of Irish and German descent and natives of Virginia. They were 
born in Fairfield County, married about 1827, settled in Morrow County as pio- 
neers, and were the parents of nine children, six living— Rachel R, Ann, 
Sarah, John V., Michael R. and Elizabeth. Bruce, George and Jacob are 
deceased. The father died in 1875 and the mother in 1880. Michael R. , 
our subject, having received a limited education, remained upon the farm 
until he married, December 14, 1870, Malinda White, and the names of 
their two children are Charles R. and Minnie M. They lost an infant. The 
wife died September 15, 1879. He again ^married, May 8, 1881, Eliza H. 
Irey, widow of J. S. Irey (deceased), and a daughter of Michael and Eliza- 
beth (Boyce) Welbourne, who are natives of England, immigrants of 1822, 
and settlers of Claridon Township. They had seven children, only three 
surviving — John B., El^a H. and Josiah M. His father died October 22, 
1865, and the mother August 19, 1865. Mr. Harrison followed farming 
until 1879, when he commenced buying and shipping stock, and he has be- 
come one'of the leading shippers of the county. He moved to Caledonia in 
1879, but still owns a farm of 160 acres of valuable land, part of the old 
homestead. He is a well known citizen, a member of the K. of P., votes 
the Democratic ticket, and he and wife are members of the Methodist Epis- 
copal Church. 



728 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

ROBERT L. HIGHLY, dealer in stoves, etc., is a native of Union 
County, Ohio. He was born July 16, 1838, and is a son of John and Mary 
(Cammarr) Highly. The former was of Irish and the latter of German ex- 
traction, but both natives of Pennsylvania They came to Ohio in 1842, set- 
tling in Crawford County, where Mr. Highly became a useful and respect 
ed citizen, serving as Assessor nine consecutive years, as Justice of the 
Peace ten years and as Postmaster during his entire residence there. In 
1853, he moved to Cedar County, Iowa, and followed farming the remainder 
of his days. They were the parents of seven children, five surviving — 
Rebecca, Thomas, Eliza. Mary and Robert L. Hannah and John are de- 
ceased. Our subject, having acquired a limited education, commenced to 
learn the tinner trade, at Muscatine, Iowa, under the direction of D. T. 
Miller. Having mastered his trade, he enlisted in his country's defense, 
April 28, 1861, Company C, Second Regiment Iowa Volunteer Infantry 
The company's Captain was J. D. Brewster, and its Col. S. R. Curtis. 
He participated in the following engagements: Foi't Donelson, Shiloh, 
siege of Corinth and Towa Creek, Ala. He was honorably discharged Apri 
28, 1864, and returned to his home, engaging with his former employers. 
In the spring of 1865, he came to Caledonia and established himself per- 
manently in the stove and tinware trade. His marriage took place Novem- 
ber 28, 1867, to Catherine D. Houser, daughter of Anthony and Eliza 
(Wise) Houser. His union has resulted ia the birth of four children — 
Charles A., born June 7, 1870; George T., May 19, 1875; Robert F., Oc- 
tober 25, 1878, and an infant son, deceased. Our subject is doing a good 
business, and is the owner of considerable property in the village. He is 
a member of the I. 0.0 F. , of the Labona Encampment, at Galion, Ohio, 
and of the Crayton Post of the G. A. R. 

CHARLES W. HINDS, son of Thomas and Rebecca (Carpenter) Hinds, 
was born February 1, 1856. Having obtained a fair, practical education, 
he married, December 26, 1880, Miss May Brooke, and they have one child 
— Ralph C, born June 13, 1882. Mrs. Hines is a daughter of Wesley and 
Eunice (Adamson) Brooke. Her father died in 1864, and his wife is still 
a resident of Caledonia. Mr. Hinds is an energetic young farmer, residing 
on the old homestead, and is a member of the Sons of Temperance. 

JOHN B. HINDS was born in Claridon Township, October 23, 1840, 
the only son of Thomas and Ann (Bostock) Hinds, who emigrated from 
their native place, Lincolnshire, England, in childhood. Thomas was born 
in 1817 and was the sixth son (had had three sisters). He came to Claridon 
Township in 1822, and was married to the above lady in 1839, in Richland 
County, Ohio. Their union was blessed with two children — John B. and 
James H, who died at the age of twenty-one years. He married, for hi^ 
second wife, Rebecca A. Carpenter, and eight children were born to them, 
seven surviving — Charles W., David O, George G., Mary A., Elizabeth A., 
Catherine and Rose A. When aged one year, Susie died. Thomas Hinds 
was an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Claridon, and 
a liberal supporter to all benevolent and charitable causes. Our subject 
was educated at the district school. He continued at home until March 23, 
1864, at which time he married Miss Mary F., daughter of Thomas and 
Amy (Swisher) Curl, residents of Morrow County, Ohio. A daughter and 
son were born to them — Annie L., born December 20, 1866, and Edgar W. , 
April 3, 1869. Mrs. Hinds died January 27, 1871. Mr. Hinds again mar- 
ried, this time to Margaret Anderson, February 18, 1875. She is the 
daughter of John and Martha (Roult) Anderson, and the mother of six chil- 





^^->r^o ^/A*^ 1 ^ 



CLARIDON TOWNSHIP. 729 

dren- -Raymond H., born December 1, 1875; Lucy A., Julv 10, 1881; Ella, 
November 22, 1882; Mattie, June 10, 1879, died August 27, 1879, and 
Thomas W. and Charles (twins), May 26, 1880; the latter died very young, 
the former died August 6, 1881. Mrs. Hinds was born October 14, 1846. 
Mr. Hinds has always devoted his attention to agriculture, rearing graded 
stock. His farm of 157 acres is highly cultivated, and worth $75 per acre. 
He is an upright and an enterprising citizen. He has been Assessor of the 
township one year. He is Republican, and an advocate of temperance. 
His family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, to which he is 
a generous giver, and has been its class leader six years. 

JOSEPH D. HINDS, of the firm ot Marggraf & Hinds, was born in 
Marion County September 10, 1852, the son of John and Maria (Wade) 
Hinds. His father was born in Lincolnshire, England, and came to Amer- 
ica in 1821. He married, in this county, in 1833, a daughter of Zebulon 
and Susannah (Mann) Wade. He settled here upon land entered by his 
father, John Hinds, and continued farming until 1872, when he moved to 
Caledonia. He had five children, three living — John W. , William W. and 
Joseph D. Susan, the wife of J. W. Curtis, died February 23, 1861, and 
Robert died February 18, 1872. The father's demise occurred February 
28, 1874, and the mother's January 27, 1879. Having obtained a fair 
education in the district school, Mr. J. D. Hinds commenced to learn teleg- 
raphy in 1S67, which business he prosecuted five years. After being in- 
active several years, he engaged in farming four years in Union Countv. 
Ohio. March 31, 1881, he married Mantie B. Rogers, a daughter of Row- 
land H. and Mary J. (McKinney) Rogers. The name of their one child is 
Rowland R., born January 25, 1882. He is a member of Oliver Lodge, 
No. 447, Marion Chapter, No. 62, R. A. M., Marion Commandery, No. 36. 
K. T. of A. L. of H. , and is Supreme Recorder of P. O. of A. He is a 
Republican. 

MRS. REBECCA A. HINDS, widow of Thomas Hinds, is a native of Har- 
rison County, Va. , born November 9, 1824. Thomas Hinds was born in Lin- 
colnshire, England, December 15, 1811, coming to America in 1822, with his 
parents, who settled in Claridon Township. He obtained a common school ed- 
ucation, and married, November 14, 1839, Miss Ann Bostock, who bore him two 
children — John B. and James H. , dying November 1, 1864. His wife, also a 
native of England, died October 27, 1845. He married our subject October 
12, 1848. She was a daughter of Lewis R. and Eliza (Stewart) Carpenter, 
of English and Irish descent, severally. He was a native of Virginia, but 
came to Harrison County in 1831. He was a farmer and an active politi- 
cian of the old Whig persuasion. At one time he was County Assessor, and 
a strong member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. His death took 
place September 1, 1869, aged sixty-three years. Mr. and Mrs. Hinds were 
the parents of seven children— Mary A., born July 27, 1849; Elizabeth, 
May 16, 1852; Catherine, November 13, 1853; Charles W., February 1, 
1856; David C, September 7, 1858: George G., August 28, 1864, and 
Rose A., September 20, 1868. Mr. Hinds held a farm of 160 acres. He 
resided in the county fifty-nine years; was a member of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church, and died February 12, 1881. Soon after his death, Mrs. 
Hinds moved to Caledonia, purchasing a suitable home on East High 
street, where she continues to reside with her youngest daughter. She is 
a faithful member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

WILLIAM W. HINDS, brother of John D., above referred to, is a 
native of Claridon Township, born March 9, 1847. He obtained a practi- 

EE 



730 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

cal education, and remained upon the farm until 1875, when he moved to 
Caledonia. Ke is not engaged, at present, in any particular business, on 
account of failing health. He has some property in the village, and com- 
mands the respect of the town. He belongs to the F. & A. M., and is a 
Republican. 

HENRY J. HOLYERSTOTT, son of Henry and Margaret (Betzer) 
Holverstott, is a native of Claridon Township, born February 24, 1842. 
The country schoolmaster gave him his education and his union with Lettie 

E. Anderson took place December 25, 18G7. She was a daughter of Joseph 
and Sarah (Clark) Anderson, of German and English descent, severally. 
Joseph Anderson died in 1860, and Mrs. A. is still a resident of La Rue, 
Ohio, aged seventy-five years. One heir was born to the above union — 
Ezra C, born May 4, 1870. Mrs. Holverstott was born July 27, 1843. 
Henrv J. Holverstott is a representative farmer of Claridon Township, hav- 
ing 321 acres of cultivated and, with comaiendable improvements, valued at 
.$100 per acre. He makes a specialty of Norman and Clydesdale horses, 
and his annual sales of general produce amount to $2,000 or $2,500. He 
received from his father's estate 150 acres, but has accumulated the rest of 
his property by their own industry. With his wife, he holds a membership 
in the Christian Church in Montgomery Township; he is also a Repub 
lican in sentiment. 

LAFAYETTE J. HOLVERSTOTT, son of Henry and Margaret (Bet 
zer) Holverstott, was born March 21, 1837, at the old homestead, where he 
was reared, educated, lived, and died November 8, 1877. The pioneer 
schools gave him his education, and he married, March 26, 1863, Frances E. 
Painter, who was born February 16, 1845. She was a daughter of William 

F. and Hannah (Milton) Painter; the former of German stock and a native 
of New Jersey, the latter of French ancestry and a native of Delaware. 
He was born December 5, 1794, and removed in time to Ohio, with his 
parents. His father, George Painter, gave him a title to the land now oc- 
cupied by the city of Delaware, Ohio; it was dated March 27, 1833, and was 
lost. He came to Marion County in 1836. His wife died September 15, 
1870, in her seventy-third year. He still survives. Mr. and Mrs. Holver- 
stott's children are Flora L., born August 30, 1864; Horace W., February 
3, 1867; Eva G., June 12, 1869, and Marcellus L., August 24, 1874. La- 
fayette J. Holverstott was an active, intelligent and energotic laborer, leav- 
ing to his family a productive farm of 304 acres and an honored name; was 
a zealous member of the Free-Will Bapiist Church, officially connected, and 
was a strong and influential Republican. 

JACOB HOLVERSTOTT (deceased) was born in Pennsylvania June 29, 
1802, the son of Jacob a ad Christena (Pfeiffer) Holverstott, who sailed from 
Germany when very young. Jacob came from Ross County, Ohio, to Marion 
County in a very early time, locating in Claridon Township for life. He 
first wedded, June 28, 1827, Rebecca Lucas, by whom he had three chil- 
dren, one surviving — John L., bom August 6, 1830. Christena, born May 
16, 1828, died October 4, 1831; Abraham was born September 5, 1829, and 
died eight days later. His wife's decease occurred October 11, 1829. He 
was united in marriage a^ain, October 28, 1842, with Miss Mary Gunn, a 
daughter of Henry and Sophia (Shreck) Gunn, of German descent. The 
former was born July 26, 1780, and died July 23, 1841, aged sixty years 
eleven months and twenty -three days. His widow is now living with her son, 
Lewis Gunn, in Marion. Seven of Mr. and Mrs. Holverstott's nine children 
are living— Sophia ■).. born April 23, 1834; Rev. Henry H. July 14, 1836; 



CLARIDON TOWNSHIP. 731 

George W., January 30, 1839; Mary A.. December 5, 1840; Mahala F., 
October 18, 1844; Lewis M., May 11, 1850, and Olive 0., April 21, 1854. 
The deceased were Jacob F., twin to Mahala F., dying October 4, 1847. 
and Rebecca E., born April 10, 1848, dying April 18, 1882. The subject 
of this memoir ended his earthly career September 24, 1860. He left a 
valuable estate of 367 acres, well cultivated, and a cherished name. He 
was first identified with the Lutheran Church, and about forty years ago 
united with and died in the faith of the Christian Church. 

PETER W. HOLVERSTOTT, first son of Henry and Margaret (Bet- 
zer) Holverstott, is a native of Claridon Township, where he was born De 
cember 16, 1831. His parents were natives of Pennsylvania. They were 
married in Ross County, Ohio, where they came when children with their par- 
ents in 1808. They came to Marion County in the autumn of 1830, and lo- 
cated in Claridon Township, residing there nearly forty years. They were 
blessed with the birth of eleven children, four sons and seven daughters, 
of whom seven survive — Maria, Margaret, Mary J., Peter W., Barbara A.. 
Henry J. and Martha R. Christiana (aged three years), an infant (un- 
named). Naomi E. (wife of G. W. Smith), and La Fayette J. (aged forty- 
four years) are deceased. They moved to Marion about fourteen months 
before his death, which took place May 15, 1868. He was an honored and 
respected citizen. By industry and economy he accumulated a large j)rop- 
erty. He was reared and confirmed in the Lutheran Church, but became a 
member of the Christian denomination some twenty-five years before his death. 
He gave liberally of his means to build churches and to sustain the minis- 
try, in other as well as his own denomination. He died aged se\enty 
years. His wife still survives him, now (1883) in her eightieth year, and 
is a resident of Marion. Peter W. Holverstott, the subject of this sketch, 
and one of the leading farmers of this township, was reared to manhood on 
a farm, and acquired his education in the common schools of his native 
place. October 30, 1854, he was united in marriage to Miss Adelia Kil- 
bourn, a daughter of Rev. Marcus and Sarah (Wyatt) Kilbourn, the former 
a native of Vermont, and the latter of New York. Her parents married in 
Delaware County, where Mr. Kilbourn died in 1836, aged forty-six years 
His widow is now the wife of Robert Cratty, of Prospect Township, and 
they are, probably, the most elderly couple now residing in the county; she 
being (1883) in her eighty-seventh year, while Mr. Cratty is in his one 
hundredth year. Mrs. Holverstott, an estimable lady, was born in Dela- 
ware County. Ohio, April 30, 1835. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. P. W. 
Holverstott has been blessed with five children, as follows: Clarence K. , 
born March 3, 1859, the railroad agent at Martel, this county; Emma M., 
born May 18, 1862, wife of James W. Kennedy, of Crawford County; Alice 
A., born October 10, 1867; Ida L., born April 5. 1865, dying September 
21, 1865, and an infant, son, deceased. Mr. Holverstott is a prominent far- 
mer of Claridon Township, and has followed that occupation very success- 
fully. He owns a farm of 300 acres, most of which is in a good state of 
c ultivation and finely improved. He makes a specialty of keeping graded 
stock of various kinds. Mr. Holverstott is a man of live enterprise, and 
always takes an active part in the public affairs of the community. He has 
fi lied various local offices, and is a man of honor and integrity. He and 
wife are members of the Free-AVill Baptist Church, with which be has been 
prominently identified for a number of years. The portrait of Mr. Henry 
Holverstott is given in this work. 



732 HISTORY OF MARION COUN1Y. 

ANDREW H. HOWSER, son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Smith) Howser, 
was born in Belmont County, Ohio, October 27. 1851. His literary attain- 
ments were confined wholly to what he received from the district school. 
He married, January 22, 1876, Miss Magdalena Retterer, and their two 
children are Clifford M., born March 28, 1880, and Emma B., born Febru- 
ary 14, 1882. He is the owner of ninety-three acres of valuable land, 
worth $80 per acre. Politically, he is a Republican; religiously, a mem- 
ber of the Baptist Church. 

JACOB HOWSER is a native of Mason Counly, Ky., born January 28, 
1814, the son of Jacob and Sarah (Loveless) Howser. His parents are of 
German blood, but natives of Maryland. They had ten children, live of 
whom are surviving — Jacob, Eliza (wife of James Barnes, of Harrison 
County, Ohio). Sarah (wife of Cyrus Barto, of Iowa), James (also of Har- 
rison County, Ohio) and Emily Norricks (of Knox County. Ohio). The 
subject of this sketch obtained a limited education in the very common 
schools of Harrison County, Ohio, where he wedded, March 10, 1842, Miss 
Elizabeth Smith, born January 12, 1822, a daughter of Joseph and Nancy 
(Martin) Smith. Their home has been blessed with fileven children — John 
H, born June 15. 1843; James S., June 26, 1845; Sarah M.. May 5, 1847; 
William G., May 5, 1849; Andrew H., October 27, 1851; Amanda, August 
26, 1853; Benjamin R., June 10, 1855; Florence E., September 27, 1859; 
Isabel, August 11, 1861; Lowring O, November 27, 1857, died Januai'y 4, 
1861, and Dollie, born June 28, 1865, died April 6, 1880. Mr. Howser re- 
moved his family from Belmont County to Marion County, settling in Clar- 
idon Township in 1852. At that time, he was in limited circumstances, 
but has acquired a good competence, and is engaged extensively in keeping 
registered stock. His farm consists of 1,500 acres of rich, productive land, 
upon which he has erected a fine brick residence. He is a genial gentle- 
man, a stanch Republican and has served in nearly all the offices of the 
township. He gives liberally to all benevolent purposes. 

JAMES HOWSER, second son of Jacob Howser, is a native of Harri- 
son County, born June 26, 1845. His education is fair, and his marriage 
nuptials with Maria L. Carter were celebrated October 1, 1868. She was 
born October 18, 1845, to Joel and Harriet (Jones) Carter, the former a 
native of Maryland, the latter of the " Old Dominion. " They were mar- 
ried in Belmont County, Ohio, and Mr. Carter died in Morrow County Oc- 
tober 16, 1869, aged sixty-three years; Mrs. Carter, born November 11, 
1808, still survives, a resident of Morrow County. Mr. and Mrs. Howser 
have three children — Eliza J., born March 14, 1871; Hattie B. , November 
11,1873, andOraC, March 25, 1876. Mr. H. is a farmer, having in 
charge 160 acres of the old homestead. He devotes considerable attention 
to graded stock, principally the Poland-China hog. His Republicanism is 
unquestioned, and his charity for all good causes is known. 

JOHN H. HOWSER. fir.st son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Smith) Howser, 
is a native of Belmont County, Ohio, born June 16, 1843. His education 
is practical, never having attended school after his sixteenth year. He re- 
mained with his father, however, until he was joined in marriage, January 
6, 1870, with Miss Maggie L. Owen, born August 20, 1845, a daughter of 
Charles and Esther Owen, and four children have been born to this union 
—Elizabeth E., born August 27, 1871; Charles F., October 26, 1873; a 
son, February 13, 1883. Jacob, born January 7, 1878, died in March of 
the same year. Mr. Howser came to Claridou Township with his parents 
in his ninth year. He is now the owner of 120 acres of fine land, valued 



CLARIDON TOWNSHIP. 733 

at $65 per acre. He also raises stock. He is an energetic and flourishing 
farmer. He is a stanch Prohibitionist, and both himself and wife are mem- 
bers of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Claridon. 

HEZEKIAH HUNTER, of the firm of Hunter & Hipsher, a son of 
James and Catherine (Hipsher) Hunter, was born in Fairfield County, 
Ohio, March 11, 1831. His parents, of German and Irish descent and na- 
tives of Pennsylvania, came to Fairfield Conuty before marriage. They 
spent six years there, he teaching the most of the time. In 1831, they 
moved to Richland County, Ohio, where they resided upon a farm until 
1860. They were the parents of seven children, five living — Robert M., 
Margaret J., Hezekiah, Emily A. and Caroline A. The deceased are 
Isaiah and Elizabeth. The father died in Iowa, while temporarily there, 
aged sixty-seven years seven months and seven days. The mother died 
fifteen years prior to this time, aged forty-six years. Our subject obtained 
the common school education of his day, and attended two terms of select 
school, under the tutorship of Rev. Gailey. He then taught, more or less, 
for five years. He was married, September 9, 1858, to Cynthia Hipsher, a 
daughter of James and Lydia (Giberson) Hipsher, of German ancestry and 
natives of Pennsylvania and New Jersey respectively. They came to Cal- 
edonia in 1873, from their farm in Scott Township, where they had settled 
at a very early day. They had a family of six children, four surviving — 
Eliza. Cynthia, Hiram A. and Silas J. ; the deceased are Harrison, aged 
sixteen years, and Amanda, aged seven years. The father died a few years 
after coming to towi», and the mother eighteen months later. Mr. and Mrs. 
Hunter had born to this union,one daughter — Elma L., dying aged six weeks. 
Our subject established himself in the mercantile business at Caledonia in 
1859, and is among the oldest and successful merchants in the village. 
The firm of Hunter & Hipsher was formed in 1875, and they are doing a 
handsome and flourishing business. Mr. Hunter is a modest and respect- 
ed citizen. He served four years as Treasurer of the township, and has 
been a member of the Council since the incorporation of the village. He 
is a Democrat. 

HARRISON H. IREY is a native of Claridon Township, born Decem- 
ber 16. 1841, to Hannibal and Elizabeth (Lawrence) Irey, natives of Vir- 
ginia and Lincolnshire, England, respectively. They were married and 
became settlers of Marion County about 1835. They were the parents of 
eight children, six surviving — H. H, Charles F., James S., Martha G., Mar- 
shall F. and Anna B. ; the deceased were Elizabeth and an infant daughter. 
Mrs. Irey died in July, 1865, and Mr. Irey about five years later. The 
common school fitted Mr. Irey for life, and it began in earnest when he en- 
listed, August 8, 1862, in Company E, Ninety- sixth Regiment Ohio Vol- 
unteer Infantry, to serve three years. He was engaged at Vicksburg and 
its siege, Arkansas Post, Red River campaign, through all the battles and 
skirmishes, then into Alabama, at Forts Gaines and Morgan. His honorable 
discharge dates " Columbus, Ohio, August 2, 1865." Returning home, his 
marraige to Miss Sarah M. Howsev was solemnized September 25, 1867. 
She is the daughter of Jacob Howser. and has been the mother of six chil- 
dren— Florence E., born December 20. 1869; Bertha, March 5, 1871; John, 
September 30. 1873: AVilliam L.. August 26, 1876; Milton, April 8, 1878, 
died January 4, 1881, and an infant son, May 26, 1880, dying July 23. 
Mr. Irey is a leading farmer, extensively engaged in agricultural pursuits, 
having a farm of 200 acres of excellent land, .stocked with the best grades. 
He has recentlv built an attractive residence and made other valuable im- 



734 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

provements. He is an active Republican, a member of the G. A. R . and 
liberal with his means. 

JAMES S. IREY. His parents, Hannibal and Elizabeth (Lawrence) 
Irey. tho former a native of Virginia and of English descent, the latter a 
native of Lincolnshire, England, arrived in Claridon Township in a very 
primitive day. Mrs. Irey passed away in 1865, and Mr. Irey in 1870. 
James S., was born in the above township February 14, 1847; obtained a 
common school education, and married Martha T. Wittred, December 7, 
1871, daughter of William and Martha (Bothamly) Wittred. Their chil- 
dren are all living — Orral L. , born December 28, 1872; Harley G., April 3, 
L874; Ray, November 8. 1876; Fern L., January 15, 1879, and James C, 
October 15, 1880. Mrs. Irey was born June 14, 1847. Mr. Irey is exten- 
sively engaged in the manufacture of tile, having established himself in 
this business in 1878, and employing three men during that season. He 
owns a comfortable home in Claridon village, and five and one-half acres 
adjacent. He is an active Republican, taking great interest in local poli- 
tics. He is an industrious and worthy citizen. 

GEORGE W. KEYES was born in Darby Township, Union Co., Ohio, 
May 20, 1840, the son of Daniel and Betsey (Carr) Keyes, tho former a na- 
tive of New Hampshire, the latter of Pennsylvania. They were marriei in 
Union County, where they passed the majority of their days. Mrs. Keyes 
was born April 26, 1804, and died September 20, 1849. Mr. Keyes sur- 
vived her until July 9, 1878, in his seventy-sixth year. George W. was 
educated in the schools of Darby and Jackson Townships, in his native 
county, removing to the latter when fifteen, and living with John C. Jolly. 
He enlisted, September 15, 1861, in Company B, Thirty-second Regiment 
Ohio Volunteer Infantry, to serve three years. He participated in the fol- 
lowing engagements: Cross Keys, June 8, 1862; Harper's Ferry, Septem- 
ber 15, 1862, and in a battle that occurred after dark, during which 120 
men of their regiment were either killed or wounded in the short space of 
a minute and a half; the remainder of the regiment was instantly captured, 
paroled and transferred to Chicago, remaining four or five months. Going 
then to Camp Cleveland, Ohio, they were sent to three battles — Port Gib- 
son, Raymond, siege of Vicksburg. Big Shanty, and through the entire At 
lanta campaign, participating in all the battles. At the expiration of his 
term of service, he was honorably discharged at Atlanta. Ga., September 15, 
1864. Returning to Jackson Township, he married, September 5, 1865, to 
Sophia E. Herri n, daughter of Louis and Catherine (Ley singer) Herrin, 
natives of Pennsylvania. They were pioneers of Fairfield County, Ohio, 
where he died in 1867, aged seventy-five years. Mrs. Herrin survives him, 
at present a resident of Circleville, Ohio. George W. Keyes is the father 
of three children— Celestia, born November 8, 1866; Emily A., October 31, 
1869, and Sylvester E., October 25, 1872. Their mother was born Septem- 
ber 22, 1842. Mr. Keyes removed, after marriage, to Claridon Township, 
where he has since resided. His farm of 109 acres is valued at $70 per 
acre. He is a sound Republican, and, with his wife and daughter, a mem- 
ber of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Claridon, to which he has freely 
contributed. 

WILL AM KINNAMON was born in Ross County, Ohio, April 24. 
1846, the son of George and Hannah (Downs )Kinnamon, of English stock, 
and natives of Virginia and Ohio respectively. The former was box*n in 
September, 1809. They were early settlers in the above county, and the 
wife died there. George K. survived her until July 4, 1878, dying in 



CLARIDON TOWNSHIP. 735 

Canaan Township, Morrow Co., Ohio. They had ten children, five living — 
Mary J.. Elizabeth, Harrison, William and John. The deceased were 
Lucinda, Nelson, George, Harriet and Eliza. The subject of this memoir 
secured a fair learning from the common schools of Ross and Morrow 
Counties, and continued with his father until he attained his majority. He 
wooed and wedded, December 24, 1868, Miss Maria J., born December 3, 
1847. a daughter of Hezekiah and Rachel (Henry) Weeks. They have had 
six children— Ella M., born May 1, 1870; Charles W., January 29, 1874; 
Flora E., October 27, 1875; Oliver W., October 9, 1877; Frank W., Jan- 
uary 31, 1882, and Ada B., April 5, 1872, dying July 23, 1873. Mr. Kin- 
namou was a hundred-day man in the late war, enlisting in 1864, in Com- 
pany A, One Hundred and Thirty-sixth Regiment Ohio National Guard. 
His regiment spent the most of its time in the District of Columbia. He 
commenced in life with very limited resources, but owns to-day seventy-five 
acres in Morrow County, and other property to the amount of $7,000. In 
connection with his extensive farming, for the past fifteen years he has 
been buying and shipping stock, with considerable net profit. As a citizen, 
he is exemplary, as a Republican, strong, and as a Christian, influential 
and benevolent. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. 

HIRAM A. KOONS, plasterer, was born in Richland County, Ohio, 
November 27, 1836, the son of John and Ann B. Koons. His father is a 
native of Pennsylvania, born in 1810. His mother was born Jan. 12, 
1816, in Cumberland County, of the same State, and died January 15, 
1843. His father, still living aged (1883) seventy-three years, has spent 
nearly all his life working at his trade, shoe-making. Hiram A., our sub- 
ject, having a fair practical education, began, in his twentieth year, to 
learn the trade of plastering, under the direction of Thomas J. White, of 
Crestline, Ohio. He came to Caledonia in 1858. May 10, 1860, he mar- 
ried Sarah E. Bell, a daughter of Benjamin and Eleanor (Thorp) Bell, both 
deceased. His union has been crowned with three children — Sheridan C. 
was born December 16, 1864; Cora A. was born May 27, 1861, and an in- 
fant, August 11, 1863, both deceased. Mr. Koons enlisted in the civil war 
July 10, 1863, Company I, Eighty-eighth Regiment Ohio Volunteer In- 
fantry, and served till the close of the struggle, performing guard duty 
at Camp Chase and Columbus, Ohio. For eight months, at Camp Chase, 
his duty was to inspect rebel letters at the prison office. His discharge 
dates July 3, 1865. Mi-. K. has eight acres of farm land near the village, 
and a good residence on the corner of Liberty and Water streets. He is a 
member of the I. O. O. F., of the L. of H. , of the G. A. R. and is a 
Republican. 

WILLIAM F. LAFFERTY was born in Harrison County, Ohio, April 
6, 1823. He was the son of John and Mary (Leedom) Laffarty, of English 
extraction, and natives of Pennsylvania. They were married in Pennsyl- 
vania, and came to Ohio about 1812, settling in the above county for the 
remainder of their lives. They were the parents of ten children, seven of 
whom are living — James (in his eightieth year), Samuel, John, Maria, 
Smith, William F. and Uriah. Mary died, aged thirty-five years, Abra- 
ham, aged thirty years, and Jane, aged seventy years. William F., having 
obtained the rudiments of an education, attended the Belleville Union 
Schools a short time, and then commenced teaching, which occupation he 
followed till he was fifty years of age — in all, forty-nine terms. He was 
married, September 30, 1852, to Catherine Ulsh. and five childern have 



736 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

been born to them, three living — Ann E., Laura C. and George W. The 
deceased were Marshall and William. He has devoted the most of his life 
to teaching, and has been a successful educator. He owes property in Cal- 
edonia, and affiliates with the Democratic party. 

JAMES LAWRENCE, deceased, was born in Lincolnshire, England, 
February 21, 1810, the son of Edward and Martha (Stepper) Lawrence, 
who crossed to the United States three years after their sons James and 
William, they coming in 1832. They settled on our subject's homestead, 
and were the parents of eight children, four living—Jane W. , born March 
16. 1808; George, March 31, 1814: Ann, January 13, 1822, widow of James 
Douce, and Richard, January 17, 1826, a resident of Hardin County, Ohio. 
William, born Februarv 19,1812, died in Illinois; Sarah, born February 12, 
1819. died at home April 15, 1839; Elizabeth, born December 27, 1816, is 
also deceased. Edward Lawrence died May 1, 1864, aged eighty- three 
years. Mrs. L. died April 17, 1855, aged seventy-seven years. The com- 
mon school of England was the source of education of James Lawrence. 
Arriving here in so early a day, he became one of the oldest and most re- 
spected of the pioneers. He continued with his parents until June, 1856, 
when he wedded Susannah Welbourn, born July 17, 1832, a daughter of 
George and Ann (Mills) Welbourn, the former a native of England, the 
latter of New Jersey. They were pioneers in this county. Both are now 
dead. Six of Mr. Lawrence's seven children survive — Benjamin F., born 
February 29, 1856; Martha J., July 20, 1859; Sarah A., September 22, 
1861; Marv E., May 6, 1865; Emma E., September 27, 1867; and Abboit 
A. , August'26, 1870. William, born July 27, 1858, died August 10, 1858. 
Mr. Lawrence died June 29, 1883, leaving to his wife and heirs an estate 
of 380 acres of fine land. Although not a member of any church, his faith 
was Christian, and acts benevolently inclined. Politically, he entertained 
the principles of Republicanism. Benjamin Lawrence, his son, was ap- 
pointed administrator of his effects, and now has full charge of the farm. 

JOHN C. LEE, deceased, was born in Pennsylvania, on the Susque- 
hanna River, August 16, 1793. He was the son of Zebulon P. Lee, who 
came from Scotland with seven brothers and entered the war of the Revolu- 
tion as a spy for the cause of Independence, ever afterward losing trace of 
his brothers. He was wounded, for which he received a life pension. He 
died in Hancock County, Ohio, at the advanced age of one hundred and 
eight years. His widow, of Low Dutch stock, died when ninety-six years 
of age. John C. came to Fairfield County, Ohio, in early life; thence to 
Marion, County, settling in Scott Township. He married Miss Sarah Black 
in March, 1824, who died January 23, 1826. He was married again, to 
Miss Louisa Spurgeon, October 26, 1830. She was also a native of Penn- 
sylvania, born January 1, 1801. She removed with her parents to Scott 
Township at a very early date, locating on the east bank of Muddy Run. 
They had seven children — Daniel, born March 15, 1831, a resident of 
Montana Territory since 1881; Noah, born July 5, 1833; Hannah, born 
August 22, 1835, married J. M. Dixter, January 18, 1854, who died Febru- 
ary 28, 1865, leaving three children; again married, William Osborn, April 
16, 1867, leaving two children, she occupying the old homestead; Sarah 
A., born October 10, 1838, married S. J. Hipsher May 5, 1S64, and died 
September 11, 1877, leaving three children; William H., born July 23, 
1841, a resident of Montana Territory since 1864, living upon a ranch for- 
ty miles below the National Park; Maggie, born March 4, 1845, married 
G. W. Ault June 27. 1866, and died August 4, 1869, bearing two children, 



CLARIDON TOWNSHIP. 737 

now deceased; Zillah J., December 28, 1849, married P. J. Heading Sep- 
tember 16, 1869, had three children, moved first to Illinois, but settled in 
Washington County, Kan. These parents continued to reside in Scott 
Township until death, being firm believers in the doctrine of universal sal- 
vation, and members of the Universalis Church. Mr. Lee died Septem- 
ber 11, 1867, and Mrs. Lee survived until May 11, 1875. 

NOAH LEE, the son of the preceding, was born July 5, 1833. He lived 
with his parents, acquiring a common school education, spending four 
months in the fall of 1853 at a Quaker school in Delaware County. He 
supplemented this by teaching a three months' term in Indiana. In the 
fall of 1855, he drove a team to Story County, Iowa, for Amon Hipsher. 
He continued in that State two and a half years. April 10, 1858, there be- 
ing no railroads west of the Mississippi, he and William Osborn walked 
from Iowa to Allen County, Kan., a distance of 450 miles; there he took 
up a Government claim, pre-empted the same, and assisted to lay out the 
town of Iola, the present county seat of Allen County. In the autumn of 
1860, he returned to Ohio. March 28. 1864, he set out for Montana Terri- 
tory, and obtaining the company of W. H. Lee and Jerome Suit at Valpa- 
raiso, Ind., they went to Cedar County, Iowa, where they purchased four 
yoke of oxen (one yoke were cows), provisions, etc., etc. June 1 they start- 
ed, reaching Virginia City after two and one-half months of tedious riding; 
mined here, washing gold, until late in the fall; then, with eleven com- 
rades, he built a flatboat and embarked upon the Yellowstone, homeward 
bound. The river was very low, making their journey very slow and weari- 
some. They were frequently obliged to step out into the floating slush and 
lift their craft from some hidden rock. After thus running several days, 
the ice completely dammed the river, compelling them to abandon the boat. 
Taking such articles as they could carry, they walked to the mouth of that 
river in a few days, completely exhausted from the want of food. Seven of 
the company wintered at Fort Union, up the Missouri, but the remaining 
four, of whom our subject was one, were determined to reach the States. 
Accordingly, an old skiff was secured, in which they traveled two days and 
nights, the ice finally compelling them to take to land again. Reaching 
Fort Berhold, under the guidance of an Indian, they set out once more for 
the settlements. After wading many days through the snow, they went into 
camp near the Painted Woods country. Just as they were well settled for 
the night, twenty -one Sioux Indian warriors surrounded them. All their 
loose clothing, provisions and the like were seized, and they were obliged 
to cross the river to their camp. The n«xt day they were permitted to take 
their departure, but that same evening they came upon another band of In- 
dians, who were friendly and sheltered them for the night. Three Indians 
being furnished by the latter to guide and protect them, they finally 
reached Fort Rice, half frozen. They then passed down the river to Sioux 
City, where the party separated. April 23, 1867, Mr. Lee was wedded to 
Miss Lizzie Reed. They have had two children — William R., born Febru- 
ary 18, 1870 (became deaf from the effects of spinal fever, when three years 
of age; his parents are educating him at the Asylum for the Deaf and Dumb 
at Columbus, Ohio); Frank was born April 7, 1875. For the past fifteen 
years, Mr. Lee has been successfully engaged in the milling business at 
Caledonia: is a prominent and influential citizen; is a member of the Ma- 
sonic fraternity, and its Secretary for twelve years, also a member of the 
Town Council for seven years; of the School Board since 1873, and its 
Clerk during that time. He has been Treasurer of the Cemeterv Associa 



738 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

tion since its organization, also Treasurer of the School Library. He is a 
member of the Universalist Church, and has occupied the position of Super- 
intendent of the Sunday school for ten years. 

WILLIAM LEEPER, son of Francis and Isabella (Kee) Leeper, was 
born in the Emerald Isle May 12, 1838. When eighteen, he crossed the 
waters, landing at Philadelphia, and then, making his way to Marion Coun- 
ty, Ohio, he hired as a farm laborer until he was wedded, January 7, 1868, 
to Sarah E. Mutchler, a daughter of George and Amanda (Wilson) Mutchler, 
of German and Irish extraction respectively. To them three children have 
been born — Clara M. B., born September 16, 1868; Francis G., April 21, 
1871, and Eva R., November 11, 1877. Mrs. Leeper was born May 20, 1845. 
William Leepor located in Claridon Township in 1872, purchasing forty 
acres, adding later forty acres more, all in good cultivation; its value is $80 
per acre. Mr. Leeper is a respected citizen. He has been a member of the 
School Board over eleven years; he votes the Democratic ticket; himself 
and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church at Marion, and he is offi- 
cially connected with the Knights of Honor. 

OLIVER LINDSAY was born in Center County, Penn., November 16, 
1816, the son of John and Jeanette (Reed) Lindsay, natives of Pennsyl- 
vania. Both John and his father served during the entire Revolutionary 
war. Oliver's father and mother came to Fairfield County, Ohio, in 1821- 
22, stopping but a short time, when they settled in Scott Township, this 
county. They were the parents of seven children, six living — James, Oli 
ver, Mary, Elizabeth, Rhoda, and Montgomery. John died an infant. The 
father died August 24, 1854, aged about sixty-eight years. The mother died 
November 3, 1871, aged eighty-seven years. Oliver Lindsay, having secured 
a common school education, worked for nine years upon a farm for L. H. 
Ross, in Pickaway and Crawford Counties. He married, November 25, 
1856, Miss Mary Sidel, and six children have been born to them — William 
J., Catherine J., Sophia J., Annie E. and Alpharetta. James M. was born 
May 30, 1860, and died February 11, 1863. Mr. Lindsay has been de- 
voting his entire attention to farming, and is the owner of 280 acres of val- 
uable land, worth $75 per acre. He has been a resident of the county sixty- 
one years, and is well and favorably known. He is a stanch Democrat. 

CHARLES MARGGRAF was born in Upper Sandusky, Ohio, July 27, 
1855, the son of Gustavus and Catherine (Bookmiller) Marggraf. He ob- 
tained his education in the common school. In 1878, he engaged in the 
restaurant business until 1880. He was then in the same business with C. 
S. Munson, at Bucyrus, three years. "January 1, 1883, he returned to Cal- 
edonia and engaged in the mercantile trade with J. D. Hinds, entering 
$3,000 worth of stock. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. (officially con- 
nected), of the Sons of Temperance, and of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

GUSTAVUS MARGGRAF was born in Germany June 25, 1826, the 
son of Frederick and Christine Marggraf, who came to America in 1840, 
settling near Bucyrus, Ohio. The mother died in 1839, and the father in 
1874. When aged fourteen years, Gustavus learned the shoe-maker's trade, 
which he has followed the most of his days. He married, November 27. 
1845, Catherine Ohm, born January 19, 1824, and of their ten children 
since born, eight are living — Caroline, born December 23, 1846; Charles E., 
July 27, 1848; Gustavus, December 10, 1849; Amanda. May 16, 1853; 
Emaline, October 7, 1856; Matilda, October 7, 1858; Edward, August 28, 
1860, and Louisa, August 19, 1863. Frederick W. was born April 5, 
1852, and died March 13, 1852, and Anna M. was born May 10, 1865, and 



CLARIDON TOWNSHIP. 739 

died October 19, 1870. Mr. JYJ. is an industrious and respected citizen. 
He has a comfortable home, and ten acres adjoining the village. He is a 
member of the 1. O. O. F. , and himself and wife are members of the 
Lutheran Church. In politics, he is a Democrat. 

JOHN MARTIN is a native of the Emerald Isle, born in May, 1817. 
His parents, Thomas and Margaret (Martin) Martin, died in their native land. 
He was married in 1848, and in 1865 crossed the sea with his family of 
seven children, locating in Claridon Township, where he has since mostly 
lived. His wife, Hannah, was born December 25, 1825. Their children 
were born in the following order: Margaret, May 3, 1858; Isabella, May 
9, 1852; Jane M., January, 1854; William, June 22, 1857; Thomas H. , 
July 23, 1860; John G., May 5, 1862, and Frank L., October 25, 1865. 
Upon his ad\ent to Claridon Township, Mr. Martin had but $400, but now 
he is the owner of 160 acres of well improved land, valued at $75 per acre. 
He is a respected man and a sound Republican. Himself and wife are 
members of the Free- Will Raptist Church, to which he gives financial aid. 

ISAAC MASON, son of Joseph and Sarah (Towers) Mason, born in Scott 
Township January 29, 1848. His education was received in the district school. 
He lived with his parents until his twenty-sixth year, and was married, August 
6, 1874, to Miss Alpha Lucas, a daughter of Abraham and Catherine 
(Leach) Lucas. Their only child is George T. , born June 26, 1876. Our 
subject is a successful farmer, and has the control of 140 acres of carefully 
cultivated land, stocked with finely graded stock. He has recently erected 
a neat home, surrounded with comfortable buildings. Mr. Mason is an in- 
dustrious farmer and belongs to the Democratic school of politics. 

JAMES McDONALD was born in Washington County, Penn., Septem- 
ber 3, 1820. His father, Mark McDonald, was a native of Northampton- 
shire, England, and his mother, Ann McKnight, of Ireland. They came 
to the United States when young, and were married in the abuve county. 
They had seven children — Mary, James, William, Martha M. and John B. ; 
Sarah Jane died in infancy. Mr. McDonald died April 11, 1859, aged 
seventy-nine years; his wife died August 27, 1869, aged also seventy-nine 
years. Our subject obtained a pioneer education, and October 7, 1847, he 
married Rispah, a daughter of Asa and Eunice (Keys) Llewelyn, natives of 
the same county, and of Irish and Welsh ancestry. The former was born 
March 13, 1791, and died September 10, 1856; the latter was born October 
11, 1788, and died September 4, 1853. To Mr. and Mrs. McDonald have 
been born eight children — Eunice J., born December 6, 1849; Mary A. B. , 
June 22, 1858; Rufus P., January 27, 1860; John B., January 1, 1862, and 
George B., April 10, 1864. Mark was born May 11, 1848, and died Jan- 
uary 9, 1854; Mary A., born April 1, 1853, and died aged sixteen days; 
William, born October 20, 1855, died February 14, 1865. Mrs. McDonald 
was born July 10, 1822. Mr. McDonald removed from Pennsylvania to 
Marion County in the spring of 1866, locating in Waldo Township, but 
came to his present home in 1872. He has seventy-nine acres of land well 
drained and fenced, valued at $100 per acre. He takes pride in cultivat- 
ing the best varieties of all stock. He is a member of the Democratic party 
and of the Presbyterian Church. 

ISAAC A. MERCHANT, son of John T. and Rebecca A. (Gruber) 
Merchant, was born in Marion Township May 26, 1844. He received a 
limited inheritance from his father, to which he has been adding, until he 
owns at present 159 acres of excellent land, drained by 1,500 rods of tile. 
His suitable frame residence was built in 1868, at an expense of $1,500, 



740 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

and his barn and shed in 1874, at a cost of $800. He values his farm at 
$100 per acre, and is engaged in raising grain and graded stock. May 2, 
1864, he enlisted in the war, Company B, One Hundred and Thirty-sixth 
Regiment Ohio National Guard, and has in his possession a written ex- 
pression of gratitude for efficient services from President Lincoln. October 
24, 1867, he married Miss Frances E. Haines, a daughter of L. C. and El- 
len (Bogan) Haines; the former a native uf Pennsylvania, and the latter of 
Virginia. One child blesses this home — Stella E., born December 28, 
1870. Mrs. Merchant was born August 25, 1846. Mr. Merchant is an in- 
fluential citizeu, a stanch Republican and with his family a member of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church, with which he is officiallv connected. 

CALEB MERRITT. son of Caleb and Sarah (Frier) Merritt, was born 
in Orange County, N. Y., October 20, 1819. His parents were natives of 
the same State. His father served during the entire war of 1812. They 
were married in the above State; moved to Ohio in 1830; purchased land 
ia Medina County, residing therein eight years, and then moved to this 
county, Grand Prairie Township, several years; thence to Scott Township. 
The father died near Letimberville in 1853. His widow moved to Iowa, 
where she still resides. Mr. Caleb Merritt continued at home until mar- 
riage, which event occurred December 1, 1843. His wife was Prudence 
Walker, a daughter of Isaac and Mary (Dennis) Walker, natives of Dela- 
ware. They emigrated to Ohio, settling in Marion County, in 1824. The 
father died in 1863, aged sixty years; the mother in 1841, aged about forty- 
live years. Caleb and Prudence Merritt are the parents of eight children — 
Isaac, born March 9, 1847; George W., born February 12, 1850; Mary J. r 
December 12, 1854; Sarah A., May 8, 1858; Emma C, May 28, 1862; 
Hattie E., December 19, 1864; Ella A., April 27, 1868, and Ida M., Sep 
tember 22, 1870. Mr. Merritt is the owner of 320 acres of fine land, valued 
at $60 per acre. He devotes his entire attention to the farm, and raises a 
great deal of tine stock. Speaking politically, he is a Republican. In 
1841, an Indian murdered his father-in-law at Upper Sandusky, Ohio, con- 
cerning which the Indians held a court martial, witnessed by Mr, Merritt; 
the jury returned a verdict of " Guilty," and the penally, " Death by 
shooting," was executed in the presence of thousands. 

JOHN METZGER was born in Claridon Township March 17, 1844. 
and is a son of Philip and Phoebe (Shults) Metzger. who emigrated from 
Germany to the United States in 1835, locating in Richland Township. In 
1845, they settled in Claridon Township, where he died March 11, 1862, 
aged fifty-nine yeai's. His wife survived him until August 12, 1883, when 
she died aged seventy-five years. Our subject was born, reared and edu- 
cated in his native township, securing a good English education. He mar- 
ried, November 7, 1876, Eva E. Cope, born May 12, 1858, and a daughter 
of Henry and Lydia (Klinefelter) Cope. Their one child is Earl, born Oc- 
tober 5, 1878. Mr. Metzger has always followed farming, and is the owner 
of eighty acres of desirable land, valued at $75 per acre. He has recently 
erected a tine, commodious residence, costing $2,500. Mr. Metzger is a 
worthy and an enterprising citizen; he is independent in politics, and a 
member of the I. O. O. F. and Grange; he is a member, with his wife, t»f 
the Evangelical Church — Canaan Chapel. 

BARNEY F. MILLISOR, the son of Jacob and Margaret (Barks) Mill- 
isor, of Pleasant Township, was born August 28, 1847. He remained at 
home, obtaining a fair education, until his marriage to Miss Catherine 
Brunson March 8, 1877, a daughter of James and Rachel (Abrahams) 



CLARIDON TOWNSHIP. 741 

Branson. Mr. and Mrs. Millisor's children are Lulu, born June 5, 1879, 
deceased; Lowes A., born December 2, 1880, and Ora B., December 16, 
1882. Mr. Millisor has always given his attention to agriculture, having 
now 128 acres of fine land, valued at $65 per acre, from which he realizes 
$800 to $1,200 annually. Mr. M. is a liberal and highly-respected citizen; 
in politics, a Democrat. He and his wife belong to the United Brethren 
Church in Pleasant Township. 

OBADIAH MILLER, one of the old pioneers and prominent citizens 
of Claridon Township, was born at Snarford, ten miles northeast of Lin- 
coln, Lincolnshire, England, January 13, 1819. The Miller family were 
land-renters in England, and the farm on which our subject was born, con- 
taining 150 acres, had been in their possession for two hundred years. 
The last of the family to possess thia property were John and Alice (Prid- 
den) Miller, the parents of our subject. They gave up this homestead in 
1832, and embarked for the United States, landing at Quebec, where Mrs. 
Miller, a daughter and a son were drowned and all their effects destroyed. 
Mr. Miller worked out the passage of himself and sons to Cleveland, Ohio. 
He went from there to Richland County, but settled permanently in Huron 
County, where he again married. He departed this life in Marion County 
April 13, 1858. The subject of this sketch was reared partially on a farm 
and educated in the pioneer schoolhoase. When fourteen years of age, he 
was bound to Henry Layman, at Mansfield, to learn the carpenter's trade, 
but the sudden death of Mrs. Layman threw him upon his own resources; 
he, however, prosecuted his chosea trade, and became a master mechanic. 
His work may be seen on many of the older structures of the county. In 
partnership with J. Q. Lakin, he built the stone jail at Marion in 1843; he 
also built the old brick house belonging to George Ulsh in 1844-45, and in 
1840 the frame residence of the late William Thew. After completing the 
Ulsh mansion, he visited his native land, returning to Claridon Township 
in 1845. He was united in marriage with Martha Thew, a daughter of 
Richard and Ann (Bothamly) Thew. Four of their seven children are liv- 
ing — William T., born October 19,1850; Mary L., February 13, 1856; 
Alice A, November 28, 1859. and Francis H., May 3, 1867. Elizabeth T., 
born February 22, 1847, died February 4.1862; Emeline, born Mav 1, 
1853, died September 22, 1861; David E., born May 6, 1862, died August 
21, 1864. Mr. Miller's first purchase of land was from Benjamin Geer, 
and consisted of 160 acres, located in Canaan Township, Morrow Co., 
Ohio, for which he paid $650. He held this property eighteen months, 
when he sold one-half of it to David Christy for $650, and the remainder to 
his brother, Samuel Miller, for $350. He then bought an eighty-acre lot. 
of a German named Allsbaugh, for $700, to which he has been adding un- 
til he now owns 777 acres of valuable land, worth $70 per acre. This is 
the product of Mr. and Mrs. Miller's hard and skillful labor. He is a lead- 
ing farmer of the county, and lately has been making a specialty of rear- 
ing fine sheep. He is liberal as a citizen, a Republican in politics, and. 
with his wife, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. His portrait, 
as a representative pioneer, is given ou another page of this volume. 

WILLIAM MILLER, first son of Obadiah and Martha (Thew) Mil- 
ler, was born on the old homestead October 19, 1849. The common schools 
of Claridon Township gave him his education, closing his school career at 
the age of twenty years. September 15, 1872, he was joined in marriage to 
Miss Julia A. Underwood, daughter of Jesse and Isabel (Sergeot) Under- 
wood. Only one of their three children is living — Charles E., born Feb- 



742 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

ruary 14, 1875. Flora L., born May 15,1876, died December 25,1877; 
James, born October 16, 1880, died April 1, 1882. Our subject is an in- 
dustrious young man, having in charge his father's farm, consisting of 420 
acres of valuable land. He rears graded stock- largely horses, hogs and 
cattle. He often turns off $1,000 worth of stock and $2,000 worth of grain 
annuallv. He votes the Republican ticket. 

JAMES MORROW, the son of Hugh and Martha (Nealey) Morrow, 
was born in Washington County, Penn. , October 16, 1817. His parents, 
natives of the Emerald Isle, crossed the ocean before marriage. Their 
children numbered five — William, of Union County, Iowa; Dorcas, 
widow of George Williams, of Guernsey County, Ohio, and James. The 
above are the living, but the dead were an infant daughter and Rev. John 
Morrow, a prominent minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church He was. 
born in the same county and State as our subject September 25, 1809. and 
died at Nashville, Tenn., in September, 1871. In 1886, the family removed 
to Guernsey County, Ohio, where they both died — Hugh Morrow in 1815 or 
1846, and Mrs. Morrow in the summer of 1852. Mr. Morrow picked up a 
fair education, and lived with his brother until he was married, January 
15, 1840, to Miss Elizabeth Cunningham, born January 23, 1818, a daugh 
ter of James and Eleanor (Scott) Cunningham. The former, a native of 
Ireland, came to America when nineteen, and married a native of Guernsey 
County. He died in that county in 1856 or 1857. His wife survived him 
about three years. Five out of six children belonging to Mr. and Mrs. 
Morrow are living — Hugh J., born February 18, 1841: John F., January 
18, 1843; Martha and Eleanor (twins) February 13, 1848. and William E., 
August 31, 1853. Simon A., born March 27, 1845, died July 3, 1870 Mr. 
Morrow removed from Guernsey County to Marion County in 1850, locat- 
ing on his present farm, consisting of 240 acres of desirable land. At one 
time he owned 500 acres. He is a leading and much respected farmer. 
He is a sound Republican, and a member of the Marion Presbyterian 
Church, as is also his wife. 

JOHN F. MORROW was born in Guernsey County, Ohio, January 18, 
1843, son of James and Elizabeth (Cunningham) Morrow; the former a na- 
tive of Washington County, Penn., and the latter of Guernsey County, 
Ohio. They lived fourteen years, subsequent to marriage, in her native 
county; then, in 1850, came to this county, where they have since resided. 
They are the parents of six children, five of whom are living — Hugh J., 
John F., Martha and Eleanor (twins) and William E. The name of the 
deceased was Simon A. Our subject obtained a practical education in 
Iberia College. He remained with his father until he was married; which 
took place December 28, 1871, to Miss Ezamiah McKinstry, a daughter of 
Mathew and Phebe (Garberson) McKinstry. Three children have been 
born to them two are living — Myrtie, born March 16, 1877, and Hortie, 
October 3,1879. William Jay was born September 21, 1872, and died Jan- 
uary 5. 1881. Mr. Morrow is the owner of eighty acres of valuable land. 
He rears a good deal of blooded stock, making that pursuit a specialty. 
Himself and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church, and he affiliates 
with the Republican party. 

HENRY W. NESBITT is a native of Northumbevlandshire, England; 
was born November 28, 1834. He is a son of Joseph and Ann (Grubb) 
Nesbitt, who sailed for America in 1842, locating in Marion County, pur- 
chasing land in Olaridon Township. Mr. Nesbitt was born July 15, 1801, 
and died December 31, 1876. Mrs. N. survives, and is a resident of the 



CLARIDON TOWNSHIP. 743 

same township. Our subject was married, September 6, 1861, to Sarah E. 
Irey, and two children were born to them — Elizabeth, born October 6, 1862, 
the wife of David Hinds; one is deceased. Mrs. Nesbitt died May 1, 1865, 
He again married, November 23, 1866, Mary G. FelJ, and one child was 
born to this union — Mary E., born July 16, 1867. Mrs. N. died three days 
later. Mr. Nesbitt consummated his third marriage, January 14. 1869, with 
Cassandra Wortman, a daughter of Joshua Wortman. Six children have 
crowned this marriage, four of whom are living — William H., born April 5, 
1874; Alice, December 14, 1875; Ethel, June 25, 1880, and Elsie C, Oc- 
tober 11, 1882. Mabel, born April 5, 1872, died September 19, 1873: an 
infant daughter died unnamed. Mr. N. has devoted his life principally to 
agriculture. He has 140 acres of well-tilled land, which he values at $70 
per acre. He has been a resident of the township since 1842. Himself 
and "wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church; he is a Repub- 
lican in sentiment. 

LEWIS OSBOEN was born in Guernsey County, Ohio, September 8, 
1844, the son of John and Minda (Caskey) Osborn, who came to Marion 
County about 1866. The wife died in 1878, but the father is a resident of 
Tully Township. Mr. Osborn married, June 12, 1873, Harriet D. Hipsher. 
H e is the owner of forty acres of well improved land, valued at $75 per 
acre; is an industrious citizen and a Democrat. 

BENJAMIN R. PATTEN is living in his native county, born Febru- 
ary 7, 1840, to Thomas and Elizabeth (Portor) Patten. His father was a 
native of Ireland, who came to America about 1810. and his mother was a 
native of Jamaica. They lived, after marriage, about ten years in Chester 
County, Penn. ; then removed to Ohio. They located in Canaan Township, 
Marion County (now Morrow County), where they died, the father October 
23, 1863, aged eighty-two years, and the mother in 1870, aged seventy-six 
years. The subject of this sketch received his education at the countrv 
school when a boy; after that he attended high school at Toronto, Canada 
West; and was united in marriage, August 12, 1868, with Frances A, a 
daughter of John W. and Elizabeth (Wilkinson) Porter. Their only child 
is Porter W., born December 29, 1873. Mr. Patten was reared a farmer 
boy, but at the age of twenty-four he engaged in the lumber trade, which 
business he has successfully followed since. His mill is now located at the 
village of Claridon. Although two of his mills have been burned, and a 
third exploded, he has accumulated sufficient to purchase 120 acres of land 
in Michigan, besides property in both Claridon and Caledonia. He is an 
influential citizen, having served, while a resident of Midland County, 
Mich., in nearly all the local offices. He is a Past Master in the Masonic 
order, a Knight Templar, a member of the I. O. O. F. and of the Demo- 
cratic party. He never tastes of whisky. 

MRS. JANE M. PITTMAN, widow of Solomon Pittman, is a native of 
Knox County, Ohio, born February 9, 1828, the daughter of John and 
Mercy Parcels, natives of Pennsylvania and Vermont respectively. They 
came to Marion County before marriage, and resided here the majority of 
their days; reared six children,! four °f whom are living — Jane M., Solomon 
W.j Lavina (wife of James Irwin) and Henry. The deceased were Lucinda, 
wife of Jacob Cress, and Susannah D., wife of Andrew Irwin. Mr. Parcels 
was a prominent politician in his day, of the Democratic persuasion. His 
death occurred January 3. 1845, and his wife's April 16, 1873. Mr. Par- 
cels was a member of the Masonic fraternity. Solomon Pittman, born July 
5, 1828. was the son of John and Ann (Clark) Pittman. He was born in 



744 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Pennsylvania May 17, 1786, and died June 28, 1870. She was born in the 
name State January 26, 1789, and died in 1865. Solomon P., having ac- 
quired a fair education, became an industrious and well-to-do farmer. He 
married Miss Jane M. Parcels July 4, 1850. and six children were born to 
them, five living — John W., born September 12, 1852; Andrew O, Novem- 
ber 15, 1853; Addie E., February 2, 1856, wife of Thomas L. Miller; Eva 
L., February 7, 1858, wife of Hiram Hart; and Thomas J., August 16, 
1862. Mr. Pittman was a member of the F. & A. M., of the I. O. O. F., 
and had been Treasurer of the township one term. He died January 20, 
1874. John and Ann Pittman were the parents of eleven children, eight 
surviving — Mary, Andrew, Lydia, John, Rachel, Solomon, Clark and Caro 
line. Elias, William and Sarah are deceased. Mrs. Pittman is a member 
of the Universalist Church. 

CHRISTIAN POMMERT, boot and shoe merchant, is the son of Fred 
erick and Elizabeth (Huffman) Porurnert, born in Germany March 9, 1830. His 
parents di«d when he was but ten years of age. Having learned the shoe- 
maker's trade, he sailed for America in 1851, stopping in Sandusky City, 
working at his trade. In 1853, he came to Caledonia, and established the 
first boot and shoe store in the village. He is one of the oldest business 
men in the place; he has the largest and leading store of the kind in the town; 
carries a stock of about $3,000, and does an extensive business. He was 
first married to Elizabeth Gartner, and four children were born to them — 
Catherine, Elizabeth, George P. and Annie. His wife died in 1861, and he 
again married, in the following year, Mary L. Haney, and six children 
have crowned this union, five living — John, Louisa, Ella, Charles W. and 
Mary A Caroline died in January of 1866. This wife also died, March 
12, 1876. His third marriage was to Henrietta Hart, a daughter of George 
Hart, June 22, 1882. Mr. Pommert has plied his business with energy, and 
has to-day good town property and a farm of seventy -four acres of valuable 
land. He has been a member of the Town Council, was a soldier in the 
German Army (serving six months), is a member of the Methodist Episco- 
pal Church, and politically speaking is a Democrat. 

HENRY RAMER, miller, was born in York County, Penn., December 
31, 1827, the son of John and Elizabeth (Sellers) Ramer. John Ramer 
was born in the same county May 4, 1803, and his wife June 10, 1806. 
They were the parents of five children, all surviving save Maria, who 
died in 1883. The living are Henry, Harriet and Leah (twins) and John. 
The father died February 5, 1832, and the mother January 11, 1882. 
Mr. Ramer married, April 27, 1848, Sarah A. Patterson, daughter of James 
Patterson, a resident of Pennsylvania. They have had eight children, four 
living — Elizabeth, wife of G. W. Lowe; Belle, wife of F. W. Brooke; 
Winfield S. and Rebecca L. When Mr. Ramer was in his eighteenth year, 
he commenced to serve an apprenticeship as a miller, at Carroll County, Md., 
which occupation he has almost constantly followed. He came from Gal- 
ion, Ohio, to Caledonia August 4, 1875, where he continues to reside. He 
is an employe of Messrs. Lee & Hipsher. He belongs to the I. O. O. F., to 
the F. &. A. M., to the Republican party, and, with his wife, to the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. 

WINFIELD S. RAMER, teacher, was born in Morrow County, Ohio, 
May '_!(), 1861, the son of the preceding. Mr. R. acquired a good edu- 
cation, finishing at the Caledonia Schools. He engaged in teaching in his 
eighteenth year, which occupation he still follows. At present he has 
charge of the A Grammar Department of the Caledonia Schools. He was 



CLARIDON TOWNSHIP. 745 

married, January 1, 1881, to Mis^ Libbie Smith, whose father died at Fort- 
ress Monroe in 1864. The name of their one child is Earle, born July 7, 
1882. He is Financial Recorder of the Prudential Order of America. 

PROF. LEWIS RANCK, Superintendent of the Caledonia Schools, 
was burn in Franklin County, Ohio, December 8, 1842, the son of Samuel 
and Eliza (Fessler) Ranck. They were married, January 16, 1833, in 
Pennsylvania, their native State, coming to Ohio the same year, and locat- 
ing one year later in the above county. He first purchased 140 acres of 
wild land, which he has since improved, and resided upon nearly fifty 
years. Their union was blessed with the birth of eight children, six liv- 
ing — Charles, Mahala, Enos. Lewis, Hester A. and Jefferson B. Cath- 
arine and George B. are deceased. Prof. Ranck obtained only the rudi- 
ments of an education upon the farm, but having obtained his majority 
he entered the Ohio Wesleyan University, and completed the classical 
course in 1872. Since graduating, he has been engaged in teaching 
school in this State. He was married, August 15, 1871, to Miss Dora 
Hutches, and the names of their four children are Stella F., Earl E., Etta 
R. and Nathan H Prof. Ranck assumed charge of the Caledonia Schools 
September 11, 1882. He is Trustee and the Supreme Conductor of the P. 
O. of A., and he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. 

E. MELVIN RICE, of the firm of Woodbridge & Rice, .proprietors of 
a saw mill, is a son of Elias and Priscilla (Brown) Rice, born in Morrow 
County, Ohio, March 15, 1860. His parents are still residing in the above 
county. Having received au ordinary education in the common schools, he 
married, November 28, 1882, Miss Mary A. Smith, a daughter of Charles 
Smith. Her parents were natives of Germany, but came to America about 
1865, stopping at Hartford, Conn., a few years, but settling permanently 
at Caledonia. Mr. E. M. Rice is an industrious young man. He first en- 
gaged in the saw mill business in 1875, with a firm known as Pitus, Wood 
bridge & Co. They conducted a profitable business for five years, when 
Mr. Woodbridge died. In 1880, Mrs. Woodbridge and Mr. Rice purchased 
the entire mill interest, since which time they have been driving a good 
trade. Mr. R. is a member of the K. of P., of the Democratic party, and. 
with his wife, of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

GEORGE C. RINKER, of the firm of Rinker & Bush, is a native of 
Konigreich, Wirtenberg, Germany, born February 12, 1828, the son of 
George D. and Margaret (Krause) Rinker. The father died there in 1855, 
aged sixty-five years, and the mother continues to reside there, at the ad- 
vanced age of ninety years. In his fourteenth year, Mr. Rinker went into 
the cabinet-making business, serving an apprenticeship of three years. In 
1853, he sailed for America, working at his trade in New York City, on 
Franklin street. He then came to Bucyrus, Ohio, where he worked at his 
trade two years; he then moved to Caledonia and opened a shop. He was 
the first practical undertaker in the place, and has supplied the entire de 
mand since his residence. In the spring of 1860, he married Sophia De 
Rush, daughter of David De Rush. They have had thirteen children — 
Mary (wife of Fred Bush), Emily, Nellie, Frank, Ada and Ida (twins), 
John, Clara, Charley, Ella, Lewis, Wesley and Leslie (twins). In 1872. 
he moved to his farm, one-fourth of a mile west of Caledonia, consisting f 
118 acres, having also eighty acres located four miles west of the town. 
He raises live-stock. In 1880, he built a two-story brick house, at a cost of 
$2,500. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., and, with his family, of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. fi 



746 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

THOMAS W. ROBERTS, hardware merchant, was born in Delaware 
County, Ohio, June 28, 1818, the son of John and Elizabeth (Olmsted) 
Roberts, natives of Vermont. They came to the above county in 1817 (a 
very early day), and were the parents of eight children, three living — 
Thomas W., Cynthia and Jane; the deceased were Charles S., Mary, Russell 
B., William F. and Harlow. These parents are both dead, the father dying 
July 5, 1835. Thomas AY., having obtained a fair education, went South, 
and spent two years upon the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers as Assistant En- 
gineer. In due time, he was promoted to the position of First Engineer, 
remaining in that capacity twenty years. He then became owner and Cap- 
tain of the steamer J. T. Doswell. He also had an interest in several boats 
for five years. In 1864, he abandoned the river, came to Marion County 
and engaged in agricultural pursuits until 1876, when he moved to Cale- 
donia, buying an interest in a flouring mill for two years. In 1881, he en- 
gaged with his son in his present business — the firm being known as T. W. 
Roberts & Son. He married, August 16, 1851, Anna C. Boardman, and 
one heir was born to them — Russell W. This wife died October 13, 1853. 
He again married, August 2, 1855, Priscilla Miles, a daughter of Jonathan 
and Ruth (Adamson n(§e Johnson) Miles, and ten children crowned this 
union, seven surviving. Mr. Roberts is a member of the Democratic party, 
of the F. & A. M. , and, with his wife, of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

THOMAS- M. SECKEL was born in the City of Philadelphia, Penn., 
August 21, 1834, the son of John C. and Mary A. (Mears) Seckel, who came 
to Crawford County, Ohio, in 1836, locating near Winchester. In 1844, 
they moved to this county, the father dying October 13, 1868, and the 
mother October 13, 1881. Our subject, having acquired a limited educa- 
tion, made his father's home his place of abode until his marriage, which 
took place April 9, 1863, to Miss Phoebe Russell, a daughter of Elijah and 
Sarah (Cook) Russell, natives of Pennsylvania and Ohio respectively. 
They were joined in marriage, at a very early day, in Marion County, and 
resided here many years. He was well known, and owned a farm of 290 
acres. The father died in 1872, and the mother August 5, 1880, in her 
seventy-fifth year. Thomas and Phoebe Seckel are the parents of six chil- 
dren — George A., born January 12, 1864; Charlotte E., January 12, 1866j 
John O, November 4, 1867; Navada E., December 30, 1869; Estella L. 
July 23, 1872; and Austin M. , January 13, 1874. Our subject resides upon a 
farm of 120 acres, valued at $60 per acre. He is an industrious citizen and 
a member of the Democratic party. 

WASHINGTON SECKEL was born in Crawford County, Ohio (former- 
ly Marion County), July 13, 1839, the son of John C. and Mary (Mears) 
Seckel, of German and English ancestry respectively. They were married, 
in Pennsylvania; came to Crawford County about 1835, and to Marion 
County in 1843-44, where they resided until death. They were the parents 
of seven children, three living — Thomas M., Washington and David. The 
deceased are Catherine, John, Elizabeth and Columbus. The father died 
October 13. 1868, and the mother October 13, 1880. Mr. W. Seckel, obtain- 
ing a liberal education, continued with his father until he was married, which 
event occurred September 17, 1868, to Sophia Corwin, a daughter of 
Stephen and Margaret (Crawford) Corwin. He was born in Washington 
County. Penn., May 11. L813, and she was born in Jefferson County, Ohio, 
June 25. 1812, and died February 18, 1873. Mr. and Mrs. Seckel had a 
family of seven children, six surviving — Emory E., born September 22, 
L869; James O., January 22, L871; Mertie A., April 26, 1872; Maggie, No- 



CLARIDON TOWNSHIP. 747 

vember 17, 1875; Santford, July 8. 1877, and Joseph M., October 22, 1880. 
An infant daughter is dead. Their mother was born November 4, 1846. 
Mr. S. is the owner of seventy-nine acres of valuable land, worth $75 per 
acre. He is an industrious farmer, and politically a Democrat. 

DAVID SHEWEY, son of Michael and Barabara A. (Parks) Shewey, is 
a native of Pennsylvania, born January 25, 1801. His parents were of 
German and "Welsh extraction. He was brought by bis people to Fairfield 
Count)', Ohio, in 1803, where they remained among the first settlers of 
that county until 1816, when they went to Richland County, living there 
some twenty-five years. Mr. Shewey died at Belleville, Ohio, aged seventy- 
two years, in 1842, and Mrs. S. about ten years before, aged about sixty 
years. David Shewey and Miss Barbara Stout were married April 18, 1824, 
and eleven children were born to them. The living are Elizabeth, Michael, 
Caroline, Jacob, George and Martha. His wife died August 29, 1861. 
Mr. Shewey is an old pioneer, the owner of sixty- seven acres of good land, 
and politically he is a Republican. 

DAVID SMITH, second son of Samuel and Mary G. (McWilliams) 
Smith, was born in "Waldo Township January 28, 1845 ; obtaining a good 
practical education, he wedded, February 20, 1868, Catherine E. Livingston, 
a daughter of Matthias and Elizabeth (Eshelman) Livingston, descendants 
of old England, and both now deceased — Mrs. L., about 1853, aged forty- 
one years, and Mr. L. several years prior. Mr. and Mrs. Smith are the 
parents of five children — Mary E. , born March 25, 1869: Francis M., 
October 29, 1870; Ella R., September 11, 1872; Samuel D., Januarv 4, 
1875; and Harry W. L., March 16, 1878. Mr. Smith has a farm of 106 
acres, well drained and fenced. As a citizen, he is respected; as a Democrat, 
true; as a Granger, constant; and as a Christian, faithful to the Free-Will 
Baptist Church, to which Mrs. S. also belongs. 

JAMES SMITH is a native of Harrison County, Ohio, born July 1, 
1832, the son of Joseph and Nancy (Martin) Smith, natives of Virginia, 
and of German and Scotch extraction respectively. They were married in 
their native State, coming to Ohio and the above county about 1815, where 
they both died; the father in 1836, aged about forty years; the mother in 
1877, in her seventy-seventh year; five of their seven children survive — 
Sarah, wife of Benjamin Reed, of Nebraska; Elizabeth, wife of Jacob 
Howser; Joseph, James, and Ann, wife of John Hifle, of Harrison County. 
Luther and John are dead. Mr. James Smith lived with Jacob Howser, 
from his tenth year until he wedded, February 10, 1856, Miss Louisa Mar- 
tin, born March 15, 1838. Their children were Lillie E., born February 
11, 1858; Francis D., January 11, 1861, and LoringO, January 15, 1868. 
Mrs. Smith passed away in April, 1879. Mr. Smith is a respectable citizen, 
having served the township as Trustee three years. He is a Republican 
and an active member of the Free-Will Baptist Church. 

JOHN J. SMITH is the son of William aud Eliza (Miller) Smith, natives 
of the British Isle, the former born in Yorkshire, 1799, the latter in Lin- 
colnshire in May, 1811; while young, they emigrated to America, and were 
married in Canada. After residing there about three years. Mr. Smith 
died, aged thirty- eight years. Some time later. Mrs. Smith came to the States, 
stopping one year in Huron County, Ohio; thence settling permanently in 
Claridon Township, residing still with John J. , our subject, now aged seventy- 
two years. Her other two children are James J., and Alice, wife of Mon- 
roe J. Simons, of Fredericktown, Knox County, Ohio. John J. Smith was 
reared and educated by Josiah Boyce, of Marion, who^e schools he attended. 



748 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

He served ten months in the late war, enlisting in Company I, Sixty-fourth 
Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was honorably discharged at Nash- 
ville, Temi., in August, 1863; April 7, 1864, his wedding with Rebecca 
Geyer was celebrated. She is the daughter of Andrew and Cassander (Lin- 
der) Geyer, of German and Welsh extraction respectively. The fruits of 
this union are five children, three living — Elenora A., Ada A, and Marion 
J. W. The deceased were William and Josiah. Mr. Smith owns 110 acres 
of good land, valued at $05 per acre; commands the respect of his neigh- 
bors, and politically is Independent. 

SAMUEL SMITH, son of David and Catherine (Willey) Smith, was 
born in Delaware County, Ohio, February 17, 1821. His father was a native 
of Connecticut, and of English stock; his mother, a native of Washington 
County, Penn., but of German extraction. They came to Fairfield County, 
Ohio, a short time, but pushed into the Northern part of Delaware County 
about 1818, and became residents of Marion County for about fifty years. 
His decease occurred September 28, 1870. His wife survived him until 
October of 1882. Samuel attended the common school, more or less, until 
his twentv-first year, living with his parents and Henry Willey, mastering 
in the meantime tbe cabinet-maker's trade, under the guidance of William 
Manser. He followed this occupation successfully twenty-seven years. 
October 16, 1842, occurred his union with Miss Mary McWilliams, born 
August 22, 1821, a daughter of Samuel and Francis (Martin) McWilliams. 
Two children have been born to them — Noah W. (born August 7, 1843) and 
David (born January 28, 1845). Mr. Smith's farm comprises 200 acres, 
which is excellent in quality and worth $100 per acre. He inherited a very 
limited property, but has a flattering prospect at present. He is a Democrat 
and a good citizeu. He contributes to the Free- Will Baptist Church and 
for all charitable purposes. 

WILLIAM J. SMITH is a native of Ross County, Ohio, born July 30, 
1828, the son of Jefferson and Catherine (Hines) Smith, of German blood, 
but natives of Virginia and Ohio. They were married in the above county 
in 1827, and removed in 1834 to what is at present Morrow County. Mr. 
Smith, born March 5, 1807, died in Tully Township May 2, 1883; Mrs. 
Smith, born in July, 1811, died March 9, 1869. They were the parents of 
eleven children — Ellen and Jefferson (deceased); the survivors are William 
J.. Ann, Harriet, Martha E., Jacob O, John N. , Nancy J., Jeremiah and 
Mary C. Mr. Smith, the subject of this memoir, educated himself thor- 
oughly in the common schools, and taught ten terms, fanning summers. 
He continued at home until wedded, August 23, 1849, to Nancy H. McCluer, 
born May 28, 1828, a daughter of Hugh and Hannah (Pettenger) McCluer, 
natives of Ohio, and of German and Irish ancestry. Eight children have 
boen born to them, six surviving — Alfred M., born October 9, 1850; George 
W\, October 11, 1854; Elmore C, October 2. 1853; Hugh E., May 30, 
1861; Jefferson L., August IS. 1863; and William M., September 19, 
1869; James P., born August 15, 1852, died May 30, 1854; Hannah C. , 
born June 3, 1857, died July 7, 1857. Mr. Smith has a farm of 160 acres 
of desirable land, valued at $75 per acre, which he cultivates with much 
care. He has resided on this place over thirty years, and rears graded 
stock. Mr. Smith enlisted in his country's defense September 9, 1864, in 
Company K, One Hundred and Seventy- fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer 
Infantry, and fought at Overall's Creek, the Cedars, and in various skir- 
mishes. His honorable discharge dates "Fairfax Seminary, Va., June 26, 
1865." Jefferson M. Smith, his brother, enlisted in October, 1861, to serve 



CLARIDON TOWNSHIP. 749 

three years; he was overtaken by sickness, and he died at Stanford, Ky. , 
February 13, 1862, aged seventeen years. He was a member of Company 
C, Sixty- fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Another brother, 
Jacob C., entered the same company and regiment, and participated in 
many hard-fought battles, including the Atlanta campaign: was discharged 
after a service of three years, December 14, 1864. John N., a third brother, 
served the same time in Company C, Eighty-eighth Regiment Ohio Volun 
teer Infantry. Mr. Smith is a much respected citizen, having been 
Trustee of the Township six years, and its Assessor one year. He is a Re 
publican in politics, a temperance man, and a liberal contributor to the 
churches and to all charitable objects. 

JOHN W. THEW. Mr. Thew's father, John H. Thew, was a native 
of Lincolnshire, England, born in January, 1814. His mother, Jane (Hunt) 
Thew, was born in the same country January 13, 1826. The former came 
to the United States in 1824, with his parents, Richard and Ann Thew, and 
married, July 7. 1842, Miss Margaret Bolton, of English descent. Their 
only son, William, born March 16, 1844, having enlisted November 6, 1861, 
in Company B, Sixty- fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, died in 
the hospital at Evansville, Ind., May 23, 1862. Their only daughter, Mar- 
tha Ann E., born July 3, 1846, survives. Their mother's decease occurred 
November 14, ]819. Mr. Thew married again November 19, 1850, Miss 
Jane Hunt, rive of whose children are living — Mary E., born November 7, 
1851: John W. (our subject), born in Claridon Township, October 29, 1853: 
Joseph B., June 25, 1857; Elizabeth J., March 18, 1862, and Jessie P., 
March 18, 1867. Henry P. was born October 18, 1859, and died August 7, 
1864. John H. Thew, the father of John W., after coming to America, 
made his home with his uncle, William Thew, lately deceased, until he 
married. He then engaged in farming, purchasing land. He was a prom- 
inent Odd Fellow, having passed all tbe chairs, and a class leader for a num- 
ber of years in the Methodist Episcopal Church. He died June 23, 1873, 
and his wife February 17, 1883. John W. Thew gathered a practical edu- 
cation from the common schools, and when nineteen was left in charge of 
the farm, which he still retains. He married, November 12, 1876, Ruth A. 
Roberts, a daughter of T. W. and Priscilla (Miles) Roberts, who died July 
16, 1880. March 15, 1883, he was again united in marriage to Miss Mata 
E. Barga, whose parents were natives of Ohio, and of German ancestry. 
John W. resided the first three years of his married life, upon Thomas W. 
Roberts' farm, but, since the death of his former wife, has occupied the old 
homestead. He is an enterprising and an energetic farmer; he is a stanch 
supporter of the Republican party, is identified with the I. O. O. F. , and 
with his wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

RICHARD THEW, hardware merchant, is a native of this county, born 
October 22, 1846; the son of William P. and Susan (Davis) Thew, natives of 
England and Virginia respectively. Having acquired a limited education, 
he remained upon the old homestead until his twenty-sixth year, when he 
engaged with the Ashland Machine Company as traveling agent, continuing 
one year. He then settled permanently in Caledonia, purchasing a half in- 
terest in the hardware store of J. F. Apt. They did business under the 
name of Apt & Thew for two years, when they disposed of their hardware 
stock and located at Lorain. Ohio, engaging in the lumber and hardware 
trade (successfully) four years. Mr. Thew then retired from the firm on ac- 
count of failing health. After remaining inactive a few months, be, with 
J. V. Hairison. repurchased the old hardware stock previously sold to Camp- 



750 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

bell & Ilice, and continued one year, when Mr. Harrison retired. Mr. TheW 
has been sole proprietor since 1870, and has built up a prosperous and profit- 
able trade. H<> handles the Buckeye Binder, selling forty in the season of 
1882. He is also a partner in the manufacture of the Boughton Buggy 
Spring, which bids fair to prove a success. Mr. Thew was married, October 
14. 1875, to Miss Sarah P. Lawrence, a daughter of Rev. Richard and Sa- 
rah (Wilson) Lavvrence, residents of Claridon Township. Her father is a 
native of Lincolnshire, England, and came to America about thirty-five 
years ago. Mr. and Mrs. T. have two children, Edna L., born April 3, 1876, 
and Susan P., born May 5, 1878. Mr. Thew has accumulated a handsome 
amount of property, having a fine frame residence on Main street, and he is 
active in all the enterprises of the village. He is a Republican, and he and 
wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

WILLIAM THEW, for many years a prominent citizen of Claridon 
Township, was born near Alford, Lincolnshire, England, April 1, 1791. 
During the contest between England and France, under the Generalship of 
Napoleon Bonaparte and Lord Wellington, Mr. Thew enlisted in the service 
of his country, and received a Lieutenant's commission, signed by the King. 
His old uniform is now in possession of Mr. Henry Thew. He emigrated 
to the United States in 1822, and after staying one year in New Jersey with 
a friend, started on foot to look for a home in the wilds of Ohio. While 
he was journeying over the mountains, he fell sick, and when in that condi- 
tion, an attempt was made to rob him of what little money he had. This, 
he often said was the only time he wished himself home again. In the 
meantime, his friend secured work in the neighborhood, while Mr. Thew 
was recovering his health. Then they again traveled westward, until they 
arrived in Marion County, where he entered land, upon which he after- 
ward made his home, and where he died. After entering this land, he re- 
turned to New York, walking the whole distance, where by agreement 
he soon met his brother Richard, with a considerable family from England; 
the whole company then started West, halting at Plymouth, Richland Co., 
Ohio, where they bought land and settled down. While living here, he 
was married to Elizabeth Woodhouse, April 14, 1825, an amiable lady, with 
whom he lived until her death, which occurred August 3, 18(35. In the fall 
of 1825, he with his wife moved to their new homo in Marion County, he 
having previously built a log cabin, which they occupied for a number of 
years. At this time there was Dot another inclosure between his cabin and 
Marion. His cabin was frequently a lodging place for the Iudians, with 
whom he was a great favorite. He was often heard to remark that here in 
this log cabin the happiest days of his life were spent. For many years 
after his settlement in Claridon Township, the country for miles around was 
uninclosed, affording a wide and rich range for cattle; of this he availed 
himself very successfully, owning many cattle. About 1844, the plains 
were mostly inclosed. In 1837, Mr. Thew made a visit to England, remain- 
ing there fifteen months, and on his return brought back with him his aged 
mother and a maiden sister, who shared his home until their death. Mr. 
Thew was a man of high-toned moral character, of fine executive ability, 
and in the early part of his life filled several positions of public trust. His 
early religious training was in the Episcopal Church of England, but after 
settling in this county he, in 1834, united with the Methodist Episcopal 
Church, of which he remained a faithful member and a valued counselor in 
its affairs until his death. He was a cheerful and liberal contributor in sup- 
port of the church. His religious experience was full and rich, his Christian 



CLARIDON TOWNSHIP. 751 

life a noble one. His early associations in the church were with such men 
as Rev. Uriah Heath, J. G. Bruce, John H. Powers, John Quigley, Henry 
Whiteman, H. Pilcher, R. Lawrence, and many others, who always found a 
hearty welcome at his house. Mr. Thew and his wife were not blessed with 
any children of their own, but they always had a large family, which they 
took pleasure in caring and providing for — principally nephews and nieces. 
They were generous to the poor and needy, and they will be preserved in 
affectionate remembrance by many who were recipients of their generosity, 
long years after they will have moldered to dust. Mr. Thew died at his 
home in Claridon Township July 29, 1883. He was very successful in the 
temporal affairs of life, and left an estate worth $75,000. As a representa- 
tive honored citizen of Marion County, we give the portrait of Mr. Thew in 
this work. 

WILLIAM P. THEW, the subject of this sketch, was born in Lincoln- 
shire, England, September 1, 1812. His parents, Richard and Ann (Bot- 
hamly) Thew. were both natives of England, the former of Salsby, Lincoln- 
shire, and the latter of Boston. Mr. Thew was born May 3, 1789, and 
Mrs. Thew in 1788. They crossed the ocean with their children in 1824, 
landing at the port of New York. They first settled in Plymouth Town- 
ship, Richland Co., Ohio, where Mr. Thew entered 160 acres of land; on 
this they resided until 1831. They were the parents of ten children, of 
whom the following are living: William P., Henry, Martha (wife of Oba- 
diah Miller). Parkinson B. (of Marion) and Jessey (residing at Farmer City, 
111.) ; the deceased are John H., Joseph, Elizabeth (wife of Robert Douce) 
and two others, deceased in infancy before immigrating to the United 
States. These pioneers died only a few years after their immigration; 
Mrs. Thew died first, her death occurring January 3, 1828; Mr. Thew died 
in 1832. Mr. Thew, the subject of this notice, was a boy of twelve years 
when his parents crossed the ocean. He obtained most of his education 
in his native land; here his advantages were limited. He resided with 
his father until the latter's death, and in 1834 came to Marion County. He 
entered the forests of Claridon Township as a pioneer, and purchased a 
farm, which he increased by subsequent additions until it now contains 262 
acres of valuable land; this farm he cleared mostly from its original state, 
and all its excellent improvements are the fruits of Mr. Thew's unremitting 
labor. The forests that covered the land of this township in 1831 have 
since disappeared before the hand of the pioneer settlers, of whom Mr. 
Thew is one of the remaining few; he has borne his part in the leading enter 
prises and improvements of the township as well as in the labors and hard- 
ships of the pioneer past. A public-spirited man, he contributed liberally 
of his means to the enterprises that are intended to enrich the community. 
He is a thorough and successful farmer, and has by his industry, persever- 
ance and economy acquired a reasonable competence. He served his town- 
ship as Trustee many years, and as Treasurer one year. Politically, he is 
a Republican, and always takes a deep interest in the success of that party. 
He is an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, with which he 
has been prominently identified for a great many years; he served as Re- 
cording Steward twenty-five years, and as Class-leader for a long period; 
he is one of the principal membei's and supporters of the church, and to 
all benevolent objects he is a liberal giver. He was married in Claridon 
Township, October 3, 1839, to Miss Susan Davis, a daughter of Zephaniah 
and Mary (Irey) Davis. They have had six children, viz., Ann, born June 
16, 1840, wife of James L. Bell, of Marion: Emeline, born March 18, 



752 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

1842, wife of Washington Harris, of Morrow County; Sarah E., born Oc- 
tober 10, 1844, wife of Jefferson Harris; Richard, born October 22, 1846, 
hardware merchant at Caledonia; Ida, born August 16, 1849, wife of James 
K. P. Weber; and Susan, born January 23, 1852, died September 10, 1852. 
Mrs. Thew departed this life August 9, 1852. Mr. Thew was again mar- 
ried, January 1, 1854, to Mrs. Charlotte (Cherry) Washburne, and their 
children are William \Y., born January 18, 1855, and married Zella Tag- 
gart August 1. 1883; and Lottie S., born April 29, I860, wife of Joseph A. 
Fields. As a representative pioneer citizen of Claridon Township, we pre- 
sent the portrait of Mr. Thew in this work. 

DAVID ULSH, ninth son of George and Catherine (Bunn) Dish, was born 
on the old homestead in Claridon Township, February 4, 1845. The common 
school gave him a fair practical education, and he remained at home till his 
marriage. This took place December 31, 1879, to Miss Lu Thomas, a 
daughter of Frank and Caroline Thomas. Their one child died when eight- 
een months of age. Mr. Ulsh has always been a farmer, and is devoting con 
siderable attention at present to the rearing of tine stock. He owns 157 acres 
of desirable land joining the old homestead, worth $80 per acre. He has 
amassed a little fortune, and is a Democrat politically. 

GEORGE TJLSH, son of Christopher and Lydia A. (Barns) Ulsh, was born 
in Perry County, Perm., May 15, 1797. His parents were natives of the 
same State, of German and Irish ancestry respectively. He obtained such an 
education as those very primitive days afforded, and remained with his par- 
ents until he was twenty-seven. In the fall of 1824, at Liverpool, Penn., 
he married Catherine Bunn, a daughter of John and Catherine Bunn, also 
of German ancestry, and natives of the same State. These people came to 
Seneca County, Ohio, about 1833, residing there until death. The above 
union has been blessed with the birth of eleven children, nine of whom are 
living — Samuel, born August 6, 1825; Levi, February 6, 1827; John, Janu- 
ary 6. 1829; Lydia A., June 22, 1830: Catherine. August 29, 1832; Eliza 
J., March 4, 1836; Harrison, May 1, 1838; Henry, September 12, 1843; 
and David, February 4, 1845. Joseph was born January 1, 1834, and died 
in his third year; an infant son died unnamed. Mr. Ulsh removed to Ohio 
in 1830 settling in Marion County, purchasing 700 acres of land in Claridon 
Township (260 acres being the old homestead). He paid for the homestead 
I11.37J per acre, which is worth $90 per acre. This belongs to Henry 
Ulsh at present, the father having distributed his property among his chil- 
dren. Mr. Ulsh has been a resident in the county over half a century, and 
is an honored citizen. In his prime, he was extensively engaged in farming, 
but at present he is making his home with his son, Henry, and daughter, 
Eliza. He is in his eighty-sixth year, and well preserved in body and 
mind. His wife was born July 11, 1800, and died June 6, 1878. He is a 
member of the Lutheran Church, and in political views a Democrat. 

HARRISON ULSH, fourth son of George and Catherine (Bunn) Ulsh, 
was born at the homestead May 6, 1845. He obtained his education in the 
common school prior to his nineteenth year. At that age he began life for 
himself, without other means. October 27, 1865, he was united in marriage 
to Mary Richey, and one son was born to them — George F. Mrs. Ulsh died 
March 1, 1867. Mr. Ulsh is the owner of 246 acres of arable land, kept in 
a high state of cultivation. He makes a specialty of Poland-China hogs 
and short-horn cattle. He is a prominent farmer, and has acquired by his 
labor an enviable property. His residence was erected at a cost of $5,000. 
He sells annually about $800 worth of wheat, $1,100 of cattle, and from 



CLARIDON TOWNSHIP. 753 

to $1,000 worth of pork. He is a public-spirited citizen, and liberal 
toward all deserving enterprises. 

JOHN ULSH, the third son of George and Catherine (Bunn) Ulsh, was 
born in Perry County, Penn., February 15, 1830. In 1834, he came with his 
parents to Marion County. He received a limited education, and lived with 
his parents until he was thirty-three years of age. He has a farm of 487 
acres, valued at $100 per acre. It is finely improved and drained, having a 
three-mile open ditch, and 1,700 rods of tile. He is one of the leading 
farmers of the county, and owns one of the most valuable farms in his 
township. He has also 320 acres of tine land in Richardson County, Neb. , 
valued at $40 per acre. He estimates his'property at $50,000. He is un- 
married, and a social and respected citizen. 

LEVI ULSH, second son of George and Catherine (Bunn) Ulsh, was 
born in Perry County, Penn., February 3, 1827. His education was con- 
fined to the common school. He came with his parents to Marion County 
in 1831. iHe was married May 2, 1861, to Miss Cordelia Dilts, a daughter 
of Peter Dilts; she was mysteriously murdered by an unknown hand, and 
the facts concerning her death have never been explained. He was again 
married, September 12, 1871, to Caroline Thomas, nee Pittman, and one son 
was born to them — Harley J., born February 9, 1874. Mr. Uish has a 
farm of 1 16 acres, which he cultivates thoroughly, and values at $70 per 
acre. For the past four winters he has been buying and shipping consid- 
erable stock, much to his advantage, but farming is his leading business. 
He is a member of the Democratic party, and an active, energetic man. 

SAMUEL ULSH, eldest son of George and Catherine Ulsh, was born 
in Perry County, Penn., August 3, 1825. He received a fair, practical 
education in the common schools of the day, and was married July 2. 
1848, to California Likins, a daughter of James and Catherine (Black) 
Likins. His marriage has been blessed with eight children — Francis C, 
Mary P., William W., James S., Alice A., Florence F., George L. and 
Annie I. Mrs. Ulsh was born September 12, 1829, and died November 29, 
1871. Mr. Ulsh is a good farmer, having 172^ acres of desirable land, 
well drained, worth $100 per acre. He devotes his entire attention to agri 
cultural pursuits and the rearing of blooded stock. Politically speaking, 
he is a Democrat. 

BENJAMIN E. UNDERWOOD, third son of John aud Sarah (Fisher) 
Underwood, was born in Claridon Township October 19, 1835. He was 
reared and educated upon the farm. He married in 1860 Isabel Miller, a 
daughter of Frederick and Mary (Linder) Miller, residents of Morrow 
County, Ohio. Six children have blessed their home, five of whom' are liv- 
ing — Sabine A., Ella, Miller H., Arvilla and Horace W. Daisy died in 
infancy. Our subject was a soldier in the late war about four months ; he 
enlisted in Company A, One Hundred and Thirty-sixth Regiment Ohio 
National Guards, serving his time. He resided in Morrow County, Ohio, 
about fourteen y«ars; he came to Caledonia in the spring of 1874; for the 
past five years he has been engaged in the milling business. He owns a 
comfortable home on High street. He i? a member of the L. of H. of the 
G. A. R. (officially connected) and of the Republican party. He and wife 
have been a embers of the M. P. Church nearly thirty vears. 

ELIHU F. UNDERWOOD, of the firm of Underwood & Dilts, is a 
native of Holmes County, Ohio, born March 19, 1829. the son of John and 
Sarah (Fisher) Underwood, of German ancestry and natives of Pennsyl- 
vania and Holmes County respectively. They were united in marriage in 



754 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

the above county about 1828, but moved to Marion County in the autumn 
of 1829. They lived upon a farm until 1868, when they moved to Cale- 
donia, engaging in the mercantile business with Elihu F. They had ten 
children, four now living — Elihu F. , Jane A., Benjamin E. and Susannah. 
John. Elizabeth, Caleb, Sarah A., Jesse and Clarinda are deceased. The 
father died in 1881, aged seventy-six years, while the mother passed away 
about twenty-five years earlier, aged forty-six years. Elihu acquired only 
the rudiments of an education, for he spent most of his youth in Claridon, 
with his grandfather, who was keeping a hotel. He was the errand and 
general chore boy: he passed but a year or two upon the farm; when a 
young man. he became clerk in the employ of Abel Davis, at $8 per month, re- 
maining two years. In 1850, he accepted a similar position at Caledonia, 
with Briggs & Hipsher, continuing with them two years. He then clerked 
for Shur & Bailey, of the same place, one year, and later, with the latter 
two years. November 27, 1854, he married Miss Arvilla A. Wooley, 
daughter of Charles and Sarah (Debor) Wooley, of English ancestry, and 
natives of New York. They have two children — Ida M., born October 30, 
1858, and married May 13, 1877; and Charles G., born November 10, 1873. 
Mr. Underwood has been a resident of the county fifty-four years. He is 
the oldest merchant in the village, having established himself in business 
in 1859. He first entered partnership with Thomas Search, the latter dying 
a few days later, when Hezekiah Hunter assumed his interest. The firm 
did business under the name of Underwood & Hunter three years, when the 
latter retired. In 1863, another partnership was formed, and they did 
business under the name of Underwood & Whitaker until 1866, at tbe 
death of the latter. After oue year, Mr. Underwood admitted Moses Carr, 
continuing one year. Subsequently his father became associated with him, 
and the firm of E. F. Underwood & Co remained until the formation of 
the present firm. This firm has the leading store in the village, carries a 
stock of $8,000, and does a prosperous business. Mr. Underwood is a 
prominent citizen; for six successive years, serving as Justice of the Peace, 
and after an interval of several years was elected three years longer; he 
was a member of the Town Council one year, and Mayor of the village two 
years; he was appointed Postmaster during President Lincoln's adminis- 
tration, and has held that position since. He is the only resident charter 
member of the Caledonia Lodge of the I. O. O. F., and is the Supreme 
Treasurer of the Prudential Order of America. He is a Republican, and, 
with his wife, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

JACOB WEBER, second son of Jacob and Elizabeth Weber, was born 
in Zurich, Switzerland, December 18, 1819, where his parents died. In 
1849, he emigrated to America, settling in Marion, where he was en- 
gaged in butchering, driving a successful trade, until 1873; in that year 
he moved with his family to Caledonia, continuing his former vocation. 
In 1881, he retired from business and is now living a retired, comfortable 
life. December 25, 1853, he married Mary A. Keest, a daughter of Jacob 
and Mary Keest. They had three children— Jacob, William and Emma. 
His wife died in 1866. He again married, May 24, 1870, Mary Oatmiller. 
Mr. Weber was a soldier of some rank in Switzerland, having some hair- 
breadth escapes — being shot through the cap at one time, and through the 
epaulet at another. He enlisted also in the late war, April 19, 1861, Com- 
pany H, Fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and participated in 
the following battles: Romany Winchester, Shenandoah Valley, Harrison's 
Landing, Antietam, Gettysburg, Chancellorsville, Fredericksburg, Bull 



CLARIDON TOWNSHIP. 755 

Itun (second battle) and the Wilderness. In all he was engaged in many- 
battles without being captured or receiving a wound. He was honorably 
discharged at Camp Chase, Ohio, in July of 1864. Mr. Weber has con- 
siderable scholarly attainments, having received a practical education in 
German, French and Italian languages, besides schooling himself in the 
English branches. He is a member of the Order of the Druids, of the G. 
A. R. and the Democratic party. He has crossed the ocean live times for 
the good of hi-; health. 

MRS. JEANETTE WEEKS, widow of Samuel C. Weeks, was born in 
Northumberland, England, October 28, 1836, a daughter of John and 
Mary Rutherford, who came to America in 1835, settlin » in Cambridge, 
Washington County, N. Y. , until 1853, when he moved to Morrow County, 
Ohio. Thev had four children, three living — Jeanette, Elizabeth and 
John. The' father was born in 1803, and died August 12, 1874. The 
mother was born October 28, 1806, and died February 9, 1879. Samuel 
C. Weeks was a native of Maryland. He came to Marion County in 1865, 
engaging in the drug business about five years. He was a prominent 
citizen, serving as Chief Magistrate in Delaware County, Ohio, twenty 
years. He was also an Elder in the Disciple Church for the same length 
of time. He accumulated a good deal of property, and died July 26, 1869. 
Their marriage was consummated January 21, 1868. Mrs. Weeks has con- 
tinued to reside at Caledonia, commanding the respect of all. He has been 
a consistent member of the U. P. Church for thirty years. 

ANDREW M. WILLIAMS, merchant, v Claridon Township, Marion 
County, Ohio, was born in Lancaster County, Penn., March 8, 1823, the 
son of Andrew and Mary (Allison) Williams, natives of the same State, but 
of English and Irish ancestry respectively. In 1831, they removed with 
their family of eight children to Ohio, stopping in Fairfield County until 
1834, when they came to Marion County, where they both died. Mr. Williams 
died when about sixty three years old. Mrs. W. died in Claridon Township 
February 1, 1870, having been born July 28, 1785. The common schools 
of Ohio gave Mr. Williams a practical education. He wedded, March 14, 
1844, Miss Susan Owen, a daughter of William and Rena Owen, and born 
October 14, 1827. Their eleven children are as follows: Sarah J., born No- 
vember 14, 1844; Ann E., born October 16, 1849; William, born February 
17. 1852; George, born August 15, 1854; Perry E., born November 13, 
1858; Flora, born September 16, 1865; Susan, born January 5, 1869; Hen- 
ry J., born August 3, 1847, dying April 10, 1849; Minerva S., born August 
16, 1861, dying April 19, 1865; Mary, born February 1, 1856, dying March 
27. 1876; and Martha E., born January 22, 1864, dying July 22, 1876. 
Mr. W. has continued a resident of this county since 1834, farming until 
1850. He then moved to Claridon, engaging in the mercantile trade, which 
he has ever since successfully conducted. His is the only dry goods store in 
the place, having a stock of about $2,500; he is doing a profitable business. 
He is a respected citizen, and has been Chief Magistrate and Treasurer of 
the Township two years each. He is an active member of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church (a Trustee) and a generous supporter of the same, and is 
an honored member of the F. & A. M. 

GEORGE W. WILLIAMS, son of Andrew M. and Susan (Owen) Will- 
iams, is a native of Claridon Township, born August 15, 1854. He ob- 
tained a good education in the common schools, finishing when aged nine- 
teen years. He continued at home until he was wedded, September 10, 
1878, to Miss Mary L. Miller, a daughter of Obadiah and Martha (Thew) 



756 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Miller, and two children were theirs — Walter W., born November 16. 1880, 
and James, born July 8, 1879, dying November 8, 1879. Mrs. Williams 
was born February 13, 1856. Mr. Williams is an enterprising and respected 
young man. In the spring of 1882, he was elected Treasurer of the town- 
ship, and re-elected in 1883. He is owner of a comfortable home in Clar- 
idon, and is a stanch Democrat. 

WILLIAM WITTRED, son of William and Mary (Miller) Wittred, 
was born in Norfolk, England, December 15, 1820. He emigrated to the 
United States with his four children in 1857, locating in Claridon Town- 
ship The mother of his children is Martha, married in the same country 
April 4, 1840, a daughter of John and Mary E. (Thew) Bothamly. Three 
of their children survive — Mary, born April 25, 1811, wife of Henry Key, 
residents of Richland Township; William P., born April 28, 1845, of Clar- 
idon Township, and Martha, born June 14, 1847, wife of James S. Irey, of 
the same township. Samuel M. entered the civil war October 1, 1862, in 
Company D, Sixty-fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and six days 
later his regiment joined Gen. Rosecrans, at Murfreesboro, Tenn., and while 
building fortifications was attacked by typhoid fever, and died April 26, 
1863, aged twenty years one month and one day. Mrs. Wittred was born 
February 6, 1817, and is a member of the United Brethren Clmrch. Mr. 
W. holds a membership in the Methodist Episcopal Church, is a worthy 
citizen, and affiliates with the Republican party. 

WILLIAM P. WITTRED is a native of Norfolk, England, born April 
28, 1845. He acquired the rudiments of an education in old England, but 
completed his common school learning in Claridon Township, when seven- 
teen. He lived with his uncle, Charles Smith, of Marion, two years, and with 
another uncle, William Thew, two more years. He worked for several 
years for Jacob Howser, James Lawrence and James L. Douce. October 1, 
1876, he married Ida E. Clagett, daughter of James W. and Elizabeth G. 
(Schooley) Clagett. Their union has been crowned with two children, one 
living— William, born May 17, 1880. An infant son died May 3, 1878. 
Mr. Wittred is an industrious and respectable young man, a zealous mem- 
ber of the Methodist Episcopal Church and Sunday school, as well as his 
wife. He is a Class-leader. 

MRS. LYDIA (KAUFFMAN) ZIEGLER, widow of Gottleib F. Ziegler, 
was born March 30, 1830, and was wedded to the above May 18, 1858, who 
was born in Germany January 7, 1820, and emigrated to the United States 
in 1852, sailing from Havre to the port of New York City. He stopped for 
a brief period in New Jersey, and came to Marion County about 1856. 
Before leaving Germany, he secured a good education, and was a German 
soldier two years. He purchased his farm in Claridon Township when it 
was covered with forest, but by great labor he cleared and improved the 
major part of it, willing to his wife and children a comfortable home. The 
children are Mary A., born March 20, 1859; John W., June 18, 1866; 
Emma J., October 10, 1868; Jacob F., January 4, 1861, dying October 27, 
1880, and Daniel F., February 13, 1863, dying January 11, 1882. Mrs. 
Ziegler is an estimable woman, and deserves approbation for the manner in 
which she has reared and educated her orphan children. They are all 
members of the Lutheran Church, as well as herself. 



GRAND TOWNSHIP. 757 



CHAPTER V. 



GRAND TOWNSHIP. 



ORGANIC HISTORY. 



GRAND TOWNSHIP was organized June 7, 1824, the first day of the Com- 
missioners' first session after the organization of the county, and it was 
then the largest township in the county, as it comprised three full sur- 
veyed townships and sufficient Virginia Military Lands to form the fourth, 
all of which will appear from the following entry: 

June 7, A. D. 1824. 

Commissioners of Marion County met for the first time after the organization of 
said county. Present: Matthew Merit, Amos Wilson and Enoch B. Merriman; Auditor, 
Hezekiah Gorton. 

Ordered, That surveyed Townships 3, 4 and 5, in Range 13, and so much of the 
Virginia Military Tract as lies south of said townships in Marion County, be and the 
same is hereby set off as a new township, by the name of Grand Township. 

Thus it will be seen that Grand Township, when organized, included 
what is now Grand, Montgomery and Bowling Green Townships, in Marion 
County, and one township which has since been cut off and added to Wy- 
andot County as Marseilles Township. In December, 1831, the territory 
now included in Montgomery and Bowling Green Townships were taken 
from the southern portion of Grand Township and formed into Montgomery, 
as will appear from the following entry of that date: 

Monday, December 5, 1831. 

Ordered by the Board, That Township No. 5 south, Range No. 13, and all the 
Virginia Military Land lying due south of Township 5, Range 13, within said county, 
be and the same is hereby set off as a new township, by the name of Montgomery. 

At a subsequent date, Bowling Green Township was formed out of that 
portion of the Virginia Military Land which is included in the above 
entry; and at a still later date, when the county of Wyandot was erected 
and the boundaries of this and Crawford Counties were changed, surveyed 
Township 3, Range 13, and two tiers of sections off of surveyed Township 
4, Range 13, were taken off of the northern portion of Grand and are now 
in Wyandot County. The Commissioners of this county, after the passage 
of the act of the General Assembly erecting the county of Wyandot, re-or- 
ganized the remaining portion of Grand, in common with all the other 
fractional townships in the northern tier of townships of this county, as ap- 
pears from the following entry: 

Auditor and Commissioners' Office, Marion Cottnt^ Ohio, ) 

March 23. 1845. f 

Ordered, That the several fractional townships of Washington, Tully, Scott. 
Grand Prairie, Salt Rock and Grand iu Marion County, by reason of the act of the 
General Assembly of the State of Ohio, entitled "An act to erect the new county of 
Wyandot, and alter the bounds of the county of Crawford." passed February 3, 1845, 
be and they are respectively organized into separate townships, and that said townships 
so organized respectively retain their original names and numbers on the records and 
duplicates of Marion County, for all purposes whatever. 

Richard Hause, ) 

John Uncapher. ^ Commissioners. 

Hugh V. Smith, ) 



758 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

PHYSICAL FEATURES. 

Grand Township is now the smallest division in the county, containing 
only eighteen sections of Congress Lands; but it comprises some of the 
fairest portions of our territory, and those also which are adapted to agri- 
culture and stock-raising as well. The lands are fertile and productive, 
yielding wheat, corn, oats, clover seed, and other cereals in abundance. 
The natural drainage afforded by the Tymochtee and numerous other creeks 
and rivulets renders the land everywhere tillable. Constantly flowing 
and never-failing springs, together with a number of artesian wells, fur- 
nish most excellent water privileges for both man and beast, and even in 
the midst of seasons of drought, no living thing need want for pure, fresh 
water to quench the thirst. 

Several almost inexhaustible quarries of excellent building stone are 
found within the township, and innumerable gravel banks of much value 
also lie beneath the surface in this territory. Excellent timber of different 
variety is found in all parts of the township, and especially along the 
streams is its growth wonderfully abundant. Public roads were early es- 
tablished here, and to-day they traverse the township in every direction, 
thus affording ample facilities for public travel and for marketing grain 
and other produce. 

Following is the agricultural productions of the township for 1883: 
Wheat, acres sown,l,179; bushels produced, 14,967; number of acres sown 
for harvest of 1883, 816. Buckwheat, acres sown, 9; bushels produced, 
108. Oats, acres sown, 359; acres sown for crop of 1883, 512; bushels 
produced, 9,604. Corn, acres planted, 1,429; acres planted for crop of 
1883, 1,527; bushels produced, 51,205. Meadow, acres, 755; tons of hay, 
944. Clover, acres, 319; tons of hay, 492; bushels of seed, 448. Potatoes, 
acres planted, 35§, acres for crop of 1883, 35^- bushles produced, 2,685. 
Tobacco, 2 acres; pounds, 1,125. Butter, 14,380 pounds. Maple sugar. 
326 pounds, gallons sirup, 282. Bees, 85 hives; pounds of honey, 1,035. 
Eggs, 13,317 dozen. Grapes, 4,550 pounds. Apples, acres occupied, 93|; 
bushels produced, 2,350. Peaches, bushels produced, 57. Pears, bushels 
produced, 16|. Lands, number of acres cultivated, 4,616; number of 
acres pasture, 2,813; number of acres woodland, 1,884, total number of 
acres owned, 9,520. Wool, 32,644 pounds. Milch cows, 200. Stallions r 
1. Dogs, 41. Sheep killed by dogs, 10; value, $46. Hogs died, 50; 
value, $394. Sheep died, 214; value, $728. Cattle, 2; value, $30. Horses, 
10; value, $1,050. 

NAME. 

This township received its name — Grand— from the fact that at the 
time of its organization it was the largest division of the county, and there- 
fore designated the "grand" division, or, more properly, Grand Township. 

SETTLEMENT. 

At the time of its organization, there were within its boundaries quite a 
number of settlers. At the first election, held June 26, 1824, twelve votes 
were cast for William Cochran, who was elected Justice of the Peace. At 
a subsequent election, held October 12, 1824, thirteen votes were cast for 
Jeremiah Morrow for Governor and six for Allen Trimble, showing an in- 
crease of seven in the vote in the space of four months. 

Among the first permanent white settlers within the present limits of 
this township were James Stiverson and family, who settled on the north 
part of Section 26 in 1821-22. Joseph and Myrick Higgins and their fami- 



GRAND TOWNSHIP. 759 

lies, and Jacob Seaburn followed some time between the above date and 
1828; Henry Deal and Elisha Davis (with wife Nancy), in 1828. Champ- 
ness Terry and family, from Virginia, came in 1830; Walter Davis and his 
family, in 1832; Noah Gillespie, in 1835; James and Joseph Lindsay, in 
1834-35; David Bower and family, in 1835; Jonathan Neal and family, 
1834; Edward, Thomas and Joseph Rubens, Charles Merriman, Hugh 
Long, Gilbert Olney and son Benjamin, George Barnes, John Lindsay, 
Thomas Lapham, George Gray and others. 

Among the first schoolhouses in thia township was one about a quarter 
of a mile west of the east line of the township, on what would be the road 
dividing Sections 36 and 25. It was built about the year 1827 or 1828. 
Mrs. Seaburn says there was a log schoolhouse on the northeast quarter of 
Section 25 when she settled here in 1828, and thinks that probably it had 
been built one to three years. Mrs. Nehemiah Davis, formerly Mary Ann 
Smith, says she attended school at this bouse in 1826. The first teacher 
she remembers was Miss Nancy Brown. Another was Michael Vincent, a 
good teacher, but cross, and followed the old-fashioned theory that if you 
spared the rod you spoiled the child. Thomas Lapham was another teacher 
in an early day. This schoolhouse was built of hewed logs, which were 
afterward taken down and removed to Scott Town. There are now three 
schoolhouses in Grand Township, namely, on Sections 22, 25 and 28. 

CHURCHES. 

Before the Union Church was erected, the Methodist and Christian 
societies held meetings in 'what is now kuown as the Seaborn Schoolhouse. 
on the northwest quarter of Section 25. The church, on this section, was 
built in 1869, at an expense of $2,200, besides $50 for the ground. Three- 
fourths of the expense was incurred by the Methodists and one -fourth by 
the Christians. Of the Methodists, Nathaniel Osborn paid about $300: 
Benjamin Roney, $400; Abram Smith, $300; Milton Roads, $300, and 
others. Of the Christians, Jacob Seaburn paid $550, and others paid small 
amounts. The church is 36x46 feet in dimensions, will seat 250 to 300 
people, and was built under the supervision of Rev. Avery Wright, and 
Rev. Harvey Wilson preached the dedication sermon. 

Zion Methodist Episcopal Church. — The present membership of this 
church numbers fifty, who hold regular meetings at the above place once in 
two weeks. Sunday school every Sunday, with about fifty pupils. The 
ministers have been Revs. Avery Wright, Dwight Cook, Randolph Cook, 
David Rhinehart, Staley, Hager, Cameron, Senters, Downing, Lucas, and 
P. T. Webster, the present pastor. 

Paw Paw Free-Will Baptist Church was organized March 16, 1850, by 
Revs. John Wallace and A. Hatch. James Otis, John King and Myrack 
Higgins were among the first members and were elected Trustees; John King, 
Clerk. Meetings were held for a time in the house of Myrack Higgins, 
but he soon gave a site for a house of worship on Section 33 in Grand 
Township, and a church edifice was built the following year and dedicated. 

Rev. John Wallace was the first pastor. After his labors closed, Revs. 
G. W. Baker and G. H. Moon and others preached at intervals. The mem- 
bership remained small. At last, public services were discontinued for 
several years and the house became dilapidated. 

About the year 1872, the Free-Will Baptists and Methodist Episcopals 
jointly repaired and used the house. About that time the second Montgom- 
ery Free-Will Baptist Church, which was organized February 28, 1852. by 



760 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Revs. A. Hatch and K. F. Higgins, consisting of John Kiug and wife, 
Joshua Davis and wife, William Lauderback and Hiram Owens, and whish 
enjoyed the pastoral labors of the two ministers who organized it, and after- 
ward of Revs. G. W. Baker, D. D. Halsted, James Aldrich, and perhaps 
others, disbanded, most of the members uniting with the church at LaRue, 
but some of them uniting with the Paw Paw Church. Since then the congre- 
gation has held its usual number, though still small, and preaching has 
been sustained portions of the time except for the last year, when both 
societies have been without preaching, and the house been unoccupied, ex- 
cept on funeral occasions. 

The Christians have a meeting once a month in the above described 
church, Rev. Henry Holverstott being the minister. 

MISCELLANEOUS. 

The Clerk's books containing the records of Grand Township were 
destroyed by fire about the year 1880, and hence some of the data of his- 
tory are irrecoverable. 

The present Township Trustees are George Everett, Wilson Peters and 
James Day; Treasurer, Thomas Anderson; Clerk. J. C. Rubin. 

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 

To complete the history of Grand Township, we give the biographical 
sketches of many of its pioneers and prominent men. 

DAVID J. BOWER was born in what is now Marseilles Township, 
Wyandot County, Maj r 27, 1835. He is a son of John N. and Gertrude D. 
(Demarest) Bower, natives of New York State. They were married in New 
York in 1834, and in the fall of the same year came to Ohio, and settled 
on land in Grand Township, which has since been included in Marseilles 
Township, Wyandot County. Mr. Bower died December 16, 1877, aged 
sixty-six years. Mrs. Bower resides on the homestead in Marseilles Town- 
ship, in the eighty -first year of her age. They were the parents of three 
children— David J. ; Mary, now Mrs. E. H. Rubins, and Olive M. Mr. 
Bower was Trustee of Grand Township, and also of Marseilles Township. 
In the latter township he served as Justice of the Peace six years. The 
subject of this sketch was reared to manhood on the homestead. In 1860, 
he rented a farm in Hardin County, and in January, 1862, purchased his 
present farm in Grand Township. He has cleared and well improved this 
farm, and has made all the improvements. He is engaged in farming and 
rearing Durham cattle and Spanish Merino sheep. December 30, 1858, he 
was married to Miss Julia E. Vanarsdall, daughter of Thomas and Lucy 
Vanarsdall. She was born in York State September 15, 1838; of three 
children born to this union two are living — Charles H. and Sophronia J. 
May 2, L864, Mr. Bower enlisted in Company G, One Hundred and Forty- 
fourth Regiment, Ohio National Guards. He was engaged in the battle 
of Monocacy and Berryville. Be was discharged from the office of Sergeant, 
August 31, 1864. September 23, following, he was drafted into Company 
B, Thirty eight Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was injured by 
falling from a train near Chattanooga, Tenn., and thus disabled from further 
service. He was discharged, June 10, 1865. Mr. Bower and family are 
members of the Marseilles Presbyterian Church. Mr. B. is identified with 
the orders of P. of H. and G. A. R. He served Grand Township as Trustee 
one year, and as Treasurer five years. He owns a farm of 160 acres. 




U^C^?i^C l^i^^O^ 



GRAND TOWNSHIP. 761 

JACOB P. BOWER was born in Chester County, Fenn., July 9, 1809. 
His parents, David and Susan (Kepner) Bower, were also natives of Chester 
County. They removed to New York State in 1810, and in 1835 to Grand 
Township, Marion County, where Mr. Bower entered 240 acres of land, and 
died April, 1861, aged seventy-five. Mrs. G. died io. August of the same 
year, at the same age. They had born to them eight children, of whom 
five are living. Our subject passed his early life on a farm When of age 
he took up the carpenter and joiner trade, and followed it about four years. 
He purchased land in Grand Township, which was afterward attached to 
Wyandot County. In 1837, he moved to Hardin County, and resided there 
most of the time till 1877, when he returned to Grand Township. October 
■9, 1830, he was married to Miss Sarah Johnson, daughter of Thomas and 
Hannah Johnson. Mrs. Bower is a native of Cayuga County, N. Y., was 
born July 5, 1808. They were blessed with four children, three of whom 
are still living — Helen, wife of Oscar Ralls ; Catherine L., wife of Isaac 
Clark; and George M. Adam died aged twenty-six y ears. Mrs. Bower 
departed this life March 31, 1877. Mr. Bower is a member of the 
Presbyterian Church of Marseilles. 

ENOCH CLARK (deceased), one of the earliest settlers in the north 
part of Marion County, was born in Connecticut May 30, 1792, and was 
a son of John Clark, who was also a native of that State. Mr. Clark spent 
his youth and early manhood in his native place. In September, 1819, he 
emigrated to the West and settled in Union County, Ohio; and in February, 
1821, came to Salt Rock Township, where he entered ninety -nine acres of 
land, and at the same time entered eighty acres over the line in Grand Town- 
ship. These were the first lands entered northwest of Big Island. He 
settled in Salt Rock and cleared up the woodland, and improved the prairie. 
He was one of the very first settlers in the region of Salt Rock and Grand 
Townships, and aided in many of the first public improvements in that 
section. Although, at that time, not a member of any church, he aided by 
liberal contributions to the building of the Big Island Union Church, and 
Baptist Church, east of Pleasant Hill. He erected a mill on Enoch Creek, 
which years before had taken his name, and operated it about twenty years. 
During the latter part of the war of 1812, he was drafted into the service 
and served two months as a private. He married Miss Fanny Butler, 
daughter of William Butler, and a native of Connecticut. Seven children 
were the fruit of this union; of these four are living — Elisha, now of 
Nevada County, Ark.; Mary C. ; Sarah, widow of William A. Butler; and 
Isaac, the youngest. Enoch, Jr. (deceased) married Ruth Harkness and died 
in March, 1881, aged fifty-four. Caroline, married T. B. Kerr, and 
died in June, 1870; Mr. Kerr died in February the same year. An 
infant is also deceased. Enoch Clark, the subject of this memoir, departed 
this life March 28, 1878; he was a man honorable and upright in character, 
and generally esteemed. He started in Marion County with merely enough 
money to enter his land, and by his industry and energy he accumulated much 
valuable property. He made subsequent additions to his original entry, till 
he owned at one time over 1,200 acres of land. He was a man of public enter- 
prise, and died after dividing considerable property among his children, 
leaving an estate valued at $40,000. For many years he handled stock, 
and in early days he bought and drove hogs to the cities on the lake, where 
he butchered and packed them. Mrs. Clark, wife of Enoch Clark, was born 
January 9, 1794, and died March 18, 1871. 



762 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

ISAAC CLARK, the youngest son of Enoch Clark, was born in the old 
homestead in Salt Rock Township March 15, 1833. He passed his early 
life on the farm and obtained his education in the common schools. He 
remained at home and aided in clearing up and improving the homestead. 
In October, ]8G3, he bought eighty acres of his father, located in Grand 
Township. His farm now contains 1C3 acres, of which three acres are 
situated in Salt Rock. Mr. Clark is engaged in farming and stock-raising. 
For the last twenty years he has handled stock, shipping to Eastern markets, 
and ranks as one of the leading stock shippers in Marion County. Sep- 
tember 22, 1857, he was united in marriage with Miss Catharine L. Bower, 
daughter of J. P. Bower, an early settler of Marion County. Mrs. Clark 
was born in Wyandot County, Ohio, April 9, 1841. Mr. and Mrs. Clark 
are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Scott Town. He was one 
of the principal contributors to the erection of this church and is now 
serving as its Trustee. He filled the office of Trustee of the township four 
years and as Assessor two years. Mr. Clark is a man of public spirit, and 
"was one of the chief instigators of securing the important improvement of 
pikes in his township. In politics, he is a Republican. 

HENRY DEAL, one of the oldest pioneers of Grand Township, was 
born in Frederick County, Va. , October 20, 1806. In 1809, his parents. 
George and Catharine (Hott) Deal, removed to Ohio, and settled in Harri - 
son Township, Pickaway County, where they resided till April, 1823, when 
they came to Marion County, and located in Salt Rock Township. Mr. 
Deal entered 260 acres, paying the Government price, $1.25 per acre. He 
died in June, 1851, aged seventy-two. He was a Lieutenant of Capt. 
Hugh Creighton's company in the late war with Great Britain. His father, 
Coonrad Deal, came from Prussia, and was pressed in the service of the Rev- 
olution on the British side. He served a short time, and escaped to the 
American side. Mrs. Deal, our subject's mother, died in August, 1851. Of 
nine children born to George and Catharine Deal, three are living; of these 
our subject is the eldest. He was reared to manhood on a farm, and has 
always followed that avocation. In 1828 29 he entered eighty acres, his 
present farm in Grand Township. He cleared a site and erected a log 
house 16x18 feet in size, which he occupied about twenty years, then erected 
his present residence. Mr. Deal has cleared and improved all but ten acres 
of his farm, and has aided in making many of the first roads in the township, 
and building its first schoolhouse. In 1831, he was married to Miss Eliz- 
abeth Seaburn, a daughter of William Seaburn. She died in 1837, leaving 
three children; of these two are living — George and William. George re- 
sides in Missouri, and William is a minister of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church, and a member of the Central Ohio Conference. Mr. Deal again 
married in October, 1837. This time to Miss Mary Wolf, daughter of 
Frederick Wolf. Mrs. Deal departed this life in September. 1872. Mr. 
Deal adopted a child, Elijah Kennedy, and raised and educated him. He 
now has charge of Mr. Deal's farm. Mr. Deal is a member of the Meth- 
odist Episcopal Church. He owns the land he entered over fifty years ago, 
and is one of the oldest pioneers of northern Marion County. 

S. C. DODDS was born in Union County, Ohio, August 20, 1835. His 
father, Thomas Dodds, was born in Washington County, Penn., February 
15, 1800; and his mother, Mary Comer, was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, 
Julyl, 1810. Mr. Dodds. the father of our subject, came to Ohio with 
his father, Andrew Dodds, in 1813, and settled in Delaware County. A 
few years afterward he went to Urbana, and learned the trade of a spinster. 



GRAND TOWNSHIP. 763 

which be followed for a time. In 1831, he married and settled in Allen 
Township, Union County, at which place he resided till 1846, when he re- 
moved to Hardin County, where he died in January. 1866. His wife pre- 
ceded him November 24. 1850. They were the parents of eight children, 
of whom the subject of this sketch is the third. He passed his early life on 
a farm, and received his education in the common schools. When eighte n, 
he left home and obtained employment on a saw mill in Montgomery Town- 
ship for two years. He then turned his attention to farming, and in Jan- 
uary, 1868, he bought his present farm, which contain 160 acres. He 
has cleared most of this farm, and made all the improvements. August 22, 
1860, he was married to Miss Martha' E. Frame, daughter of Smith and 
Lovey Frame. Mrs. Dodds was born in Big Island Township August 22, 
1841. Six children were born to this union — Melvin S., Lovey J., Owen F., 
Mary T. , Samuel C. and Martha E. , deceased. Mr. Dodds served as Trustee 
of Montgomery Township three years during the war, and as Land Appraiser 
of Grand Township in 1880. He was a member of the Board of County 
Commissioners one term, and member of the Agricultural Board of the Agri- 
cultural Society eight years. Mr. Dodds is a man of enterprise, and is 
highly respected. Politically, he is Democratic. 

NEHEMIAH DAVIS, a substantial farmer of Grand Township, was 
born in Washington County, Ohio, August 14, 1816. He is a son of Elisha 
and Nancy (Ellison) Davis. His mother died in 1818, and his father mar- 
ried Susan Mason, and in 1828 removed to Marion County, settling in 
Grand Township, where he entered 160 acres of land, which has since been 
included in Marseilles Township, Wyandot County. He resided on the 
land he took up from the Government till 1840; then removed near Five 
Points, Montgomery Township, and purchased 160 acres of land, on which 
he died April 22, 1841. His widow, after his death, returned to Washing- 
ton County, Ohio. Our subject is the second son of five children. He 
came to the county with his father when twelve years old, and has since re 
sided within its limits. He remained with his father till he died, when he 
became the owner of 120 acres of the homestead. In 1842, he settled on 
their farm, and the following year moved to the land nis father had en- 
tered, and in 1844 he bought 210 acres of his present farm, on which he 
has since resided. To this original purchase he has made additions till he 
now owns 899 acres located in Grand and Salt Rock Townships. October 
26, 1842, he was married to Miss Mary A., daughter of Hugh V. and Sarah 
(Yazel) Smith. Mrs. Davis was born in Clark riounty, Ohio, October 5, 
1820. To them were born three children. William E. mai-ried Princess 
Everett ; Hugh V. married Julia Clements; and Sarah E. , now Mrs. Taylor 
Everett. Mr. Davis is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and 
in politics is a Republican. He has always pursued the avocation of farm 
ing and stock-raising, and his broad and well-stocked farms attest to his 
success. 

WILLIAM EVERETT, a farmer of Grand Township, was born in Lin- 
colnshire, England. October 27. 1821. His parents, William and Elizabeth 
(Day) Everett, were natives of Lincolnshire, where they both died, the 
former at the age of eighty six, and the latter seventy-five. Our subject was 
reared to manhood on the farm, and received his education in the common 
schoolsof his native place May 14, 1853, i e was married to Miss Hannah, 
daughter of Robert and Elizabeth (Cummins) Blow, both natives of Lin- 
colnshire. England. They emigrated to America with William Everett in 
1857, and settled in Grand Township, where they died in 1867. To Mr. 



764 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

and Mrs. Everett have been born four children— George, born in England 
in 1855; Edward, born in Marion County in 1857; Olive, born in 1859, and 
Rachel, born in 1863. Mr. Everett owns a farm of 340 acres of well im- 
proved and highly cultivated land. He has made improvements on it which 
increased the value from $17.50 to $75 per acre. He is a successful farmer 
and well respected citizen. In 1864, ho enlisted in Company K, Thirty- 
eighth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and accompanied Gen. Sherman 
on his noted march to the sea. He was honorably discharged in June, 
1865, at the close of the war. William Everett served in the capacity of 
Town Trustee six years. He is connected with the G. A. R., and in politics 
is a Republican. 

VALENTINE FEHL was born in Adams County, Penn., September 
15, 1817. His parents, John and Sarah (Wolf) Fehl, were natives of the 
same countv. They were married about 1816, and in 1833 emigrated to the 
West, and settled in what is now Marseilles Township, Wyandot County, 
which then formed a part of Grand Township. Mr. Fehl bought at first 
120 acres, mostly woodland, to which he made additions until his farm con- 
tained 500 acres'; of this 120 acres he entered in Grand Township. His 
death occurred July 12, 1868, aged seventy-six; Mrs. Fehl resides in Grand 
Township, in the ninetieth year of her age. Of eight children born to 
Mr. and Mrs. Fehl, five are living. Our subject, the eldest child, was 
reared to manhood on a farm, and was educated in the district schools. In 
1850, he bought 160 acres of woodland in Grand Township. He cleared a 
place and erected a house, which he occupied till the erection of the pres- 
ent residence in 1866. Mr. Fehl has increased his farm to 280 acres of 
well improved and highly cultivated land. H^ has always followed farm- 
ing and stock-raising, and with success. His first marriage took place in 
1842, with Miss Rosanna Studebaker, a daughter of Abram and Mary 
Studebaker. She died in 1847, leaving two children — Olive (wife of Jacob 
Williams) and Caroline (wife of James Emptage. Mr. Fehl celebrated his 
second marriage November 9, 1851, with Miss Clara Otis, daughter of Ste- 
phen and Mary Otis. Mrs. Fehl, a native of Washington County, Ohio, 
was born September 8, 1834. This union was blessed with eight children; 
of these seven are living — Orlando O. , Sarah A. (wife of William McCleary), 
Maggie E., Etta, Finley J., Julia and Otis V; Clara M. died in infancy. 
Mr°Fehl and family are members of tbe Methodist Episcopal Church. Po- 
litically, he is a Republican; he served as Treasurer of Grand Township 
tw lve years, and as Trustee six years. 

NOAH GILLESPIE was born in Gallia County, Ohio, March 1, 1817. 
He is a son of Robert and Sarah (Rice) Gillespie, natives of Virginia; 
Robert Gillespie was born in 1788, and Mrs. Gillespie in 1791; Mr. Gilles- 
pie came to Ohio with his father, William Gillespie, in 1802, and settled 
in Muskingum County. William Gillespie was born in Ireland, and crossed 
the waters before the Revolution; he served three years in that war, and 
was engaged in the battle of Brandywine; he died in Gallia County, Ohio, in 
1828. Robert Gillespie, the father of the subject of this sketch, entered the war 
with Great Britain in 1814, in Capt. Van Horn's company, under Gen. Tup 
per, and served one year, receiving his discharge at Fort Meigs. He returned 
to Gallia County, where he married Sarah Rice in 1815, and in May, 1835, 
came to Marion County, Ohio. He bought forty acres of land, and entered 
eighty acres in Montgomery Township the subsequent year. In 1851, he 
sold for the purpose of going West, and purchased 160 acres on the southern 
line of Grand Township, where he died July 17, 1860; his widow survived 



GRAND TOWNSHIP. 765 

him till February 11,1 877. They reared eight children, four of whom are now 
living. Our subject was reared to manhood on a farm; in 1889, he engaged 
in teaching, which profession he followed during the winter seasons for 
twenty-one years; in 1847, he took charge of the homestead, and subsequently 
became the owner of it. June 19, 1847, he was joined in marriage to Miss 
Emaline C. Owens, daughter of Margret and Isaac Owens. Mrs. Gillespie 
was born in Sussex County, Del., March 18, 1820. To this marriage were 
born seven children; of these five are living, viz., Lauretta (wife of Walter 
James), Harrison D., Hiram E., Horace G. and Florence (wife of Thomas 
Anderson) ; Byron and La Fayette are deceased. Noah Gillespie has 
served in various capacities of official trust in his county and township; he 
was a member of the Board of County Commissioners one term; Justice of 
the Peace sixteen years in succession; Trustee ten years, and Assessor twen- 
ty years. Politically, he is a Republican. He owns a well-improved and 
highly-cultivated farm of 200 acres. 

NATHANIEL OSBUN, a native of Eichland County, Ohio, was born 
June 4, 1829. His parents, Isaac and Margaret (Holmes) Osbun, were 
married in Richland County, and in 1833 removed and settled in Pleasant 
Township, Hardin County, where they both died. Mr. Osbun died in 
April, 1845, and his widow, August, 1876. They had ten children of 
whom our subject is the second. At the age of fourteen he took up the 
miller's trade, in a water-mill, near Kenton, and worked at it till of age, 
when he engaged working by the month, which he followed till 1856. 
That year he came to Scott Town and bought a sawmill, which he operated 
three years. In 1859, he purchased thirty acres of land, to which he 
added eighty acres in 1877. His occupation has been farming and stock- 
raising. July 4, 1850, he was married* to Miss Joanna Hartman, daughter 
of Joseph and Jane Hartman. Mrs. Osbun died June 22, 1882, leaving 
eight children, viz.: Martha, Isaac E., Elinore, Sarah L., Nathaniel J.', 
Elizabeth A., Albert and Harry J.; William, Margaret J., Mary B. and 
John M. are deceased. Mr. Osbun and family are members of the M. E. 
Church. Politically, he is a Republican. 

EDWARD H. RUBINS, eldest son of Thomas and Rebecca Rubins, 
was born in Grand Township May 7, 1837. His early life was passed on 
the homestead, and his education obtained in the common schools. In 
1868, he purchased eighty acres of land of his father, lying south of the 
homestead. He had moved on this farm in 1858. February, 1881. he 
bought his present farm, which contains 142 acres. December 29, 1880, 
his house was destroyed by fire on his other farm, and he moved to his 
present location. He is engaged in farming and stock-raising, and makes 
a specialty in breeding and rearing Spanish merino sheep. May 2, 1864, 
he enlisted as a member of Company G, One Hundred and Forty-fourth 
Regiment, Ohio National Guards. He participated in the battles of Monoc- 
acy, July 9, where he received a bullet wound in the right arm, which 
necessitated amputation. He was honorably discharged, and now receives 
a pension of $30 per month. He was married, September 13, 1858, to Miss 
Mary H. W. Bower, daughter of Nicholas and Gertrude Bower. Mrs. 
Rubins was born in Wyandot County. Ohio, July 3, 1837. To them were 
born six children, all of whom are living— John E., Anna M. D., Thomas 
R, Charges H. , David W. aud Julia G. Mr. and Mrs. Rubins are mem- 
bers of the Presbyterian Church of Marseilles. Mr. Rubins is a member 
of the G. A. R He is serving his fifth term as Justice of the Peace. He 
also filled the office of Clerk three years, and Assessor two years. 



766 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

JOSEPH S. RUBINS, .second son of Thomas and Rebecca Rubins, was 
born on the homestead in Grand Township October '23, 1843. He was 
reared to manhood on the farm, and educated in the common schools. He 
aided in clearing the homestead, and in April, 1870, after his marriage, re- 
moved to a farm, three miles east of his birthplace, Avhere he purchased 
160 acres of land, for which ho paid $5,400. March 6, 1875, he sold, and 
bought 200 acres of the homestead farm. He subsequently bought ninety - 
three acres, which makes a well- improved and highly cultivated farm of 
293 acres. He is engaged in agriculture and raising fine stock. He 
makes a leading pursuit of breeding and rearing American merino sheep, 
and thoroughbred short-horn cattle. He purchased his sheep from the 
flock of P. F. & W. C. Coulter, of Licking County. He keeps a flock of 
100 head, and sells annually about fifty. In the line of fine cattle, he 
keeps second to none in the county. He is also engaged in keeping French 
Norman and English draft horses. In fine stock pursuits, Mr. Rubins 
ranks as a prominent man in the county, and has been successful. He was 
married, December 29, 1869, to Miss Eugenia L. Cary, daughter of George 
and Lucinda Cary. Mrs. Rubins was born in Sussex County, N. J., Nov- 
ember 17, 1843; four children were born to this union; of these two are 
living — Harry M. , born September 22, 1870, and Lettie M., born April 23, 
1881. Mary R. and Louella are deceased. May 2, 1864, he enlisted in 
Company G, One Hundred and Forty-fourth Regiment Ohio National 
Guards. He participated in the battle of Monocacy, and an engagement 
with Mosby's guerrillas. He was honorably discharged at Columbus, Ohio, 
September 1, 1864. Mr. Rubins and wife are members of the Presbyte- 
rian Church of Marseilles. Politically, he is a Republican. 

JACOB SEABURN, deceased, an old and much respected citizen of 
Grand Township, was born in West Virginia May 15, 1804; in the fall of 
the same year, his parents, William and Maiy Seaburn, removed to Ohio, 
settling in Pickaway County, where our subject was reared to manhood. 
He resided in Pickaway County till January, 1828, when he removed to 
Grand Township, Marion County. He purchased eighty acres of land, to 
which tract he added till his farm contained 170 acres. He was married, 
December 23, 1826, to Mary Conrad, a native of Greenbrier County, W. 
Va., where she was born November 14, 1804. Mrs. Seaburn's parents mi- 
grated to Pickaway County, Ohio, in 1813. Her grandfather, Oliver Con- 
rad, was a soldier in the Revolutionary war. Mr. Seaburn was one of the 
early pioneer settlers of Grand Township, and aided in making many of 
its first improvements. He gave $500 to the erection of th« Zion Methodist 
Episcopal Church, and was an active man in church work during his life. 
His death occurred October 20, 1874. He had filled the office of Trustee 
of his township twelve years, and of Treasurer thirteen years. He was a 
man of integrity, and was highly esteemed in the community. Mrs. Sea- 
burn resides on the homestead of 167 acres, in the eightieth year of her 
age. A portrait of Mr. Seaburn appears in this work. 

CHAMPNESS TERRY, the subject of this sketch, one of the oldest 
pioneers of Grand Township, was born in Pittsylvania County, Va., August 
24, 1801. His parents, John a id Sarah (Hodnet) Terry, were natives of 
old Virginia. Mr. Terry enlisted in the Revolutionary war, and served 
eighteen months. He participated in the battle of Guilford Court House, 
N. C, and was discharged from the rank of Captain. He died at the ad- 
vanced age of eighty -four years. He was the parent of nine children, of 
whom the subject of this sketch is the only surviving one. He was reared 



GRAND PRAIRIE TOWNSHIP. 7tf7 

in his native place, and educated in the subscription schools of that day. 
In 1823, he began the trade of a carpenter, and followed it till the fall of 
1831, when he emigrated to the West and located in Grand Township. 
He purchased 132 acres of land, for which he paid $5 per acre. This whole 
region of Grand was woods, and Mr. Terry aided in making many of the 
first roads. He cleared a site and erected a log house, which he occupied 
till the erection of his present residence. Mr. Terry has made additions to 
the original purchase till he now owns 250 acres, located in Marion, Hardin 
and Wyandot Counties. Mr. Terry has cleared and well improved his 
farm. The "Red Spring" is located a few rods from his home, and not 
unfrequently have the red men of the forest camped by this ever-flowing 
fountain. In 1812, Gen. Harrison and his army, while marching to Detroit, 
camped for the night at this spring. Mr. Terry handled live stock 
for sixteen years, and during that time kept a house of entertainment 
for stock-drovers. He furnished provisions to a great many pioneer fami- 
lies who came into Grand Township, and was one of the leading citizens 
of the township. Mr. Terry was married, March 20, 1829, to Rhoda Ann 
Thompson, daughter of David and Mary (Anderson) Thompson. She was 
born in Halifax County, Va. , September, 1 813, and died, leaving five chil- 
dren — Thomas J., Joseph C. and John H. ; Sarah J., David D. and William 
P. are deceased. David served three years in the late war, and was killed 
in the engagement at Snicker's Gap, while acting as Captain. Mr. Terry 
again married, February 26, 1843, this time to Rebecca Peters, daughter 
of Isaac and Mary Peters. Mrs. Terry, a native of Fairfield County, Ohio, 
was born April 15, 1825. Of fourteen children born to this union eight 
are living, viz. : Mary A. (wife of Wilson Mason), James M., Luke A., 
George W., Ruth C. (wife of G. W. Bryant), Elizabeth A., Hannah J. 
and M. C. Zachariah L., Catharine L., Emma M., Susan R. and two in- 
fants are deceased. James M. and Luke A. were also soldiers in the re- 
bellion. Mr. Terry is a Friend, religiously, and Mrs. Terry is a member 
of the Baptist Church. Mr. Terry is a Republican in his political views. 
He cast his first vote for Gen. Jackson. He has filled the office of Trustee 
of Grand Township for eighteen consecutive years. He has been an active 
and enterprising citizen, and by his energy and economy has achieved suc- 
cess in life. 



CHAPTER VI. 



GRAND PRAIRIE TOWNSHIP. 

A LITTLE more than a half-century ago, Grand Prairie Township lay in 
the indolence and silence of a summer noon-day, in which she had been 
basking for ages. A few Indian wigwams and a few rude cabins of restless 
white men dotted the margins of her forests. The purchase of these lands 
of the Indians by the United States in the year 1819, and the subsequent 
discovery of the extreme fertility of the soil soon changed the whole scene. 
A constant tide of immigration flowed hither, and soon the lands were oc- 
cupied by a hardy and industrious class of pioneers. 



768 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

ORGANIZATION AND PHYSICAL FEATURES. 

This township was organized at the first session of the County Commis- 
sioners, in June. 1824. It, perhaps, was among the first then organized, 
although there is no entry of the formal organization of the township to be 
found in the records at that or any other date. Yet it has ever since been 
known by that name on all the records and duplicates of the county. It 
originally consisted of the full surveyed Township No. 4, Range No. 15, 
and it thus remained until in 1845, when the county of Wyandot was 
erected and the boundaries of Marion and Crawford Counties were changed. 
At that time, two tiers of sections were taken from this township and given 
to Wyandot County. Since then, however, the territory of his township 
has not been disturbed, and to-day it consists of twenty-four full sections 
of Congress lands. It lies almost wholly within the limits of the Sandusky 
Plains, and probably derives its name from the originally beautiful prairies 
within its borders. 

The surface is generally level, but in some parts it is slightly rolling, 
with rich bottom lands in many parts of the township. The soil is deep 
and exceedingly productive in the prairie lands, and of more than average 
depth and fertility in that portion consisting of woodland. The lands are 
afforded much natural drainage by the Little Scioto, which flows through 
it from north to south, and also Rocky Fork and one or two smaller 
streams. 

SETTLEMENT. 

The tirst permanent white settler was a Mr. Ridenour, who came here 
from Ross County and located on the north side of the Little Scioto River, 
where he built a cabin and made some meager improvements, and afterward 
sold the premises to James Swinnerton, who, with his family, came from 
Delaware County to this township in the early part of 1819. Within a few 
years after Mr. Swinnerton came to this township, Joseph Drake, Sr., and 
Joseph Drake, Jr., also settled here, and in 1824, Capt. John Vanmeter 
came. He was a native of Berkeley County, Va. , whence he came to this 
township. Mr. Vanmeter served as Captain in the war of 1812. His 
residence here was near Bentsfield His son, William Vanmeter, who is 
now living, still resides in this township. 

Benjamin Salmon, a native of the State of Delaware, came during the 
same year, and Asa Pike located here about the year 1826. In the follow- 
ing year, Henry May and family came here from Franklin County, Ohio, 
and located where John A. May now resides. Mr. May at once opened a 
public house. This inn, whose place and public character were designated 
by the picture of a black horse, became quite a popular stopping place, and 
so continued until about 1854. Henry May died in 1838. 

John Cook and Mr. Cadwell were also among the settlers of about this 
date; also, Jacob Bentsfield and family, locating here in 1828, on the bank 
of Rocky Fork, a little south of the center of the township. He had se- 
cured the property of Mr. Hume, who had entered eighty acres of land 
here, built a cabin and made some other improvements. Others in this 
locality were John Bunn, John Cook and Capt. John Vanmeter previously 
noticed, and David Salmon, who lived on the east bank of "Salmon Run," 
in a large log house, which is still standing. The only living representa- 
tive of the Burtsfield family, who came here at an early day, is John Burts- 
field, and he gives it as his recollection that Abner Bent, who lived just 
north of the Scioto bridge, was here at the time of their coming. Powell, 



GRAND PRAIRIE TOWNSHIP. 769 

Raney, Stillwell and John Lance, with their families, came soon after- 
ward. 

Mrs. Catherine Bretz is also one of the early settlers of this township, 
and is still living. She was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, April 25, 1804, 
and was a daughter of John and Barbara Bibler, who were also among the 
early pioneers of this township. Mrs. Bretz is the widow of Samuel Bretz, 
to whom she was married in 1828. Five years later, they came to this town- 
ship, arriving here in the spring of 1828, fully intending to go onto Seneca 
County and there locate, but they were persuaded by friends to remain in 
Marion County. Mrs. Bretz relates that they lived with David Hite and 
family from the time they came in the spring until late in the fall. In the 
meantime, Mr. Bretz had purchased the farm upon which Mrs. Bretz still 
resides, and in the autumn erected a cabin, which approaching winter com- 
pelled them to enter before it was completed. The cabin, when they first 
moved into it, contained no windows; no floor was yet laid, except on that 
portion upon which a couple of bedsteads stood; the door was a mere hole 
through the wall, and there was no fire-place. Mrs. Bretz did her cooking 
out of doors, by a large stump. They had to carry or haul the water they 
used a distance of a mile or more. They lived in this manner for about 
two months, until other improvements were made. 

Mrs. Bretz thus relates an incident which occurred the evening after 
they had moved into their cabin: 

On the day after Mr. Bretz and his family had moved into their new 
home, one of their neighbors became ill, and Mr. Bretz was sent for to go 
as a messenger for Dr. Holloway, at Marion. When Mr. Bretz returned to 
the house of the sick neighbor, he found the man in too bad a condition to 
leave, although the patient had been administered to by the physician. 
Hence, he reluctantly consented to remain over night with the sick man, 
thus unavoidably leaving his wife and three small children alone for the 
night in the rickety and unfinished cabin, wholly at the mercy of the storms 
and the attacks of wild beasts. The neighbors were few, and Mr. Bretz 
did not return. The twilight of the evening deepened into utter darkness, 
and Mrs. Bretz had no opportunity of securing company, or even of calling 
aid in case of danger. It was autumn, and the fallen leaves, dead grass. 
brush and dry sticks were undergoing their annual burning. The night 
was a dismal one. The fierce blazing of the fire in the early part of the 
evening had aroused all the wild animals in the vicinity. Later, when the 
glare of the light was dying out, the howling of the wolves and the scream- 
ing of the panthers made the night hideous. To render Mrs. Bretz's situa- 
tion more desolate and dangerous, the watch-dog had been frightened away. 
She, however, barricaded the door, and availed herself of all the means of 
defense at hand to prevent the intrusion of any unwelcome visitors, in the 
shape of either man or beast. These precautions were not ill-timed, for 
the entrance to the cabin had not more than been securely closed when a 
number of hungry wolves congregated, and w T ith howling, snarling and 
snapping of teeth indicated plainly where they were seeking thf»ir prey. 
Growing more bold, they sought every aperture to effect an entrance, and 
their glaring eyes might have been seen through the crevices between the 
logs, as they howled with rage at their inability to enter. Mrs. Bretz and 
her little family sustained no bodily harm during that long, dreary night; 
but she rightly attributes it to her abundant caution, in thus early barricad- 
ing and securing the door. 

Other settlers came to this township previous to 1832, all of whom can- 



770 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

not be mentioned; but among them were Lewis Jury, Eleazer Parker, John 
Page, Chancy Clark, William Powell, who came in 1828 and located on 
Rocky Fork; also Landy Shoots, David Bibler and family, who came in 
1831. Michael Campbell, who was born in Ross County, Ohio, in 1811, 
and who was then a young man, came with Mr. Bibler and family. Young 
Campbfill remained with Mr. Bibler for a year or more, when he secured a 
position in a distillery in Crawford County. Soon tiring of that kind of 
business, he left it, and afterward worked at several places until, in 1837, 
he married Miss Mary Bibler and moved upon the farm where he now 
lives. 

The first schoolhouse in this township was erected about 1832, near Mrs. 
Hord's place. It was a log structure, of the most simple, primitive pattern. 
The first teacher who taught there was probably Isaac James. 

INDIANS. 

For many years after the early settlers came here, the Indians were 
quite numerous. Not far to the north lay the Wyandot reservation, twelve 
miles square, which territory had been ceded to that brave and warlike 
tribe by the terms of the treaty effected, in 1817, between the Wyandots 
and the Government, as represented by Lewis Cass and Duncan McArthur. 
But their movements and their privileges were not confined alone to their 
reservation, and it was no unusual thing to see them in the deeper wilds 
of Crawford County, or the more remote parts of Wyandot, or in regular 
squads or caravans passing southward, through the sparse settlements of Mar- 
ion and Delaware Counties, their ponies loaded with various articles of mer- 
chandise. The white settlements adjacent often suffered losses from their 
thieving, but no accounts of great losses have been given. 

The manners of these people would be regarded now, as they were then, 
as odd and uncouth A squad passing in front of cabins of white settlers 
would often halt, and while the male portion of the company would wait, 
the squaws would enter the house without rapping or any ceremony or leave 
of any kind, and if any one were present they would ask for anything they 
could see that struck their fancy, and if they did not get it the refusal gen- 
erally made them angry. If no one were present on those occasions, the in- 
truders often helped themselves to what they wanted. They never, at a private 
house or in the villages, lost an opportunity to display their wares and what- 
ever they had for sale, and generally asked a gooH price for them. In their 
habits of cooking and preparing their meals, they were far from being 
cleanly. If white people visited their camps, or were present at their wig- 
wams in the villages when a meal was being prepared, they invariably in- 
sisted upon the pale face partaking of their hospitality; but it is needless 
to say that their kind invitations were usually declined, which fact often 
gave offense. 

Mrs. Bretz relates an incident that occurred soon after they came to this 
township, that is worthy of note here. It was while they were yet living 
with Mr. Hites and family. Both Mr. Hites and Mr. Bretz were absent for 
the day, and only their wives and children were at home. A party of about 
thirty Indians rode up in front of the cabin, and a number of them dis- 
mounted and went in. Mr. Bretz had brought a barrel of liquor with him 
from Fairfield County, and Mrs. Bretz was not long in discovering that the 
Indians were after some of the " fire-water; 1 ' but as it was a violation of 
the law to sell to the Indians, she determined not to sell them any on any 
condition. The Indians were very urgent in their entreaties, offering Mrs. 



GRAND PRAIRIE TOWNSHIP. 771 

Bretz a tine shawl and other valuable articles for a quart of whisky; but 
Mrs. Bretz was unyielding. They were very persistent in their efforts, but 
she steadily refused to either sell or give them whisky, and they finally be- 
came very much enraged, and tried to obtain it by threats. They pointed 
their guns at the children, and placed their fingers on their foreheads in a 
very significant manner, thus intimating that they would shoot the children 
through the head if their wishes were not granted; yet Mrs. Bretz did not 
yield to their solicitations and threats, even under these frightful circum- 
stances, but succeeded in getting one of the children off to a neighbor for 
help and protection. The neighbor presently came, and as soon as he was 
in view, the Indians, with many angry mutterings, ceased their efforts and 
withdrew. 

As the Wyandots did not relinquish their territory and remove West 
until in 1842, many of the present generation remember distinctly the rem- 
nant of this once haughty and warlike tribe and a number of their chiefs. 
Mr. Michael Campbell gives the names of the following of his own personal 
acquaintances: Bear-skin, Sarrahus, Grey- Eyes, Peacock and Snakehead. 

RELIGIOUS. 

The first religious society formed in the township was organized at 
John Vanmeter's, by Rev. Benjamin Cane and Thomas S. Nelson, and was 
Old School Baptist. It was organized May 26, 1827, and at first had only 
a membership of five, to wit: John Staley, Susan Staley, Sophia Van- 
meter, Chauncey Clark (Deacon) and Reuben Drake (Clerk). This society, 
however, has since grown strong and prosperous — due, mainly, to a revival 
initiated and conducted by Rev. S. D. Bates- -now numbering forty-two. 
In 1867, they built a house of worship in the northern part of the township, 
where the society holds regular services. It was dedicated by Rev. George 
Tusing, of Cincinnati. Present pastor, Adam S. Shoemaker. 

The Free-Will Baptist Church of this township was organized on the 
22d of February, 1867, by Rev. S. D. Bates, of Marion. In January, 
1867, Rev. Bates held a series of revival meetings, resulting in sixty con- 
versions, forty- five of whom subsequently became members of the Free- Will 
Baptist Church at the same place at the date above mentioned, and the re- 
maining fifteen joined the Old School Baptist Church, of the same place, which 
had been organized many years before. Rev. Bates continued in charge of 
the church society which he had organized here for a period of seven years. 
During that time, several revival meetings occurred, and the membership 
was increased to the number of seventy- five at the close of his pastorate. 
He was succeeded by Rev. R. J. Posten, who remained pastor for two years, 
and was followed by Rev. J. F. Tufts for two years, who was succeeded by 
Rev. Isaac Seitz, who was pastor of the church for four years. 

After eight years, Rev. S. D. Bates again resumed the pastoral relation, 
which he now holds. During the period of his absence, the church main- 
tained about its own in membership. A very neat frame chapel, costing 
$2,000, was erected by the church, at Brush Ridge, in 1867, where the 
society meets to worship regularly every alternate Sabbath, and where a 
Sunday school is maintained now during the summer months. 

AGRICULTURAL. 

Following are the agricultural productions, etc., of the township for 1883, 
as returned to the Auditor's office: Wheat, acres sown, 1,376; bushels pro- 
duced, 14,770; number of acres sown for harvest of 1883, 1,319. Oats, acres 



772 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

sown, 287; acres sown for crop of 1883, 479; bushels produced, 9,380. 
Corn, acres planted, 1,888; acres planted for crop of 1883, 1,650; bushels 
produced, 76,110. Meadow, acres, 735; tons of hay, 868. Clover, acres, 
118; tons of hay, 149; bushels of seed, 139. Potatoes, acres planted, 23; 
acres for crop of 1883, 24; bushels produced, 2,225. Butter, 18,755 
pounds. Sorghum, acres planted, 1%, gallons sirup, 194. Maple, gallons 
of sirup, 65. Bees, 94 hives; pounds of honey, 700. Eggs, 14,150 dozen. 
Apples, acres occupied, 74; bushels produced, 1,999. Peaches, bushels 
produced, 1882, 92. Pears, bushels produced 1882, 13. Lands owned, 
number of acres cultivated, 3,525; number of acres pasture, 2,451; number 
of acres woodland, 1,431; number of acres lying waste, 10; total number 
of acres owned, 9,729. Wool, 10,090. Milch cows, 138. Stallions, 4. 
Dogs, 1. Sheep killed by dogs, 31; value, $99. Hogs died, 16; value, 
$170. Sheep died, 47; value, $191. Cattle died, 2; value, $70. Horses, 
4; value, $400. 

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 

The following sketches of well-known citizens, with the introductory 
sketch just given, make up the history of Grand Prairie. 

EMERY BREWER, deceased, was born in Eulton County, N. Y., in 
1820, and came to Marion County in 1845, settling in Salt Creek Township. 
He was a man of great energy and perseverance, and although he com- 
menced with very limited means, he added year after year till his real es- 
tate amounted to 1,700 acres of land, stocked to the fullest extent with 
horses, cattle, sheep and hogs. He was an enthusiastic Republican, and 
during the civil war, by his means and influence, gave energetic support to 
the union cause. He died May 7, 1880, leaving a widow and two children. 
His widow, Mrs. Cynthis Brewer, is a resident of Marion, and a member of 
the Christian Church. 

ANDREW D. BRETZ was born March 6, 1827, and is the son of Sam- 
uel and Catharine (Bibler) Bretz. Samuel Bretz was born in Lancaster, 
Penn., August 28, 1800, and his wife, Catharine, April 25, 1804, in Fairfield 
County, Ohio; they were married in 1828, and located in Grand Prairie 
Township when the county was first organized, and purchased 320 acres of 
land in the northern part of that township. At this time, Indians were 
quite numerous, but friendly. They had nine children ; those living are 
Anna, Andrew D., Elizabeth B., Fannie M., David S. and Mahala V. 
Amanda and Mary are deceased. Mr. Bretz was a prominent and highly 
honored citizen during his life-time, and was at one time elected Justice of 
the Peace; he also served in other public positions in the township, and as 
School Director for sixteen years. He was a member of the Regular Bap- 
tist Church, one of the first in the township. He died April 30, 1874; his 
widow, Catharine Bretz, still resides on the old homestead surrounded by 
her children and grandchildren, and pleasant and genial in her old age she 
awaits the Master's call. Andrew D, Bretz lives near the old homestead of 
his father, and is the owner of one of the finest farms in the county, worth, 
with its improvements, at least $30,000. His residence is one of the best 
houses in the county, and situated on an eminence affording a fine view to 
the south and east. He is one of the oldest residents in the township, and 
one of its 'most influential citizens. He is, politically speaking, a Repub- 
lican, and held various offices in his township, and is a member of the Reg- 
ular Baptist Church, of which he is a Trustee. His wife was formerly 
Miss Mary Seitz, the daughter of a prominent Baptist minister. Several 
years ago Mr. Bretz met with severe accident, injuring the spine, and has 
been obliged ever since to use canes for a support while walking. 



GRAND PRAIRIE TOWNSHIP. 773 

SILAS W. BRIGGS was born in Huntingdon County, Penn., February 
14, 1828, and settled in Grand Prairie Township, Marion Co., Ohio, April 
10, 1861. He is one of the susbtantial farmers of the township, and has 
served in various local offices, among which is Justice of the Peace for 
several years. He affiliates with the Democratic party; is a member of 
the I. O. O. F., and himself and wife are members of the Methodist Church. 
They have the following children: Jonathan C, Luther, Emma. Otteimer 
G. and Eugene. The first named is a graduate of the Western Reserve 
Medical College. Mr. and Mrs. Briggs have a farm of 245 acres, and the 
cash value of the estate would be at least $20,000 to $25,000. Mr. Briggs 
is a prominent and highly respected citizen. 

EZEKIEL BROWN, farmer and tile manufacturer, is a native of 
Wyandot County, Ohio, born January 24, 1850. His father, Abraham 
Brown, was a native of Fairfield County, Ohio, and moved with his family 
to Wyandot County in 1843. Ezekiel Brown was reared to the life of a 
farmer, and on attaining his majority was given $400 for a start. He has 
made such good use of this start, combined with industry, perseverance 
and good maaagement, that he is now, although but thirty-three years of 
age, one of the most substantial and well-to-do citizens of hi 3 fo.mship. 
He is the owner of 400 acres of land, and is also interested in the man- 
ufacture of tilo. He has been Treasurer of the township three years, and 
Trustee two years, and politically, is a Republican. He is also a member 
of the Marion County Agricultural Society. He was married, January 20, 
1876, to Alice C. Bretz, and the same spring became a resident of Grand 
Prairie Township, where he still resides. Himself and wife are members 
of the Baptist Church, ttie latter of the Regular Baptist Church. 

JOHN BURTSFIELD was born in Franklin County, Penn., on the 6th 
day of September. 1822, and is a son of Jacob and Elizabeth Burtsfield. 
who settled with their family in Grand Prairie Township, in April, 1828, 
on eighty acres of land that he pre-empted. He died on the same farm 
February 14, 1872, aged eighty-three years and six months. His wife died 
December 19, 1875, aged seventy-five years. John Burtsfield was married 
February 21, 1847,. to Nancy Jane Van Meter, who died December 13, 1864, 
avi ng three children. He was married again in July, 1865, to Amanda 
Lucas. By the last marriage they have no children. John Burtsfield is 
one of the most substantial and highly respected citizens of the township. 
He has filled all the offices of the township from Justice of the Peace down, 
and is serving as Trustee at the present time, while his son, J. W., is Town- 
ship Clerk. He is the owner of 360 acres of well improved land, valued at 
$25,000, which he has made by his own industry and economy. He resides 
on the place where his father first settled in 1828. 

MICHAEL CAMPBELL, pioneer and farmer, was born in Ross County, 
Ohio, October 19, 1811. He came to Marion County in 1831, and in 1836 
he was married to Mary Bibler, of Fairfield County, Ohio. Mr. Campbell 
endured all the hardships of pioneer life, and although he had very little 
means at the start, he acquired through industry and perseverance quite a 
large property, and at one time owned over 700 acres of land, and now owns 
240 acres, where he and his wife still live. They have six children — Ezra, 
Samuel, Annie, John, Barbara and Ellen. Mr. Campbell is a Republican 
in politics, and during the war for the Union gave liberally of his means in 
support of the Union cause. He is one of the very few pioneers of the 
county that are still living, and is a man greatly honored for his honesty 
and fair dealing. 



774 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

MRS. MARY (BUNN) COONROD, widow of Adam Coourod. The 
latter was born in Pennsylvania April 20, 1797. He settled in Fairfield 
County, Ohio, in 1810 ; then he moved to Wyandot County, and in 1830 
settled in Grand Prairie Township, Marion County, and purchased 200 
acres of land. He was a prosperous farmer, and much esteemed as a citi- 
zen, and served the township in various local offices. He was a member of 
the United Brethren Church at Mariou, and during the late years of his life 
was, politically speaking, a Republican. He died August 20, 1876, at his- 
homestead, which consisted of 260 acres of land, in Grand Prairie Town- 
ship. He left a widow and eight children. He was married to Mary Bunn y 
June 21, 1842. She was born June 9, 1816. Her father, John Bunn, with 
his family, settled in Grand Prairie Township in 1824. John Bunn was a 
soldier in the war of 1812, and was taken prisoner by the British at the 
time of Hull's surrender at Detroit. He afterward lived in Ross County. 
Ohio, from whence he came to Marion County. Mrs. Mary (Bunn) Coon- 
rod lives on the old homestead in Grand Prairie Township. Her two 
sons, George W. and Howard W., are carrying on the farm. She also owns 
a house and three lots in Marion. Two of her sons served as soldiers in 
the Union army during the war of the great Rebellion. John Coonrod 
enlisted in the Eighth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served dur- 
ing the whole war. Howard W. Coonrod enlisted in Company I, One Hun- 
dred and Seventy-fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, August 24, 
1864, participated in the battle of Murfreesboro, and served until the close 
of the war. He was honorably discharged from the service July 3, 1865. 

JACOB HARRIS, farmer, was bornDecember 31, 1831. Hecameto Mar- 
ion County in 1856, and has since resided in Grand Prairie Township, where 
he has a farm of 125 acres. He is a prosperous farmer and an enterprising 
citizen ; is a member of the County Agricultural Society, and of the Grange. 
In politics, he affiliates with the Republican party. His grandfather, Fred- 
erick Canous, was a soldier in the war of 1812, and lived to the age of one 
hundred and two years. Mr. Harris is a member of the Free- Will Baptist 
Church. 

HON. ROBERT HILL is a native of Knox County, Ohio. He was 
born July 14, 1821, and is a son of Samuel J. and Margaret Hill; the for- 
mer was a native of Scotland, and the latter of Juniata County, Penn. Mr. 
Hill was born September 29, 1756. He visited Ireland, and in 1784-85 
sailed for America, and settled in Pennsylvania, where he was married in 
July, 1803, to Margaret Arbnckle. They came to Ohio, stopping iirst in 
Coshocton County, then in Knox County, but in the spring of 1830 they 
moved to this county, settling in Scott Township. He bought forty acres, 
and in time forty acres more; he improved this farm, building the fifth 
house in the township, and helped build the first church and schoolhouse in 
that township. He was called upon to serve in the war of 1812, but peace 
was declared before he could take action. He was a teacher by profession, 
continuing at that work until within a few years of his death. Their union 
was blessed with the birth of nine children, of whom our subject is next to 
the youngest; four are living. Mr. Hill died October 23, 1850, and his 
wife February 14, 1869. Our subject was reared and educated on the old 
homestead, where he resided until 1849, when he purchased a farm in Grand 
Prairie Township, to which he has been adding until be owns 847 acres in 
this township, and 1,430 acres in all, which are located in Grand Prairie, 
Big Island and Scott Townships; he is also interested in an extensive cattle 
ranch in Wyoming Territory. Mr. Hill started in life with nothing, so 



GRAND PRAIRIE TOWNSHIP. 775 

that all that he now owns is the sole product of his individual labor. He 
was married in Morrow County, Ohio, November 23, 1843, to Miss Mary 
A. Cone, a native of that county. Eight children have been born to them, 
six living — Joseph, George "VV., Martha E. (wife of A. H. Hord), Marietta 
(wife of T. B. Hord), James and Henry, at home; Alice and an infant are 
deceased. Mr. Hill is a prominent Democrat; he served one term as County 
Commissioner, and was re-elected in 1872, and, having continued one year, 
resigned. In 1873, he was elected Representative to the State Legislature; 
he became his own successor, and, having acceptably served two terms, re- 
tired to the farm He is still active in the politics of the county, and is 
frequently delegated to the State Conventions. He was largely instrumental 
in securing the pike from Marion to Bucyrus; he is a public-spirited citi- 
zen. The family are members of the Disciple Church. 

FREDERICK HINERMAN, farmer, was born in France April 4,1822. 
He came to this county with his father, George Hinerman, in 1829; his 
father in 1832 bought tiftepn acres of land; he died in 1860. Frederick 
Hinerman owns at the present time 310 acres of land, and is a grain and 
stock farmer. He has a tine stone quarry on his farm, from which he is 
now furnishing stone for building the Marion & Bucyrus pike. He is a 
member of the Marion County Agricultural Society, and of the Regular 
Baptist Church. In politics, he is a Democrat. 

BENJAMIN F. HITE was born June 6, 1846, in Perry County, Ohio, 
ana is a son of Martin and Emily c Hite, the former born in Perry County, 
Ohio, February 28, 1819, and the latter in Fairfield County, Ohio. They 
were married April 10, 1840. Benjamin F. first came to Grand Prairie Town- 
ship November 1, 1868; remained live years, and went to Wyandot County, 
and five years afterward returned to this township, where he now resides 
and owns 124 acres of land. He was married, August 30, 1868, to Mar- 
garet Kagy, formerly of Seneca County, Ohio. They have two children 
— Alice and Elnora. Politically, Mr. Hite is a Democrat, and has served 
his township in various offices, as Justice of the Peace, Assessor, etc. He 
and wife are members of the Regular Baptist Church. 

JACOB D. LUST, farmer, was born in Germany August 6, 1851. He 
is a son of Jacob Lust, who came from the fatherland in 1853, and settled 
on forty acres of land that he soon purchased in Pleasant Township, thie 
county. He was born in 1828, and had a family of eight children, six of 
whom are living. He died September 9, 1881. Jacob D. Lust has been a 
resident of Grand Prairie Township since March 30, 1882. He is the 
owner of 151 acres of valuable land. Himself and wife, to whom he was 
married in 1874, have a family of four children. They are members of the 
Lutheran Church, and politically he is a Democrat. 

JOHN W. MALONE was born November 10, 1838, in Grand Prairie 
Township, and is a son of Francis and Rachel (Walters) Malone. His 
father was born in Ross County, Ohio, in 1811, and came to Grand Prairie 
Township about the year 1835, where he remained until the spring of 1857, 
when he moved to Indiana. He was Trustee of this township for some 
years, and was an honest and respected citizen. John VY. Malone, the sub- 
ject of this sketch, is the owner of sixty acres of land; has held various 
offices in the township, such as Trustee, etc.: is a Democrat, and an upright 
and honored citizen of Grand Prairie Township. He has a familv of eight 
children— Ellery E., Electa J., Maggie E., Nina O., Viola A., Elfreda E., 
Erma G. and Mason W. The grandfather of our subject, Richard Malone, 
was an early settler in this township, and a soldier in the war of 1812. 



776 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

WILLIAM B. McWHERTER moved from Pickaway County, Ohio, 
and settled in Wyandot County in 1820, and from thence to Marion 
County in 1826. He was married to Jane Morral November 9, 1826. They 
had six children, all now (1883) living in Marion County, with the excep- 
tion of one daughter, now Mrs. Margaret Gordon, who lives in Kansas. 
Mr. McWherter, son of the above, was born in Marion Township March 29, 
1830. He was married, March 18, 1856, to Fidelia Allen, and April 3, 
1856, he took up his residence in Grand Prairie Township, where he pur 
chased 160 acres of land. He has since added land, so that the homestead 
now consists of 310 acres. His first wife died, and he was married the 
second time. He has nine children, seven by the first marriage and two 
by the last. Mr. McWherter is one of the most prosperous and prominent 
farmers in the township. 

JOHN T. MONNETT, son of Abram Monnett, was born in Scott Town- 
hip February 26, 1840. He was reared upon the old homestead and 
received his education in the common schools. His marriage occurred Sep 
tember 17, 1863, to Miss Minerva Harvey, daughter of William and Mary 
Harvey; she is a native of Marion Township, where she was born November 
16, 1844. They have three children— Byron E., Eva F. and Lola M. Mr. 
Monnett' s farm numbers 830 acres, and he is engaged in farming and rear- 
ing stock; his specialty is raising short-horn cattle. He is a member of 
the Agricultural Board, of the Republican party, and, with his wife, of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. 

BARTON SHOOTS, a resident of this township, is a son of Landy 
Shoots, a pioneer of the county, and was born in Hocking County, Ohio, 
July 22, 1823. He is one of the most prominent citizens of the township, 
is the owner of a large and highly improved farm where he lives, is a Re- 
publican, and has resided in the township about fifty years. 

LANDY SHOOTS. This pioneer was born in Fauquier County, Va., 
November 30, 1795. He was brought by his parents to Oldtown, Ross 
County, Ohio, in 1799. He was married in Ross County, in 1820, to Miss 
Mary O'Neal. They subsequently lived in Hocking County, Ohio, whence 
they came to Marion County. In 1829„ with a family of four children, 
named Joseph, Barton, Eleanor and Benjamin F., he entered 160 acres of 
land in Section 33, Grand Prairie Township, on which he erected a log 
house, where the fine residence of George W. Walters now stands, into which 
he moved with his family. At this time the Indians still owned their reserve 
in Wyandot County, and when their lands finally came into the market, he 
purchased several hundred acres. He became a very large land owner, and 
possessed at one time, 3,284 acres in Grand Prairie Township. At his 
death, May 4, 1871, he left a wife and eight children, several of whom now 
residn in Grand Prairie Township. 

JAMES SWINNERTON settled in Grand Prairie Township in 1819. 
He was born in Salem, Mass., August 13, 1757, and in 1808 settled in Del- 
aware, Ohio. He was the first settler in Grand Prairie Township; he 
entered one half of Section 20; on this land, in a log cabin, he settled with 
his wife, one son and two daughters. He was a man of sterling good qual- 
ities, and a leader in his community. With the Indians who were then 
very numerous, he was always a favorite. He served as a soldier in the 
war of the Revolution. Four of his childre n founded colonies, one in Sen- 
eca County, Ohio, one in Wisconsin, and the other two in other counties 
in Ohio. He died at his homestead in Grand Prairie Township December 
6, 1824. His wife and all of their fifteen children are now deceased. 



GRAND PRAIRIE TOWNSHIP. 777 

His grand -daughter, Mrs. S. N. Titus, with her husband and family, now 
reside on the old homestead. 

MAJ. S. N. TITUS. This gentleman is a native of Meigs County, 
Ohio, and born November 17, 1837. At the breaking-out of the civil war 
in 1861, he volunteered as a soldier, and enlisted at Columbus, Ohio, as a 
private in Company M, Eleventh Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry, 
and was soon Pent to Washington, D. C. , and thence to Fortress Monroe. 
The same year of his enlistment, he was promoted to Lieutenancy. He 
was subsequently stationed at Suffolk, Va. , and participated in many of the 
cavalry raids around Richmond. In the summer of 1863, he was promoted 
to the rank of Captain, and a short time after to that of Major. Maj. 
Titus took part in many of the engagements in the valley of the Potomac 
and the Peninsular campaigns. He was at the siege of Suffolk, and with 
Gen. Butler in his operations around Richmond, and with Grant's army at 
Petersburg. In the fall of 1864, he was wounded, while in an engagement 
with the enemy near Richmond, Va., and taken prisoner. He was confined 
several weeks in Libby Prison, when he was paroled. He returned to his 
home in Meigs County in the winter of 1864; but returned soon afterward, 
and was honorably discharged from the service. For meritorious conduct 
as an officer and soldier, he was brevetted Colonel. In 1868, he was 
elected, and in 1870 re-elected, as Representative from Meigs County in the 
Ohio State Legislature, and since becoming a resident of Marion County 
in 1873 he has served as delegate several times to the Republican State 
Convention; also as Vice President of the Marion County Agricultural So- 
ciety, and in other ways taken an active and prominent part in the public 
enterprises of the day. He is a member of the G. A. R., of the I. O. O. F., 
and F. & A. M. He was married, November 14, 1872, to Miss E. C. Swin- 
nerton, a grand- daughter of James Swinnerton, a pioneer of Marion County, 
and resides on the homestead, where James Swinnerton settled in 1819, in 
Grand Prairie Township. Maj. Titus is the owner of 450 acres of land in 
this and other counties, and is principally engaged in farming. 

DANIEL WALTERS. Daniel Walters was born in Pennsylvania in 
1763, having married there. He removed to near Kingston, Pickaway Co.. 
Ohio, in 1794, residing there until 1801, when his parents entered 240 
acres in Scott Township (this county), and he moved upon it. He had thir- 
teen children — nine living. His death took place in 1848, and his remains 
were buried in Rocky Fork Cemetery, Grand Prairie Township. His oldest 
son was Jacob Walters, born in 1797. He went to Circleville, and enlisted 
in the war prevailing at that time, and served to its close. Upon his return, 
he resided in Grand Prairie Township until 1849, when he removed to Upper 
Sandusky, dying six years later, and was buried in the Old Mission's Grave- 
yard at that place. He had married Kate A. Wetzel, a daughter of Anthony 
Wetzel, and a niece of Lewis Wetzel. They had seven children — four of 
whom are living — Daniel, Anthony, Catherine A. (wife of Peter Withers), 
and John C. The deceased are William H. , Jacob and George. The 
mother died September 26, 1845, aged forty-eight years, one month and 
one day. 

G. ^V. WALTERS, farmer, was born in this county October 10, 1842, 
and came to Grand Prairie Township with Philip Retterer in 1845, having 
been left an orphan when young. He has since been a resident of the 
township. He has one of the largest farms in the county, containing 836 
acres of land. On this farm, in 1875, he erected a commodious and elegant 
residence, in which he lives. Politically speaking, he is a Republican, and 

HH 



778 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

has served his township in many of its local offices, and may be justly ranked 
as one of the prominent citizens of Marion County, Mr. Walter's farm is 
stocked with some 1,500 sheep, a large number of cattle, and other stock. 
He was married December 13, 1806, to Lucretia Shoots, a daughter of the 
pioneer, Laudy Shoots. They have a family of five children. Mr. and 
Mrs. Walters are members of the Free-Will Baptist Church. 



CHAPTER VII. 

GREEN CAMP TOWNSHIP. 

rr^HIS township lies in a picturesque portion of Marion County, southwest of 
1 the county seat. The beautiful Scioto is the principal stream flowing through 
this township, and, with its numerous little tributaries, drains all the territory 
of this region. The mouth of the Little Scioto is at Green Camp Village. The 
township is of irregular form, containing about eighteen square miles as the 
aggregate of its area, and is bounded on the north by Big Island Township, on 
the east by Pleasant Township, on the south bj^ Prospect Township and Union 
County, and on the west by Bowling Green Township. 

ORIGIN OF THE NAME. 

There has been some difference of opinion as to the origin of the name 
" Green Camp." It has been thought b} T some that the name was derived from 
a camping ground of early day near the Scioto, which was particularly a green, 
grassy place. The weight of authority, however, seems to gravitate to the 
opinion that the region took its name from the fact that Capt. Green encamped 
here with a compan}' of soldiers during the war of 1812. The exact spot is 
said to be the land now owned by the heirs of Frank Johnson. According to 
the latter theory, also, the place was called " Green's Camp " for a long time. 
The probability being very great that the Captain with his company encamped 
on a green, grassy place, the origin of the name in question could very easily 
be twofold, as is sometimes the case in other instances. 

SETTLEMENT AND REMINISCENCES. 

Daniel Markley was one of the first settlers in this township. His cabin 
was located near the old block-house in the northeast part of the township, a 
short distance from John Rayl's residence. He went further up the Scioto for 
awhile, but after a few years returned to Green Camp, and died there some 
twenty-five years ago. 

Alexander Porter settled in this township in 1819, before the land was sur- 
veyed or ready for sale, near where his grandson, David H. Porter, now resides. 
He afterward entered eighty acres of land, since owned b}' Isaac C. Davis. 

The same year a man named Wicks " squatted " on land now owned by the 
Johnson heirs. This land was entered by Levi Hammond about 1820 or 1821. 
A man named James (or John) Owen located a little further south about the 
same time, on land now owned by Isaac C. Davis, Henry Laneous and David 
C. Moore. His cabin was on Davis' land. 

In 1820, Armanus Asbbaugh entered the block-house tract. Among 
others who came within a year or two. were Andrew Sullivan, David A. Town 
James Murphy. Levi Perry, Ebenezer Perry and George Wright. 



GREEN CAMP TOWNSHIP. 779 

Wright was for a number of years an associate with the Indians at Upper 
Sandusky. While with them he married an Indian woman, by whom he had 
two children. He finall}' accepted the idea that it was not right to live with a 
woman of such opposite color, and left her, giving her all his land, and came to 
Pleasant, now Green Camp Township, and entered seventy acres of land, on 
which he resided until death. He was a man who possessed a peculiar genius 
for invention, and manufactured many articles of his own design. He made 
hair combs, finger rings, and various kinds of jewelry, and at his death had 
such a stock on hand that it took a two-days' sale to dispose of them. 
The Indians from Upper Sandusky would always bring their rifles to him 
whenever they needed repairing. Wright possessed some commendable traits 
of character. At his death, he bequeathed his whole farm, which is now owned 
by Jesse Johnson, to the township for school purposes. 

John Logue, Alexander Jenkins and John Straw were squatters in 1820, 
but never bought or entered any land in the township. William Humphreys 
and Samuel Powell were early settlers. 

Andrew Sullivan settled in Green Camp about 1820, on land now owned by 
James Cofly, but he entered land now owned by Mrs. Jacob Free, formerly 
Mrs. Moore. 

David A. Towne settled in 1820 or 1821 on the farm now owned by 
Samuel Rayl. David, William and Ezra Travis entered the old Jesse Walker 
farm, on a part of which Alexander Porter " squatted." This portion of the 
Walker farm was purchased some years ago by John H. Porter for his sons: 
so that the old home of the squatter fell back into the possession of his de- 
scendants. 

In 1820, James Murphy entered the land now owned by David R. Thomas. 
Levi Perry, in 1820 or 1821, entered land now owned by Isaac Wynn. Ebene- 
zer Perry entered land now owned by J. R. D. Morris. John Logue, Alex. 
Jenkins and John Straw were squatters in 1820, but none of them ever bought 
or entered land in the township. William Humphrey settled on the Fish lands, 
and Samuel Powell on the Travis lands. 

The block-house above referred to, in the northeast part of the township, 
was erected during the troublesome times between this countiy and Great 
Britain, to guard white Americans against those Indians who had been made 
hostile by British influence. Such a house was a sort of two-story structure, 
made of heavy hewed logs, the lower portion having only one entrance and 
that well guarded, and the upper perforated with numerous small apertures 
through which the refugees within could shoot at the approaching enemy. The 
upper portion of the building projected beyond the lower all around, to render 
it difficult for the Indians to climb up on the outside. The timbers being se- 
curely spiked together, the block-house constituted a good fortification against 
the Indians of that day. 

About 1 832, a colony of Germans emigrated to this country and purchased 
a tract of land four miles west of the Scioto River, and settled on it. They 
opened a wide street through the entire tract, and built their houses on either 
side, extending for about one mile. They built a corn mill with twenty-four 
inch buhrs, which was turned by hand. In 1838, they got what is known as 
milk sickness, and several died. The remainder sold their land and moved 
away, some to Hancock County, Ohio, others to Missouri and other places in 
the West. 

As a characteristic early incident, it may be related in this connection that, 
us Mr. John Beem was returning home, in 1837, through the woods, from a 
visit to one of his neighbors, a violent storm came up suddenly, and not being 
able to reach home ahead of it, he crept into a hollow log which lay near the 
path. Soon after the wind blew a large tree across the loo; he had entered, 



780 HISTORY OF MAI! ION COUNTY. 

making him a prisoner; but late in the afternoon a neighbor, happening to pass 
by, heard his cries, and, getting an ax, chopped him out. This was a very nar- 
row escape, as not many travelers were upon any road in that day. 

In 1838, what is now Green Camp Township had the following settlers, 
among others : John Sifritt, on Survey 9,965; Lewis Cookes, John Britton and 
Adam Imbody, on Survey 9,943 ; James Chard, on 9,985 ; James Johnson, on 
Section 1 ; D. R. Thomas and John Thatcher, on Section 13 ; Jacob Cooper 
and J. Kersey, on Survey 9,966. 

Green Camp Township has shared in the experiences of pioneer school 
teaching. The first school taught in District No. 5 was in the winter of 1838 
-39. It was commenced in one of the houses vacated by the Germans, but in 
a short time the house caught fire and burned down. Adam Imbody had 
lately built an addition to his house, but had not yet occupied it. so he gave 
the school permission to occupy it. But a disturbance soon arose, and it again 
became necessary to remove, which was done to a house 12x14 feet, in which 
Mrs. Sifritt had kept her loom when weaving. Here the term was finished . 
The next winter, the directors secured another house, which was used for sev- 
eral years. It was built of round logs, with clapboard roof, the boards being 
held in place by poles laid across the building on top of them. The floor was 
made of puncheons, made by splitting large logs into slabs about three inches 
thick, with one side hewed smooth. The seats were made of lin logs, split 
apart, and legs put in them. The cracks between the logs were filled with clay 
taken from under the floor, and as the cla}' washed out each year and had to be 
replaced, it soon made quite a hole under the floor. The room was lighted by 
greased paper windows. About one-half of one end of the building was occu- 
pied by the fire-place, the back wall and jambs of which were made of stones, 
and the chimney of sticks and mud. 

Until a comparatively recent period, the practice was followed of barring the 
teacher out on the day before Christmas until he would agree to treat the 
school on apples and cider. On that morning, the scholars would get to the 
schoolhouse before daylight, and by piling the benches against the door 
would have it securely fastened when the teacher arrived. In the winter of 
1842. a young man named Cyrus Carter taught the school in District No 5, 
and when the time arrived he was barred out, according to custom. But, think- 
ing to outwit the school, he climbed upon the roof, and, removing the boards, 
made an opening, through which he dropped to the floor. However, he had no 
sooner landed than the large girls of the school caught him, and, raising one of 
the puncheons, put him in the hole underneath the floor, where they kept him 
until he agreed to treat the school. 

Until about 1854, wolves were very troublesome to settlers who owned 
sheep. Instances have been known of their killing sheep within six rods of an 
occupied house. A bounty of $8 was paid for the scalp of every full-grown 
wolf, $4 for that of every young wolf, or " whelp," and $2 for that of every 
wild cat. By such special efforts have these " varmints " been exterminated 
from the land, to give place for the encroachments and occupation of the white 
man. The last black bear seen in this section was killed by James Chard, 
near the southwest corner of the township. 

It was customary in the spring for farmers to mark the ears of their hogs, 
and turn them into the woods, where they would soon become wild as deer. 
When snow fell the following fall, they would generally be found in some hol- 
low log. After fastening them in, teams would be brought, then they would be 
chopped out, tied and hauled home. 

CEMETERIES. 

The march of the white race upon the wilds of America was a solid 



GREEN CAMP TOWNSHIP. 781 

phalanx, as compared with the thin and straggling sojourns of the Indian. 
While the latter, therefore, left but little sign of burying grounds behind them, 
after an occupation of the land for generations, and probably for centuries, 
the former, within the first generation, established numerous cemeteries, wherein 
the remains of their beloved friends may be placed away, and marked by mon- 
uments as enduring as the rocks themselves. The first white settlers, within 
two, three or five years, begin the filling up of a graveyard. 

The Block-House Cemetery. — Among the first, if not itself the very first, of 
the cemeteries commenced or laid out by the pioneers of our race in Green 
Camp Township was that which was called the " Block-House Cemetery," as 
it was located near the block-house, that fortification of defense against the 
Indians already described. It was laid out by that prominent pioneer. Armanus 
Ashbaugh, who buried in it a daughter. Although there are about twenty- 
five graves within this sacred inclosure, there is but one tombstone, which is 
placed over the grave of Mr. Ashbaugh's daughter, just referred to. On this 
tombstone is the following inscription : " Sophia Ann, daughter of John and 
Sophia Ashbaugh, died November 6, 1825, aged one year ten months and one 
day. 

' Sleep on, my infant daughter, sleep, 

Till Christ shall bid thee rise, 
And you and I shall meet again 

Above the starry skies.' " 

This burying-ground is situated just south of the block-house site, and com- 
prises an area of one-fourth of an acre. 

Green Camp Cemetery was laid out in the year 1866, under the direction 
of the Trustees of the township. The extent of its area is one and a half 
acres, and its location is just east of the corporation limits of Green Camp 
Village, in a picturesque locality near the river. In this secluded and sacred 
spot lie the earthly remains of some of the oldest pioneers of the township, 
many of whom have died since the surve}' and dedication of these grounds. 
The first person buried here was Ezekiel Thatcher, who was killed by a falling 
tree in 1821, his remains being removed here from their old resting place. Sev- 
eral years elapsed before any other interments were made in this cemetery. 
At present it marks the burial places of many of its citizens, some of them by 
very fine monuments. Among those buried here is Robinson Stevens, who 
was a Lieutenant in the Mexican war, serving throughout that contest. He had 
been a member of the regular army. 

AGRICULTURAL. 

Following is the crop report for 1883: Wheat, acres sown, 2,112; bushels 
produced, 31,971. Oats, acres sown, 256 ; acres sown for crop of 1883, 166; 
bushels produced, 16,648. Corn, acres planted, 2,756; acres planted for crop 
of 1883, 2,397 ; bushels produced, 114.707. Meadow, acres, 482 ; tons of hay, 
737. Clover, acres, 414 ; tons of hay, 485 ; bushels of seed, 235. Potatoes, 
acres planted, 84 ; acres for crop of 1883, 103 ; bushels produced, 6,176. But- 
ter, 30,494 pounds. Sorghum, acres planted, 8f ; gallons sirup, 614. Maple 
sugar, 135 pounds ; gallons sirup, 63. Eggs, 38,419 dozen. Apples, acres 
occupied, 120 ; bushels produced, 1,653. Peaches, 123 bushels. Pears, 21 
bushels. Lands, acres cultivated, 6,331 ; acres of pasture, 518 ; acres of 
woodland, 2,644 ; total number of acres owned, 8,758. Wool, 8.843 pounds. 
Milch cows, 290. Stallions, 4. Dogs, 129. Sheep killed by dogs, 37 ; value, 
$156; injured by dogs, 62; value. $132. Hogs died. 217; value, $1,295. 
Sheep died, 106 ; value. $276. Cattle died, 76 ; value, $606. Horses died, 22 ; 
value $2,105. Losses b}- floods, live stock, value. ^704. Grain, etc., value. 
$1,050. Fences, etc., value. $230. 

For the business done at the station, see a little farther on. 



782 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY'. 

OFFICIAL . 

At an election held May 11, 1824, for Justice of the Peace, Joseph Boyd 
received eleven votes, Samuel Fish seventeen. At the State election, in the 
fall of that year, this township cast seven votes for Trimble and three for Mor- 
row. The township was organized June 8, 1824. For the last ten years, the 
following have been the officers of Green Camp Township : 

Clerics.— T. A. Malone. 1873-75 ; C. L. Patten, 1876 ; S Grubb, 1877 ; J. 
L. Patten, 1878 ; W. A. Showen, 1879 ; J. B. Tavlor, 1880 ; C. L. Patten. 
1881-82 ; D. H. Stallsmith, 1883. 

Treasurers. —J. N. Matthews, 1874 ; D. H. Porter. 187(5 ; J. N. Matthews, 
1878 ; D. H. Porter, 1879 ; J. A. Porter, 1880-81 ; Joseph Wall. 1882-83. 

Trustees. — 1874— J. II. Thomas, Hugh Johnston and John Weston ; 1875 
— John Weston. J. H. Martin and Martin Miller ; 1877 — John Kersey, Israel 
Irey and J. C. Porter ; 1878 — D. J. Smeltzer, Israel Irey and William F. 
White ; 1880— W. F. White, J. C. Riley and John Reichardt ; 1881— Isaac 
Wynn and J. C. Riley ; 1882— John F. Irey, S. A. Fish and H. B. Petty ; 
1883— W. A. Carey, Gottlieb Kellarand J. C. Martin. 

GREEN CAMP, FORMERLY BERWICK. 

This village was laid out in June, 1838, by David Beach, who owned forty 
acres, which be had entered, and now forms the site of Green Camp. The first 
house erected upon this ground was a log structure, fourteen by sixteen feet in 
dimensions, and was situated where the Methodist Episcopal Church now stands. 
It was built by John Thatcher, who lived in what was afterward the eastern 
part of the village. This building, however, was not occupied until May, 1843, 
when John G. Bradshaw took up his residence in it and occupied it for a time. 
This man was then running the Isaac Halderman mill on the Scioto River. In 
1844, he moved into Jackson Township, Union Count}', just over the line ; but 
in 1846, he returned to Green Camp Township, and in 1862 came into the vil- 
lage. Mr. Bradshaw was the first citizen of the village. 

About 1851 or 1852, Thomas B. Berry opened the first grocery and dry 
goods store in Green Camp, and he continued this store until the time of his 
death, which occurred in the year 1858. William Cummins then bought the 
stock and succeeded him in the business, which he continued until 1863, when 
he also died. The stock was then purchased by Hiram Tyler, who followed the 
mercantile business until 1865, when he sol lout and removed to North Lewis- 
bur^. 

John J. Davis started a store here in 1867, and kept it till 1869. In 1871. 
J. N. Matthews, now Probate Judge, established a store in Green Camp, and 
conducted it alone until 1874, when D. H. Porter became a partner, and the 
firm continued as Matthews & Porter, who did an extensive business. 

William Hinds was the first blacksmith ; he, however, did not enjoy a very 
lucrative trade, and in a few months he moved away. 

Dr. Michael S. Adams was the first physician. He located here in 1858, 
and practiced until 1864, when he moved to Van Wert, Ohio. Dr. Milton Pat- 
ten came next, in 1860, and has since practiced his profession here. In 1864, 
Dr. Daniel Free came, and in 1866 Dr. J. T. Martin. 

MILLS. 

Saw-Mill. — As early as 1838, Messrs. Halderman & Fisk erected a saw-mill on 
the banks of the Scioto, on a site which is now within the corporation limits, 
and was run most of the time until 1878, when it was discontinued and the 
machinery taken away. 

Berwick Flouring Mills. — These were erected in I860 by Foster & Knable. 
The building is a steam mill, two stories high, has four run of buhrs, and 



GREEN CAMP TOWNSHIP. 783 

employs four men. The above firm operated this mill a short period, and it 
then passed into the hands of Burk & Hopkins, and subsequently into the pos- 
session of the Porter Brothers, who in May, 1883, made au assignment, when 
Morgan E. Burk and T. P. Wallace purchased the mill and have since run it, 
under the firm name of Wallace & Burk. The property is now valued at 
$8,000. 

MUNICIPAL. 

Berwick continued as a village up to 1875, when it was incorporated and 
given the name of Green Camp. The post office also continued as ' : Berwick " 
to this time, when, on account of there being another post office by the same 
name, in Seneca County, this State, which interfered with the mails, the post 
office at this place was designated as " Green Camp." The office was estab- 
lished in 1854, through the instrumentality of John H. Porter and F. W. Yoe, 
the latter of whom was appointed Postmaster, and served until 1866. His 
successors, ih order, have been William Strod, two years ; John J. Davis, J. 
N Matthews and Dr. J. T. Martin, the present incumbent. 

In 1856, Porter's Addition to the village of Green Camp, comprising two 
and a half acres, was made by John H. Porter, and in 1874 Isaac C. Davis 
made an addition of four acres. 

Green Camp has now one dry goods store, one grocery and provision store, 
and two churches. 

In 1862, Green Camp was made a special school district, and in 1864 a 
commodious two-story brick house was erected, an octagon, at a cost of $4,- 
600. It has two departments. Mr. Poling is Principal and Miss Elizabeth 
Stose, assistant. The present School Board consists of Dr. Daniel Free, Presi- 
dent ; Edward Dowell, J. C. Davis, John Nebergol and S. C. Davis. 

There are eleven school districts in the township. 

„ RAILROADS. 

The N. Y., P. & 0. Railroad, completed just after the war, crosses the Scioto 
at Green Camp, running southwest to Cincinnati. Below is given the amount 
of business done at Green Camp Station during the past two fiscal 3-ears : 
1881— Freight forwarded, 13,313,709 pounds ; earnings, $6,444.79 ; freight re- 
ceived, 2,930,184 pounds ; earnings, $717.14 ; passenger tickets sold, $1,127.28. 
1 882— Freight forwarded, 12,774,109 pounds ; earnings, $6,053.96 ; freight re- 
ceived, 2,661,093 pounds ; earnings, $782.50 ; amount of passenger tickets, 
$1,178.83. 

Lumber and grain are the principal articles of shipment from this depot. 
During the months of July and August, 1883, they shipped thirty car loads 
of grain per month. 

VILLAGE OFFICERS. 

Mayors. — J. N. Matthews, John L. Patten, Richard Bradshaw, John J. 
Davis, David H. Stallsmith. 

Recorder. — Dr. John T. Martin, from date of incorporation to the present 
time. 

Treasurers.- — Edward D. Leach, from the time of incorporation to the spring 
of 1883, when Joseph Wall was elected to the position. 

GREEN CAMP FREE-WILL BAPTIST CHURCH. 

The Green Camp Free-Will Baptist Church was first orgauized in the year 
1825, in Pleasant Township, on the Prospect pike, about three miles from 
Marion ; E. Farnham, Jesse Walker and wife, Mr. and Mrs. Parrott, Mr. and 
Mrs. Humphrey, and others, were among its earliest members. The location 
was afterward changed to the Radnor road, about five miles from Marion ; 



784 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Revs. David Dud lev. A Hatch, S. Wyatt and G. W. Baker were among its 
early pastors. Rev. O. E. Baker and Rev. K. F. Higgins also preached to the 
church, and revivals were enjoyed. 

The church worshiped in schoolhouses till about the year 1845, when a 
commodious house was erected on a site given by Jesse Walker. In 1865, the 
building was moved two miles to its present location in the village of Green 
Camp, on New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio Railroad, and enlarged under the 
direction of Rev. S. D. Bates, who was then pastor. The name was changed 
from " Pleasant " to " Green Camp," the name of the village and township. 
Since the year 1858, Rev. S. D. Bates was pastor nine years ; Revs. C. O. Par- 
menter and W. Whitacre, three years each, and Rev. J. A. Sutton, five years, 
who is pastor at the present time. Revivals took place and additions were 
made under the labors of all these pastors. 

The present number is 121. The officers are D. Free, Clerk ; William Cole 
and J. G. Woolford, Deacons. 

GREEN CAMP LODGE, No. 644, I. 0. 0. F. 

The dispensation was received and lodge instituted Jul}- 18. 1876,* with 
with the following membership : J. F. Sifritt, J. N. Matthews, Nelson Walker, 
J. C. Porter, Reuben Hopkins, John Kersey, S. C. Davis, D. H. Porter, J. W. 
Sifritt, R. R. Bradshaw, Albert H. Kersey, E. D. Leach and David Vestal. The 
first officers were : J. F. Sifritt, N. G. ; J. N. Matthews, V. G. ; E. D. Leach, 
Rec. Sec. ; David Vestal, Per. Sec. ; Nelson Walker, Treas. The place of meet- 
ing has always been over C. L. Patten's drug store. Present membership, 
forty-seven, and financial condition good. The lodge meets each Saturday 
evening. Present officers : Joseph Wall, N. G. ; A. S. Somerlot, V. G. ; J. W. 
Wynn, Rec. Sec. ; A. C. Johnston, Per. Sec. ; W. P. Rayl, Treas. 

PATRIOTIC ORDER SONS OF AMERICA. 

Washington Camp, No. Ifb. — The first members of this order in Green 
Camp were : A. L. Slack, E. D. Leach, J. W. Elsroad, W. A. Showen, B. F. 
Fulton, Dr. 0. W. Weeks, George W. Showen, George M. Clark, T. T. Rathell 
(deceased), C T. Rathell, D. F. Uncapher, William Hyatt, John Gillett, Frank 
Thomas, J. A. Leaverton, T. J. McNeal, A. Schlosser, William Thatcher and S. 
M. Lyon. The organization was effected February 22, 1881, by George L. 
Phelps, District President. 

For nearly two years, the lodge met in the Temperance Hall, and 
since then in the Patriotic Order Sons of America hall above the town- 
ship hall. There are now thirty-two members, and as a society is in 
a prosperous condition. Meets every Friday evening. Present officers : 
John Doran, President ; Robert W. Johnson, Vice President ; J. A. Leaverton 
Past President ; S. A. Fish, M. of F. & C; W. B. Kesler, Treasurer ; F. M 
Dice, Financial Secretary ; Charles E. Uncapher, Recording Secretary ; W. R 
Collins, Conductor ; Byron Uncapher, I. G.; I. J. Petty, 0. G.; R. W. Johnson 
Chaplain. 

SONS AND DAUGHTERS OF TEMPERANCE. 

Division No. 71, S. and D. of T., was organized in the spring of 1879, by 
Rev. A. M. Collins, traveling lecturer for the Order, at the close of a series of 
lectures. The charter was dated April 7, 1879, and signed by Harriet N. 
Bishop, Grand Worthy Patriarch, and E. G. Morris, Grand Scribe. The char- 
ter members were Messrs. A. B. Morris, D. W. Narrance, Thomas L. Ra} r l, 
Wesley Free, James Maddox, C. R. Summerlot, John W. Elsrode, James B. 
Berry, J. W. Gam brie, William Thatcher, Isaac A. Leaverton, D. J. Smeltzer, 

* By Nathan Jones, W. <>. M., and Amos Harding, Dep. G. M. 



GREEN CAMP TOWNSHIP. 785 

T. H. Phillips, W. H. Burns ; Mesdames L. M. Davis, L. D. Martin, Pharaby 
Davis, Mary Phillips (nee Stallsinith), A. M. Burke, Laura Gardner, Amanda 
Narrance, Elizabeth Elsrode, Lucy Smeltzer, Mary Games (nee Campfield). 
Ellen Green, S. E. Patten, Lou Porter, Lueinda Gambril, Rebecca Thatcher, 
Alice E. Johnson, Lillie C. Morris (nee Ra}d), Carrie Rayl (nee Place) ; Misses 
Hattie Hudson, Laura Johnson (deceased), and Hattie Davis ; Rev. Jonathan 
Zook, pastor of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and Dr. J. T. Martin. 

The membership afterward increased to about seventy. Several public 
meetings were held. A public celebration was held in Rayl's Grove, which was 
addressed by Gen. W. H. Gibson and others. In the course of something over 
three years, however, the division went down. 

woman's christian temperance union. 

On Monday evening, June 25, 1883, Mrs. S. M. Perkins, of Cleveland, Ohio, 
lectured in Green Camp upon the subject of temperance, at the close of which 
a " Woman's Temperance Union " was organized, having the following roster of 
officers : President, Mrs. Ruth A. Bebout ; Vice President, Mrs. Julia Stall- 
smith ; Secretary, Mrs. Elizabeth Martin ; Treasurer, Mrs. Ella A. Sutton. This 
organization maintains its regular meetings, and bids fair for long life and 
prosperity. 

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 

The following biographical notices contain much instructive informa- 
tion, both biographical and historical. Many of the early settlers are men- 
tioned and the story of th«ir lives and progress related: 

WILLIAM ARONHALT, son of William and Susan (McCauley) Aron- 
halt, was born in Ross County, Ohio, October 28, 1823. His people, of 
English extraction, and natives of Virginia, emigrated to the above county 
in 1821, residing there about ten years; they came to Marion County, set- 
tling in Green Camp Township. Seven children were born to them — Will- 
iam, Mary, Margaret Ann, John R. , Elizabeth and Andrew, only the first 
three living. William, growing to manhood, wedded, November 2, 1841. 
Miss Jane Kirts, daughter of Michael and Elizabeth (Simpson) Kirts, na- 
tives of Maryland, and parents of ten children — George, David, AVilliam, 
Isaac, Matilda, Mary A., Jane, Henry, Daniel, and Julian — the last three 
deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Aronhalt have had born to them sixteen children, 
twelve living— Mary E., AVilliam H., John R., Matilda A.. Julia A., Sarah 
J., Daniel W., Isaac N., Andrew A., James C, Laura L., and Rose B. 
The deceased were David, Samuel and two infants. Mr. Aronhalt has seen 
pioneer life nearly all his days, and has been a resident upon his own farm, 
consisting of 103 acres, for thirty-two years. He came to this place when 
it was a dense wilderness; by his will and perseverance, he has put it in a 
good state of cultivation; has erected a comfortable house and suitable 
buildings. Himself and wife have reason to rejoice over such prosperity. 
All his children save one have been born here. He is a peaceable man, of 
unquestioned character, and his family, as well as himself and wife, are 
members of various churches. 

JAMES R. BERRY, with Matthews & Porter, was born in Green Camp, 
Ohio, December 8, 185G, to James C. and Eliza (Sullivan) Berry. The 
former was born near Abington. Va. , in 1823; the latter was born in Green 
Camp Township February 21, 1835. James C. removed to Ohio in 18-48, 
settling with his father near Green Camp. This father, John Berry, pur- 
chased 1,100 acres of forest land lying west of the Scioto, and at his decease 
this vast estate fell to his children — Catherine. Clara, Nancy, Mary, Mar- 



786 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

garet, Campbell, Robert, William, Thomas, Hugh and James C. Berry. This 
property has now all passed from the Berry heirs, save what is held by James 
B. and his sister. His grandfather Sullivan was a soldier in the war of 1812. 
His father enlisted in the late war, August 21, 1804, and died at Charlotte, 
N. C, July 11, 1805. Mr. Berry is one of a family of five children, 
three deceased — David C, Libbie J. and Susie. Ollie M., now Mrs. Du- 
ross, is also a resident of Green Camp. Our subject is a member of the I. 
O. O. F. and is a young man of promise. 

WILLIAM A. BERRY was born in Springfield, Ohio, August 4, 1837. 
His father, John F. T. Berry, of German stock, was born in Fairfield Coun- 
ty, Ohio, February 20, 1811; his mother, Elizabeth (Close) Berry, of En- 
glish ancestry, was a native of the same county, born in 1815. They were 
the parents of ten children, viz., Martin, Robert, Joshua, William A., Samuel, 
Minerva, Catherine, Ellen, Coonrad and an infant; the last three are de- 
ceased. Their mother dying, Mr. Berry again married, in 1849, Mrs. Eliz- 
abeth Martin, a widowed daughter of Daniel Reed. She bore him five heirs 
— John F. T., Jr., James C, Albert E. and Mary, living; Alma died. Mr. 
Berry also died in Marion County January 8, 1859. The subject of this 
sketch passed his boyhood on the farm and in the common schools of Mar- 
ion Township. He enlisted, April 20, 1801, in responseto President Lin- 
coln's first call for volunteers; he re-enlisted, June 0, 1861, in Company K, 
Fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, to serve three years, and did 
gallant service at Rich Mountain, Romney, Winchester , Port Republic. 
Fredricksburg, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Bristol, St. Mine Run and 
Norton's Ford, where he was wounded. His discharge was granted at Co- 
lumbus, Ohio, June 22, 1804. His matrimonial union with Miss Nancy A. 
Snyder occurred February 10, 1805; she was the daughter of Samuel and 
Nancy (Jones) Snyder, who had seven children, two others living — Samuel 
J. and Orpha R. The deceased were Euphema, Catherine J., Mary E. 
and an infant daughter. Mrs. Berry was born in Pleasant Township March 
16, 1841. Mi - , and Mrs. Berry's children are as follows: Sheridan C. , 
born December 4, 1805; Samuel E., May 11, 1807; Ella F., December 9, 
1869; Adaline A., February 6, 1872; Milton W., December 15, 1873; 
Jetta V., June 7, 1876; Harley W., July 11, 1882; and Ulysses E., August 
19, 1868, dying January 7, 1869. [Our subject has been a farmer all these 
years, and now owns 104 acres of arable land. He is an exemplary neigh- 
bor, a strong Republican and a faithful member, with his wife, of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. 

JOHN BRINKER was born January 28, 1836, in his father's native 
place, Westmoreland County, Penn. , the only son of Henry Brinker. His 
people located in Green Camp in the spring of 1851, buying 180 acres, 
paying $15 per acre. Mr. Brinker cleared a good share of this farm, and 
in 1876 removed to the village of Green Camp, where he still resides. His 
wife, Elizabeth (Schiveler) Brinker, died some years since. John Brinker 
arrived at man's estate, entered the army, October 1, 1861, in Company B, 
Sixty-fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, under Capt. Brown. He 
participated in these engagements: Pittsburg Landing, Chickamauga, 
Missiori Ridge, Buzzard's Roost and Resaca. At this last battle he was 
wounded in the left ankle and was carried from the field. After lyiug in 
the hospital, he was taken to New Albany, Ind., and was nine months ab- 
sent from the service. He returned and fought till the close of the strife, 
receiving his discharge December 3, 1865. He re-enlisted January 1, 1864. 
April 4, 1807, he was wedded to Miss Ruth Sherman, daughter of Eber 



GREEN CAMP TOWNSHIP. 787 

and Florinda Sherman. Wheeler Sherman, the father of Eber, was a 
soldier of 1812. Three children have been born to the above-named union 
—Flora E., Clara M. and Lucy L , aged respectively thirteen, eleven and 
nine years. Mr. Brinker came to his farm of sixty-six acres in 1871, and 
succeeded in clearing about one-half of it. It is a good quality of soil. He 
is a thorough worker and a substantial citizen. 

JOHN BRUGGER was born in Switzerland, November 18, 1818, the son 
of Jacob and Susan (Moser) Brugger. He emigrated to America with his 
wife May 1, 1853, settling in Delaware County, Ohio, eight years, thence 
to Green Camp Township, purchasing, in 1801, 135 acres of timber land. 
By great effort he has cleared the most of this, and built a frame residence, 
which he now occupies. He was united in marriage, October 28, 1842, 
with Barbara Brugger, daughter of John and Barbara (Brugger) Brugger, 
natives of Germany, who had seven children, three living — Mary, Jacob 
and Barbara. Mr. Brugger and wife have been the parents of six heirs, viz. , 
John, Jacob, Mary A., Samuel and Rosena S. , and one deceased. Mr. 
Brugger began in life a poor boy, but by persevering efforts has amassed a 
goodly fortune. His farm, which is in a high state of cultivation, is man- 
aged by his son, Samuel. This family are members of the German Re- 
formed Church at Green Camp, and they affiliate with the Democratic 
party. 

WILLIAM A. CAREY was born March 25, 1837, to Russell and Eliza- 
beth (Tucker) Carey, of Irish and English extraction respectively. Russell 
Carey was born in the State of Delaware in 1802, dying in 1857; Elizabeth 
Carey was born in 1809, dying in 1800. having been the mother of eleven 
children, seven surviving -Mary A., William A... Eliza J., Francis M., Jo- 
seph, Orin P. and Charles G. The deceased were Lydia, Matilda, John W. 
and an infant daughter. What education the subject of this sketch ob 
tained was received at the district school in Bowling Green Township 
before his fifteenth year. He continued on the farm with his father until 
he was twenty-two, when he began an independent career. September 11, 
1858, he married Miss Mary Cooper, daughter of Jacob and Christena 
(Ritmyer) Cooper, natives of Germany. They came to the United States in 
1833, locating on the farm of our subject, William A., buying 11 2 acres. 
Mr. and Mrs. Carey have had born to them fourteen children; the ten liv- 
ing are aged respectively — Laura, twenty-five years; Hester A., twenty - 
three; Mary J., twenty; John W. , eighteen; Jacob, seventeen; Norris. 
thirteen; Anna, ten; Bertha A., eight; Rufus A., six; and Lucy, one. 
William R. , Sarah C. and Etta A. are deceased. Mr. Carey has been farm- 
ing all these years, living upon his present place since 1807. He keeps the 
best grade of stock. He is a leading citizen, and is at present serving his 
second term as Trustee of the township. He is a Democrat in politics, and, 
with his wife, a Methodist in his church relations. 

DAVID CHARD, spnior son of James and Sarah (Burnett) Chard, was 
born July 18, 1824. His people were descendants of English ancestry and 
natives of Ohio; his father settled in Marion County in a very primitive day, 
locating on the banks of the Scioto with eleven other families. The land 
they occupied was owned by an unknown party; here they eked out a living 
for a number of years. He then purchased ninety-six acres of forest land, 
paying $12 an acre. This he cleaned, with the assistance of his sons. His 
family numbered seven children, as follows: Rachel, David, Maria, Rich- 
ard, Ephraim, Cynthia A. and James; the four last deceased. The father 
continued in the love of his children and the respect of the community un- 



788 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

til 1872, dying aged seventy-eight years. His surviving widow is waiting 
on the homestead to be called to hirn. David Chard, growing to manhood 
and securing a practical education, was joined in marriage, November 13, 
1843, by Rev. Zephaniah Wilkins, to his wife, who was born March 25, 
1821, and was brought into this county when only six months old, thus be- 
ing a resident over sixty years. She has borne three sons to Mr. Chard- 
James, Dayid and Samuel. The latter was born December 13, 1844, and 
died aged sixteen years. Her parents, John aud Polly (Jenkins) Loag, had 
nine children, Mrs. Chard alone living. Mr. Chard is a representative 
farmer, owning 400 acres of arable land, and commands the esteem of his 
neighbors. He affiliates with the Democratic school. 

IRA B. COLE, son of William and Theodocia (Bridge) Cole, was born 
March 5, 1846, in Claibourne Township.. Union Co., Ohio. He obtained a 
good learning, going to the Prospect Schools, closing his literary pursuits 
when seventeen. He chose the occupation of a farmer for a life woik, and 
followed that until he enlisted in the late war, September, 1864, Company 
I, One Hundred and Seventy- fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. 
He did gallant service for his country. Returning to his home and fields, 
he cultivated them assiduously. He was married, April 7, 1870, to Miss 
Mary E., daughter of James and Sophia (Andrew) Sullivan. She died Au- 
gust 15, 1875, having borne two children, viz., Ella, and an infant since de- 
ceased Mr. Cole married again, July 20, 1876, Miss Minnie Berry, a 
daughter of John C. and Clementine Berry, and Martha M. , aged three 
years, blessed this union. Mr. Cole is at present residing on his father's 
farm, an industrious and well -to do citizen. He affiliates with the Repub- 
lican party, and is a member of the P. O. S. of A. 

WILLIAM COLE is a native of Delaware Co., Ohio, born July 3, 1815, 
to Malachi and Lydia (Hardin) Cole, descendants of German ancestry and 
natives of the State of Maryland. They were the parents of three children, 
all living — Mary, Oliver and William. The father died in early manhood, 
and his wife survived him about sixty-eight years. Our subject received a 
fair education, and, growing to manhood, married, December 12, 1844, 
Miss Theodocia Bridge, daughter of Bazaleel and Almira (Warner) Bridge, 
natives of " York " State. They were given five daughters and four sons, 
three of whom survive— Warner, Huldah and Matilda. Mrs. Cole, born 
May 26, 1824, died August 6, 1849, leaving three children— Ira B., Ed- 
mund and Robert. Mr. Cole was married again, January 1, 1850, to Miss 
Margaret, daughter of James and Mary Irwin. She was born November 6, 
1806, and passed away March 14, 1867. Mr. Cole sought a third wife in 
Mary Berry, a daughter of John and Susan (Reynolds) Berry. This lady 
was born July 21, 1825, and departed this life June 17, 1881. Thus Mr. 
Cole is the surviving husband of three wives, and one of the old and re 
spected pioneers of this county. He lives upon his neat farm of thirty- 
eight acres, whose management is given into the hands of his son Ira. Mi. 
Cole has seen great changes during his years, not only in the aspect of the 
country, but also in his own domestic experience. He is a Republican in 
politics, a member of the P. O. S. of A. and of the Free-Will Baptist 
Church. 

JOHN J. DAVIS, son of John B. and Elsie (Biggerstaff ) Davis, was 
born in Fairfield County, Ohio, April 28, 1821. His people, of Welsh and 
Irish extraction, settled in Marion County in 1832, 'and had ten children, 
seven liviug — Friend, John J., William B., Caleb, Isaac O, Richard B. and 
Anthony F. The deceased were Joshua, Samuel and Robert. Obtaining a 



GREEN CAMP TOWNSHIP. 789 

fair common school education, Mr. Davis, the subject of this paragraph, 
was inclined naturally to farming, which he followed with his father until 
married. This interesting event took place December 3, 1844, to Sarah J. 
Twyman, daughter of Samuel and Sarah Twyman. Their children are Sam- 
uel C, Isaac N. and Effie E. He then commenced life independently, 
farming in Pleasant Township a number of years. He listened to his coun- 
try's call in the late war, enlisting September 11, 1862, at Green Camp, in 
Company B, One Hundred and Twenty-first Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infan- 
try. He fought heroically at Perry ville, Chickamauga, Dalton, Resaca, 
Buzzard's Roost, Kenesaw Mountain, Jonesboro, Atlanta, Lovejoy Station, 
and with Sherman's historic march to the sea. He was honorably dis- 
charged at Columbus, Ohio, June 18, 1865. He returned to his family 
and plow, and has become a worthy citizen, as he was a gallant soldier. 
His fifty years' residence in the county is an enviable fact to which but 
few attain. His service as Township Trustee and Marshal of the village 
of Green Camp was satisfactory. He is a Republican in politics. 

JOHN W. ELSEROAD, engineer, was born in the city of Baltimore, 
Md., September 9, 1833, the son of Francis and Sarah (Brown) Elseroad. 
Mr. Elseroad is of German stock; was born in Carroll County, Md., August 
6, 1790. He was a soldier in the war of 1812, participating in the memo- 
rable battlo of North Point, September 12, 1812. His demise occurred 
April 9, I860. His wife was born July 4, 1810, and died April 19, 1861. 
John W. Elseroad took advantage of the Baltimore Public Schools in getting 
an education. He followed paper hanging in his native city till 1852, 
when he became a machinist, which occupation he still prosecutes. He 
was joined in marriage, November 24, 1854, to Miss Elizabeth, daughter 
of Jeremiah and Elizabeth Collins, also natives of Maryland, and the par- 
ents of six children — Solomon, Elijah, Elizabeth, James, Susan, and 
Jane, who died in 1863. Mr. Elseroad entered the navy in the late 
war, November 17, 1862, and was discharged June 29, 1865. He was at 
tached to the North Atlantic Blockado Squadron, under Admirals Porter 
and Farragut. He served at Vicksburg, New Orleans, Fort Fisher and in 
several other engagements. Arriving home he returned to his trade, pur- 
suing it at Baltimore until 1868, when he removed to Green Camp, and is 
now an employe of M. E. Burk. He is a worthy citizen, a member of 
the I. O. O. F., of the K. of P. and of the P. O. S. of A. 

JACOB F. FATZLAR, son of Charles F. and Philippine (Eyler) Fatz- 
lar, was born in Germany October 19, 1849, and crossed the water with 
his parents, landing in June of 1857, locating in Prospect Township. His 
father was born December 17, 1811, and his mother in 1809, still hale and 
hearty in her seventy -second year, having been the mother of six children, 
viz., Christian, Catherine, Rachel, Jacob F., Sophia and an infant daugh- 
ter. The last two are dead. Mr. Fatzlar obtained two years' schooling in 
his fatherland, and a fair education after coming to this country. He con- 
tinued farming with his parents until he was twenty-five, when he turned 
his attention to milling, which occupation he followed three years He 
married, April 13, 1881, Miss Addie J., daughter of Charles and Matilda 
(Brink) Harper, of English descent, and natives of Ohio and New Jersey 
respectively. They were the parents of eleven children, nine living— Emily 
James W., Horace O., Eliza B. , Marion, Ada J., Ellen, John and George 
W. The deceased were Willie A. and Jacob B. Mr. Fatzlar is a resident 
of Green Camp Township of nine years' standing, and has a desirable 
farm of sixty-seven acres, which he has cleared and improved. He is con- 



790 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

nected with the Democratic party, with the J. O. O. F. and with the Mount 
Olive Methodist Episcopal Church, together with his wife. 

SAMUEL A. FISH, the son of William and Jane (Humphrey) Fish, 
was born in Green Camp Township September 5, 1849. His father, of 
English ancestry, was the first male born in the town of Marion, April 28, 
1820; his mother, of Welsh extraction, is a native of Ohio, born October 
11, 1829, and the mother of seven children — Samuel A, Benjamin F., 
Benton E., Lincoln A., John B., William H. and Royal F.; tho last two 
are deceased. These parents still reside on the old homestead of eighty 
acres, purchased in an early day. The subject of this biography, having 
passed his school days and attaining his majority, was married, March 10, 
1870, to Miss Evaline Joel, of Pleasant Township; herself and two chil- 
dren are deceased — Harley, September 12, 1872; Harry. September 1, 1880; 
and their mother, May 10, 1875. Mr. Fish formed another alliance, Octo 
ber 14, 187-, with Miss Alice B. Bond, James and Elizabeth (Underwood) 
Bond' s daughter, the latter dying when Alice was two years of age. Two 
children have been born to this union, one living — Jennie B. ; William A. 
died in 1881. Mr. Fish has a good education and is living on a farm of 
160 acres, belonging to himself and wife. It is a valuable and carefully 
cultivated soil. He is a citizen of prominence, having an undoubted char- 
acter. He served one term as Township Trustee. He is connected by mem- 
bership with the S. of T., P. O. S. of A., Republican party and the Free- 
will Baptist Church; Mrs. Fish also belongs to the latter. 

DANIEL FREE, M. D, was born in Pleasant Township July 31. 
1832, son of Michael and Catherine Free, natives of Pennsylvania and 
Maryland respectively. They were married there, and in 1826 migrated to 
Ohio, settling in Pleasant Township, purchasing an eighty acre lot for 
$100. Mr. Free enlisted in the war of 1812, but did not enter active serv- 
ice. He died on the above homestead; likewise his wife, March 16, 1842. 
They had twelve children, all of whom attained maturity, and nine are liv- 
ing, the subject of this sketch being the seventh. He passed his boyhood 
upon the farm and attended the High School at Marion several terms. He 
commenced teaching in his sixteenth year, and followed it for a number of 
winters. In 1856, he began reading medicine under the tutorship of Dr. 
George Crafford, of Neptune, Mercer Co., Ohio, teaching the severer 
months; he studied three years. His first practice was in Williams Center, 
Williams Co., Ohio, continuing one year, when he located at Columbia. In 
1870, he settled at Green Camp and has established an enviable practice. 
April 11, 1858, he married Mary A. Thomas. They have been given six 
children, two living — Daniel G. and Zoa V. ; Francis M., Lucy M., Wesley 
and Irena B. are deceased. In 1863, Dr. Free was sent to New York to a 
fort to administer to the afflicted soldiers of Northwestern Ohio. He is 
connected with the State Eclectic Medical Association, and he and wife are 
members of the Free-Will Baptist Church. 

_ SAMUEL H GRANT was born i a Jackson, Union Co., Ohio, March 
17, 1838, the son of Samuel .H. and Elizabeth (Vanmetre) Grant. The 
former was a Marylander, born about 1800, coming to Ohio in 1815. and 
dying in 1837. The latter was a " Buckeye." of Pickaway County, born 
about 1818. They had four heirs — Samuel H., Jonathan, John and Aman- 
da, the last two deceased. Samuel obtained an education in the very com- 
mon schools of his native township. Early in life he devoted himself to 
farming, remaining with his mother until her decease in 1862. He married. 
November 24. 1864, Sarah J. Robinson, a daughter of Dr. Robinson, of 



GREEN CAMP TOWNSHIP. 791 

Hardin County, Ohio. She was born about 1843 and died June 27, 1869, 
aged twenty-six years, having borne two children — Mary J., aged seven- 
teen years, and Henry E., who died June 11, 1869, aged eighteen months. 
Mr. Grant again married, August 10, 1871, Angie A. Parratt, daughter of 
Isaac and Antoinette (Miner) Parratt. To them four children were born, 
three living — Lizzie M., aged ten years; Belle D.,nine years; and Charley, 
six. years. His present farm consists of fifty -three acres, which he found in 
" the green," but has made it by his own energies a productive soil. He is 
a worthy citizen, and served in Union County two terms as Township Trus- 
tee. Himself and wife and daughter Mary belong to the Methodist Epis- 
copal Church (" Mount Olive"), and he to the Democratic school of poli- 
tics. 

JOSEPH D. GUTHRIE, son of John D and Susan (Frederick) Guth- 
rie, is a native of Bowling Green Township, boi'n March 12, 1855. He 
finished his educational career by completing a commercial course at Leb- 
anon, Ohio, in 1873. He then became a pedagogue, teaching the winter 
months until his marriage, May 29, 1877, to Miss Mary, a daughter of 
John G. and Elizabeth Wolford. Their union has been crowned with the 
birth of Erven, aged four years, and Bernard, one and a half years. Mr. 
Guthrie is a respective and energetic young man, having under his control 
about 600 acres of land. He ranks among the leading farmers and stock- 
dealers in his township. He votes the Democratic ticket. 

JOHN HABERMAN, son of Ernest and Catherine (Lochman) Haber- 
man, was born in Germany June 20, 1845. His parents died in the Fa- 
therland in 1853 and 1854 respectively. They had four children — John, 
Catherine and Mary, living — Margaret died in Germany. John sailed the 
ocean for the "land of the free" in 1855, settling in this county, where he 
has since resided. Coming to manhood, he followed the shoemaker's trade 
at Marion. Upon the breaking-out of the rebellion, he enlisted, November, 
1861, in Company D, Eighty-second Regiment Ohk< Volunteer Infantry, 
fighting at McDowell, Port Republic and Bull Run (second), where he re- 
ceived a wound, and consequently was discharged, January 15, 1863. He 
returned to his bench at Marion October 24, 1871. He married Catherine 
Zeig, a daughter of Peter and Elizabeth Zeig. All their children are liv- 
ing — Emma M. , Willie H., Elizabeth and Otto E., aged respectively eleven, 
nine, eight and six years. Mrs. Haberman is a native of Germany, born 
January 12, 1851. He is a respected citizen, keeping in good condition 
his farm of sixty-four acres, and cultivating another eighty-acre field. 
Himself and wife are members of the German Reformed Church; he is a 
Democrat in politics. 

CHARLES HARPER was born in Belmont County, Ohio, October 3, 
1819, the son of Francis and Rachel (Marsh) Harper; the former, born in 
1792, was a descendant of the Emerald Isle and a native of Virginia; the 
latter, born 1790, of English ancestry, was a native of Maryland. To them 
were born eight children, as follows: John, Charles, Mary, Francis M. , 
Edward M. , Rachel, Hannah and Catherine, the last two deceased. The 
subject of this memoir came with his parents to Franklin County, Ohio, 
in 1831, where he secured a limited education. He lived at the homestead 
until his twenty-fifth year. He wedded, January 2, 1845, Matilda Brink, 
a daughter of Jacob and Eliza (Walter) Brink, respectively of English and 
Scotch extraction. Jacob Brink was born in New Jersey July 27, 1805, 
and died April 12, 1858; Eliza Brink, August 12, 1805, and died August 
14, 1881. To them were born also eleven children, seven living — Matilda. 



792 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Mary A.., Samuel M., John W., Gilbert W., Henry L. and Josiah. Gideon 
Hibbs, a son arid daughter are deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Harper have had eleven 
heirs, nine surviving, thus: Emily, aged (1888) thirty-seven years; Eliza 
B., thirty; Marion, twenty-live; Ada J., twenty-three; Ellen, nineteen; 
John, seventeen; and George VV. , twelve. The deceased were Jacob and 
Willie. Mr. Harper removed to Marion County March 16, 1882, purchas- 
ing fifty- five and three- fourths acres of well improved land. He devotes his 
entire attention to agriculture and the rearing of stock. He is an exem- 
plary citizen and a Democrat. Himself and family are members of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church, he for forty-eight years, and she for forty-six 
years. 

MARTIN L. HAZEN was born in Portage County, Ohio, June 19, 1853, 
the son of AVilliamP. Hazen. He acquired a fair education at the common 
schools and at Ravenna, Ohio. In the fall of 1869, he came with his par- 
ents to Woodland, Ohio, clerking and farming alternately until April 1, 
1875. He then rented 300 acres belonging to his father, one mile west of 
Green Camp. In 1882, he purchased 469 acres, mostly improved, for 
$22,000. He gives his undivided time to agricultural pursuits, including 
the rearing of fine stock. He has the management of 1,335 acres of land. 
January 22, 1879, he sought the hand of Miss Susie R. Lewis, daughter of 
John J. and Amy Lewis, descendants of English ancestry and natives of 
the Western Reserve. To them were born nine children — Almira, William J ., 
Edward L., Susie P., Eva, Frank, Emma, Nancy, and Lina, who died Jan- 
uary 22, 1880, aged nine years. Mr. and Mrs. Hazen have two children — 
Nellie M., aged three; and Frank M., aged two years. Mr. Hazen is an en- 
terprising and promising young man, largely identified with the farming 
interests of Green Camp Township. He affiliates with the Republican 
party. 

MARTIN HILLER is a native of Wurtemberg, Germany, born June 
9, 1834. Jonas Hiller, his father, was born in 1798, dying in February 
of 1843; his mother, Mary Hiller, was born in 1798, dying in 1855. Mar- 
tin Hiller crossed the ocean, arriving at New York June 7, 1852. He next 
resided in Pennsylvania eight years; then in Marion Township, this coun- 
ty, seven years; then in Big Island Township for a time, and finally upon 
his farm of seventy acres in Green Camp Township. At present, however, 
he is cultivating James Coffey's farm of 131 acres, adjacent. December 16, 
1860, Mr. Hiller married, in Marion, Chnstenia, Michael and Christenia 
Brigel's daughter. They were natives of Germany, and Mrs. Hiller, born 
in the Fatherland, February 22, 1837, sailed for America in 1855, stop 
ping in Philadelphia and Tyrone, and thence he came to Marion County. They 
have had eight children, five now living, namely, Jonas, David, Ricke, 
John A. and Henry; Willie died when nine years of age; two infants are 
also deceased. Mr. Hiller is greatly interested in finely graded stock, hav- 
ing in his possession a full-blooded Norman horse. He is a substantial citi- 
zen, and has acted in the capacity of Township Trustee. He is a Demo- 
crat, and, with his wife, a member of the Lutheran Church. 

ADOLPHUS R. HURD. The subject of this memoir was born in Pros- 
pect, Ohio, October 27, 1855; his father, William Hurd, was born in 
"York" State about 1820; his mother, Jane (Cotterell) Hurd, was born in 
the same State in November of 1828. Both were descendants of English 
ancestors. They had four children — Josephine, aged twenty-nine years; 
Adolphus R. ; Ross J., aged twenty five years; and Arthur, twenty years. 
Mr. Hurd died at Peoria, 111., in 1864; his wife still survives, a resident 



GREEN CAMP TOWNSHIP. 793 

of Sumuierville, Union Co., Ohio, and the wife of Abel Linsley, whom she 
married in 1876. The Prospect Schools gave Mr. Hurd a good education, 
and, coming to man's estate, he chose the occupation of a farmer for a life 
work. His marriage to Celine D. Little was solemnized December 17, 1881. 
Her parents, Nelson and Amanda (Baldwin) Little, whose ancestors were 
English, were natives of Union and Marion Counties respectively, and they 
had another heir — Preston — who died, aged four months. Nelsua Little 
was born January 4, 1831; his wife February 14, 1843, dying May 28, 
1869. Mr. Little again married, May 10, 1872, Mary A., daughter of Will- 
iam and Betsey (Adair) Melvin. They are now residents of this county. 
Mr. and Mrs. Hurd have one heir — William. F. Mr. Hurd is a young, en- 
terprising farmer, residing upon and conducting a farm of 153 acres, which 
he has occupied for two years. He devotes much time to the rearing of fine 
stock. His politics are Republican. 

JOHN IMBODY, son of Wilson and Mary A. (Beckley) Imbody, was 
born March 21, 1856, whose parents were descendants of German ancestry 
and natives of the "Buckeye State." Wilson Imbody was born in May of 
1838, and is a resident of Green Camp Township. Mr. John Imbody was 
educated in the common schools, and he closed his literary career when 
nineteen. He then engaged in milling and farming with his father until 
July 31, 1879, when he was wedded to Miss Alice, daughter of Albert and 
Mary (Cooper) Carey, who had fourteen children- -Laura, Alice, Jane, John, 
Jacob, Anna, Adella, Norris, Bert, Lucy, Etta, Tenna.and two babes— the four 
last deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Imbody's union has been crowned with Es- 
tella, aged three years, and Myrtle, one year. Mr. Imbody is an enterpris- 
ing young farmer, owning forty-six acres of land, a good share of which he 
has cleared and put in a fair state of cultivation. He has resided here 
since April 3, 1880, and belongs to the Republican school of politics. 

JOHN F. IREY, son of Enos and Mary (Rollins) Irey, is a native of 
Marion County, born October 27, 1838; his father, of German blood, was 
born in the "Old Dominion," in 1802, and died April 9, 1875; his wife's 
death preceded him by thirteen years. Hers was a Scotch race, and she was 
the mother of ten children, namely, William L., Sarah A., Elizabeth, Israel, 
Samuel, John F., Thomas, Joseph, Charles H. and Leander. who died for 
his country in the late war. The subject of this sketch, having secured a 
fair education in the common schools, chose farming for an occupation, 
which he followed until he enlisted at Princeton, 111., in Company B, 
Ninety-third Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry, under Capt. John W. 
Hopkins, Captain, and Holden Putnam, Colonel. He fought at Jackson, Cham- 
pion Hills, Black River, the siege of Vicksburg, Altoona, Benconville, and 
went with Sherman to the sea. His honorable discharge dates "Albany, N. 
Y. , May 24, 1865." He returned to the farm and to sight-seeing in the 
Northwest. He formed a matrimonial alliance, October 12, 1871, at Bucy- 
rus, Ohio, with Mary E. Jones, daughter of James and Harriet (Eastpen- 
ter) Jones, who had six daughters and three sons — Isaiah, Amanda O, 
Francis M. and Mary E., surviving. Their father died April 19, 1883, aged 
seventy-three years. Two children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Irey — 
Minnie, aged twelve years; and Frederick J., aged ten years. Mr. Irey 
has always devoted his attention to farming, moving to his present place 
about six years ago, purchasing fifty acres uf wooded land, largely now in 
a good state of cultivation. He is an esteemed citizen and was elected 
Township Trustee in 1882, He is a stanch Republican and an active mem- 
ber of the G. A. R. 



794 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

ELIZABETH JOHNSTON (widow of James C. Johnston) was born 
June 13, 1816. Her father, Jesse Walker, was born in Maryland August 
17, 1783, a descendant of Ireland, who served through the entire war of 
1812. Her mother, Mary Walker, was born in the same State April 25, 
1797, and was of English extraction. They migrated to Ohio, stopping in 
Franklin County five years; thence to Marion County, purchasing 240 acres 
of wild land. With the assistance of his children, he cleared and improved 
this farm, residing there until death, May 13, 1864. His wife died Febru- 
ary 18, 1865. Mrs. Johnston was the eldest of nine children — herself, Nel- 
son, Mary, Pharraby, Jane. Melissa, James, Thomas and Rezin — the last 
three deceased. Mrs. Johnston has survived her husband since December 
25, 1867. They were married in 1840, and since have lived on the same 
farm. (For children see J. N. Johnston's sketch.) They passed from a 
common cabin to a hewed-log one, experiencing all the vicissitudes inci- 
dent to pioneer life, and thence to a frame residence in 1870. Her farm 
comprises at present about 300 acres; it is owned and managed by her four 
sons — Jesse, John, Rezin and Albert. She is a pleasant lady and a mem- 
ber of the Free-Will Baptist Church. 

JESSE T. JOHNSTON, second son of James T. and Elizabeth (Walker) 
Johnston, was born March 18, 1846, on the old homestead. Since he was 
the oldest brother, he gathered only a practical education from the common 
schools. Arriving at man's estate, he celebrated his union, February 29, 
1872, with Miss Alice E. Hudson, daughter of Rev. William and Margaret 
(Savage) Hudson, respectively of English and German ancestry. After 
marriage he resided for seven years on a part of his father's place, at the 
expiration of which time he moved to his present home. He has erected a 
comfortable frame house and other frame buildings; has cleared and tiled 
his farm, which comprises eighty-three acres, and is well stocked. He has 
been the father of five children — Emma E., Vernon A., James W., INeren 
N. and an infant; the last three deceased. He has served as Trustee of the 
township and is an exemplary neighbor. He is an Odd Fellow, a Repub- 
lican and a Baptist (Free-Will), as is also his wife. 

JOHN N. JOHNSTON was born July 1, 1847, the son of James and 
Elizabeth (Walker) Johnston, above spoken of, and their* family consisted 
of ten children — Eliza, Jesse T., John N., James H, Rezin. W., Albert C, 
Mary J., William, Rosa and Laura E. The last four have passed away. The 
common, every-day schools educated Mr. Johnston, and, having attained his 
majority, he married. March 22, 1883, Lova Porter, daughter of John T. and 
Margaret (Brinker) Porter, whose nine heirs still survive — Lova, Wiliam, 
Sarah, Elizabeth, Mona, Allie, George, Benjamin and Clarence. Mr. John- 
ston has ever followed farming, and is now occupying some tifty-one acres, 
which he carefully tills and stocks with the best grades. He is an energetic 
and commendable man. He belongs to the I. O. O. F. and Encampment at 
Marion; he votes with the Republican party. 

REZIN W. JOHNSTON, son of James and Elizabeth (Walker) John- 
ston, was born March 29, 1852. He obtained a good education at the 
Iberia, Rushfciylvania and Ada Schools, closing his literary pursuits in 1874. 
when he engaged in teaching the winter months until 1880. At this time 
he was wedded to Viletta P., daughter of William and Julia (Margeson) 
Thomas, of English extraction. Mrs. Thomas was a native of Ohio, and 
the mother of two children — our subject's wife and Emma B. Mr. and 
Mrs. Johnston have born to their union one heir. They are living on a 
farm of seventy-seven acres, a part of the homestead, to which Mr. Johnston 



GREEN CAMP TOWNSHIP. 795 

devotes his exclusive attention. He has erected a fine frame residence, and 
is a farmer of promise. His political proclivities are Republican, and he 
belongs, with his wife, to the Free-Will Baptist Church. 

GOTTLOP KELLER was born December 18, 1889, the son of John 
and Christena (Kully) Keller, of German extraction. They settled in Wal- 
do Township in 1847. upon eighty acres of land, paying about $6 per acre, 
where they lived and died, Christena May 24, 1847. Gottlop Keller,, 
growing to man's estate, married, March 24, 1870, Miss Rose, daughter of 
Henry and Hannah Dettwiller, natives of Germany, who came from the 
Fatherland in 1847, settling in Waldo Township upon a 100- acre farm. 
This he improved, and removing to Delaware County, Ohio, died there. His 
widow still survives, living near Green Camp. Mr. and Mrs. Keller rented the 
first five years of their life, then purchased their farm of 248^ acres, now 
numbering 255f acres. He has cleared a portion of tbis himself, and it is 
all well cultivated. It is a valuable farm and the result of their hard labor. 
He is a worthy citizen, a Democrat, and a Trustee of the township, elected 
April 10, 1883. 

JOHN KIBLER is a native of Wurtemberg, Germany, born October 3, 
1827, son of Johanis and Christena (Wolford) Kibler, who left the Father 
land in 1833, settling in Trumbull County, Ohio, upon a twenty-five acre 
farm, covered with a dense forest. They cleared and sold it, coming to 
Green Camp, buying 112 acres, for less than $3 per acre. They were mar- 
ried in 1857, and had seven children — John, Catherine, Mary, Gottlieb, 
George, Rachel and Daniel. The first two are living. The subject of this- 
sketch has been a farmer since his boyhood. He went to the war in the 
fall of 1864, entering Company H, One Hundred and Eightieth Regiment 
Ohio Volunteer Infantry, with Capt. Bowers. His company was engaged in 
guarding military stores and bridges. He engaged in one skirmish at 
Kingston, N. C. , lay in a hospital fifteen days at Charlotte, same State, 
and was honorably discharged in July, 1865, at Columbus, Ohio. His 
farm, to which he has made several additions, numbers at present 300 well- 
improved acres. As a citizen, he is worthy; as a Republican, true; as a 
Christian, faithful to the Methodist Episcopal Church, which he serves in 
the capacity of local minister. He was wedded, December 4, 1851, to Car- 
oline Keller, a daughter of John U. and Christenia Keller. 

DAVID H. LA RUE was born June 23, 1849, to Luther R. and Ann 
(Keech) La Rue, residents of Marion County. The former was born in 
Athens County, Ohio, and the latter in Chester County, Penn. They are 
the parents of eight children, four surviving — David H., Albert N., William 
P. and Mary C. The deceased were William, Oliver P. and two infants. 
Our subject, obtaining a fair education, was wedded, October 18, 1877, to 
Sarah M. , a daughter of Peter S. and Caroline (McClure) Bieber. who had 
three children — Mary L., Sarah M. and Benjamin M. ; the first is deceased. 
Two of Mr. La Rue's three children are living — Benjamin B. and an infant. 
Carrie M., died aged two months and fifteen days. Mr. La Rue gives his 
attention exclusively to farming and stock-raising. His farm lies three 
miles west of Green Camp, cultivated with care. He is a peaceable citizen 
and votes the Republican ticket. 

DR. JOHN T. MARTIN. Dr. Martin's parents, Joseph P. and De- 
borah (Bosworth) Martin, were married March 12, 1835. at Ontario, Ohio; 
the former dying, Mrs. Martin moved to Marion County in 1871; thence to 
Richwood, Ohio, where she still resides. Her husband was quite influen- 
tial in local politics, and was the father of three sons, the oldest dying an 



796 HISTORY OF MARION COUNT V. 

infant, and Stewart at the age of two years; John T. alone survives. He 
was born at Ontario, Richland Co., Ohio. September 23, 1844. He grew to 
manhood and was educated at the Ontario Academy. He began reading 
medicine at his native place under the instruction of Dr. J. W. Craig, now 
of Mansfield, Ohio. At intervals he taught during this time. He took his 
first medical course at the Cleveland (Regular) Medical College, graduating 
in 1871. He supplemented this by studying at the Cincinnati College of 
Medicine and Surgery. He commenced practicing at Blooming Grove, 
Ohio, settling permanently at Green Camp in November of 1871, and he 
now has a good practice. Dr. Martin enlisted in his country's defense in 
May, 1861, entering into service June 6. He was a member of the first 
company organized in Richland County for three years — Company D, 
Twenty-sixth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, under Capt. William A. 
Seaton. He served twenty-one and a half months, in many engagements, 
never flinching from the performance of duty. He also belonged to the Sixth 
Division of the Fifteenth Brigade. His honorable discharge dates Galves 
ton, Tex., February 18, 1863, by reason of disability. Dr. Martin has been 
the father of six children, five living — Merit L., Frank C, John R.. 
Maggie M. and Harry C. ; Craig, the third son died September 15, 1874. 
The Doctor and his wife are members of the Christian Church. He is also 
a Mason, six years at Prospect, and is connected with the Marion County 
Medical Association. 

JOHN MEINHART, son of John and Mary (Albright) Meinhart, was 
born in Tuscarawas County, Ohio, October 22, 1845. His father was born 
in Germany in 1804. and his mother in 1812. He was a miller by trade, 
and they migrated to America in 1835, purchasing land in the above coun- 
ty. To them were born twelve children — Mary, Harriet, John and Sarah 
surviving. Elizabeth, Peters, Philip and five others are deceased. Mr. 
Meinhart died in 1866, but his wife is at present a resident of Waldo 
Township. The common schools were the only source of Mr. Meinhart's 
education, his people moving there in 1851. He preferred the calling of a 
farmer, and has been carefully following it since early manhood. He was 
joined in marriage, March 26, 1871, to Josephine, daugther of Dexter and 
Barbara (Smith) Stockwell. who were natives of Vermont and Germany re- 
spectively. Three of their five children are living — Clara E., George and 
Cordelia, aged eleven, eight and five years respectively. Mary and Anna 
are deceased. Mr. Meinhart cultivates his farm of sixty-three acres, with 
care, and is an esteemed citizen, a firm Democrat and an Odd Fellow, and 
a member, with his wife, of the' Methodist Episcopal Church. 

ALBERT B. MORRIS was born on the old homestead, January li, 
1858, the son of the next mentioned. He attended the common schools 
and one term at the Ada Normal School. Not able to go longer on ac- 
count of failing heaith, he returned to agricultural pursuits, and married 
Miss Tillie J., the daughter of John and Margaret (Uncapher) Rayl. The 
latter had seven heirs — Hannah L., Tillie, Joseph, Thomas, James, Will- 
iam and Edward — the first and third of whom are deceased. Mr. and 
Mrs. Morris have Maggie M. and an infant. Mr. Morris has a productive 
little farm, is a young man of promise, a faithful Odd Fellow and a 
Republican. 

JOHN R. MORRIS. Mr. Morris' parents, Benjamin and Sarah (Riley) 
Morris, were descendants of Wales, but natives of Delaware. The former 
was born in 1787 and served six months in the war of 1812. Mrs. Morris 
was born in 17U7, and they settled in Circleville, Ohio, soon after marriage, 



GREEN CAMP TOWNSHIP. 797 

having in time a family of twelve children, seven surviving — William R. , 
Elizabeth J., John R., Stephen, Elsie, Joseph and Sarah A. Isaac, Maria, 
Lydia E., Benjamin and an infant are deceased. Their parents' decease oc- 
curred but two days apart. John R., our subject, born at Circleville. Ohio. 
June 10, 1824, was brought into Marion County when four months old, and 
has resided here since. He grew to manhood, and April 2, 1850, was wed- 
ded to Mary E. , daughter of Thomas and Susan (Love) Moore, of Irish and 
English ancestry respectively. Their children number five; William H. 
and Martha A. are living. Mrs. Morris dying, Mr. Morris again married, 
August 24, 1878, Jennie Funk, daughter of Austin and Eveline (Timmons) 
Funk, who have three living heirs — Dortha E., Martha A. and Jennie, 
born December 12, 1854. John R. is the father of four children — Lydia 
E., born February 7, 1851; Albert B., January 11, 1858; Frank D., No 
vember 20, 1868; and Susan. December 19, 1855, dying January 4, 1856. 
Mr. Morris has a farm of 157 acres, which he tills with great care, and his 
residence is one of the most desirable in the township. He has the honor 
of being one of the oldest pioneers in the county — since 1824. He is an 
estimable citizen, a Republican in politics and a Methodist in church re- 
lations. 

CHARLES L. PATTEN, druggist. Green Camp, Ohio, was born in 
Prospect, September 21, 1842, the son of William and Sarah (Waters) Pat- 
ten, who were joined in marriage near Prospect in 1834. The former, a 
native of that place was born November 8, 1811; the latter February 16, 
1814. In 1833, the father purchased 133 acres, paying $1.25 per acre, 
which subsequently became the homestead. So dense was the forest cover- 
ing it that he was obliged to clear a place to erect a cabin. They had six 
children, two dead — Mary E. and Olive A. The living are William R. , 
Charles L., Henry C. and Albert G. Our subject's grandfathers both 
served in the war of 1812. and his father died May 17, 1860; his mother 
still survives, occupying the old farm. Charles Lee Patten was married, 
May 24, 1867. to Elizabeth C. Bear, in Marion, daughter of Levi P. and 
Barbara A. Bear. Their three children are Lorena C. , Cora A. and Delia 
P., aged thirteen, nine and seven years respectively. Mr. Patten continued 
farming until 1873, when he removed to Green Camp and engaged in mer- 
chandising, conducting at present the only drug store in the village; he is 
doing a good business. He enlisted in the autumn of 1862, in Company B, 
One Hundred and Twenty-first Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, under 
Capt. W. L. Martin. He fought at Perryville, Columbia, Campbellville. 
Fort Donelson, Franklin, Triune, Shelby vi lie, Bridgeport, Whiteside 
Mountain, Sesochee Valley, Ringgold, Chickamauga. Lookout Mountain, 
Mission Ridge, Knoxville, Buzzard's Roost, Snake Creek Gap, Resaca, Rome. 
Altoona Hills, Big Shanty, Peach Tree Creek, Atlanta, Jonesboro, Lovejoy 
Station, Harpeth River, and the end is not yet; he went also to the sea 
with Sherman. He was discharged June, 1865; was wounded at Chicka- 
mauga and Kenesaw. Mr. Patten has been an honored member of the 
Masonic fraternity, Prospect, Ohio, for fifteen years; received also the 
Scottish Rites at Dayton, Ohio. Ho has served as Clerk of Green Camp 
Township several times, and as School Land Treasurer three years. He was 
a prominent candidate for Sheriff upon the Republican ticket in 1876. He 
still retains an interest in the old homestead and is a worthy citizen. 

MILTON PATTEN, M. D., Green Camp. Ohio, was born in Delaware 
County, Ohio. November 27, 1823, the youngest of eleven children born 
to William and Mary (Harden) Patten. William Patten is a native of 



798 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Maryland and Mrs. Patten of Pennsylvania. They resided in Ohio, in Del 
aware and Marion Counties, the most of their married life. The names of 
their children are Isaac, Richard, John, Sarah, William, Thomas, Ruth, 
Orin, Lorenzo, Maria and Milton. The first, tenth and eleventh are living. 
Milton Patten having a fair education, began to read medicine in 1843, un- 
der the direction of Drs. John Sigler and W. W. Bridge. He attended 
the Miami Medical College at Cincinnati, Ohio, and commenced practicing 
at Prospect, Ohio, in 1848. He removed to La Rue in 1849; thence to 
Prospect in 1854; thence to Green Camp, where he remained seven years. 
In 1861, he went to Illinois, still pursuing his profession at Camp Point, 
Adams County. In 1880, he returned to Green Camp, where he has a good 
practice. The Doctor was wedded, October 22, 1850, to JaneGillaspie; two 
children have been born to them, one deceased — Jennett. Clara Belle, 
born May 6, 1854, married James F. Magaffey, of Illinois, in 1872. He is 
a strong Republican, and has been Township Clerk and Trustoe at various 
times. The Doctor and Mrs. Patten are members of the Methodist Episco- 
pal Church, the former with a membership of nearly forty vears. 

HUGH B. PETTEY was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, September 2.1, 
1822, the son of Joseph and Susan (Biggerstaff ) Pettey. He was a native 
of England, born about 1793, and, coming to this country, married his wife, 
of English blood, but a native of Virginia. They settled in Fairfield Coun- 
ty, where Mrs. Pettey died, whereupon he removed to Marion County, set- 
tling in Pleasant Township upon a forty-acre lot. Selling this, he went to 
Prospect Township, buying another forty-acre tract, where he died in 
1847, surviving his wife about seventeen years. They were the parents of 
eight children, two living, viz., Hugh B. and Sarah A. The deceased were 
William S., John D., Elsie and others. Mr. Pettey, growing to manhood, 
formed an alliance, September 19, 1847, with Susannah Fulton, of Scotch 
ancestry. To them five children were born, four living — Joseph, William, 
Mary A. and Susan J. Mrs. Pettey died after a married life of twenty 
years. Mr. Petty again married, January 21, 1858, Miss Bicila Elaner 
Bryan, and they had six children, namely, Ella, 'John R. , Frank D., 
Lydia L., George and Eve A., who died in 1867, aged two years. Mr. Pet- 
tey is pleasantly situated upon his farm of fifty acres, located near the vil- 
lage of Green Camp. His buildings are new throughout. He is a worthy 
neighbor, and has been Trustee of the township several terms He is iden 
tified with the I. O. O. F and the Republican party. He liberally supports 
the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

DAVID H. PORTER, of the firm of Matthews & Porter, Green Camp. 
Ohio, was born iD the same township January 24, 1846. His father, 
John H., was a native of Warren County, but his mother, Nancy Berry, was 
born in Virginia, near Abington. Her parents, John and Susan Berry, were 
also natives of Virginia, coming to Ohio in 1833, and settling in this coun- 
ty, on the Scioto River, upon a farm of 1, 100 acres, which he retained un- 
til his death. David's parents were married in this county and resided 
here till his father's death. They bought 150 acres, then in Pleasant Town 
ship, but since included in Green Camp Township. He has disposed of a 
part of that (eighty acres), but continued adding to the remainder until ho 
owns 400 acres, all cleared by himself. He was a successful and influen- 
tial citizen, serving in various local offices. He was one of the founders of 
the Free- Will Baptist Church at Green Camp and an active and liberal sup 
porter of the same. He was the father of nine children, seven of whom 
survive. Mr. Porter is the second son and fourth child. He was reared on 



GREEN CAMP TOWNSHIP. 7y9 

the homestead and educated in the common schools; he followed farmino- 
till 1874, when he became a partner with J. N. Matthews, continuing still 
, in the business. Since his partner's election as Judge of Probate, he has 
taken full control. They carry a stock of general merchandise, worth 
from $5,000 to $7,000. They are patronized generally. In April, 187-4, 
Mr. Porter married Emma J. Matthews, a daughter of J. N. and Mary 
Matthews. She was born in Pleasant Township in 1856, and is the mother 
of four children, three living — Malcolm, Metta and Arthur; an infant is 
deceased. Mr. Porter has, besides his store investment, eighty-two acres of 
the homestead and a half interest in 103 acres west of the Scioto. He is a 
Republican and has served as Treasurer of the township three years. He 
is also an Odd Fellow and a member of the Encampment at Marion. 

JAMES S. RAYL is the fourth child and third son of John and Mar- 
garet (Uncapher) Rayl, born August 31, 1854. He not only attended the 
district schools, but also prosecuted his studies at Iberia Academv and Ada 
Normal School, closing his literary pursuits in 1S75. He married, in Mar- 
ion, December 26, 1876, Mary C. Rickerson, daughter of Daniel and Cathe- 
rine (Orider) Rickerson, natives of Pennsylvania and New York respect- 
ively. Three of their four children survive — Sylvanus M., John O. and 
Mary C. — Adin P., having died as a soldier at Nashville, Tenn., March 25, 
1864. Mrs. Rayl was born in Columbus, Ohio, January 8, 1857, and she 
has two heirs — Zona B. and Amy T. Mr. Rayl owns eighty-six acres of 
land, valuable, a portion of the homestead. He is a representative farmer 
and an exemplary citizen. He affiliates with the Republican party, and, 
with his wife, is a member of the Free -Will Baptist Church. 

JOHN RAYL is a son of Samuel and Sophia (Lyon) Rayl, descend ants of 
English and Irish ancestry. The former was born in Fayette County, Penn., 
in 1783, but moved with his parents to Beaver County in 1795, where they 
died in 1826. November 11, 1830, he arrived in Marion County, purchasing 
200 acres of land, mostly unimproved, paying $10 an acre. To himself and 
wife were born six heirs — John, Samuel, Alfred L. , Matilda. Nathan and 
Sarah, the last two deceased. Mrs. Rayl died March 17, 1842 ; Mr. Rayl 
October 25, 1843. The subject of this sketch, having attained his major- 
ity, was united in marriage, March 4, 1847, to Miss Margaret, a daughter 
of Solomon and Hannah (Shoemaker) Uncapher, of German stock, but na- 
tives of Pennsylvania. They emigrated to Ohio in 1824, settling south of 
Marion, having twelve children, seven living — Joseph, Ezra, Martin, 
James, Margaret, Priscilla and Matilda. Mr. and Mrs. John Rayl had 
six children, rive suiwiving — Thomas L., James S. P., William P., Edward 
and Matilda. Mr. John Rayl settled upon his present farm in 1862; it 
consists of 528 acres of valuable land, and is one of _the best farms in the 
township. He, with his sons, keeps it in a high state of cultivation, giving 
considerable attention to the rearing of graded stock. In this particular, 
Mr. Rayl ranks well in the county. He is a pioneer of forty-six years' 
standing, and an esteemed citizen. His political belief is strongly Repub- 
lican, and to the Free- Will Batpist Church belong both himself and wife. 

GEORGE A. RITZLER, general merchant, Green Camp, Ohio, is a 
native of Highland County, Ohio, born November 21, 1846, the son of 
John A. and Katie (Hisel) Ritzier. They were natives of Germany, the 
former born February 17, 1811, and the latter January 19, 1811. They 
sailed the ocean in 1833, stopping at Cleveland. Ohio, two years; thence 
went to Kenton, Ohio, by way of Springfield, Ohio, where he farmed the 
remainder of his days. His wife still resides at Kenton, at the age of 



800 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

seventy-two, the mother of nine children, eight living— Mary, Katie, Louisa, 
Adam. Nicholas. Joseph, Henry and George. Christena died in August, 
1868. Mr. Ritzier married, December 17. 1874. at Marion, Callie, daugh- 
ter of Kist and Katie Keese. Mr. and Mrs. Ritzier are the parents of four 
children, two living — Adam J. and Jennie A. The deceased were George 
A. and Leslie. Mr. Ritzier engaged in agriculture until his marriage, 
when he located at Green Camp as a merchant, doing a fair business. 
He votes the Democratic ticket. 

DANIEL J. SMELTZER, blacksmith. Mr. Smeltzer's parents, Jacob 
and Margaret (Bush) Smeltzer, were natives of Pennsylvania; the former 
was born July 6, 1806. Having been married, and Mrs. Smeltzer having 
died in their native State, Mr. Smeltzer moved to Ohio in 1861, locating 
near Marion and buying a farm of 170 acres, where he continues to reside. 
He was born September 2, 1840, the ninth child and fifth son. His union 
with Miss Lucy Sherman, daughter of Eber and Florinda Sherman, was 
observed October 3. 1865. Two of their three children are living — Jacob 
H. and Cora F. ; Perry died September 27, 1872, fifteen months of age. 
Mr. Smeltzer came with his father to the " Buckeye " State, taking up his 
trade at Marion, following it there and subsequently at his father's. In 
February, 1869, he established himself at Green Camp, and has commanded 
a good trade since. He is an influential citizen, a Democrat, and, with 
his wife, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

REV. JEREMIAH A. SUTTON, pastor of the Free-Will Baptist 
Church, Green Camp, Ohio, was born December 10, 1847, in Symmes 
Township, Hamilton County, Ohio, the son of John S. and Mary A. (Addis) 
Sutton; the former was born May 28, 1827. To them were born six chil- 
dren — Bellamy S., Angeline, Allen A., J. A., David P., M. D., and John 
W. — the last two deceased. John S. Sutton died January 6, 1870; his 
widow still survives, residing near Blanchester, Ohio. At the age of twelve 
years, our subject moved with his parents to near Blanchester, Clinton Co., 
Ohio, and the common schools gave him an education. When sixteen, he 
began to speak publicly, and at nineteen commenced teaching at Gallau- 
det, Ind. He has been engaged in both these professions ever since. He 
was publicly ordained to the ministry October 24, 1874; the ordaining 
council were Revs. John F. Tufts, John Hisey and John B. Lash. The 
following winter removed his family to Johnstown, Licking Co., Ohio, 
assisting Rev. A. H. Whittaker in protracted efforts. Since then he has been 
regularly engaged as a minister, doing efficient work for the Master. He 
has been married twice. November 28, 1869, he was united with Miss 
Mollie E. Cox, only daughter of Aaron and Rebecca Cox, residents of Clin- 
ton County; four children blessed this union, but one surviving, three dying 
in infancy. Mrs. Sutton passed away November 29, 1881, aged thirty-two 
years four months and twenty-seven days. He again married, March 22, 
1883, Mrs. Ella A. Kniffin, daughter of Nehemiah and Margaret Downing. 
Rev. Mr. Sutton is a self made man, influential and highly respected. 
His labors for the Green Camp and neighboring churches is redounding 
greatly to the cause. He is a correspondent of several papers and magazines, 
and is a member of P. O. S. of A., Washington Camp, No. 48. 

JOHN B. TRAVIS. Mr. Travis' parents, Oscar and Margaret (Hum- 
phries) Travis, the former born January 1, 1823, had six heirs — Mary, 
John B., Jamie A., Albert A., William O. and Lucy A., the first two living. 
Mr. Travis survives his wife and resides at Marion, in which county he has 
lived since his childhood. He is interested in the manufacture and sale of 



GREEN CAMP TOWNSHIP. 801 

buggies. The subject of this sketch secured a practical education. He 
enlisted in the civil war, September 24, 1864, in Company F, One Huudred 
and Seventy-ninth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, under Capt. John 
Simmons and Col. H. H. Sage. He was engaged in the hotly-contested 
battle of Nashville, and in several skirmishes. His honorable discharge 
dates " Columbus, Ohio, June 17, 1865." He married, April 3, 1866, Mary 
E., daughter of Francis C. and Charlotte (Cooper) Baldwin. They have 
had seven children, four of whom died in infancy. The living are Laura 
M. , William O. and John F. Mr. Travis is a thoroughgoing farmer and 
a respected citizen. He is a Democrat and a member of the County Agri- 
cultural Society; he also belongs to the I. O. O. F. and the Free-Will 
Baptist Church. 

ANDREW UNCAPHER was born in Westmoreland Couuty, Penn.. 
October 6, 1819. His parents, Peter and Elizabeth (Ringer) TJncapher, 
also natives of the same State and of German extraction, were married 
about 1810. To them were born fifteen children, seven living — John, An- 
drew, Simon, Amos, Samuel, Margaret and Catherine. Michael, George, 
Philip, Isaac, Joseph, Elizabeth, Hannah and one infant are deceased. 
Mr. TJncapher died in 1857 and his wife in 1875. The subject of this 
memoir, removing from Pennsylvania in the autumn of 1889, located at 
Marion, following the occupation of mechanic thirty years. He was united 
in marriage, February 10, 1867, at Green Camp, with Miss Sarah, daugh- 
ter of Henry and Elizabeth Brinker, also natives of Pennsylvania. Five of 
their six children survive — Mary E., Laura C. , Emma F.. Lydia L. and 
Herman A. Sarah J. died May 28, 1863. Mr. TJncapher quit his trade in 
1868, purchasing and moving to this farm of 115 acres. He is a good 
farmer, a substantial citizen, a solid Democrat, and, with his wife, a mem- 
ber of the United Brethren Church. 

JOSEPH WALL, raih'oad agent and telegraph operator, Green Camp. 
Ohio, was born in the city of New York in 1849. His parents died whou 
he was so young that he retains no recollection of them. He removed from 
New York in 1863 to Cedar Ledge farm school, under the management of 
Rev. L. M. Pease. He was educated at the Protestant Episcopal Orphans' 
Home, controlled by Rev. Dr. Muhlenberg, a distinguished clergyman, 
author of many valuable hymns, and noted for exceptional generosity. He 
left the above farm October 19. 1865, and lived with G. W. Foster nine 
years. He commenced the study of telegraphy in 1874. but abandoned it 
for want of necessary means to defray expenses; he, however, resumed it« 
study in 1875, and in 1877 was appointed as above. He continues to hold 
this position, faithful and prompt in the performance of all its duties. He 
met with a serious accident in jumping from the cars at this place, result- 
ing in the loss of the left arm and seriously affecting the use of the other 
hand and arm. He is a wide-awake and highly respected citizen; was 
elected Township Treasurer in 1882 and re-elected in 1883. He is a 
stanch Republican and a faithful Odd Fellow. 

DAVID M. WESTON, third son of John and Maria (Chard) Weston, 
was born near the village of Green Camp March 25, 1859. His parents, of 
English stock, had eight children, six living — John O, William D., David 
M. . Richard A.. Willis E. and Alice J. James A. and an infant are de- 
ceased. The subject of this sketch, coming to man's estate, was united in 
marriage, at Mount Olive Church, June 9, 1880, to Miss Laura Carey, 
William A. and Mary Carey's daughter. They have a daughter — Clarence 
Burdelle — aged two vears. Mr. Weston was educated at the Lebanon Nor- 



802 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

inal School, and is a rising young farmer. His farm consists of sixty acres, 
for which he paid $45 per acre, and has since refused $65 per acre. Polit- 
ically, he prefers the Democratic party. 

JOHN WESTON was born in " York" State, January 2, 1819, the son 
of William and Mary (Elmer) Weston, whose parents were natives of En- 
gland and Germany, emigrating to Ticonderoga, N. Y., at a very early day. 
They died there about 1827, leaving three children — John, Stephen and 
Esther. John Weston, when a young man, came to Ross County, Ohio, 
working upon the Ohio Canal about three years. While there, he married 
Elizabeth Right, April 2, 1847, who was born in 1825, and died August 17, 
184 ( J, the mother of one child, deceased. Mr. Weston's second marriage 
occurred November 20, 1851, to Mariah P., daughter of James and Sarah 
(Burnett) Chard. Six of their eight children are living — John C, born 
September 1, 1854; AVilliam D., November 8, 1856; David M., March 25, 
1859; Richard A., May 26, 1862; Willis E., October 27, 1864; and Sarah 
A., October 9, 1867. They lost two infant sons. Mr. Weston can well be 
classed among the Marion County pioneers for he moved to his farm of 150 
acres in 1855, when it was a dense forest, but, as the fruit of his industry, 
he has now a cleared and highly improved farm, with a desirable home. 
It is stocked with fine grades, and he ranks well as a farmer. Mr. 
Weston served two successive terms as Trustee of the township. As a citi- 
zen, be is substantial; as a Democrat, true: as a Christian, faithful to the 
Free- Will Baptist Church, to which his wife also belongs. 

JOHN W1XTEAD is the third son of John and Wineford (McCough) 
Wixtead, natives of Ireland, who emigrated to America about 1852, settling 
in Marion County. The father, with the assistance of the sons, cleared 160 
acres of land, which now is in a grand state of cultivation. They were the 
parents of nine children, six living — William, Charles, Patrick, Mary, John 
and Katie; Michael, Charles and William are deceased. Mr. Wixtead, hav- 
ing a fair education, married, April 19, 1875, Kate Dewyer, daughter of 
John and Bridget Dewyer, whose family consisted of four children — 
Bridget, Mary, John and Kate. John Dewyer died in Ireland about 1855; 
his wife died October 17, 1870. Mr. and Mrs. Wixtead have had born to 
them three children, of whom two are now living — Kate M. and Winnifred 
— aged five and three years respectively. Mary W. is deceased. Mr. Wix- 
tead owns the old homestead of eighty-three acres, and has the manage- 
ment of eighty acres belonging to his brother Patrick, a dealer in timber 
and lumber of Marion Township. He gives his attention wholly to farm- 
ing and the raising of fine stock. Himself and wife are members of the 
Catholic Church. 

WILLIAM WOLFINGER was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, October 
8, 1836. He is the son of Jacob F. and Gertrude (Pfifer) Wolfinger, who 
were natives of Wurtemberg, Germany, and leaving the "Fatherland," 
settled upon ninety-six acres of timber land in Richland Township, this 
county, paying $4.44 per acre. He succeeded in clearing this and also in 
raising seven children — John V., William J., Eliza. Catherine, Adam F., 
Caroline and Elias; Lena and Samuel are deceased. Both parents have 
passed away, the father January 2, 1879. The subject of this sketch is a 
prominent farmer, devoting considerable attention to fine stock. His farm 
is located four miles west of Green Camp Village, kept in an exemplarv 
manner. September 1, 1865, he married Louisa, daughter of Jacob F. and 
Margaret R. Kratzer, the latter having eight children. Mr. and Mrs. Wol 
finger have five daughters —Maggie, Eliza, Alice, Sarah and Dora — aged 



GREEN CAMP TOWNSHIP. 803 

sixteen, fourteen, eighteen, eleven and three years respectively. Mr. Wol- 
tinger is a representative citizen, a Democrat in politics; was elected As- 
sessor in 1878, and Land Appraiser in 1880. Himself and wife are mem- 
bers of the Lutheran Church. 

JOHN G. WOLFORD was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, June 4, 
1830, the son of John G. and Mary (Krouse) Wolford, who crossed the sea 
in 1832, entering the port of Baltimore, Md., but settling in Trumbull 
County, Ohio, for twelve years, and removing to Green Camp in 1845, and 
purchasing eighty- three acres of land, principally woodland; the most of 
it he cleared. He was married March 30, 1855, and has had four children 
— Louisa M., dying August 20, 1868; Mary E., Lewis H. and Emma L. 
survive. Mr. Wolford is a self-niade man and is the owner of 263 acres of 
highly cultivated land, located three- fourths of a mile northwest of Green 
Camp Village. He rears fine stock, is a respected citizen, and affiliates with 
the Republican party. Mrs. Louisa R. Wolford, wife of J. G. Wolford, 
was born in Pennsylvania Mai\:h 29, 1829, the daughter of John A. and 
Rebecca Gephard, natives of Germany. He was a soldier for eight years 
in the German Army; was wounded in head and hand. They emigrated to 
the United States years ago, and only three of their nine children are liv- 
ing — Samuel, Louis and Louisa. Mrs. Wolford has always resided upon 
the farm, devoting her attention to domestic duties, and upon the present 
place since 1847. Herself, husband and family, are members of the Free- 
Will Baptist Church, and she is also identified with the Woman's Mission 
Society since its organization at Green Camp. 

ISAAC WYNN is the son of David and Jane (Jones) Wynn, natives of 
Wales, who sailed the waters in 1840, came to Green Camp Township, and 
located with his father, John Wynn. The latter purchased eighty acres of 
forest land, occupied by his son, and now by Isaac Wynn, his grandson. 
David Wynn was born March 27, 1808, and died December 17, 1855. His 
wife died January 19, 1851, when forty-three years of age. Isaac Wynn 
was born April 17, 1834, and coming to man's estate, married, June 18, 
1856, Louisa J., daughter of William C. and Catherine A. (Smith) 
Thatcher, of German extraction, but natives of Ohio and Kentucky respect- 
ively. The former was born September 10, ^1813, and died March 13, 
1859; the latter September 10, 1821, dying February 12, 1858. She was 
the mother of ten children, five living — Louisa J., James A., Dorcas A., 
William M. and Mary C. ; Samuel A., Cynthia A., John E. , Alexander E. and 
Florinda L. are deceased. Mr. and Mrs. David Wynn had born to their 
union nine heirs — Isaac, Sarah J., Henrietta, Edward, John J., Phceba, 
Elizabeth, David and Mary — the four first surviving. Mr. and Mrs. Isaac 
VVynn's offspring are John \Y., William W. and Martin, who died Septem- 
ber 22, 1863. The subject of this memoir entered the civil war September 
24, 1864, at Mansfield, Ohio, Company F, One Hundred and Seventy- 
ninth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He fought at Nashville, Tenn., 
and was wounded while guarding prisoners en route from Nashville to 
Springfield, Tenn. He was honorably discharged May 28, 1865, having a 
Surgeon's certificate of disability. Mr. Wynn is an influential Republican 
and local politician, having served nine years at various times as Trustee 
of the township. He is connected with the I. O. O. F. Mrs. Wynn has 
the honor of being the first white female child born in Delaware, Ohio. The 
family all belong to the Free-Will Baptist Church, which they support lib- 
erally. 



804 HT8TORY OF MARION COUNTY. 



CHAPTER VIII. 



MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP. 

> ORGANIC. 

THIS township originally included the present territory and that of 
Bowling Green, both of which were taken from Grand Township. 
It was set off according to the following described boundaries, in Decem- 
ber, 1831, which will appear from the following entry: 

Monday, December 5, 1831. 
Ordered by the Board, That Township No. 5 south, of Range No. 13, and all the 
Virginia Military Land lying south of said Township 5, Range 13, within said county, 
be and the same is hereby set off as a new township, by the name of Montgomery. 

Montgomery Township continued to include all of the above-described 
territory until the year 1838, when Bowling Green Township wa3 erected 
from that portion of it south of the Scioto River, which comprises all of 
the Virginia Military Lands mentioned in the foregoing entry. Thus Mont- 
gomery Township, after an existence of nearly seven years, as it was first 
organized, was divided and the southern division was given the name of 
Bowling Green, as appears from the following entry: 

Monday, March 5, 1838. 
Commissioners met pursuant to the statute in such cases made and provided. Pres- 
ent: Charles Merriman, John Shunk and George Beckley. And whereupon, on petition 
of Thomas Parr and others, it is ordered that a new township to be called and named 
"Bowling Green," be and is hereby erected and set off as follows, to wit: Beginning 
at the southwest corner of the county of Marion, thence north to the south bank of the 
Scioto River; thence down said river with its meanderings until it intersects the range 
line dividing Ranges 13 and 14 in said county; thence south on the line of Green Camp 
Township to the line dividing Marion and Union Counties; thence westwardly on said 
line dividing said counties of Marion and Union, to the place of beginning. 

During 1875, this township was divided by the County Commissioners 
into two election precincts, as follows: Beginning at the northeast corner 
of Montgomery Township, thence west along the north line ol said town 
snip to the northwest corner of Section 3, thence south along the section 
line on the west of Sections 3, 10, 15, 22 and 27, until it intersects the 
Scioto River; thence in a southeasterly direction with the river to the south- 
east corner of the township; thence north on the east line of the township to 
the place of beginning, to be known as the " East Precinct;" the western 
portion to be known as the " West Precinct. " 

EARLY SETTLEMENT. 

The first white man to settle in what is now Montgomery Township was 
Daniel Marklev. He erected a cabin on the Scioto River, at the crossing of 
the Mechanicsburg and Upper Sandusky trail, on the old James Walker 
farm, about the year 1820. He was the only settler in this region for sev- 
eral years, and kept a sort of pioneer tavern for the accommodation of those 
who passed that way; it was then the only traveled trail for twenty -five or 
thirty miles either way on the Scioto. He resided here until in 1824, 
when he moved away. His cabin was destroyed by fire during the burning 



MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP. 805 

of the woods some years after, and the place was afterward known by the 
early settlers as the site of " Danny's cabin." 

Samuel Franklin effected the next settlement in the township. He 
came with his family from Fayette County, Ohio, in 1821, and "squat- 
ted" on the northeast quarter of Section 1, where he built a log cabin. He 
lived on this land, which was still in the possession of the Government, till 
1823, when he was "entered out" by Col. William Cochran, who took up 
eighty acres, the land occupied by him. Franklin then removed to Salt 
Rock Township, and in 1831 returned to Montgomery and entered eighty 
acres on Section 2. His wife died on this farm, and in 1836-37, he went 
to Michigan. 

Col. Cochran was born in the "Old Dominion," and about the time of 
the war of 1812, emigrated to Ohio, then the "far West," and settled in 
Ross County. In 1823, he moved with a large family to Marion County 
and settled on Section 1 of this township. A post office was established at 
his house, and consequently took the name of the worthy pioneer, which 
name it has ever since retained. The mail was carried from Marion to 
Bellefontaine on horseback, the mail carrier following the half beaten path 
of the Indians. Col. Cochran occupied his " entered " farm till about 1837 
-38, when he went with his family to La Grange County, Ind., at which 
place he subsequently died. The Colonel was an excellent specimen of a 
pioneer, and could relate in a graphic manner many interesting frontier 
experiences of his own, and could crack a joke or tell a story with remark- 
able expertness. He was a great hunter, and many were the deer that he 
killed. He was a member of the church and was active in all its services. 
As a citizen and a neighbor, he was kind and obliging. 

The next settlement was made in 1825, by Maj. William LaRue, the 
original founder and proprietor of La Rue Village. He located on land that 
a quarter of a century after became the site of a village, of which he was 
the founder. April 11, 1827, he entered from the Government seventy- 
three and one-quarter acres, on which he had settled in 1825. The patent 
for this land was signed by John Quincy Adams. 

W. Crandall came in 1824 and took up the west half of the southeast 
quarter, of Section 17. He came from Ross County and died some three or 
four years after, leaving a widow and three children — John, Jehu and Sal- 
lie — who remained in the forest of the township till 1837 or 1838, when 
they emigrated farther West. McMurray Johnson came in the same year 
and settled on the east half of the northeast quarter of Section 2, which 
land he entered. In 1831-32, he entered 160 acres more on Section 2. He 
died on his original entry in 1859, aged seventy-five years. He came to 
Montgomery Township from Worcester County, Md. 

Isaac Berdine came into the township in 1827 from Big Island, where 
he had made a settlement three years previous. He came from Fayette 
County, Ohio, and his settlement in this township was on the south part of 
Section 2. He resided here till 1836, when he and family, accompanied by 
" Old Mother Neville," and two sons — William and Joshua — removed to 
Northern Indiana. Mrs. Neville and sons came from Fayette County, Ohio, 
in 1824, with Mr. Berdine and family. 

February 22, 1827, Gardner Crandall entered at the Delaware Land 
Office eighty acres on Section 17. From early in 1827 to 1831, few, if 
any settlers came in the township. Most of those who effected settlements 
in the southwestern part of the county during this time, were made south 
of the Scioto River, in Bowling Green Township, which at that time 



806 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

formed a part of Montgomery Township. The next to settle in Montgom- 
ery Township proper, of whom we have any account, was William J. Virden, 
now the oldest surviving pioneer settler of the township. He emigrated 
to Warren County. Ohio, in 1827, and in January, 1831, to Marion County, 
settling within the forests of this township. July 31, following, he pur- 
chased from the Government the east half of the northwest quarter of Sec- 
tion I, where he now resides. In January, 1831, the following, with their 
families, constituted the band of pioneers that inhabited Montgomery 
Township, viz.: Col. William Cochran, Maj. William LaRue, William J. 
Virden, McMurray Johnson, Isaac Berdine, Mrs. Neville and Mrs. Crandall. 

The next year William Bryan entered and settled on the southeast quar- 
ter of Section 8, which land a few years later he sold to Gen. James H. 
Godman. During the spring of this year (1882), a number of settlers came 
into the township and settled on the Scioto, north of La Rue. Among them 
were William Vesey, James Ramey, John Tucker and Jeremiah Jones. 
William Vesey built a tavern on the river bank, and shortly after W. Hop- 
kins came along and put up for the night. The house was situated on a 
low spot of ground, and during the night the heavy rains swelled the river 
till it was out of its banks, and the next morning Mr. Hopkins bad to swim 
his horse back to the road. The same year, Moses Van Fleet. Allen John- 
son, William and BeDJamin Little, J. T. Walker, William McNeal, Joseph 
Sturges, V. Dutton, Russell Carey, W T . W. Carey, Wingate Carey, J. Elland, 

J. Lint, Huls and Clayton settled north of the river, and 

these, with those previously mentioned, composed the settlements at this 
date. In 1833-34, the State road from Marion to Lima was constructed, 
and the territory along its route was rapidly settled up. Those who settled 
on the line of this road in this township were Albert Dudley, Asahel and 

Alonzo Scoville, Whaler, Robert Clark, Hiram Corn, Zachariah 

Louderback, Charles Coulter, Richard Carter, Joseph Prettyman, Alanson 
Virden, H. Hinkle, John Clark, Joseph Anderson, P. Harder, J. and C. 
Wallace and Isaac Owens. Robert and Sarah Gillespie settled in this- 
township in 1832. 

In June, 1832, Montgomery Township was organized, and comprised, 
in addition to its present territory, Bowling Green Township. *At this 
election, Almon Bryan, Jerry Jones and McMurray Johnson were chosen 
Trustees. Maj. La Rue, Clerk; and John Tucker, Superivsor. Money was 
scarce and there being no township fund, a Treasurer was not elected. Su- 
pervisor Tucker summoned his hands out in the fall and put in two days' 
work on the Montgomery & Grand Township line road, which was the only 
laid-out road in the township. On their return, they " cut out " a road from 
Bryan to the river settlements, a distance of four miles. At the Presiden 
tial election in the same fall (of 1832) seventeen voters were polled, which 
included the voters of the " Tymochtee Windfall " and Rush Creek settle- 
ments of Bowling Green. Of the votes cast fifteen were Democratic and 
two were Whig. At this election CoJ. Cochran was chosen the first Justice 
of the Peace, and William H. Davis was the second in the township. 

The first marriage in the township was that of Almon Bryan, a brother- 
in-law of Maj. LaRue, to Miss Jane Cochran. It was celebrated in 1832, 
by Rev. David Dudley. The first white child that was born in the town- 
ship was either Nancy Cochran or a child of Mr. Berdine. 

W. Crandall was the first of the early settlers of the township that died. 
He located on Section 17. in 1824, where his death occurred about 1827 or 
1828. He was buried on the west side of a ravine running through his farm. 



MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP. 807 

FIRST IMPROVEMENTS. 

Mills. — One of the greatest difficulties that the pioneers encountered in 
early days in Montgomery Township was to get bread material. Mills were 
far away and the roads were difficult to travel. West Liberty was one of 
the places where the early settlers went to mill. In order to reach that 
place, they had to go to Scott Town, thence west to Judge Wheeler's, at 
which place they struck the Bellefontaine road, which they there would 
take. On these trips, which required three or four days, they camped out 
wherever night overtook them. To avoid these difficult trips, Maj. La Rue 
bought a hand-mill, which was patronized and used by the whole neighbor- 
hood for several years. Wheat bread was seldom used, and was considered 
in those days a luxury. Hominy was one of the chief articles of food. It 
was made by burning a hollow place in the center of a green white- oak 
stump; then, after scraping out the charred surface, a spring-pole, after 
the style of an old-fashioned well-sweep, would be erected. A short pole 
would be tied to this, and at the lower end an iron wedge would be at- 
tached. After placing the corn in the stump, they would work the spring 
pole and the wedge would soon reduce the corn to a coarse meal or hominy. 
Such were some of the modes used by the pioneers to secure the necessary 
things for subsistence. 

The first mill in Montgomery Township was built at the " bend " of the 
river, now on Topliff's Second Addition to the village of La Rue, by Jacob 
Myers and Washington Armstrong, in the spring of 1835. Ifc was a water 
sawmill, and was run a few months, when a " corn cracker " was added. A 
dam was constructed across the river, which was about 110 feet long. It 
kept breaking, and the mill could not be used regularly. Mr. Armstrong 
sold his interest to John J. Johnson, and Myers & Johnson ran it till 
1837, when it was purchased by Lewis Topliff, who a few months after 
abandoned it. About this time, Joseph Sturges and L. Ramouse began con- 
structing a mill race at " Mud Bottom" on Section 36. The river at this 
place incloses about ten acres of ground, and the two bends of the river are 
but fifteen rods apart. Sturges & Ramouse abandoned the work and Dan- 
iel Longacre took it up and completed it, and purchased a part of Top- 
liff's old "corn -mi II" at La Rue, which he erected at this place. It was 
covered with a shed of clapboards. In 1840, he built a water mill. 30x40 
feet in size. It was used for several years as a place for political meetings, 
and in the celebrated campaign of 1840 was a rendezvous for political 
gatherings. This mill was run for a good many years. Lewis Topliff 
bought three acres of land of Maj. La "Rue, and in 1837 built a water grist 
and saw mill, completing it in 1838. This mill, which was a rude struct- 
ure, was operated till 1845, when the grist department was torn away, and 
the saw mill, which had a " sash saw," was purchased by Samuel Simpson, 
who ran it till 1860. 

In 1845, Topliff erected a largo two and-one-half -story mill adjoining 
the saw mill. It contained two run of buhrs and cost about $1,500. Shortly 
after the completion of the mill, a carding machine was added to the upper 
story, and was run in connection with the mill till 1851, when the building 
was abandoned. This mill was used as a place for religious worship by 
the early settlers. Lewis Topliff built, in 1852, a steam saw mill, near the 
site of his former mill, at a cost of S3, 000. It was framed by Hiram Mills, 
and in 1853 or 1854 a corn buhr was put in. B. F. Todd bought the mill 
and about two vears after sold it to Jack Keelen. It was destroyed bv fire 
in 1857 or 1858. 



808 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

The farmers were then compelled to go to Marseilles for milling until 
1865, when the La Rue Mills were built. 

Tannery. — In 1839, Elias and Jonathan Myers built a tannery on the 
northeast quarter of Section 20, one and a half miles north of La Rue. 
The building cost $1,000, and was conducted by them until 1849. when 
Jonathan sold his interest to Elias, who ran it one year, and then the tools 
and apparatus were sold to J. J. Johnson, George Williams and Abram 
Rosebaum, -vho soon afterward abandoned it. In 1857 or 1858, Jonathan 
Myers bought tools again, and located a tannery on the southeast quarter 
of Section 16, with eight vats, and it was run until some time in 1861, 
when it was hnally abandoned. 

SCHOOLS. 

Montgomery Township comprises Subdistricts No. 2, 3, 4. 5, 6 and 
9, and Joint Districts No. 2, 7, 8 and 10, containing in all ten school - 
houses. The enumeration in 1882 gave as a result 134 male children of 
school age and 151 female children; total, 285. 

RELIGIOUS. 

Religious services were at first held in private houses and schoolhouses. 
The first preaching was by Elders Hatch and Dudley. The first protracted 
effort was conducted by the Methodists in Maj. LaRue's barn, in 1845, Mr. 
Armstrong being the leading preacher. A platform and pulpit were erected 
of rough boards, and of similar material were seats improvised upon the 
cleared floor. These would be tilled, principally by women, while the men 
and boys reclined upon the hay. All observed good order. Meetings were 
held day and night for three weeks, and with good results. 

The Free- Will Baptists succeeded the Methodists with a protracted 
meeting in the same barn, which lasted one week, and was then removed to 
Mr. Topliff's mill, which was built in 1845. This was a strange place for 
meetings. In order to get into the mill, they laid a plank from the edge 
of the bank to the mill door, and it seemed rather unsafe. Here the same 
kind of seats were used as before. The pulpit platform was the elevation 
upon which the mill-stones were mounted. At this meeting the preachers 
were Rev. George Baker and his son, Rev. Oscar E. Baker, of Marion, and 
Rev. Kendall Higgins. A number were converted and joined the church. 

After the close of the above-mentioned meeting and the carding season 
was over, Mr. Topliff moved the carding apparatus out of his mill, where 
meetings were held until the next carding season arrived. After this, school 
houses were used. 

The first Sunday school in this neighborhood was organized in Bonner's 
Schoolhouse, by Peter Marsh, and was maintained during the summer for 
many years. 

The " Montgomery" Methodist Episcopal Chm-ch was organized Sep- 
tember 5, 1846, by Rev. S. J. Burgess, and J. Bunker, with seven mem- 
bers, among whom were S. Cook, Robert Hayward and Martha Hayward. 
Meetings were tirst held at J. Clark's and Father Hincklin's, conducted by 
S. Cook and Thomas Franklin. The tirst Class Leader was S. Cook, and 
Steward, T. D. McElhany. Meetings were held from house to house until 
1849, when a church was built in the western part of the township, within 
a half mile of the county line, near the present site. Its size was 24x36, 
and cost $200. The present building, owned by the Methodists and United 
Brethren, was built in 1870, at a cost of $1,700. Present number of mem- 
bers, ninety-three; Class Leaders, J. King, Benjamin Kemper and Frank 



MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP. 809 

Cossner. The preachers in charge have been: J. Burgess, 1846; S. Mower, 
1848; J. Sterling, 1849; J. Blanpied, 1850; J. Fegtley, 1852; R. Bi^gs, 
1853; J. S. Cuttier, 1854; I. Henderson, 1856; B Powell, 1857; J. S. 
Deleal, 1858; S. Roberts, 1860; William Boggs, 1862; S. Boggs, 1864; J. 
M. Longfellow, 1806; A. D. Matthews, 1868; H. Boyer, 1870; A. D. Mat- 
thews, 1872; F. B. Olds, 1873; L. O. Cook, 1874; D. B. Rinehart, 1876; 
D. Bowen, 1878; J. Williams, 1881 to 1883. Under the last mentioned 
has occurred the principal revival. 

The other churches of this township are described further on, under the 
respective heads of the villages. 

AGRICULTURAL. 

The following is the crop report for 1883: 

West Precinct. — Wheat, acres sown, 932; bushels produced, 11,403. 
Oats, acres sown, 205; acres sown for crop of 1883, 39; bushels produced, 
5,610. Corn, acres planted, 1,394; acres planted for crop of 1883, 901; 
bushels produced, 39,982. Meadow, acres, 803; tons of hay, 1.042. Clover, 
acres, 140; tons of hay, 198; bushels of seed, 150. Flax, acres, 9; bushels 
of seed, 212. Potatoes, acres planted, 45; bushels produced. 3,047. But- 
ter, 9.310 pounds. Sorghum, 26 gallons. Maple sirup, 60 gallons. Bees, 
56 hives; pounds of honey, 981. Eggs, 14,600 dozen. Grapes, 1,600 
pounds. Apples, acres occupied, 121; bushels produced, 2,685. Peaches, 
bushels produced, 77. Pears, bushels produced, 12. Lands, number of 
acres cultivated, 2,547; number of acres of pasture, 4,184; number of acres 
of woodland, 1,225; total number of acres owned, 7,985. Wool, 34,177 
pounds. Milch cows, number owned, 178. Stallions, 2. Hogs died, 149; 
value, $1,046. Sheep died, 53; value, $222. Cattle died, 30; value, $350. 
Horses died, 4; value, $400. Losses by flood — live stock, value, $10; 
grain, etc., value. $240; fences, etc., value, $135. 

East Precinct. — Wheat, acres sown, 894; bushels produced, 10,940; 
number of acres sown for harvest of 1883, 775. Oats, acres sown. 230; 
aci-es sown for harvest of 1883, 175; bushels produced, 5,564. Corn, acres 
planted, 1,475; acres planted for crop of 1883, 1,052. Meadow, acres. 
572; tons of hay, 745. Clover, acres, 287; tons of hay, 234; bushels of 
seed, 128. Potatoes, acres planted, 32; acres for crop of 1883, 40; bush- 
els produced, 2,161. Butter, 13,250 pounds. Sorghum, | acre; 47 gallons 
sirup. Maple sugar, 360 pounds; sugar, 69 pounds. Bees, 88 hives: 
pounds of honey, 1,025. Fggs, 13,715 dozen. Apples, acres occupied, 84; 
bushels produced, 1,930. Peaches, 35 bushels; peai's, 44 bushels. Lands, 
number of acres cultivated, 2,792; number of acres pasture, 1,642; num- 
ber of acres woodland, 1,041; total number of acres owned, 6,254. Wool, 
7,797 pounds. Milch cows, 102. Sheep killed by dogs, 17 ; value, $309; 
injured by dogs, 9; value, $50. Hogs died, 170; value, $877. Sheep died, 
42; value, $112. Cattle died, 4; value, $61. Horses died, 2; value, $120. 

RAILROADS. 

Montgomery Township is highly favored with railroad facilities, there 
being two good railways traversing its whole length. The Cleveland, Cin- 
cinnati, Columbus & Indianapolis Railroad, formerly the Bellefontaine & 
Indiana, was completed through this township in 1852, and the town of La 
Rwe started; and the Chicago & Atlantic was put in operation about June 
1, 1883, with a depot upon it within the limits of this township. Agosta is 
the second depot on the other road in this township, making a total of four 

jj 



810 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

depots for Montgomery. At La Rue Station alone, in 1882, there were re- 
ceived 6,671,410 pounds of freight, and 8,639,065 pounds forwarded: 
while passenger tickets to the amount of $6,189.57 were sold. 

TOWNSHIP OFFICIALS. 

Trustees — 1871-72, John Bain, Charles Quigley and Martin Uncapher. 

1873 — Martin Uncapher, Charles Quigley and J. Berger. 

1874 — J. Berger, J. Myers and M. V. Uncapher. 

1875 — George W. Virden, Charles Quigley and Jacob Berger. 

1876 — Charles Quiglev, H. M. Virden and George V. Virden. 

1877— W. R. Morris, J. N. McMillen and J. F. Marsh. 

1878— W. R. Morris, M. Morral and J. F. Marsh. 

1879— Edd Anderson, M. Morral and N. L. Prettyman. 

1880— M. Morral, N. L. Prettyman and G. C. Allinger. 

1881— B. W. Miller, A. Kridler and John Fluelling. 

1882 — A. Kridler, James Church and Frederick Rush. 

1883 —Frederick Rush, J. M. Haffer and Jacob Beckley. 

Clerks.— 1871-72— W. J. Campbell; 1873, G. N. Myers: 1874-75, H. 
B. Mills; 1876-77, B. F. Waples; 1878 to 1882, J. L. Frederick; 1883, PL 
M. Virden. 

Treasurers— 1871 to 1880, John J. Hopkins; 1881-82, W. J.Campbell; 
1883, G. N. Myers. 

LA RUE. 

La Rue was laid out June 3, 1851, by Maj. William La Rue, who owned 
307 acres of land on the east bank of the Scioto River; most of this land he 
had taken up from the Government and had resided on it from 1825. In 
that year he erected on the site of Allinger & Quigley' s flouring mill a 
log cabin sixteen feet square. This was the first structure in the shape of 
a house on the site of the present village. Maj. La Rue occupied it 
about one year; then erected a hewed-log bouse on what is now Market 
street, and at tbe same time built a log house sixteen feet square adjoining, 
which was used till 1838, when it was destroyed by fire. The same day that it 
burned, he put up a frame barn, wbich was the first within the limits of the 
township. In 1845, he built a one-and-a-half-story frame residence near 
the site of the old log house, which stood till 1882, when it was moved to 
South street, and is still occupied. About the same time, Lewis Topliff 
erected a frame house of the same size, where Charles Allinger's residence 
now stands. When the original plat of La Rue was laid out, it contained 
ninety lots, described as follows: All the lots have sixty -six feet front, 
with 155 feet back, except those situated between Vine and Market streets, 
which have sixty feet front, with 155 feet back, excepting all the fractional 
lots situated along the railroad ground, which vary in their size. 

Lewis Topliff bought three acres of Maj. La Rue, May 17, 1852, and 
made an addition of seventeen lots to the village plat. 

July 6, 1864, Maj. La Rue made an addition of thirty-three lots. 

April 16, 1866, Lewis Topliff made his second addition, which consisted 
of twenty two lots. 

Maj. La Rue made his second addition, which contained five lots, April 
6, 1871. 

J. F. Marsh's first addition contained twenty-five lots; it was made Sep- 
tember 20, 1871. 

August 23, 1879, Hopkins & Leonard made their addition of nine lots. 

J. F. Marsh made his second addition June 13, 1881, containing six- 



MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP. 81 1 

teen Jots, and his third addition, which was composed of twenty-four lots. 
March 24, 1882. 

Maj. William La Rue, the original owner of the site and founder of 
the village of La Rue, was of French Huguenot origin, the members of 
the family having fled from France into Holland to escape religious perse- 
cution just before the revocation of the edict of Nantes. The name is orig- 
inally De la Rue. From Holland they came to America about the year 
1670 to 1677. The first La Rue in a direct line of ancestry that can with 
certainty be named, is Abraham La Rue, the grandfather of Maj. La Rue, 
who lived first in New Jersey, moved to Loudoun County, Va., thence to 
North Carolina and finally to Greenbrier County, Va., where he died. 
Jacob La Rue, the father of Maj. La Rue, was born July 25, 1774, in Green- 
brier County, Va. He started in company with another man. from Wash- 
ington County, Ohio, where he resided, to visit his brother Peter, who 
lived in Livingston County, Ky., and was never heard of afterward, but 
was supposed to have been killed by the Indians or his companion. 

Maj. William La Rue was born in Washington County, Ohio, December 
22, 1799, and was married September 7, 1820, in Meigs County, Ohio, to 
Cynthia Brine. Mrs. Celinda Marsh, of La Rue, Marion County, is the 
only surviving child of this marriage. He first came to Marion County in 
the fall of 1823, and in the spring of 1825 he built a residence in the 
woods, on land now occupied by the village of La Rue. He entered about 
seventy acres of land, which quite exhausted his means, but he lived to be 
the possessor of many hundred acres, here and elsewhere, and to see a 
thriving village built upon what was once his forest farm. He died at La 
Rue, August 18, 1880, his wife having preceded him in November, 1857. 
He emigrated with his wife and daughter to this county in 1825, begin- 
ning pioneer life in real earnest, in a wilderness inhabited only by Indians, 
with only one family of whites within six miles. He laid out the village 
of La Rue June 1, 1851; he donated four lots for the use of the different 
churches, and otherwise took great pains for the improvement of the vil- 
lage. When a railroad was first talked of, he got up a subscription, headed 
it with $1,000, and gave the company the right of way, binding them, how 
ever, to make La Rue always a watering place, thereby causing all trains 
to make a stop at that point. He was a marked man in many respects, and 
greatly honored and esteemed. 

BRIDGES. 

The first bridge across the Scioto at this place was built in 1843, by the 
citizens of the neighborhood. It was built about 1843 to 1845. eight 
rods below the present Market street bridge, and was 100 feet long. It 
was an open structure and the abutments were made of logs and the pier of 
frame work. It was made by volunteer labor, and Maj. La Rue sawed the 
timber. There was not a dollar paid out for work. It stood about eight or 
ten years, and was taken away by a freshet. 

The same year (1853). another open bridge was erected, four rods north 
of the first. An appropriation was made by the County Commissioners 
and the rest was made up by subscription. It was a frame bridge with 
hewed timber abutments and a bent. It was washed away, and the present 
one was built by the county in 18 — . It is a covered bridge. 110 feet long, 
and cost about $2,200. There is also a covered bridge across the river on 
High street. 

BUSINESS. 

Hotels. — The first hotel in La Rue was the Union House. It was a two- 
story frame building, and was erected in the spring of 1852> by Horace 



812 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Roberts and was owned and run by Roberts, Patten & Gillespie till 1857, 
when it was sold to Edward Stoltz, and the subsequent year to Dr. Copeland. 
In the fall of 1865, it was purchased by William Bailey, who died before 
he moved into it. His family conducted it till 1868, and sold to Philip 
Loebrich, and from him it passed into the possession of B. W. Miller, who 
ran it till within the last year. It is now known as the National House. 

In 1868, T. S. Miller, one of the pioneers of Montgomery Township, built 
the La Rue House on High street, and opened it to the public in the 
spring of 1870. He ran this hotel until 1875, when he sold it and two 
years later built the Commercial House, at a cost of $2,000. opening it in 
the fall of 1878. 

Stores. — The first store in La Rue was opened by Henry C. Seigler in the 
summer of 1851. It was situated on the river bank, on the site of Charles 
Quigley's blacksmith shop. He continued a short time and sold his stock, 
which consisted of dry goods and groceries, to Horace Roberts, who did 
business on the river bank and subsequently moved to High street, where 
he was engaged in trade ten years. In 1852, John B, and David Wyatt 
built the first store building on the site of C. Graceley's present hardware 
store. It was a building twenty-two feet front, by forty feet deep, and 
was rented by Wheeler Bros., merchants, who two years after admitted G. 
W. De Long as a partner, and the firm of Wheeler, De Long & Co. con- 
tinued a number of years. Soon after Wheeler Bros, started in business, 
N. S. Banning erected a storehouse, 16x25 feet in size, on Lot No. 1. He 
carried on a mercantile business till 1863, when he sold out, married and 
moved on a farm. He died in La Rue September 21, 1873. The first brick 
store room in La Rue was built in 1870 by J. F. Firstenberger and was a 
two-story building with a front of twenty-two feet. It was subsequently 
purchased by C. Gracely & Bro. , who now own and occupy it. 

In 1871, a substantial two-story brick block, seventy feet front by eighty- 
five deep, and containing three store rooms, was erected by Hopkins & 
Leonard, J. Copeland and M. L. Evans. During the summer of 1877, 
Hopkins & Leonard built a store room adjoining on the south, the F. & A. 
M. order building the upper story, which they use for a hall. Hopkins & 
Leonard have a double store, one room containing dry goods, groceries, 
etc., and the other clothing and the bank. They established the bank, 
which is a private institution, in 1876, and do a large deposit business. 
Messrs. Hopkins & Leonard were the leading merchants in the village till 
1883, when Mr. Hopkins went out, and the firm was changed to Leonard, 
Rhodes & Co. In 1881, Mrs. Mary Henninger built a two-story brick bus- 
iness house adjoining C. Gracely & Bro. on the north. It is occupied by 
McCrary & Harraman, grocers. The next year, W. L. Marsh put up a two- 
story brick south of Hopkins & Leonard's, and is now occupied as a hard- 
ware store by E. Anderson & Co. The same year, J. W. Knapp erected a 
two-story storehouse on Lot No. 9, which he occupies as a grocery. 

Carriage Factory, corner of Vine and Chestnut streets. George D. 
Delauder established this business September 1, 1872, in a small building 
that had been used for a stable in the alley just back of the present post 
office, and in 1873 moved his business to where it is now located. This 
industry is one of the most important in La Rue. In it is manufactured 
annually fifty buggies and wagons, giving employment to eight men the 
year round. The factory occupies three buildings. The wood, paint and 
trimming shop is two stories, 24x65 feet, blacksmith shop 20x40 feet, and a 
two-story building, 20x48, for a repository and finishing room. The business 
amounts to about $10,000 per annum. 



MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP. 813 

La Rue Wood-Beading Works. — These works were established in 1868 
by C. Bechtold, and in 1870 the present buildings were erected at a cost 
of $6,000. They are situated on Front street, and are 25x100 feet in size 
and two stories high. Mr. Bechtold came to La Rue in 1856 and ran a 
wagon shop till 1870, since which date he has devoted his attention to his 
present business. He employs live men the year round and manufactures 
shafts, felloes, buggy bows, buggy poles and other kinds of bent work. 
His work finds ready sale in the principal cities of the East, and some of it 
has reached Europe. The annual sales amount* to $10,000. 

Warehouse. — A small warehouse was built on the site of the La Rue 
elevator by Horace Roberts. It was owned by two or three parties, and 
finally was purchased and enlarged by J. L. Franklin, who ran it from 
1860 to 1872, at which time it passed into the possession of N. S. Banning, 
and subsequently into the hands of Ezra Anderson. It was destroyed by 
fire May 24, 1876. 

La Rue Elevator Company. — This company was organized July 6, 1878, 
principally through the instrumentality of Messrs. Hopkins & Leonard. 
Twenty-four stockholders composed the organization as follows: Hopkins 
& Leonard, G. W. Virden, Robert Hay ward, A. Robinson, E. Gillespie, J. 
F. Marsh, E. Anderson and John Bain, Luke Lenox, W. R. Morris, 
Charles Blow, C. H. Topliff, M. S. Burdge, J. W. Thew & Bro. , J. A. 
Mouser, J. D. Guthery, John Jones, Elijah Rizor, T. P. Dodd, \Y. L. 
Robb, Charles Noyes, Thomas Ward, William La Rue and S. A. and W. E. 
Guthery. John Bain was chosen President, J. J. Hopkins, Secretray, and 
Luke Lenox. Treasurer. J. J. Hopkins, J. F. Marsh and J. A. Mouser 
were made Directors. The incorporated stock of this company was $3,000. 

They erected a steam elevator, two stories high and 35x65 feet on the 
ground, which cost $3,000. It has a capacity of 12,000 bushels. It was 
first leased to Ramsey & Colton, and after nine months A. C. Ramsey, of 
this firm, leased and ran it till 1880, when S. H. White, of Upper Sandus- 
ky, rented it. In 1882, DeWolfe & Gregory took charge of it, which firm 
continued till June 20, 1883, when S. E. DeAVolfe became the sole lessee. 
This elevator does an annual business of $100,000. All the grain is 
shipped to Eastern markets, principally to Philadelphia and Baltimore. The 
present officers of this company are Isaac F. Guthery, President; J. J. Hop- 
kins, Secretary, and Luke Lenox, Treasurer. Directors are John Jones, J. 

F. Marsh and M. S. Burdge. 

The La Rue Mills were built by Ludlow & Elliott. The mills are two 
and a half stories high, and with the saw mill in connection, cost $7,000. 

G. C. Allinger was employed as miller, who, February 7, 1866, bought out 
Ludlow's interest, and the firm of Elliott & Allinger continued one year, 
and Charles Quigley was admitted as a partner, changing the name to Elli- 
ott, Allinger & Co. This firm lasted till the spring of 1867. when Allin- 
ger & Quigley bought Elliott's interest. The mills have four run of buhrs, 
and have a capacity of twenty- four barrels per day. In 1880, the " new 
process" was added, and they manufacture custom and merchant flour of 
good quality. 

The first drug store in La Rue was opened by Jones & Man ley, from 
Circleville, Ohio, in 1866. After changing hands several times, this store 
was destroyed by fire March 31, 1870. \Y. J. Campbell is the present drug- 
gist. 

Leonard Rhodes & Co., merchants of La Rue, carry as large a stock as 
any store in Marion. They have two large stores, one devoted to dry goods 



814 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

and the other to the sale of ready-made clothing; their sales amount annu 
ally to $40,000 and upward, carrying from $20,000 to $25,000 stock. These 
gentlemen are deservedly popular. 

The first undertaker in La Rue was Hiram Mills, who came in August, 
1851; wont away in 1854; was here again from 1857 to 1863, and 1868 to 
the present time. 

The first tailor was George W. Miller, who was here a few years. 

The first blacksmith was Leonard Orth, on the banks of the river near 
Topliff's mill. 

Shipping Cattle. — In 1875, Levi Nichols came from Buffalo, N. Y., for 
the purpose of buying cattle for the Buffalo market. Mr. J. F. Marsh be- 
came associated as a buyer, and within one year they bought and shipped 
to Baltimore $46,000 worth of cattle and all within a radius of ten miles of 
La Rue. 

La Rue News. — For an account of this paper, see chapter on the news- 
paper press. 

Altogether there are about sixty business establishments in La Rue, and 
the average standing of the men is high, doing as much business as any 
town of the same population in this part of the country. The annual com- 
mercial and manufacturing business is estimated at $350,000. 

PHYSICIANS. 

The first M. D. to locate in La Rue was a Dr. Wilkins, who came in 
1848. He practiced here about three years and moved to Marseilles, but 
returned to La Rue in 1854. In 1856, he went to Chicago. He was a suc- 
cessful physician, atid was generally esteemed. Milton Patten came in 
1850, and after four years of practice, went to Missouri and finally re- 
turned to Marion County and now follows his profession at Green Camp. 

Dr. Olds was the next to locate here, coming in the fall of 1851, and in 
the following year went to Marion, where he died with the cholera in 1854 

In 1850-51, Dr. Warner established himself here. He was an excel- 
lent physician. His efficient professional career was suddenly terminated by 
death from cholera during a business visit to Marion in 1854. 

Dr. Joshua Copeland began the practice of medicine here May 31, 1852, 
and continued until October, 1882. Dr. P. W. Lee came in 1857 from 
Salem, Ohio. He practiced till 1861, when he entered the army as Second 
Lieutenant in the Eighty-second Begiment of Ohio Volunteers. He served 
one year and returned to La Rue, and a year or so later removed to Essex; 
thence to Salem, from which place he came. 

In 1859, Dr. H. P. DeLong came from Roundhead, Hardin County, 
and has since practiced the profession here. 

Dr. A. W. Disney came in 1863, and was active until his death, which 
occurred September 20, 1875. 

Dr. J. A. Mouser arrived in 1865 and Dr. Isaac K. Scott in 1876. 
They both are successful physicians. 

Dr. Lilley practiced here from 1881 to 1883, and Dr. Munson during 
1882. 

Drs. Charles E. Sawyer and J. M. Wood located here in 1880. 

LA RUE CEMETERY. 

This burial place was laid out in lots in the year 1857. It comprised 
about one acre of ground, which was purchased by subscription of John 
Bonner. It is situated on the west side of the Scioto, and affords a very 



MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP. 815 

appropriate place for the interment of the dead. The first burial was that 
of Mrs. Cynthia La Rue, which occurred November 10, 1857. Maj. La 
Rue, Lewis Topliff and many other pioneers of Montgomery, repose here. 
At a very early day a graveyard was started on Lot No. 68, and among those 
who sleep within its silent walls are William Little and wife, Moses Van 
Fleet and wife, George Johnson, Mrs. Elizabeth Brine, Almira C. Little 
(formerly Miss La Rue) and child, Lyman Little and wife, and other early 
settlers. It was finally abandoned and donated by Maj. La Rue as a site 
for the Baptist Church. 

LA RUE FIRE DEPARTMENT. 

The fire department was organized in February, 1878, consisting of 
sixty-eight of the citizens of the town. C. Bechtold was elected Chief of 
the department. In January, previous to the organization, an engine was 
purchased of Ramsey & Co., of Seneca Falls, N. Y: The engine, hose 
carriage and 500 feet of hose were secured at a cost of $958. W. E. Par- 
ker was chosen Foreman of the engine company, and W. H. Hoke Foreman 
of the hose company. In 1878, W. E. Parker was elected Chief of the de- 
partment, and has since served in that capacity. A frame engine house was 
erected in 1878 on Lot 63, at a cost of $360. The department enjoys the 
advantage of four large cisterns and three hydrants, which furnish water 
from the water tank of the Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati & Indianapo- 
lis Railroad. 

Fires. — The fire department is very efficient. Since its organization, 
only one building has been consumed, namely, that of George Seibert, in 
January, 1883, entailing a loss of $1,000. The principal fires have been 
the following: April 1, 1870, a fire broke out in the drug store of Manley' 
& Campbell and consumed both it and the whole block of which it was a 
part; loss, $10,000. It was very windy at the time, and there was no fire 
department. July 7, following, a fire originated in Gregg's store on Lot 
46, and spread from the hotel to the dwelling on Lot 45, covering the whole 
space now occupied by the brick block; loss, $5,000. In the fall of 1877. 
Anderson's elevator was burned; loss, $1,600. 

POST OFFICE. 

The post office at La Rue was established February 15, 1853, with 
George W. DeLong as Postmaster. The following is a list of Postmasters 
with date of appointment, viz.: Norton S. Banning, May 21, 1857; Will- 
iam C. De Long, August 29, 1861; John L. Frederick, December 12, 
1864; John J. Hopkins, November 29, 1867; James H. Leonard, March 31, 
1869; James M. Wood, July 25, 1881; William E. Parker, March 21, 
1883. During the quarter ending June 30, 1883, about 7,000 letters and 
postal cards were mailed at this office, being at the rate of about 30,000 
a year. 

LA RUE SCHOOLS. 

The first schoolhouse within the corporation of La Rue was a log struct- 
ure, which was used till 1846, when a frame was erected on the east part of 
Maj. La Rue's farm, now on the south side of Market street. It was, some 
years after, destroyed, and a frame was erected on Lot 15. This was main- 
tained as a district school till 1865, when it was organized as a Union 
school, Lewis Topliff. T. S. Miller and H. P. De Long constituting the 
Board of Directors. A two-story frame schoolhouse in the shape of a " T " 
was erected on High street, on the south end of Maj. La Rue's First Addi- 



816 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

tion. The building and grounds, which comprise three acres, cost $5,000. 
In 1882, a two-story frame building was erected on the southeast corner of 
the lot, and the lower room is occupied by the primary department. 

The union school has five departments, all of which are efficiently con- 
ducted. 

The following is a list of the Principals, with the years they served: 
Rev. John L. Collier, 1865 to 1867; William Heed, 1867-68; Miss O. T. 
Aldeman, 1868-69; W. F. Filler, 1869; R. C. Manley, 1869 to 1871; C. 
M. lams, 1871-72; C W. Watkins, 1872; R. H. Newsome, 1872-73; J. Q. 
Codding, 1873-74; D. N. Kemper, 1874-75; U. K. Guthery, 1875-77; 
Wilbert Ferguson, 1877-78; W. L. Fulton, 1878 to 1880; John L. Lewis, 
1880-81; U. K. Guthery, 1881-82; L. L. Bruck, 1882-83; W. O. Bailey. 
1883-84. 

CHURCHES. 

Maj. La Rue donated a lot each to the Free-Will Baptist, Methodists 
Episcopal, Presbyterian and Catholic Churches, and gave $10 to each 
church in addition, thus exhibiting a very liberal spirit. 

La Rue {formerly Montgomery) Free-Will Baptist Church. — This socie- 
ty, as before noted, was organized in Topliff's mill, November 29, 1845, by 
Rev. G. W. Baker, where meetings had been conducted for a week or two 
by Revs. G. W. and O. E. Baker, of Marion, and K. Higgins. The first 
members were K. F. and Amelia Higgins, Lewis and Susan Topliff, H. 
Mustain, Joseph and Sarah Anderson, Cornelia Barns, Patience Vesey, 
John Bonner, John and Mary King, and one other, numbering thirteen in 
all. The first Trustees were K. F. Higgins, John Bormer and Jonathan 
Myers; Lewis Topliff, Clerk. Meetings were held at Maj. La Rue's resi- 
dence and barn, Topliff s mill, and then in meeting-houses. The first 
church building was erected in 1850, 24x46, on the site of their present 
church, at a <x>st of $800. The new church was erected in 1877, at a cost 
of $6,500. The pastors have been Revs. G. W. Baker, K. F. Higgins, S. 
H. Moon, S. D. Bates, D. D. Halsted, S. L. Collier, C. O. Parmenter, R. 
J. Poston, four years; B. F. Zell since 1878. There are now forty-seven 
members. Deacons, John Bonner and Samuel Hopkins. 

Presbyterian Church. — In the history of Bowling Green Township, an 
account is given of the organization of this church in 1843. Their build- 
ing was moved to La Rue in 1862, upon a lot given by Maj. La Rue for a 
Presbyterian Church, on High street. Here they worshiped until 1881. 
since which time they have held services in the Free -Will Baptist Church. 
The present membership is thirty-six. Thomas S. Miller and J. F. Marsh 
are the Ruling Elders. 

The ministers who have served this church are Revs. Cephas Cook, 

James Robinson, Axtell, B. Wall, Henry Hess, five years; E. 

Evans, I. N. Shepard, A. S. Thorn, W. H. Honnell, L. D. Smith, S. A. 
Hummer and A. B. Struthers. Of the original members, all are dead but 
Mrs. Gilmer, who is now eighty-two years of age, being born June 22, 
1801, near West Union, Adams Co., Ohio, and came to this county in 1842. 

Catholic Church. — In 1868, when there were twenty-four families in 
this church, a frame edifice was erected, 20x40 feet, costing $2,200, in 
which religious services were held until in 1872, when Stephen New erected 
a brick church, 22x40 feet, at an expense of $3,000. This denomination at 
first comprised the following families: A. O. Flaherty, Michael Crowley, 
L. O'Harra, M. Carter, P. Cone, J. McGraw, A. McNeff, T. Mc- 
Neff, P. Kramer, J. Kearse, Thomas Crowley, P. O'Brien, J. Cramer, M. 



MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP. 817 

Snakenberger, Frank Miller, George Albert, C. Seitz, J. Carter, Frank 
Columbus, Israel Columbus. John O'Connel, J. Hogan, Thomas Mulranen, 
John Mulranen, Mrs. Kane and Thomas Gilrane. JBP : 

The Methodist Episcopal Church is the leading religious organization 
at this place, but no extended account of it was ever received. 

SECRET SOCIETIES. 

La Rue Lodge, No. 435, F. & A. M. — This was organized May 18, 1872. 
by -I. A. Rodgers and A. P. Cutting. The following were the first officers: 

A. P. Cutting, W. M. ; S. A. Guthrie, S. W. ; Luke Lenox, J. W. ; J. H. 
Leonard, Secretary; Henry Thew, S. D ; G. F. Riley, J. L\; C. W. 
Knapp, Tiler. There is now a membership of sixty and the present officers 
are: Luke Lenox, W. M.; T. P. Dodd, 8. W.; W. L Marsh, J. W. ; G. 
C. Allinger, Treasurer; W. A. Rhodes, Secretary, A. J. Anderson, S. D. ; 
S. G. Long, J. D. ; J. Hazlett, Tiler; H. Thew and B. F. Stivers, Stew- 
ards. 

Washington Camp, No. 46, P. O. S. of A. — This is a camp of the 
" Patriotic Order of the Sons of America," whose object is the inculcation 
of the American principles of political government.fijPreliminary meetings 
were held in M. B. Chase's law office December 14 and 27, now the hall of 
the camp, in the brick block, over C. F. Seffners & Bro.'s store. A dis- 
pensation was granted January 3, 1881, and a camp organized by Freder- 
ick Haberman and George L. Phelps, with the following membership: M. 

B. Chase, J. A. Mouser, J. M. Hoffa, N. Mustain, C. M. Smallwood, H. 

C. Bireley, W. H. Cleveland, R. J. Myers, A. McCrary, E. Meek. C. Hill. 
B. A. Walters, C. H. Topliff, J. F. Keeler, F. E. English, Edward Stivers, 
George Long, F. Long, William Heybeck, C. N. Little, T. L. Leonard. 
Edward Mealey, N. A. Showen, F. C. Judd and J. D. Henkle. The officers 
were: T. L. Leonard, P. P.; M. B. Chase, P.; J. H. Hinkle, Y. P.; J. M. 
Hoffa, M. of F. & C. ; A. McCrary, Recording Secretary; F. E. English. 
Financial Secretary; W. H. Cleveland, Treasurer; F. C. Judd, Cond. ; Ed- 
ward Mealey, I. G. ; E. Meek, O. G. ; Edward Stivers, Assistant Secretary; 
William Heybeck, R. Sent. ; Robert J. Meyers, L. Sent. ; J. A. Mouser. 
Chaplain; and M. B. Chase, J. M. Hoffa and H C. Bireley, Trustees. 

The present number of members is twenty-nine, and the officers are: 
N. Mustain, P. P. ; B. F. Stivers, P.; R. J. Myers, V. P. ; C. M. Smallwood, 
M. of F. & C. ; J. M. Hoffa, Recording Secretary; H. C. Birely, Financial 
Secretary; W. H. Cleveland, Treasurer; W. E. Robbins, Cond.; E. Meek, I. 
G. ; C. Hill, O. G. ; A. Mouser, Assistant Secretary; C. F. Layman, R. Sent. ; 
O. Prettyman, L. Sent.; J. A. Mouser, Chap.; and H. C. Bireley, J. A. 
Mouser aud N. Mustain, Trustees. 

The camp has, in cash, furniture and paraphernalia, $211.82 — July, 
1883. Meets each Monday evening. 

Day Lodge, No. 328, I. 0. O. F. — Prior to organization, several prelim- 
inary meetings were held. Dispensation was received from the Grand 
Lodge early in the summer of 1857, when the members consisted of T. S. 
and H S. Miller, M. J. Burdge, Christ Mackley and William Mc- 
Claren. The lodge was organized August 31. 1857, by William Chidsey, 
in the carpenter shop of T. S. & H. S. Miller. The meetings are now 
held in their nicely furnished hall on the southwest corner of Market and 
High streets, Saturdav evenings. The first officers were: Christ Mack- 
ley, N. G. ; H. S. Miller, Y. G. ; M. J. Burdge, Secretary; William 
McClaren, Treasurer; T. S. Miller, R. S. N. G. Present number of mem- 



818 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

bers, fifty-three, with $548.76 in their treasury. Present officers: Thomas 
Deyson, N. Gh ; Gustave Trap, V. G; J. M Hoffa, Secretary; T. S. Mil- 
ler, Treasurer; N. T. Prettyman, O. G. ; William Guy, I. G; G. D. De- 
lauder, W.; J. A. Mouser, Cond. ; Robert J. Fields, R. S. N. G. ; A. J. 
Thomasson, L. S. N. G. ; N. Mustain, R. S. V. G. ; Jacob Rizor, L. S. V. 
G.; N. McBride, R. S. S.; J. D. Myers, L. S. S.; George W. Holverstott, 
Chaplain. 

There is also a G. A. R. Post here. 

TEMPERANCE. 

The first well defined temperance movement in La Rue was the organi- 
zation of the Good Templars in 1865, Hiram Mills, W. C. T. It prospered 
until the winter of 1866, when the "Ohio Broadaxe," Rev. Chance, delivered 
a course of six lectures in the old Baptist Church. The lodge met every 
night and took in the new converts, from eight to fifteen; so that by the 
close of the week its numbers had increased from about thirty to nearly a 
hundred, among them nearly all the worst drinkers in the community. 
Then a hall was fixed up in costly style and the treasury depleted until the 
dues to the Grand Lodge could not be paid. It kept up meetings until 
the fall of 1867, when it underwent total extinction. 

During the fall and winter of 1866-67, a joint-stock company was 
formed to enforce the laws, and with the aid of the Good Templars, some 
prosecutions were instituted, a few of which were sustained. But the 
cause of temperance from the legal standpoint went by fits and starts from 
that time onward. A lodge of the Sons of Temperance and a society auxil- 
iary to the State Temperance Alliance have each existed here a short time. 

Among the revivals was the " woman's crusade " of 1874, which did not 
result in a signal victory, although some liquor sellers were persuaded to 
discontinue their illegal business. After a time, a kind of moral suasion 
educational society was formed, which had a few ups and downs and then 
died; and now there is no so-called temperance society in La Rue, although 
the churches and some of the secret societies inculcate temperance, that is 
in the sense of total abstinence from intoxicating liquors. Prohibition and 
total abstinence sentiment is strong, and is thought by its friends to be on 
the increase. 

MUNICIPAL OFFICERS. 

The first Council of La Rue consisted of H. P. De Long, A. P. Johnson, 
J. M. Little, A. Pickering and T. S. Miller. 

Mayors.— Daniel Laufman, 1863 to 1866; Hiram Mills, 1866-67; 
Charles Quigley, 1867-68; John J. Hopkins, 1868-69; Joshua Copeland, 
1869 to 1873; Hiram Mills, 1873 to 1876; Henry Weis, 1876-77; W. E. 
Parker, 1877-78; Henry Weis, 1878-80; Joseph R. Quigley, 1880; J. M. 
Dickason(by appointment;, 1881; T. P. Dodd, 1881-82; C. H. Chamberlain 
1882 to 1884. 

Recorders.— John S. Peck, 1863; W. C. De Long, 1865; D. Wilder Hal - 
sted, 1867; R. C. Manley, 1868; S. H. Kemper, 1869; W. J. Campbell, 
1870; Joshua Halsted, 1871; D. N. Kember, 1872 to 1876; B. F. Waples, 
1876 to 1878; J. L. Frederick, 1878 to 1884. 

Treasurers of the Village. — T. S. Miller was elected Treasurer at its in- 
corporation and served till 1875, during which year William Seffner tilled 
the office. In 1876, T. S. Miller was re-elected, served one year and was suc- 
ceeded by John J. Hopkins, who filled the office till 1881, when W. J. 
Campbell was elected, serving till 1883; then John A. Vanorsdall was 
elected, the present incumbent. 



MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP. 819 

COCHRANTON. 

Col. William Cochran was born in old Virginia, and removed to Ross 
County, Ohio, thence to Montgomery Township in 1822. He lived here till 
1837-38, and removed with his family to La Grange County, Ind. , and died 
there. Cochranton, named after Col. Cochran, was started first by Samuel 
Franklin, who built a log cabin. Col. Cochran came in 1822 and occupied 
it a short time, then built a frame, 18x20 feet in size. The post office was 
established previous to 1828, and Col. Cochran was appointed Postmaster, and 
served until he went West, keeping the post office at his house. Alexander 
Gillespie was then appointed and served two or three years. Frazier Gray, 
a Revolutionary soldier, succeeded him and served till his death, which oc- 
curred some ten years after. 

Heman Scott came and bought 120 acres of Col. Cochran's farm and 
started a store in 18-44-45, and the place then took the name of Scott Town, 
while the post office retains the old name of Cochranton. In 1851, Mr. 
Scott went to Calif ornia; other merchants were subsequently Thomas 
Mahan, Allen De Long and W. C. De Long, for about four years: John 
Kennedy, three or four years; A. W. Buell and others. The present dry 
goods merchants are John Holstotter and John Grubb. Dr. Stroup is the 
physician and druggist. There are two blacksmith shops and one church 
building, occupied by the Methodists. 

CHURCHES. 

The Methodist Episcopal Church at this place was organized in the 
spring of 1868 at the schoolhouse, by John Sites (Seitz?), with eleven 
members, among whom were W. A. Butler, C. Postles, M. J. Webb, J. H. 
Mason, H. C. Mason, C. Sprague, S. Pixley, W. R. Hatfield, H. Brown, 
E. Brown and Jane Gray. The official members were W. A. Butler and J. 
H. Mason. For about three years the meetings were held in the school- 
house, and since then in the church, which was erected in 1871, in size 32x 
48, at a cost of $3,000. The pastors have been J. Parlett, 1868-69; C. 
Weaver, 1869-70; D. B. Rinehart, 1870-72; V. Staley, 1872-73; R. Hager, 
1873-74; E. H. Cammann, 1874 to 1876; M. L. Senters, 1876-77; C. M. 
Birdsall, 1877-78; J. Williams, 1878 to 1880; P. T. Webster, 1880 to 
1883. The present membership is sixty, and the official members are J. 
Clark, William Robinson, H. M. Virden, J. B. Virden, W. M. Davis and 
J. H. Mason. The ecclesiastical year begins and ends in September. 

Salem Presbyterian Church. — Preliminary meetings of this denomina- 
tion were held here previous to 1830, at the schoolhouse near J. McElvy's, 
by Rev. Barber; it was a missionary station. The church was first organ- 
ized in 1843, at the Union Chiu-ch, two miles east of Scott Town, by Rev. 
A. C. Miller. It consisted of twelve members, viz. : John McElvy, Mary 
McElvy, Smith Frame, W. J. Virden, Sarah Virden, Ovington and Jane 
Day, Sarah Hewett, Harriet Wheeler, Mrs. Neff, Miss R. McElvy and Mrs. 
L. Frame. The first official members were John McElvy, Smith Frame 
and W. J. Virden. The Union Church building was erected about 1836; 
size, 30x40 feet. In this house the Presbyterian Church meets. The pas- 
tors have been Revs. Barber, Cratty, Miller, Braner, Templeton, Thorn, 
Smith, Lynn and Struthers. There are now probably about fourteen mem- 
bers. W. J. Virden is the Ruling Elder and is the only one of the origi- 
nal members now living here. Sunday school has been kept up most of 
the time. 

FRAME CEMETERY. 

This was laid out in sections in 1878, on a sandy knoll about ninety 



820 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

rods south of Scott Town, on the east side of the creek. Smith Frame at 
first donated one acre of ground for the purpose, and since then one acre 
has been added. 

AGOSTA. 

This place has also had the names of " Carey Station, " " Belfast " and 
" New Bloomington." Its oldest name is derived from that of two men, 
W. W. and Wingate Carey, who, in 1856, laid out the village. The former 
laid out the lots on the east side of Main street, south of the railroad, and 
the latter that portion lying east of Main street north of the railroad. At 
the same time Carey Darlington laid out the west side north of the railroad, 
and Armstrong M. Small wood the part south of the railroad west side of 
Main. The last named died May 20, 18—, and Dr. A. W. Buell bought 
the property of the widow, cut the lots into different shapes and sizes, laid 
out other lots and lived here until 1880, when he went away. 

Some years after the first platting of the village, each of ' the Careys 
made an addition, W. W. Carey donating a lot to the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. When the Bellefontaine & Indiana Railroad wa3 built through here 
there was but one house at the point, a log cabin, and W. W. Carey erected 
the first frame house, and also the first store and warehouse. The village 
was known as Carey until 18 — , when it was changed to New Bloomington, 
and in 1879 the station was changed to Belfast, while the post office con- 
tinued as New Bloomington, until April 1, 1883, when both office and sta- 
tion were changed to Agosta. 

The first dry goods and grocery store was opened by W. W. Carey and A. 
and George H. Smallwood, under the firm name of Carey & Smallwoods. In 
two or three years they sold out to George R. and AVingate L. Carey, who con- 
ducted business under the name of Carey Bros, one year, and then sold to 
Russel De Long and A. M. Smallwood. De Long soon sold his interest to 
Smallwood, who prosecuted the business until his death. 

In 1871, James Elliott came from Marion and established a general 
store where the hotel now stands, and in February, 1872, sold out to T. R. 
Shinn, also from Marion. During the summer, he built the store room on 
the corner of Main and Buell streets, at a cost of $2,800, and commenced 
business in it in October, in the line of dry goods and clothing. In April, 
1880, he sold out and bought the storehouse on the southwest corner of 
Main and Buell streets, where he sold groceries, queensware, boots and 
shoes. This building was erected in 1878 by Lewis Merriman, of Kenton, 
at a cost of $2,500. Mr. Merriman, and his son-in-law, David Roby, as 
the firm of Merriman & Roby, carried on mercantile business until the fall 
of 1879, and sold to John Byers, who, in turn, in A|jril, 1880, sold to T. 
R. Shinn. The latter, in April, 1883, sold to Bathard & Taft, of Mount 
Gilead, who bought both stores and still run them. 

In 1873, Jacob Berger started a hardware store, which he sold out in 
1878, to B. F. Severns, who still conducts the business. 

In 1875, B. B. Hathaway erected a two-story building and rented it to 
Anderson & Hite, who did business one year and sold their stock to T. R. 
Shinn, and soon after L. Merriman placed a stock under the charge of Un- 
capher Bros. The store was then occupied by La Rue & Roderick, who 
sold to T. J. Bish in the fall of 1882, the present merchant. 

Besides the foregoing, D. H. Hathaway and Thomas Munday have been 
merchants in New Bloomington. 

The warehouse was built by Burke & Porter, of Green Camp. It is a 
two-story steam elevator, with a capacity of 5,000 bushels. In 1880, Por- 



MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP. 821 

ter sold his interest to Burke, who has since been alone in the position. 
Ships 150 cars yearly. 

In 1880, T. R. Shinn started a livery and feed stable, which he still 
runs. 

In 1879, the station house was built, at a cost of $1,000, of which $300 
was donated by the village. The amount of business done at this station 
may be indicated by the following figures: During the first half of this 
year (1883), 790, 145 pounds of freight were received here, being an average 
of 131,691 pounds a month; and 1,776,587 pounds forwarded, or 296,098 
pounds a month. During the year 1882, $2,012.43 worth of passenger 
tickets were sold. 

The telegraph office was established at the same time with the station, 
and G. W. Bailey appointed operator. 

Dr. W. S. Paul was the first physician in the place. Dr. S. B. Marshall 
has been practicing here a number of years, and in 1882, he opened a drug 
store. The first drug store here was started by William M. Reed. 

The Methodist Episcopal Church has a membership here of 100. Rev. 
L. O. Cook is pastor. Their house of worship was erected in 1875, at a 
cost of $1,500. 

EDUCATIONAL. 

The " New Bloomington Union School District" was organized in 1875. 
Two acres were purchased of Wingate Carey, Sr., and in 1876 a school build- 
ing was erected, at a cost of $2, 500, and was furnished with the latest im- 
proved furniture at an expense of $1,000. At that time, the School Board 
comprised A. W. Buell, C. W. Powelson and A. W. Ward. Since their 
organization in 1876, there has been expended for the union schools an ag- 
gregate of $8,774.90, being an average of $1,253. 70 per year. The schools 
have an average attendance of 110. There are three departments. The 
Principals have been Hattie Hudson, 1876-77; J. Q. Codding, 1877-78; 
Frank Umphreys, 1878 to 1880; O. B. Zell, 1880-81; A. N. La Rue, 1881- 
82; M. F. Dutton, 1882-83; C. R. Marshall, 1883; M. F. Dutton, 1883- 
84. 

MAYORS OF NEW BLOOMINGTON, NOW AGOSTA. 

Jacob Zimmerman, 1873-74; A. W. Buell, Webster Buell, W. B. 
Tunget, S. B. Marshall and Thomas R. Shinn, the present incumbent. 

POST OFFICE. 

The post office was established May 14, 1857. Following is a list of 
the Postmasters of Agosta, with the dates of their appointment: Armstrong 
M. Smallwood, June 28, 1864; William B. Smallwood, December 14, 1865; 
Abraham W. Buell, August 26, 1872. February 5, 1883, the name of the 
post office was changed to Agosta, and March 2 following, T. R. Shinn 
was appointed Postmaster. 

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES." 

In the following pages, many of the pioneers and prominent citizens of 
Montgomery are referred to. Each sketch has a direct bearing upon the 
history of the township, being in itself a record of a settler who aided in 
raising it from the wilderness state to its present prominent position among 
the divisions of Marion County: 

G, C. ALLINGER, miller, at La Rue. is a native of Wurtemberg, Ger- 
many, and was born March 17, 1842. His parents, Jacob and Christena 



822 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

(Bentz) Allinger, came with their family of seven children, including our 
subject, to the United States in 1847. The names of the children were as 
follows: Jacob, Christiana, Josephine, Christina, Gottlieb E., Gottlob C. 
and Catharine. They had one child, Mary, born in Ohio. The family, 
on their arrival, located on a farm near Sydney, Shelby Co., Ohio. The 
father died on this farm in 1878. His widow now resides with a daughter 
at Sydney. The subject of this sketch lived on a farm until thirteen years 
of age, since which time he has worked at the milling business. In No- 
vember, 1865, he came to La Rue, and in February, I860, he bought a 
half interest in the La Rue Flouring Mill, with David Elliott as a part- 
ner, under the firm name of Elliott & Allinger. The same year, Charles 
Quigley was admitted as a partner, and the firm became Elliott, Al 
linger & Co. The last part of the year 1866, Elliott sold his interest 
to his partners, and the firm became Allinger & Quigley. Their grist 
mill has four run of stone, and a capacity for grinding 200 bushels of 
wheat and 180 bushels of corn every twenty four hours; they also operate a 
saw mill, and get out on an average 700,000 feet of lumber per annum; 
they employ, ir both establishments, five men the year around. An eighty - 
horse-power engine furnishes the power for running both establishments; 
they do general custom and milling business, and sell to the retail trade of 
the vicinity. Mr. Allinger enlisted in September, 1861, at Sydney, Ohio, 
in Company F, Twentieth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served 
three years and ten months, being mustered out at the close of the war at 
Louisville, Ky. , in July, 1865. He was then Orderly Sergeant of his com- 
pany. He participated in about thirty battles, first at Ft. Donelson, under 
Grant, up to the siege of Vicksburg, and afterward was iu Sherman's army 
on its famous march to the sea. Mr. Allinger was married, in the fall of 
1867, to Lydia J. Little, and they reside in La Rue Village. He is a Re- 
publican, and has served the village and township in various local offices, 
among which is that of Trustee, member of the School Board, Councilman, 
etc. He is also a member of the F. & A. M. and of the G. A. R. 

DAVID AMRINE was born in Leesburg Township, Union Co., Ohio, 
May 28, 1853, the son of Henry and Margaret (Moore) Amrine, of German 
ancestry, and natives of the same county. They were the parents of three 
children — David, Frank and Melissa A., who died about 1866. David Am- 
rine, having obtained a moderate education, remained with his father, farm- 
ing, until the spring of 1883, when he entered the firm of Hastings & Co., 
at La Rue, Ohio. He is a respectable citizen, a member of the F. & A. M. 
order, and a Republican in politics. 

EZRA ANDERSON, hardware merchant, is a native of Montgomery 
Township, a son of Joseph Anderson, and was born March 17, 1843. Mr. 
Anderson was reared to the life of a farmer, and was married, January 18, 
1872, to Susan Baldwin, a daughter of James and Ellen Baldwin, of Bowl- 
ing Green. In 1874. he came to La Rue, where he followed the business 
of buying and shipping grain for eighteen months, when his warehouse and 
all it contained was destroyed by fire, the total loss being $6,000, though 
$1,600 was his individual loss. After this, he was engaged in the wool 
business, in partnership with J. F. Marsh. August 1 of the same year, he 
lost his wife by death; she left two children — an infant, since deceased, and 
Sadie D. After the death of his wife, Mr. Anderson returned to his farm, 
where he remained till October, 1882, when he returned to La Rue and 
formed a partnership with William Marsh to carry on the hardware busi- 
ness, under the firm name of E. Anderson & Co. Thev have the largest 



MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP. 823 

store, and carry the heaviest stock of hardware goods kept in the village, 
averaging $10,000. Mr. Anderson was married again, April 26, 1883, to 
Ella M. Marsh, a daughter of J. F. Marsh, of La Hue. Mr. A. is a mem- 
ber of Day Lodge, No. 328, 1. O. O. F., and of the Richwood Encampment. 

JOSEPH ANDERSON, the father of Ezra, was a native of Pickaway 
County, Ohio. He came to Montgomery Township in 1833, and entered 120 
acres, at $1.25 per acre, on Section 7. The county was then a wilderness, 
and he was obliged to cut his way through the forest from Scott Town for 
six miles, to make a road for his team to pass. He cleared most of this 
land, and at his death, which occurred March 15, 1860, owned 300 acres of 
land. His widow is still living, and resides at La Rue. They had a fam- 
ily of eleven children, six girls and five boys. Ezra Anderson is the only 
son now living. 

MRS. SARAH ANDERSON, the widow of Joseph Anderson, a native of 
Pickaway County, Ohio, was born August 2, 1807; daughter of John and 
Patience (Mitten) Clark, of English and Irish ancestry respectively, and 
natives of the State of Delaware. This couple were the jDarents of twelve 
children, only five of whom survive, they are William, Robert, Sarah, 
Riley and Harriet Clark. The subject of this sketch was married, Novem- 
ber 27, 1827, to John Anderson, son of John and Sarah Anderson, one of 
a family of eleven children, seven still living — Amanda H., Emily, Sarah 
A , Mary J., Patience R., Lettie E. and Ezra A. The names of the de- 
ceased are Amos, John, Joseph and La. Mrs. Anderson came to this 
county about 1830, and has recently moved from the old homestead, in 
whose door-yard she settled one half a century since. She is now a resi- 
dent of La Rue, Ohio. Her daughter, Mary J., is living with hnr; her 
farm of 160 acres is under the efficient supervision of her son Ezra. Her 
husband departed this life in 1860. Mrs. Anderson is still strong intellect- 
ually, enjoys the respect of her neighbors, and is an exemplary member of 
the Christian Church. 

JOHN BAIN was born in Dundee, Scotland, May 3, 1829, the son of 
Capt. John and Ann (Horn) Bain, who came to America in 1832, stopping 
two years in Marion, then six years in Grand Prairie Township, but finally 
permanently settled in Montgomery Township. They were blessed with 
seven children, three surviving — John, "William and Francis M. Christian, 
John. James and Ann are deceased. The father died in 1859, aged sixty- 
six years, the mother in 1876. aged seventy-four years. Our subject ac- 
quired his educational attainments in the very common schools of his early 
day, taking one academic term of John Cunningham. He then taught more 
or less for five years. In May, 1853, he married Eliza Scribner, daughter 
of Samuel and Almira (Clark) Scribner, of English descent, the former a 
native of New Hampshire and the latter of Connecticut. Mr. Scribner was 
born February 6, 1784, served in war of 1812, and died about 1878. and 
•his wife was born September 30, 1791, and died November 29, 1872. 
JVJr. and Mrs. Bain have nine children, all living — Flora A., born March 16, 
1854; Milton H., September 8, 1855; Addison. May 2, 1857; Jeannette, 
June 5, 1861; Mary M., January 1, 1863; William F., December 25, 1864; 
John H., April 5, 1866; James W., January 27, 1870, and George S. s 
March 18, 1872. The mother, born July 12, 1833, died November 14. 1880. 
She was a loving mother and a devoted Christian. Mr. Bain married again, 
March 15, 1883, Mrs. Phebe (Rush) Robinson, widow of Loren L. Robin- 
son, who lost his life in 1863 in the late civil war. Mr. B. began life 
with limited means; he has been devoting his entire attention to agricult- 



824 , HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

ure and stock-raising. He owns at present 365 acres of fine arable land, 
and is worth at least $18,000. He is a prominent farmer, an enthusiastic 
Republican, and for twenty-one consecutive years, he was magistrate of the 
township, Trustee a number of years, and Land Appraiser in 1800. He has 
held a license as local preacher for fifteen years. The portrait of Mr. Bain 
is given on another page of this volume. 

WILLIAM BAIN, fourth son of Capt. John and Ann (Horn) Bain, 
is a native of Marion County, born September 5, 1837. He continues to 
reside upon the old homestead, where he was reared and educated. Nov- 
ember 30, 1861, he enlisted in Company G, Eighty-second Regiment Ohio 
Volunteer Infantry, and participated in the following battles: McDowell. 
Chancellorsville (receiving here a slight wound), and Gettysburg; at this 
place he was taken prisoner, and marched to Stanton, W. Va., receiving at 
one time only a pint of flour for three days, which he prepared by boiling 
in a tin cup, or making in dough and roasting on a stick. He was finally 
transferred to Belle Isle, where, after remaining a week, he was wounded by 
a ball, shot through the body of a fellow soldier crossing the " dead line." 
He was then removed to Libby Prison Hospital, where, after a few days, he 
was exchanged upon parole. He rejoined his regiment November 15, 1863, 
and made that memorable march to the relief of Knoxville, Tenn. He re-en- 
listed January 1, 1864; was with his regiment in all the battles of the At- 
lanta campaign, gfing with " Sherman to the sea," engaging at Averysboro 
and Bentonville; he was honorably discharged at Louisville, Ky., July 24, 
1865. During the summer of 1862, he was disabled from duty, through 
sickness. Returning home, he was married, November 19, 1868, to Mar- 
garet Carriher, born October 1, 1841, daughter of George and Maria (Fores- 
man) Carriher, natives of Pennsylvania, but of German aad Irish ancestry 
respectively. Six children have been born to this marriage, five surviving 
—Eva M., born January 26. 1870; Maria A., October 27, 1876, dying March 
23, 1872; MaryC., July 23, 1874; Nannie B., June 26, 1876; William 
G., June 22, 1879, and Nellie B., September 24, 1880. Our subject is a 
successful farmer, owning at present (1883) 310 acres of valuable land. 
He is a member of the I. O. O. F., of the G. A. R., and of the Republican 
pai tv. 

CHRISTIAN BECHTOLD, proprietor of the wood -bending works, 
was born in Hesse-Darmstadt, Germany, July 9, 1835; he learned the 
wagon-maker's trade in Germany, and came to the United States in 1852, 
and located at Mt. Blanchard, in Hancock County, remaining there one 
winter; from thence he removed to Kenton, Hardin County, where he 
worked at his trade until 1866. In September of the latter year, he came to 
La Rue Village and opened a wagon-maker's and repair shop, which he 
continued until 1870, when he closed that business, since which date he 
has given his entire time and attention to his planing mill and wood-bend- 
ing works, a business that he had established in 1868. In 1870, he built the 
large brick building in which this business is carried on. In this establish- 
ment is made the bent wood-work for buggy shafts, bows, poles, etc., and 
oth«r descriptions of bent work. The present year (1883) he is building a 
large frame addition to his factory. He employs five men the year round, 
and turns out on an average $10,000 worth of goods each year, which, 
when his improvements now in progress are completed, will doubtless be 
largely increased. Mr. Bechtold was married in December, 1854, in Ken- 
ton, Ohio, to Margaret , a native of Hesse-Cassel, Germany. They 

have two children, ae follows: Emma, who is the wife of William E. 



MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP. 825 

Parker, of La Rue, and Lillie, who is living with her parents. Mr. Bechtold 
is a birth-right member of the Lutheran Church; has served the village in 
various positions, such as member of the Board of Councilmen, etc., and is 
one of the most enterprising citizens in the village. 

JOHN C. BECHTOLD, sole proprietor of the wagon and carriage 
works at La Rue, Ohio, was born in Germany June 24, 1849, the son of 
George and Anna (Berzenser) Bechtold, who came to America in 1863, 
settling where our subject now resides. They were the parents of six 
children — Earhart (deceased), Christian, Henry, Susan, Mary and John C. 
J. C. obtained a practical education, and in his fifteenth year commenced to 
learn his trade, finishing it at Rochester, N. Y. , when ag^d nineteen years. 
April 8, 1875, he married at Kenton, Ohio, Mary Krabeill, daughter of 
Sigman and Lizzie (Peoffer) Krabeill, natives of Germany. Two children 
were added to this family — Maggie, born March 17, 1878, and "William, 
born January 17, 1881. Mr. Bechtold established himself in business in 
1876, manufacturing both wagons and carriages at this place, giving em- 
ployment at present to seven hands. His honest and faithful workmanship 
has given him an enviable reputation not only in this county, but in coun- 
ties adjoining. Mrs. Bechtold belongs to the Lutheran Church, and he is a 
member of the F. & A. M., No. 463. In politics he is a Republican. 

JACOB BERGER, first son of John P. and Annie Berger, was born in 
the " Fatherland " September 12, 1823, and came to America in 1852, 
stopping in New York City six years, engaged in the grocery and provision 
trade. He then moved to this county, Pleasant Township, purchasing a 
farm. In 1860, he went to New Bloomington. May 26, 1850, he married 
Barbara Roning, born February 14, 1830, a daughter of John Roning, and 
four children have been born to them, two living — Christena and Kate. 
Mr. Berger is an industrious citizen, having 145 acres of arable land, from 
which he retired in 1875, engaging in the hardware business at New 
Bloomington. In 187 ( J, h« sold this stock to Benjamin Severns. He is 
identified with the Democratic party, and, with his wife, with the German 
Reformed Church. 

DAVID BIRCH, third son of Martin J. and Christian (Bain) Birch 
(see next sketch), was born July 18, 1853. He was married in his twenty- 
fifth year to Emily A. Miller, daughter of Green and Caroline (Frederick) 
Miller. Two children have crowned this union — Vay W. (born September 
3, 1878) and Bertha V. (born January 9, 1880). Mr. Birch obtained a good 
education, going one term to Delaware College, three to Lebanon Normal 
School and one to Valparaiso, Ind. He has established for himself quite a 
reputation as a teacher having taught in all twenty terms. He commenced 
in life with limited resources, but has inherited a small amount, and owns 
at present 120 acres. He is an energetic and well-to-do farmer; still teaches 
during the winter months, and is an enthusiastic Democrat. 

MARTIN JACKSON BIRCH, born October 17, 1824, is in the fifty- 
ninth year of his age. He came into this (Montgomery) township, with his 
parents on the 15th day of February, 1835. Although a boy of ten years, 
he began his experience as a pioneer in the "big woods," as at that time 
there was scarcely a tree cut in the township. They were the ninth family 
to come in as "settlers." The first thing, then, in order (the household 
effects being unloaded by the roots of a beech tree), was to prepare a shanty 
to sleep in, which was done by cutting some poles and fixing them up beside 
a big log. No sooner was the shanty completed and all comfortably seated 
within, than nature tendered them a hearty welcome, in the form of a rain, 



826 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

which continued to pour down in torrents during the night. About a week 
later, they were ready to build a "cabin." They had cut small logs, and 
cleared away a small patch of brush, and now they procured a few men 
from around Scott Town, and carried the logs together, built a hut, and 
covered it with clapboards. During the winter season, they would clear as 
much ground as they could, and in the spring dig around among the roots 
with a hoe, plant a little corn, and attend it with the same implement. 
For the first year or two. they would go to the " plains " to work for corn, 
getting two bushels for a day's labor, and " tote " it home on their backs. 
Those who were wealthy enough to afford an old horse could take their 
corn to Big Island to the horse mill and get it ground for bread; those who 
had no horse, after carrying their hard earned grist home, must dig a hole 
out of a log, and pound the corn with a pestle until they could sift 
out some of the finest for meal, and use the rest for hominy. For 
meat they would take the gun and kill a deer, which was readily found at 
no great distance. The first thing to market was maple sugar and mo- 
lasses. After sugar- making was over, the father and sons would each take a 
sack of sugar upon his back, walk to Marion. " sell out " for 6 to 9 cents 
per pound, and take pay in merchandise, at the merchant's own price, walk 
home again with another back-load, feeling thankful that they had done so 
well. Every man had free access to the woods for his stock, and as a natu- 
ral consequence, every man had sotnn stock that was more or less wild. In 
autumn, a buyer would come to some central point and give out word that 
he would pay from 1 to 1| cents a pound for hogs on foot. Each man 
would deliver his hogs at some named point on the road, where they were 
weighed in the following manner: A pole about ten feet long was used as a 
pry over some object as a fulcrum. At the short end of the pole was tied 
a rope, in which were hooked a pair of large steelyards; at the other end 
was a man to " swing up " the hog and handle the pole. The breeching was 
then taken oft' the harness, the hogs were caught by two or three men. who 
would hook them up in the breeching, and in this manner the whole drove 
was weighed, one hog at a time. The weights were taken down when called 
out by the weighman, by a man with a pencil and paper. After all were 
weighed and paid for, it was the duty of every man (except those well on in 
years), to help take the drove to Scott Town, whence they made their final start 
for Philadelphia or Pittsburgh. In those days, to be an expert at driving 
hogs one must be strong, athletic and long-winded. When a hog got his 
" bristles up," and would not go in the right direction, he was caught and 
held by dogs, while a man sewed his eyes shut. After this, he was led back 
to the drove, and could not again be forced away. Cattle were driven over 
the mountains in large droves, wheat was hauled to Sandusky City in wag- 
ons, and sold at 55 to 75 cents per bushel. A man who had two wagon- 
loads of wheat to sell was considered a big farmer. Schools were then un- 
known, consequently Mr. Birch, like others of his day, had but small oppor- 
tunity of acquiring an education. However, he improved what little chance 
he had, by studying at night, after working hard all day in the clearing. 
He would carry home a load of shell bark hickory for light and fuel by 
which to study. By this means, in connection with a few terms of sub- 
scription school in after years, he obtained a sufficient education to teach 
a common school and to conduct business in after life. February 15, 1847, 
Mr. Birch was married to Christina Bain, who was born in Dundee, Scot- 
land, May 8, 1822, and emigrated to Marion County with her parents, 
John and Anna Bain, in 1837, and died July 2, 186*), aged thirty-four years 



MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP. 827 

one month and twenty. nine days. By this union were George Mills Birch 
(born November 26, 1848, and died September 17, 1852, aged three years 
nine months and twenty-one days), Sandy Clark Birch (born January 18, 
1852, died September 2, 1852, aged seven months and fourteen days), David 
Birch (bom July 18, 1858, is stiil living) and Sarepta Ann Birch (born 
December 20, 1854, died May 26, 1882, aged twenty-seven years five months 
and six days). After the death of his wife, Mr. Birch again married, and 
in March, 1878, with his family, including his wife, five daughters and two 
sons, removed to Jewell County, Kan., where he still lives in the fifty ninth 
year of his age. Such is a sketch only of a few of the trials and incon- 
veniences of pioneer life in the early history of Montgomery Township, and, 
as with his township, so has it been with a large portion of the territory 
over which this history extends. How wide the difference between that and 
the present time! Industry and frugality on the part of the early settlers 
have wrought a great change, and, as a result, bow glorious the advantages 
of the present and future over those of the past. Our fathers have made 
the country what it is to-day. They have perfoimed the laborious task of 
clearing away the vast forests, and reducing the fields to a state of cultiva- 
tion. They have borne the trials of the pioneer, that we, their children, 
may reap the rewards their labor has bought. As we raise our eyes from 
these pages to fall upon the few pioneers who still remain, and behold them 
bowed down with the laboi's they have performed, gray with the trials and 
cares of time, one by one dropping off to eternity, it is then we realize the 
great debt of gratitude we owe to them. It is then we read with grateful 
hearts and cherish this memento as a gift well suited to our wants. » 

ELLIS W. BROWN was born in Grand Township September 24, 1852. 
the son of Hamilton and Ellen (Clifton) Brown, natives of Ireland and 
Ohio respectively. He came to America when aged seven, acquired a fair 
education, and married, March 16, 1882, Miss Eliza Yirden, daughter of 
William and Elizabeth (King) Virden, residents of Missouri. They, the 
latter, are the parents of six children — Eliza, Jackson, Marion, Collier. 
George and Emmett. Mr. Brown has been farming and rearing stock for 
some time, having, with his father, at present 750 head of sheep, and much 
other stock. He is an industrious citizen and a wide awake Democrat. 

MARSHALL S. BLRDGE, first son of John H. and Margaret (Schooleyi 
Eurdge, was born August 19, 1845, at Columbia, N. J., at the village school 
of which place he was educated. He clerked in his father's store until his 
eighteenth year, when the family moved to Marion County, settling in 
Montgomery Township January 22, 1864. April 11, 1868, Mr. Burdge 
married Betty B. Yesey, daughter of James and Jane (Demoss) Vesey, and 
they have since had nine childien. viz , Farnie R., Lide N., Laura B., 
Sallie G., James V., Anna M., Avis C. , Margaret J. and Margaret Tope; 
the last three are deceased. Mr. Burdge began life with nothing but his 
innate energy, which has developed for him a valuable farm of 105 acres, 
and accumulated other property. He is a Democrat, and stands high in the 
estimation of the community. 

W. J. CAMPBELL, druggist at La Rue. is a native of New York City, 
and was bora November 24. 1840. His father, Charles Campbell, was a 
native of Ireland, and died in New York City, leaving a widow and two 
children, John C. and W. J. The widow subsequently married William 
Campbell, a brother to her former husband, and the family moved to Ohio 
in March. 1852. They first settled on a farm in Grand Township; then 
moved to Montgomery Township, where Mr. Campbell died. There was 



828 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

one son by her second marriage, C. C. Campbell, who lives with bis mother 
at Marion, where she resides. W J. Campbell's drug store was estab- 
lished in 1866, by Jones & Manly, of Circleville, Ohio. Mr. Jones re- 
tained his interest but one year, and Mr. Manly conducted the business 
alone until 1869, when W. J. Campbell bought a one- third interest in the 
business. The firm was burnt out March 31, 1870, at a loss of .$2,500. 
They opened out in another room, and were burned out again July 8, 1870, 
at a loss of $2,000. The firm starte ! up again, and continued their busi- 
ness as before until February 13, 1873, when Mr. Campbell bought out 
Manly's interest, since which time the business has been owned and suc- 
cessfully conducted by W. J. Campbell. The brick building in which he 
keeps his store was built in 1871, by B. W. Miller, and is now owned by 
Mr. Campbell; he keeps a full line of drugs, medicines and fancy articles, 
and carefully compounds and fills prescriptions. Mr. Campbell is a highly- 
esteemed citizen of La Rue, and, although he lives in a Democratic town- 
ship, he is a Republican, and has served two terms as its Treasurer and 
Clerk, and as Treasurer of the Village Corporation three years, Treasurer 
of the School Board three years, and member of the School Board four 
years. Mr. Campbell is a member of the La Rue Lodge No. 463, F. & A. M. 
He was married July 2, 1868, to Minerva D. Owens; they have one child. 
John C. Campbell, a brother of W. J., served in rhe war of the great rebel- 
lion on the Union side. He enlisted August 11, 1862, in Company D, 
Ninety-sixth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and while in action at 
the battle of Baton Rouge, La., November 3, 1863, was wounded by a 
musket ball, which passed through the left lung; this wound caused his 
death, which occurred the next day, November 4, 1863. 

JAMES CHURCH was born in Meigs County, Ohio, September 10, 
1845, and is a son of Oliver and Mary (La Rue) Church, of English de 
scent, and natives of Maine and Ohio respectively. They came to the 
above county when our subject was six years of age. Having obtained a 
fair education, he married, September 17, 1868, Miss Lizzie Frazer, who 
was born November 2, 1844. She is a daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth 
(Hartle) Frazer, the former of Scotch and the latter of English ancestry, 
and natives of Ohio and Pennsylvania respectively; they were pio- 
neers in Wyandot County. Mr. Frazer died July 14, 1851, aged fifty-one 
years; his widow died December 17, 1862, aged fifty-five years. They were 
the parents of nine children, six living — Sarah, Minerva, Susan, Thomas 
J., Lizzie and ElazineN. ; the deceased are Alfred, Addison and Adam. He 
was known in his day as a strong Whig. Mr. and Mrs. Church are the 
parents of three children — Mary E., born September 17, 1872; Eurie B. , 
born March 27, 1876; and Sidney R., born April 13, 1870, and died July 
29, 1871. Oar subject has always been a farmer, and a resident of Mont- 
gomery Township since marriage, except three years spent in Kansas. He 
has 100 acres of excellent land, a comfortable home, erected in 1882 at a 
cost of $3,000, and good improvements generally. In 1882, he was elected 
Trustee of the township. He is a stanch Republican, and, with his wife, 
a member of the Presbyterian Church. 

OLIVER CHURCH was born in Maine September 27, 1811, the son of 
William and Elizabeth (Daniels) Church, who were English people, and 
natives of the same State. They settled in Meigs County, Ohio, in 1817, 
and were the parents of nine children, three surviving — Joseph, Olive and 
Sarah. Clement, William, John, Alfred, Charles and Eliza are deceased. 
The father was born February 20, 1775, and died at Rutland, Ohio, May 25, 



MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP. 829 

1821. The mother was born February 25, 1782, and died July 9, 1858. 
Our subject having acquired the rudiments of an education, engaged, when 
sixteen years of age, in the manufacture of flour and lumber, which he 
successfully followed for twelve years. He was married, March 13, 1834, 
to Mary La Rue, a sister of Maj. La Rue, the founder of La Rue Village, 
and daughter of Jacob and Sarah (Gardner) La Rue, of French and En 
glish ancestry, and natives of Suuth Carolina and Rhode Island, severally. 
Five children have been born to them, only two Jiving — Lyman R., born 
December G, 1834, and James, born September 10, 1845 ; Sarah E. was born 
January 5, 1837, and died August 22, 1837; Mary was born March 7, 1839, 
and died May 8, 1867, and Oliver P. was born October 7, 1842, and died 
July 13, 1862. He was a soldier in the late war, a member of Company 
G, Thirty-second Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and is supposed to 
have been buried in an unknown grave. Mr. and Mrs. Chwch continue to 
reside upon the old homestead, where they have lived for over a half cen- 
tury. They are estimable citizens, and consistent members of the Disciple 
Church. 

DAVID M. CLARK is a native of Montgomery Township, born Feb- 
ruary 10, 1854, the son of John and Huldah (Messick) Clark, of Irish ex- 
traction, but natives of Ohio and Delaware respectively. Mr. Clark obtained 
a good education, finishing at Ridgeville, Ind., May 10, 1875. He married 
Lizzie Kneisley, daughter of John and Susan (McClain) Kneisley, the 
former of English, and the latter of Irish ancestry, but natives of Ohio. 
Two children have crowned, this marriage — Annie, born March 21, 1878, 
and AYiJliam J., born October 22, 1881. Our subject is a successful farmer, 
having a farm of 109 acres of carefully cultivated land. He estimates his 
property at $8,000. He is a highly respected citizen, a member of the I. 
O. O. F., of the Republican party, and, with his wife, of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church. 

SUMNER CLEVELAND was born June 18, 1819, and is a son of 
Jedediah and Mary (Doolittle) Cleveland, of English extraction, and na- 
tives of Massachusetts and New York respectively, who came to Ohio in 
1820. He died in Williams County, Ohio, in 1840; she survived until 
1877. Our subject received his education in the district schools of Knox 
County, Ohio. He embarked in life for himself, when aged twenty-one. 
giving his mother and brothers much of his earnings. January 17, 1848, 
he married Mary Davis, born May 29, 1830, and a daughter of AVilliam 
and Mary (Johnson) Davis, also of English descent, and natives of Mary- 
land and Delaware respectively. This family moved to Ohio in 1833, and 
raised twelve children, seven still living. William Davis died in 1848. Mr. 
and Mrs. Cleveland have been blessed with five children — "William H., born 
August 9, 1853; Charles C. May 20, 1855; Margaretta andMilletta (twins). 
March 2, 1859, and Lucina, died, aged seven months. Mr. C. began to 
learn the carpenter's trade when aged eighteen years, and plied it thirty- 
seven years. In 1852, however, he commenced farming, and has to-day 
(1883) a property worth $8,000. He met with <i serious aceident in 1866, 
by having his right arm crushed in a cane mill. He was a strong Unionist 
during the late war, and is a stanch Republican at present. 

JOSHUA COPELAND, M. D.. the oldest physician at La line, was 
born December 27, 1S17, in Columbiana County, Ohio, near where the 
town of Columbiana was afterward laid out by his grandfather, Joshua 
Dixon, who moved from Pennsylvania to that locality, and entered land 
when the countv was almost an unbroken forest. His father. George Cope- 



830 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

laud, was horn in Loudon County, Va., December 22. 1790. His mother 
whs born in Penns}dvania on the same date. George Copeland was left a 
poor orphan boy at an early age, and came to Ohio with John McClun, with 
whom he lived until of age. He was married, March 6, 1814, to Rebecca 
Dixon, and settled in the woods near the present site of Columbiana. He 
lived there until old age, unfitted from further labor. He started without 
a dollar, and by industry and economy became the owner of 200 acres, which 
he sold, and moved to Columbiana, where he lived until the death of his 
wife in 1878. He then came to La Rue to live with his son, and has at- 
tained to the advanced age of ninety-three years. He is the father of four 
sons. Dr. Joshua Copeland, the subject of this notice, remained with his 
parents till of age, and assisted in clearing up the farm. He helped to 
build the log schoolhouse in which he received his education, except ten 
months that he spent at New Lisbon Seminary. At the a^e of twenty one, 
he began the study of medicine under the direction of G. S. Metzger, M. 
D., of Columbiana. He was without means, and able to attend but one 
course of lectures. He taught a three months' term of school each year 
while prosecuting his medical studies. In 1844, he settled up, and gave his 
note for what he owed ($200), went to Pittsburgh and bought a few books and 
an outfit of medicine, and located at Waterford, Knox County, Ohio, where he 
soon butlt up a good practice. September 19, 1847, he married Miss Lydia 
Waiters, daughter of Mahlin Walters. In the fall of 1848, Thomas H. 
Walters, his brother-in law, who was a young physician, desirpd a place to 
locate, and Dr. Copeland gave him his practice at Waterford, and removed 
and located at Rushsylvania, Logan County, wnere he had a large practice. 
During tne cholera epidemic of 1851, his wife and only child fell victims 
to the terrible disease and died. The fall of 1851, he sold his property to 
Dr. Fulton, and intended returning to Columbiana County. On his way, he 
stopped over night at La Lue, with Major William La Rue, the proprietor 
of the village." Liking the appearance of the place, he decided to locate, 
which he did the same spring. In Jul/ (1852), the dysentery raged with 
great fatality, and the Doctor having had considerable experience in the 
treatment of this disease, soon established a large and successful practice. 
The following year, he went to Cincinnati, and took a second course of lect- 
ures, graduating. He continued diligently to practice, seldom failing to 
respond to the call of either the rich or poor, until his health failed in 1857, 
when he admitted Dr. P. W. Lee into partnership. This business associa- 
tion continued until 1862, when Dr. Lee entered the army. Dr. Copeland 
continued active in the profession until 1881, when he retired. Dr. Cope- 
land served as Justice of the Peace from 1866 to 1882, and since 1856 has 
been a Republican. Within that time he has never missed a Presidential 
election, and seldom, if ever, fails to vote at an annual election. July 1, 
1856, he celebrated his second marriage, which resulted in three children — 
Laura May, born in February, 1867; Lincoln Grant, born in August, 1869, 
and Mary Alma, born in July, 1873. Dr. Copeland started in life with 
very limited means, but by his indomitable energy, industry and economy. 
has acquired a valuable competence. He is a man of decided convictions 
and opinions, and always acts upon his own judgment, regardless of what 
others may think. He has made a success of life, and now devotes his time 
to attending to his property and educating his children. 

JAMES CROWLEY, senior member of the firm of Crowley & Wirley, 
of La Rue, Ohio, was born in Portland, Me., May 22, 1852, and is the son 
of Thomas and Mary (Carter) Crowley, natives of Ireland, who came to 



MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP. 831 

America about 1851, stopping in Portland, Me., live years, but moved to 
La Rue in 1856. Their parents are still living, the father aged (1883) 
seventy years, the mother aged forty -five. Mr. Crowley having obtained a 
practical education, began to follow railroading when eighteen years old, 
which he continued until 1873, when he embarked in the mercantile busi- 
ness for himself, at La Rue, conducting a grocery store. He has since fur- 
nished an elegant room on High street for a billiard hall and saloon. His 
marriage to Miss Mar} New, daughter of Steven and Rachel (Seivert) New, 
occurred July 7, 1879. Her parents had four children — Rosa, Mary, Lucy 
and Celia. Mr. and Mrs. Crowley have two children — Claud, aged two 
years, and an infant son. Though he has been constantly behind the bar 
since early manhood, Mr. Crowley has never indulged in a single drink, or 
in a cigar, and keeps a quiet and peaceable saloon. Politically speaking, 
he is a Democrat. 

SAMUEL DAY is the first son of Ovington and Jane (Clark) Day, the 
former of English and the latter of Irish descent, natives of Virginia 
and Ohio respectively. Mr. Day was born in Pendleton County, Va., January 
28, 1794, and came with his parents to Ross County, Ohio, in 1805. He 
was a soldier of the war of 1812. He married the above-mentioned lady 
October 1, 1813. Of nine children born to them, five are living — Samuel, 
Elizabeth. James, Allen and Lovey. Martha, John M., Jane and William 
C. are deceased. This family were among the first settlers of Big Island 
Township. He was a liberal citizen, an enthusiastic Democrat, and a mem 
ber of the Presbyterian Chm*ch. His death occurred May 26, 1878, aged 
eighty-four years three months and twenty-eight days. She was born Sep- 
tember 14, 1800, and died October 1, 1850. Our subject was married Novem- 
ber 2, 1842, to Sarah A. Morris, daughter of John Morris, and two chil- 
dren have been born to this union — Damaris, born March 2. 1844, and Dal- 
las, born May 5, 1845. Mr. Day obtained the rudiments of an education in 
the district schools. He commenced life in earnest, and so faithfully has 
he labored that he owns to-day (1883) 300 acres of well improved land, 
valued at $65 per acre. He is a prominent citizen; has been Trustee of the 
township a number of terms, and affiliates with the Democratic party. 

HARRISON DEAL is a native of Salt Rock Township, where he was 
born February 3, 1843, the son of Washington and Caroline (Green) Deal, 
of German ancestry, and natives of Ohio. They came to Marion County in 
1823. Mrs. Deal died June 25, 1854; Mr. Deal is living at the age of 
sixty-six years. Our subject married, March 10, 1866, Sarah Britton, born 
October 23, 1846, and a daughter of Benjamin G. and Susan M. (Cram) 
Britton, natives of Ohio and New York respectively. These people reared 
three children— William H, Sarah and Louis M. Mr. and Mrs. Deal are 
the parents of six children, five living — Cora J., born October 17, 1868; 
Penina L., October 26, 1870; Jalmah H., October 9, 1875; George W. 
Shira, January 26, 1881, and an infant son, James A. Garfield, born March 
2, 1883. Minnie G. was born August 21, 1872, and died November 17, 
1872. Mr. D. commenced life with nothing, but has 70 acres of valuable 
land. He is a good farmer and a sound Republican. 

GEORGE D DELAUDER was born near Middletown, Frederick Co., 
Md., June 24, 1849, and is the son uf George A. and Mahala S. (Boyer) 
Delauder. Until seventeen years of age he lived on a farm; he then bo- 
gan to learn the carriage and. wagon making trade, working the first three 
years for $125, and clothing himself. At the expiration of this time, he 
began working at his trade as a journeyman, and, December. 1870, he was 



832 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

married to Miss Minerva Bowersox, also a native of Maryland. In the 
spring of 1872, he, with his family of wife and infant, started for the West, 
having bought tickets at Baltimore. Md., for Junction City, Kansas, where 
he contemplated locating, but on their reaching Cincinnati, his wife 
preferring to remain there, he finally abandoned the Kansas scheme and de- 
cided to locate. He soon met Mr. G. W. Lutz, who proved himself to be 
a good friend and brother Odd Fellow, through his assistance, he obtained 
work at his trade in Fort Seneca. Seneca County, where he remained five 
months. About this time Mr. Lutz made a visit to La Rue, and while there 
found the citizens very much in want of a carriage and wagon maker. He 
immediately on his return sent for Mr. Delauder, and informed him of 
what he had learned at La Rue, and advised him to locate there. Acting 
upon his suggestions, Mr. D. soon visited La Rue, and finding that the 
prospects for his business at that point were favorable, he soon after, Sep- 
tember 1, 1872, moved there with his family. He first secured a small frame 
building for his shop. It stood just back of the present post office on the 
alley, and had formerly been used as a stable. The following year he 
moved his place of business to the ground now occupied by his shops. In 
the fall of 1873, he built a new blacksmith shop on these grounds, which was 
destroyed in 1874 by tire, causing a loss to him of over $600. This was a 
severe blow, as his means were limited at the start, and this took the large 
part of the savings of two years. He soon recovered from this reverse; his 
business proved successful, and from year to year increased so that it is 
now one of the most important business interests of La Rue. He manu- 
factures on an average fifty buggies and wagons per annum, and gives em- 
ployment to eight men the year round; the business amounts to about $1 0, - 
000 per annum, including the repair work. The carriage works now occupy 
three buildings; the wood, paint and trimming shop is a two-story frame 
24x65 feet; a blacksmith shop 40x20 feet, and a new two-story frame build- 
ing is just being finished, 20x48 feet, for a repository and finishing room. 
On a lot adjoining is the residence of Mr. Delauder, which, with the shop 
buildings, are all the property of Mr. Delauder, and were built by him, as 
was also another private residence in La Rue, which he has since soid to 
his trimmer. Mr. D. also owns fifty acres of land in Hardin County. His 
business was established ten years ago, on a capital of less than $200. He 
is in politics a Democrat; has served on the Village Board of Councilmen 
two years, and he is a member of La Rue Lodge, No. 463, F. & A. M., and 
of Day Lodge, No. 328, I. O. O. F. , of which he is Past Grand, and a pa- 
triarchal member of Richwood Encampment. Mr. and Mrs. Delauder 
have had a family of three children — Carrie May, born September 17, 1871, 
and died September 10, 1873; George W., born June 6, 1873, and Mamie 
Alice born Mav 12, 1879. 

ANTHONY O. FLAHERTY was born December 20. 1820, the son of 
Hugh and Alice (O'Donnell) Flaherty, all natives of the Emerald Isle. 
April 15, 1844, he married Sallie Gallagher, and Hugh and Alice were 
born prior to their embarkation for America, which took place in 1847. 
After coming here, they increased their family with Dominick, Celia, Antho- 
ny. Mary, Ellen and Patsy. His parents followed in 1860, settling in La Rue. 
The mother was born about 1798, and she died in 1868. The father was 
born in 1791, passed away in 1875, aged eighty -four years. Sallie Flaherty, 
died in 1867, aged forty-three years. Mr. Flaherty married again May 13, 
1870, Clara (Longshore) Lewis, daughter of Stephen and Sarah (Mulligan) 
Lewis, the former of English, and the latter of Irish lineage, but natives of 



MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP. 838 

Maryland and Pennsylvania, respectively. Upon arriving in this country, 
our subject found labor upon the Michigan Central Railroad for two years; 
he then settled at Galion, Ohio, building one mile of the C, C, C. & I. 
Railroad. He came to Marion in 1851, engaging as foreman with Wilson. 
Smith & Epler, in the construction of the B. & I. Railroad. He moved to 
La Rue in 1861, and established himself as dealer in groceries and pro- 
visions. He made a success at this business, buying a 120 acre farm in 
1863, where he moved in 1870. By his industry and economy, he owns 
property, which he values at present at $9,000. He is a Democrat, and a 
member of the Catholic Church. 

JOHN L. FREDERICK, son of Henry and Ann (Metz) Frederick, is a 
native of Montgomery Township, born December 21, 1841. He acquired a 
good education, finishing at the Delaware College, which he attended one 
term. He was appointed Postmaster of La Rue, holding that position five 
years, when he resigned. He then engaged for two years with Frederick 
Firstenberger as clerk; thereupon he established himself in the hardware 
trade, at La Rue, continuing for ten months, when he was burned out, losing 
$650 for himself and $2,000 for the Insurance Company. He then returned 
to his former employer three years, subsequently with C. Gracely & Bro. 
two years, one year with W. J. Knapp, and August 23, 1879, he hired to 
Seffner Bros., with whom he continues. He has been elected Clerk of the 
township five years, and that of the corporation of La Rue six years. 

EVAN GILLESPIE was born in Gallia County September 6, 1815. 
the son of Robert and Sarah (Rice) Gillespie, of Welsh and Irish ancestry, 
and natives of Virginia and Kentucky respectively. They came to Ohio, 
and were married near Gallipolis October 2, 1814. They resided in Gallia 
County, Ohio, until 1835, when they moved to Montgomery Township, when 
only nineteen votes were polled, entering eighty acres of land, obtaining 
thereupon a patent from President Van Buren. They reared a family of 
eight children, four living — Evan, Noah, Eleanor (of Illinois) and Lucinda 
(of Iowa). The names of the deceased are Matilda, Isabella, Mahala and 
Margaret. The father died July i.7, 1860, and the mother in February 11, 
1877. Our subject having obtained a limited schooling, remained with his 
parents until he attained his majority, when he returned to his native coun- 
ty, engaging for one year upon a blast furnace. He then spent Lhree years 
upon fhe Miami Canal for $1 per day. June 19, 1845, he married Cathe 
rine Drake, daughter of Joseph and Dortha (Albertson) Drake, natives of 
Pennsylvania and New Jersey severally. They came to Marion Township, 
in 1822; he died August 19, 1850, and she May 19, 1883. Our subject and 
wife have had ten children, seven of whom are living — John Q., Joseph D., 
Charles F. , Mary E. , Maggie, Eva G. and Mirty. The names of the de- 
ceased are — William H. S., Dolly and Delhne. Mr. G. commenced life with 
a small competence, but his labors have been attended with success. He is 
the owner of 350 acres of valuable land, and is worth $40,000. He is a 
prominent citizen, and respectably known. He belongs to the Republican 
party, the I. O. O. F., and with his wife to the Free- Will Baptist Church, 
of which he is a liberal supporter. 

CHRISTIAN GRACELY, proprietor of a hardware, tinware and agri- 
cultural implement establishment at La Rue, Ohio, was born September 1, 
1844, and is a native of Richland Township. He is the son of Jacob ami 
Sophia Gracely, natives of Germany. His father came to America about 
1830, and married soon afterward. The common schools have given our 
subject his education. When aged fifteen, he embarked upon life for him 



834 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

self, farming one year, and then blacksinithing eleven years. February 6, 
1872, he entered the building he now occupies, starting the first hardware 
store in La Rue. He has a large and commodious store, and carries a full 
line of goods, amounting in stock to $4,000. He also owns 150 acres of 
land in Iowa. May 8, 1865, he married Hannah A. Schrote, daughter of 
Jacob and Christie A. (Young) Schrote. The name of their only child was 
Mary B. She died (1868), aged seven months and ten days. Mr. Gracely 
has greatly prospered in business. Is respectably known throughout 
the county, and himself and wife are members of the M. E. Church. In 
politics, he believes in prohibition of the liquor traffic. 

PERRY HARDER. Porry Harder was bo n in Berks County, Penn., 
March 19, 1818, the son of Thomas Harder, born August 7, 1786, and 
Hannah Harder, born October 26, 1788. They were of German and Welsh 
ancestry. This family is remarkable for its longevity, grandfather Peter attain- 
ing one hundred and ten years, and the grandmother one hundred years. 
Thomas Harder moved to Ohio in 1823, stopping in Fairfield Couuty three 
years; then going to Delaware County two years; then to Hardin County, en- 
tering eighty-six acres; but returned to Delaware County, where he died March 
1 9, 1853, his wife surviving him u til February 16, 1876. Our subject, having 
obtained from the public schools a fair education, married, in December, 
1843, Mary E. Kelley, daughter of Benjamin and Martha (Snoddy) Kelley, 
of Irish extraction. Two children have blessed this union — Sylvester P., 
born May 11, 1857, and an infant son (deceased). This wife died May 
29, 1857. He married again, November 25, 1861, Hannah M. Whitcomb, 
born October 6, 1835, and a. daughter of Harlow and Maria (Parks) Whit 
comb. The former was a native of Canada, and the latter of New York. 
This marriage has resulted in the birth of three children — Alice J., born 
April 8, 1863; Cora E., June 19, 1869, and Sidney E., January 24, 1865. 
Mr. Harder commenced life a poor boy; but by vigorous efforts has a farm 
to-day of 118 acres. He commands the respect of his neighbors, and is a 
strong Republican. 

JAMES HARPER. James Harper was born in Delaw are County, N. 
Y.. January 15, 1804. He is a son of Archibald and Sarah (Reynolds) 
Harper, who came to Ohio, settling in Ashtabula County in 1811. His 
father was a volunteer in the war of Independence, and he had four sons 
in the war of 1812 — John T. being wounded at the battle of New Orleans. 
They moved to Lorain County, Ohio, in 1819, and were the parents of 
twelve children — James the only known living one. Mr. Harper died in 
1826, and his wife in 1831, both at the age of sixty-two years. Our sub- 
ject was married March 2, 1827, in Lorain County, to Hannah Blakeslee, a 
daughter of James and Sarah (Hickcox) Blakeslee, of English ancestry, 
and natives of New Haven, Conn. They moved to Ohio in 1818, with a 
family of six children, only two of whom" are living — Hannah, born June 
1, 1804, and Caroline, June 18, 18l0. Their father was an early pioneer in 
Trumbull County, and in Lorain County i i IS 20. He was born in New 
Haven, Conn., May 6, 1776, and died in Lorain County in May, 1868. 
Sarah, his wife, was born in December of 1782, and died in April, 1841. 
Our subject is the father of three children, all surviving — James R., born 
July 8, 1828; William I., July 15, 1830, and Maria, September 1, 1832. 
The eldest is a bachelor, residing upon the old homestead. Mr. Harper 
lived two years in Illinois; but returned to Marion County in 1841. He 
was Trustee of the township several years, and was an enthusiastic Jeffer- 
son i an Democrat. 



MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP. 885 

MATHEW HARRAH was born in Chester County, Penn., January 7, 
3827, the son of William and Mary (Campbell) Harrah, natives of Ireland 
who emigrated to America about 1815. settling in Pennsylvania. They had, 
a family of six children, one deceased aged two years. James, Isabella* Mar- 
tha J., William and Mathew survive. Mathew having obtained a common 
school education, commenced when aged seventeen years to learn the trade 
of blacksmith, following that until the breaking-out of the late war, when 
he enlisted, November 19, 1861, in Company M., Third Regiment Ohio Vol- 
unteer Cavalry, serving under Capt. Juhn H. Marvin and Col. Zahm, partic- 
ipating in the following battles: Stone River, Perry ville, Chickamauga, 
Knoxville, Atlanta Campaign, and with Sherman to the sea. He was a 
faithful soldier, responded to duty's call at every hour, and was honorably 
discharged at Louisville, Ky., November 25, 1864, having never missed a 
march nor a battle in which his company was engaged. He returned to his 
anvil and has been applying himself to his trade since. May 15, 1851, he 
married Elizabeth V. Hull, daughter of Benjamin and Phebe "(Bailey) Hull, 
natives of New Jersey and Pennsylvania respectively. They were the par- 
ents of nine children, all living except Aylett St. Clare, who died aged one 
year. The names of the living are Ferdinand M., Alvira, Cordelia. Eliza- 
beth V., Narcissus, Oresta. Margaret P. and Jerome B. The marriage of 
Mathew and Elizabeth Harrah has been blessed with five children; their 
names are Flora C, died September 6, 1878. aged twenty-three years; Mary 
A., born January 29, 1852; PhylettaL., January 30, 1854; A. V., July 27, 
1858, and Oresta B. , January 3, 1861. At present, he is devoting his at- 
tention to the improvement of his farm and home in La Rue; in politics, 
he is a Democrat. 

M. J. HARRAMAN was born in Big Island Township February 9, 1852, 
and is a son of James and Abigail (Van Fleet) Harraman. He was raised 
to the life of a farmer until his majority, when he began teaching school, 
which calling he followed for four years. October 15, 1881, he became a 
partner in the grocery business at La Rue, under the firm name of McCrary 
& Harraman. Tbe firm have a large, attractive, well-stocked store, keeping 
a general line of the choicest and best-selected stock of groceries, and do an 
extensive business. Mr. Harraman was married, September 21, 1881, to 
Miss Harriet Axtens, a daughter of Isaac L. and Mary (Porter) Axtens, of 
Bowling Green Township. He is a member of the La Rue Lodge, No. 463. 
F. & A. M. , and of the Marion Chapter. 

HUNTER HASTINGS, senior partner of the firm of Hastings & Co., of 
La Rue, Ohio, was born in Hardin County, Ohio, March 16, 1842; the son 
of John and Jane (Hunter) Hastings, of Scotch-Irish and English ancestry 
respectively. Mr. Hastings, having received a fair practical education, en- 
gaged iu the pursuit of agriculture in Marion County when twenty-one 
years of age, and continued thus until the beginning of the late war, when 
he enlisted, May 11, 1864, in Company B, Eighth Regiment Ohio Volun- 
teer Infantry; he participated in the following battles: Coal Harbor, Hatch- 
er's Run, Spottsylvania Court House, Ream's Station, and Petersburg. At 
the latter place, he received a slight wound, but returned to his company in 
a few days, to be sent to the hospital at Washington, where he remained till 
the close of the war, receiving an honorable discharge. He then returned to 
the farm for three years, where he was placed in charge of laborers upon the 
C, C, C. &. I. R. R. as foreman, continuing two years. In 1873, he formed 
a partnership with a Mr. Smith at La Rue, Ohio, under the name of Smith 
& Hastings, dealers in boots, shoes, groceries, etc. They dissolved at the 



836 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

close of one year, Mr. Smith retiring. For four years subsequently, the firm 
was known as Hastings & Sons. In 1878. James Hastings' interest was 
purchased by E. H. Lingo, whence arose Hastings, Lingo & Co. When 
John Hastings retired, the firm was known as H. Hastings & Co. In time, 
Lingo retired, William Anderson purchasing his interest; the latter sold to 
David Amrine, and the firm is doing business to-day (1883) under the name 
of Hastings & Co. Mr. Hastings married, September 6, 1881. Sarah Myers, 
daughter of Jonathan and Betsy Myers. The name of their one child is 
Myers. Our subject has been a resident of the village of La Rue twelve 
years, and a leader in the business interests. He was Street Commissioner 
two years, and affiliates with the Republican party. 

JOHN HASTINGS was born May 3, 1809, in Ireland, the son of Pat- 
rick and Lydia (Hall) Hastings, who came to America in 1833, stopping 
in Franklin, Madison and Hardin Counties, and settling in the last in 
1834. The father died in 1843, aged sixty-four years, and the mother in 
1864. aged eighty-seven years. Mr. Hastings came to this country in 
1830, residing in the State of Maryland three and one-half years, and then 
moved to Hardin County, Ohio. June 24, 1834, he married Jane Hunter, 
daughter of John and Rebecca Hunter, natives of Ireland and Pennsylva- 
nia. Her parents' children numbered seven — James P., Mary, Jane, Sam- 
uel S. and Elizabeth, all living. The deceased are Matilda and Russel. 
Patrick and Lydia Hastings' children are Spere, Rosanna, James, Mary 
and the subject of this sketch. Margaret and Joseph are deceased. John 
and Jane Hastings are the parents of eleven children, seven living — Joseph,, 
born November 7, 1837; Margaret E., bom November 2, 1839; John H., 
born March 16, 1842; James, born January 15, 1844; Lydia, born April 
6, 1847; Matilda A., born February 17, 1849, and Patrick, born September 
18, 1851. The names of the deceased are Mary, died May 28, 1852; Will- 
iam and Clarence died in October, 1861 ; Rebecca E., October 28, 1875. 
Having obtained a good education in the public schools, Mr. Hastings 
taught more or less for five years. In 1834, he purchased in Hardin Coun- 
ty, Ohio, 160 acres of wild land; this he cleared and improved mostly him- 
self, bin sold some years later, together with other land, amounting in ail 
to 600 acres, and moved to Iowa, Van Buren County, buying a farm of 
200 acres, remaining there but six months; he returned to Hardin County, 
Ohio, stopping only a short time, and came to Marion County in 1851, pur 
r-hasing then and subsequently 243 acres, which is in a high state of culti- 
vation. Mr. H. is a highly respected gentleman, one of the old settlers, 
and is living at present at La Rue, Ohio, leaving his farm to the caro of 
tenants. He is a Republican, and himself and family are members of the 
Presbyterian Church, of which he is a liberal supporter. Though aged 
seventy four years, he is still hale and hearty. 

JOHN D. HASTINGS is the first son of Spere ai.d Rachel (Dalzell) 
Hastings, born June 1, 1848, in Hardin County, Ohio. His parents were 
natives of Ireland; he was brought upon the farm and educated in the 
common school. He was the sole manager of his father's farm until his mar- 
riage, which occurred November 25, 1869, to America A. Gillespie, born 
December 16, 1848, a daughter of Evan and Catherine (Drake) Gillespie. 
Five children have crowned this union —Minnie B., born August 31, 1ST;!; 
Jessie H., August 17, 1875; Cora B., May 17, 1877; Pearl G.. July 7. 
1879, and Charles S.. November 19, 1871, dying November 16, 1878. Mr. 
H. having received a limited inheritance, has labored energetically during 
life.^so that he owns at present eighty acres of well-improved land, valued 
at $75 per acre. He is a zealous Republican, and an esteemed citizen. 



MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP. 837 

MRS. MARTHA HENDERSON, Robert S. Henderson's widow, was 
born January 28, 1810, in Washington County, Penn., the daughter of 
William and Jane (Patten) Montgomery, of Ivish descent, but Datives of 
Pennsylvania. They had ten children, three of whom are living — Martha, 
Jane and James; the deceased are John P., Archie, William. Joseph, 
Charles, Saley and Margaret. The father died in Iowa in 1823. Our 
subject was married, May 1, 1828, to Robert S. Henderson, a son of David 
and Elizabeth (Orr) Henderson, natives of County Tyrone, Ireland. They 
emigrated to America in 1791, settling at Shippensburg, Penn., early 
pioneers. Later, they came to Clarksburg, Ind. , remaining a number of 
years, thence came to Marion County, but he died in Delaware, Ohio, in 
1834, aged eighty seven years. The mother died in 1840, aged eighty-six 
years. Mr. and Mrs. Henderson were the parents of eight children, five 
living — Orr, Joseph R., Thomas S., George B. and Elizabeth A. The 
names of the deceased are William, James K. and Margaret J. M^r. Hen- 
derson was born June 5, 1799, and died January I, 1858. He was a con- 
stant and devoted Democrat, and though reared a Presbyterian, became sub 
sequently a zealous Covenanter, and was an estimable citizen. His widow 
is a highly respectable lady, still strong in body and mind, and a consist- 
ent Christian. 

HENRY HINKLIN, is a native of Marion County, born February 14, 
1827, the son of Henry and Susan Hinklin, of German extraction, and na- 
tives of Bucks County, Penn. They came to Ohio about 1818, settling in 
Marion Township, as one of the first pioneers. In 1839, they moved to 
Montgomery Township, where the father died September 18, 1873, aged 
ninety-six years, and the mother April 9, 1881, aged nearly eighty-three 
years. Mr. Hinklin married, January 17, 1850, Mary Cutler, daughter of 
Abner and Mary Cutler. Ten children have blessed this union, seven sur- 
viving — George W., Orren L., William H., Mary E., Clarissa A., Jane 
and Emma. The deceased are John W. and two infants. Mr. Hinklin 
began life a poor boy, but through careful management and hard labor, he 
owns at present an excellent farm of 176 acres, on which he has built re- 
cently a fine brick house, costing $2,700. He is worth, all told, some $13,- 
000. He is a respected citizen, a Democrat, and, with his wife, a member of 
the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

MRS. SUSAN (BURLEIN) HINKLIN was born in Westmoreland 
County, Penn., February 2, 1825, a daughter of Jacob and Saloma (Zim- 
merman) Burlein, of German ancestry, and natives of the same county. They 
came to Ohio about 1840, settling in Wyandot County, Ohio, eighteen years, 
then in Hardin County, Ohio, locating near Forest, purchasing a farm of 
160 acres. They were the parents of ten children, eight living — Henry, 
Reuben, Katie A., Susan, Sarah A., Saloma, Jacob, Paul B., Peter B. and 
Ann M. died in 1869. The father died in 1860, aged sixty years: the 
mother in 1869, aged the same. Mrs. Hinklin married September 6, 1863. 
William Hinklin is a son of Henry and Susan (Dean) Hinklin. of German 
descent, and natives of Pennsylvania. They came to Marion County at a 
very early day. He was an enthusiastic Democrat, and an active member 
of the Christian Church. He died September 18, 1878, aged ninety-six 
years; she died April 10,1881, aged eighty-two years. Mr. and Mrs. 
Hinklin were the parents of four children- -Reuben Z., born July 16, 1864; 
Saloma A., February 12, 1867; Elnore L., December 7, 1869, and William 
H., December 7, 1875. Mr. Hinklin was a farmer, and a zealous member of 
the Christian Church. His death took place March 20, 1879, aged fifty-four 



838 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

years. His widow continues to reside Tipon the farm of eighty acres, and 
with her eldest daughter is a member of the Christian Church. 

MICHAEL HOLVERSTOTT was born in Ross County, Ohio, Novem 
ber 4, 1813, the son of Jacob and Christiana (Piper) Holverstott, natives of 
Germany, who were brought to America about 1817, when children, and 
sold to the man who would pay the expense of their passage. The father 
died in 1853, aged eighty years, arid the mother passed away the same year. 
Michael Holverstott was married, May 7. 1839, to Rebecca Ramay, born 
October 25, 1817, daughter of Joshua and Rachel (Sellers) Ramay, of Ger- 
man stock, and natives of Berkeley County, Va. They were the parents of 
eight children, of whom only three are known to be living —Mary, Eliza 
and Rebecca. Mr. and Mrs. Holverstott bave had seven children, five Jiv 
ing— Mary A., born December 27, 1839; Margaret E., December 26, 1843: 
Minerva J., August 10, 1847; Sarah L., August 11, 1851, and Michael W.. 
December 5, 1853. W. Henry was born September 5, 1841, and died Au 
gust 12, 1857; Rebecca F. was born August 25, 1857, and died September 
29, 1868. Mrs. Holverstott's mother, Racbel, was born October 5, 1780, 
and died November 4, 1876. Mr. Holverstott came with his parents from 
Pickaway County to Marion County when aged sixteen years; has been a 
good farmer, owns 162 acres of excellent land, which he values at $10,000 r 
every dollar of which he has made by his own industry. He has cleared 
and improved 100 acres of his farm; has been a resident of the county 
fifty four years; is a Republican, and with his wife a member of the Chris 
tian Church. 

HON. JOHN J. HOPKINS. This gentleman is a native of Marion 
County, and was born in Salt Rock Township August 4, 1838. His parents 
are Samuel and Mary (Virden) Hopkins, the former a native of Pickaway 
County, Ohio, and the latter of Sussex County, Del.; they both reside 
with their son, J. J. Hopkins, at La Rue. At the age of three years, the 
subject of this sketch was taken by his parents to Dudley Township, Hardin 
County, Ohio, where they went to reside; here he grew to manhood. At 
the age of seventeen he entered the Antioch College as a student, pursuing 
his studies there four years, and completed his college course at Hillsdale, 
Mich., graduating at the latter institution in June, 1862. From this time 
until 1867, he was principally engaged in teaching school, though at 
times was occupied in farming. May 25, 1865, he married Miss Avis Thom- 
as, daughter of Dr. N. M. Thomas, of Schoolcraft, Mich. In 1867, he r 
with his family, moved to La Rue. this county, since which time he has 
prominently identified with its business and other interests. He at once 
formed a partnership with J. M. Banning, to carry on the grocery business 
and a general line of men's furnishing goods; the firm was Hopkins & 
Banning. Mr. Hopkins w^s appointed Postmaster in 1867, by Andrew 
Johnson, and held the office two years. In 1868, the above partnership 
was dissolved, and Mr. Hopkins formed a partnership with J. H. Leonard, 
under the firm name of Hopkins & Leonard, to carry on a general dry goods 
and clothing business, which continued for nearly fifteen years, having a 
large and successful trade. March 1. 1883, Mr. H. sold his interest to W. 
A. & C. P. Rhodes. In politics, Mr. Hopkins is a Democrat, and has served 
the township and village of La Rue in nearly all its local offices, including 
those of Township Clerk and Treasurer, Village Mayor, Councilman, Treas- 
urer, etc. In 1877, he made the canvass for State Senator for the Thir- 
teenth District, and although an overwhelmingly Republican district, be 
reduced the majority of that party nearly two-thirds. In 1879, he was 



MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP. 839 

elected a member of the General Assembly of Ohio from this county, and 
re-elected in 1881, serving four years. During the two terms he served on 
various committees of the House, among which were those on " Geology and 
Mining," " New Counties and County Affairs," "Girls' Industrial Home'' 
and " Public Buildings and Lands." Mr. Hopkins' wife, Mrs. Avis (Thomas) 
Hopkins, died June 29. 1870, at her father's home in Michigan, leaving one 
child, a daughter, Mildred, who was born February 21, 1866, and resides 
with her father and grandparents at La Rue. 

JOHN G. HOSTETTER was born in Germany January 7. 1850, the son 
of John and Rosa (Wei land) Hostetter, who came to America in 1851, 
stopping in Morrow County, Ohio, fifteen years, coming then to Green Camp, 
where they still reside. Mr. H. spent two and a half years in the West; he 
married, July 6, 1878, Dorothy Hover, daughter of Isaiah Hover. Two 
children have been born to them — John H, born April 10. 1879; and Min- 
nie G., born August 2, 1881. He returned from the West in 1880. locating 
at Scott Town, and engaged in the mercantile trade. He is doing the lead- 
ing business in this little village; has the post office; is an honorable citizen, 
and an Independent voter. 

JOSEPH E. JOHNSON was born in Logan County, Ohio, October 23, 
1842, the son of Peter and Lear (Ansley) Johnson, natives of Kentucky, 
who came to Ohio in 1816, settling in Logan County until 1850, when they 
moved to Hardin County, purchasing a farm of 200 acres, remaining there 
until 1871, when he sold and bought another 200- acre farm in Wyandot 
County. He has since returned to Hardin County, where he now resides, 
aged (1883) seventy-twu years, with his wife aged sixty-eight years. He 
was a prominent citizen in his day, holding nearly all the local offices 
(seventeen years Chief Magistrate), and a minister in the Methodist Episcopal 
Church many years. Joseph E.. having obtained a common school educa- 
tion, enlisted in his country's defense, November 5, 1861. in Company A, 
Eighty-second Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was engaged in the 
following battles: McDowell, Cross Keys, Bull Run (being under fire 
seventeen consecutive hours), Chancellorsville, Gettysburg. Mission Ridge; 
also in the forced march from Chattanooga to Knoxville. He re-enlisted 
with his regiment, January 1, 1864, and after a furlough of thirty days 
returned to his regiment at Bridgeport, Ala., and was engaged in every 
battle from Chattanooga to Atlanta, assisting in the capture of the latter 
city. He went with " Sherman to the sea," and was detailed Dispatch 
Bearer, at the headquarters of the Twentieth Army Corps, filling that po- 
sition until the close of the strife, serving under Gen. Robinson a portion 
of the time. His honorable discharge dates " Columbus, Ohio, July 24, 
1865 " He is an energetic farmer, an enthusiastic Republican and a mem- 
ber of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

MRS. MARTHA JOHNSON, widow of Jared Johnson, was born Octo- 
ber 18, 1829, in Licking County, Ohio, the daughter of John and Rhoda 
(Meridith) Clark, of Irish and Welsh ancestry, and natives of Pennsylvania 
and Delaware respectively. They were the parents of twelve children, six 
dving in infancv. The names of the living are Elizabeth. George, Mary. 
Samuel, Martha and Eliza. He came to Licking County, Ohio, when aged 
ten years, and married in that county. At the time of his death, he was a 
resident of Bowling Green Township, and the owner of 100 acres of land. 
His death occurred February 9, 1877, his wife's death taking place eight 
years previous. Our subject married, October 18, 1854, Jared Johnson, son 
of Joseph and Matilda (Lobdel) Johnson. Four children crowned this 



840 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

union — Cumrnings P., born September 8, 1855; RhodaM. , December 22, 
1856; Harvey, September 14, 185 ( J. The deceased are Levi O, died August 
4, 1868. aged twenty-four days. Mr. Johnson died June 4, 1861, aged 
thirty years. Since his death, Mrs. Johnson has carefully and laboriously 
educated the family. She continues to reside upon the farm of fifty-six 
acres, adjacent to the village of La Rue, where she has erected a commo- 
dious frame house. Her two sons live with her, Cummings conducting the 
farm and Harvey engaged in carriage painting. Mrs. Johnson is a much 
respected lady, and has resided in La Rue twenty-nine years. 

SARAH E. (CLARK) JOHNSON is a native of Montgomery Town- 
ship, born August 29, 1852, the daughter of John and Huldah (Messick) 
Johnson, natives of Delaware. They moved to Marion County at a very 
early date, and were among the first settlers of Montgomery Township. 
They were the parents of twelve children, ten living. The mother died in 
1879, and the father four years before. Our subject was married, Novem- 
ber 22, 1870, to Joseph E. Johnson, the son of Peter and Leah (Ansley) 
Johnson, and four children have been born to this union — Floy A, Lulu 
L., Annie D. and Tresie B., aged (1883) eleven, nine, v six and two years 
respectively. Mrs. Johnson received her farm of eighty acres of fine land 
from her father's estate, where she has ever since resided, save eight years 
in Wyandot County, Ohio. They are members of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. 

BENJAMIN G. KEMPER was born January 31, 1837, in Perry 
County, Ohio, the son of Wesley and Sophia (McElheny) Kemper, the 
former of Welsh, and the latter of Irish descent; they moved from the 
above county to Montgomery Township in 1842, rearing a family of five 
children — Joel L., David N., Benjamin G. , Samuel H. , and Charles W., 
who died from a disease contracted during the civil war. Mr. Kemper 
married, June 4. 1867, Helen McClellan, daughter of Benjamin and Eliz 
abeth (Cushman) McClellan, of Scotch and English ancestry, and natives of 
Canada. Mr. and Mrs. Kemper are the parents of four children — Lucy E., 
Ernest M. G. , James B. F. and Blanch E., aged (1883) fifteen, twelve, ten and 
two years respectively. Mrs. K. commenced life with nothing but his own 
resources, and by industry and perseverance owns at present 100 acres of 
arable land, valued at $75 per acre. Recently he erected a fine frame house. 
He makes a specialty of stock-raising; he is a Republican in politics, and, 
with his wife, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

JOHN KING was born August 10, 1801, in Sussex County, Del., the 
son of James and Nancy (Farquhar) King. His father was a native of the 
same State, born 1752, one of the first children of that State, and died 
about 1818. His mother died 1852, aged eighty-eight years. Mr. King 
was married, March 30, 1822, to Sarah Reed, daughter of Nathan Reed, 
and three children were born to them, one living, Julia A. His wife died 
December 28, 1825. He again married, September 16, 1830, Mary Vesey, 
daughter -^f William and Patience (Waples) Vesey, who died September 30, 
1868, leaving four children; their names are David,WilIiam, Robert and Mar- 
garet. Mr. King came to Ohio in 1828, settling first in Salt Rock Township, 
when but a few families were there. He has ever been an active and 
prominent citizen. Ho is an enthusiastic Democrat, was Clerk of Mont 
gomery Township for twenty successive years, Chief Magistrate of the same 
township, and elected Treasurer of the county in 1859. He holds a mem- 
bership with the Free- Will Baptist Church. He still lingers, one of the 
old and greatly respected pioneers of the county. 



MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP. 841 

JAMES W. KNAPP, of the firm of J. W. & M. S. Knapp, La Rue, 
Ohio, was born in Logan County, Ohio, October 14, 1833, the youngest son 
of Benjamin and Sarah (Sutton) Knapp. He came with his parents to 
Marion County about J 838, settling one mile west of La Rue. He re- 
mained with his parents until his twenty-fifth year, obtaining a fair edu- 
cation, when he engaged in various occupations. He enlisted in the late 
war. August 6, 1862, in Company E, Ninety -sixth Regiment Ohio Volunteer 
Infantry, participating in the following battles: Chickasaw Bayou, Arkan- 
sas Post, Vicksburg (including its surrender), Jackson, Carrion Crow and 
Sabine Cross Roads. At this place, he received a severe wound, a d was 
carried a prisoner to the hospital at Mansfield, La., where he lay ten 
weeks; partially recovering, he receiving a parole. He then went to New 
Orleans, and was given a furlough. His honorable discharge dates Camp 
Denison, Ohio, December 16, 1864. Since the war, he has given his 
attention to business of various kinds; but i;j 1873 he engaged in the mer- 
cantile trade. His labors have been attended with such prosperity that 
during 1882-83 he erected a fair brick store, in which he is conducting an 
extensive busin ss. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., the F. & A. M., the 
G. A. R. and the Presbyterian Church. . He is an active temperance man, 
and an enthusiastic Republica .. 

ALEXANDER KRIDLER was born in Trumbull County, Ohio, Augu*t 
7, 1836, the son of Daniel and Jeannette (Campbell) Kridler, of German 
and Irish ancestry respectively, and natives of Pennsylvania and Ohio sev- 
erally. They came to Ohio when young, were married in Trumbull County, 
and settled in Hardin County in 1853. They had twelve children, three 
surviving — Alexander, Marilla and Julia A. Mr. Kridler became a promi- 
nent farmer, owned 140 acres, and died at the old homestead in 1864, his 
wife preceding him two months. Alex. Kridler acquired his education in 
the common schools, and remained with his parents till his twenty fifth 
year, when he commenced life independently, working upon a farm three 
years, then engaging in the mercantile business three years, abandoning 
that on account of ill health. He has a good property, of some$10,000, and 
is a prominent farmer, coming here in 1870 E April 23, 1868, he married 
Sarah A. Anderson, daughter of Joseph and Sarah (Clark) Anderson, and 
one child was born to this union — Annie, born October 25, 1870, and died 
November 9, 1881. He has been Trustee of the township two years, is a 
Democrat, and belongs, with his wife, to the Christian Church. 

LUTHER R. LA RUE was born in Athens County, Ohio, September 
14, 1827. He was reared and educated upon a farm near La Rue, taking 
advantage of the common schools of his day. He taught five winter terms. 
He was married, May 21, 1848, to Ann Keech, born October 23, 1826. a 
daughter of William and Jane (Patten) Keech. of Welsh and Scotch an- 
cestry respectively, and natives of Pennsylvania. They came to Ohio in 
1840, settling in Bowling Green Township, rearing a family of six chil- 
dren, five living — James P., Ann, David H. , Jane and Margaret; Mary is 
deceased. Mr. and Mrs. La Rue have been the parents of eight children, 
four living— David H., bom June 23, L849; Albert N., May 25, 1853; 
William P., May 10, 1856, and Mary C. May 15, 1869. William was born 
February 19, 1851, and died April 5, 1851; Oliver P., born December 19, 
1864, died October 24, 1868, and two infants. Mr. La Rue is a nephew of 
Maj. La Rue, and settled in Ringold County, Iowa, in 1854, entering 280 
acres of land, and obtaining a patent from President Pierce, June 5, 1856, 
therefor; he returned to Montgomery Township in 1868, and is the owner 

LL 



842 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

to-day (1883) of 324 acres of fine land. In Iowa, he served upon the 
County Board of Supervision (known here as Board of County Cornmis 
sioners), and also two terms as Justice. He has served as Trustee of Mont- 
gomery and Bowling Green Townships. He is a wide-awake Republican, 
an exemplary citizen, and. with his wife, a member of the Methodist Epis- 
copal Church . 

JAMES H. LEONARD, senior partner of the firm of Leonard, Rhodes 
& Co., at La Rue, was born near Bentleysville, Washington County, Penn., 
in August, 1842. He came to Marion County, Ohio, with his parents. 
William and Mary (Vanort) Leonard, about the year 1856. Mr. Leonard 
passed his early years on a farm, and in 1864 came to the village of La 
Rue, where he found employment as a clerk in the dry goods store of Seff- 
ner, Lucas, Green & Co., remaining with them some three years, when, 
having acquired a sufficient knowledge of the business, he became a part- 
ner in a firm known as Myers, Leonard & Hastings. This firm continued 
one year, when the business was closed and the partnership dissolved. Soon 
afterward, in 1868, he formed a partnership with Mr. J. J. Hopkins, under 
the firm name of Hopkins & Leonard, to do a general dry goods business. 
This business continued fifteen years, and their store became, through the 
fair dealing and thoroughly gentlemanly characteristics of the firm, the 
most popular store in the village, and doing the most business. Mr. Hop 
kins retired from the business in March, 1883, when Mr. Leonard asso- 
ciated with himself in the business William A. and Charles P. Rhodes, 
under the firm name of Leonard, Rhodes & Co. Mr. Leonard was married, 
September 12, 1865, to Miss Mattie Wilson, of Waldo Township, this 
county, and a daughter of Samuel Wilson. They have one child — Zoa E., 
born September 26, 1873. Since Mr. Leonard's residence in La Rue, he has 
been foremost in all those public enterprises calculated to promote the gen- 
eral welfare of the village and vicinity, standing up like a man and advo- 
cating what he thought was right in the way of public improvements for 
the general benefit of the public against much opposition, and not sneak- 
ing in the dark, like others who could be mentioned, that secretly were in 
favor of them, but publicly were blatant panderers to the prejudices which 
existed in the minds of some of the citizens against gravel roads. Mr. 
Leonard was appointed Postmaster in La Rue in 1870, and held that posi- 
tion until September, 1881. He is a member of La Rue Lodge, No. 463, F. 
& A. M., and of the Dayton Chapter, Rose Croix; also of the Ohio Consistory 
Thirty-second Degree, A. A. S. R., Cincinnati. William and Mary (Vanort) 
Leonard came from near Bentleysville, Washington County, Penn., to Ohio 
with their family, including James H , in October, 1856. They located 
near Delaware, Delaware County, ;:nd afterward in Marlborough Township, 
of the same county, remaining at the first place about six months; at the 
latter one year. They then came to Marion County and lived on the Oborn 
farm in Richland Township four years; then on the Ruppley farm in Pleas- 
ant Township for two years, when Mr. Leonard bought a small place one 
mile west of Locust Grove, in Pleasant Township in 1864. His wife died 
at this place in September, 1868, and, having married the second time, he 
sold this place and bought another small farm one mile further south, 
where he lived until the fall of 1878, and then came to La Rue. where he 
lived until his death, which took place in October, 1881. His widow still 
resides in La Rue. 

EDWAKD H. LINGO was bom in Hardin County, Ohio, April 19, 
1851, the son of James H. and Emeline (Kimper) Lingo, of English and 



MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP. 843 

German descent respectively, but natives of Virginia and Delaware. They 
were the parents of ten children, the names of the living being Elizabeth A., 
James H., Mary C, Patience, Edward H., Alvin R. and La Fayette. The 
deceased are William H., Helliard and Emma. The common school gave 
Edward H. his early education, but he finished his education in Ada, Ohio. 
September 8, 1875, he entered the firm of H. S. Lucas & Co., at La Rue, 
Ohio, as a clerk, remaining two years. Then he entered business with 
Hastings, Lingo & Co., as a member of the firm. At present, he is sole pro- 
prietor of a store located upon Vine street, which is doing a thriving busi- 
ness in dry goods, groceries, etc. He commenced business here in 1881. 
June 27, 1877. he married Martha A. Waples, daughter of Eli and Martha 
(Scott) Waples. who were the parents of two children — Benjamin, deceased, 
and Martha A., born September 30, 1855, and died September 21, 1882, 
leaving an interesting daughter, aged (1883) five and one half years. "In 
this life, joy and sorrow are strangely blended." Some time prior to her 
death. Mrs. Lingo visited the West to recuperate her heal' h, but returned 
to bid a final adieu to her husband and daughter. She was an amiable 
character, and the following lines were composed upon the occasion of her 
death: 

"Lone are the paths and sad the bower 

Whence thy meek smile is gone; 
But oh, a brighter home than ours 

In heaven is now thine own." 

CHRISTOPHER S. LIPPINCOTT was born in Champaign County, 
Ohio, February 20, 1851, the son of Andrew J. and Caroline (Wood) Lip- 
pincott, of English ancestry, and natives of Ohio, and now residents of Lo- 
gan County, Ohio. In the possession of the family is a genealogical tree, 
tracing their ancestry back for 240 years, with history extending back 800 
years, the tree containing about 9,000 names. The name Lippincott was 
originally "Love-cote," referring to a cottage. Richard and Abigail Lip- 
pincott were excommunicated from the Church of England for non-conform- 
ity, and moved from Devonshire. England, to Monmouth County, N. J., be- 
coming members of the Society of Friends. Mr. C. S. Lippincott, the sub- 
ject of this sketch, obtained a good education, attending college for a short 
time at Granville and Lebanon. Ohio. He taught school a number of win- 
ters, and Airil 22, 1874, married Flora A. Bain, daughter of John and Eliza 
(Scribner) Bain, respectively of Scotch and English descent. Their four 
children are Harry R., born March 7, 1875; Mary D., March 20. 1877; 
Arthur J., JanuarySl, 1879, and Clara E., January 17, 1881. Mr. L. em- 
barked in life with limited resources, but is now the owner of 1 17 acres of 
arable land In 1882, he was elected Assessor of the township. His poli- 
tics are Democratic, and he is a member of the First Regular Baptist Church 
of La Rue; his wife belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

JAMES M. LITTLE was born in Genesee County, N. Y., February 15, 
1821, the son of Joseph and Lydia (Matteson) Little, of Irish and English 
ancestry respectively, but natives of Vermont and New York. This family 
came to Marion County in 1820. settling in Bowling Green Township, and 
entering 200 acres of land, which was lost twenty-five years later through 
mismanagement. The family then moved to Iowa, purchasing 120 acres. 
The father met his death in 1857, by stepping from a rapidly moving train 
in New York State; he was going to visit his only daughter at the time. J. 
M. Little came to Marion County in 1830, stopping with his uncle William 
four years. When aged nineteen, he began life for himself, going to Ypsi- 



844 HISTORY <>F MARION COUNTY. 

lanti, Mich., and apprenticing himself to Austin Burgess, to learn the trade 
of a batter. He followed that occupation, together with the glove and 
mitten trade, for nearly thirty -eight years. During the past five years he 
has been engaged in the grocery business at .La Rue, commanding a pros- 
perous trade; he also owds a comfortable house adjoining. March 'JO, 
L846, he married Mary J., daughter of Heaiy and Elizabeth (Butcher) 
Mustain, lesidents of Bowling Green Township. This marriage has been 
blessed with six children, four surviving — Lydia J., Mary A., Lucy A. and 
Charles H. ; the names of the deceased are James E., who died April 12, 
1883, aged thirty -three years; and an infant son; one son was educated for 
the law. but preferred to be a merchant, and is a successful one at present 
in Piqua, Ohio. The subject of this sketch is a highly respected citizen of 
La Rue; has been a member of the Town Council nine years, is a member 
of the F. &. A. M., also of the Baptist Church, with his family, and is a 
Republican in politics. 

JAMES LONG is a native of Delaware, born April 7, 1818, the son of 
Eliel and Catherine (Jestus) Long, of English descent, and natives of Dela- 
ware, who came to Ohio in 1819, settling in Grand Prairie Township among 
the first pioneers, remaining there eighteen years. They had a family of 
five children, but he was the father of eighteen children, thirteen by his 
first marriage, and five by the last, four of whom are living — James, George 
W. , Thomas and D. ; Martha J. is deceased. The father died aged eighty- 
eight years, having survived his wife several years. James Long, having 
obtained a fair practical education, married, December 27, 1846, Emeline 
Wasson, a daughter of Isaac and Hettie (VVaples) Wasson. Five children 
have been born to them, two living — Melvin C. and George W.; the names 
of the deceased are Sarah J., Mary C. and Robert J. Mr. Long continued 
on the farm until sixteen years ago, when he left it to the supervision of 
his son, Melvin, purchasing a residence on Vine street, La Rue; recently, 
however, he has bought an inviting home on Union street, where he resides. 
He is a respected citizen, and a Republican with pronounced opinions. 

JAMES F. MARSH was born in Clinton Township, Seneca Co., Ohio, 
June 20, 1830. and is the son of Peter and Elizabeth (Foresman) Marsh, 
the former a native of Northampton County, Penn., and the latter of Ly- 
coming County, Penn. The parents of James F. settled in Seneca County, 
Ohio, in 1826 or 1827. and moved to Hale Township, Hardin Co., Ohio, in 
1841, where they passed the remainder of their lives. They were among 
the first settlers of Hale Township. The mother died in I860, and the 
father in 1865. James F. Marsh remained with his father on the farm in 
Hale Township, which he helped clear up, until twenty-three years of age. 
Soon afterward, June 9, 1853, he was married to Celinda La Rue, who was 
born March 31. 1834, in Montgomery Township, Marion County, a daugh 
ter of Maj. William La Rue, the founder of the village of La Rue. In 
L862, Mr. Marsh, with his family, moved to Ringgold County, Iowa, where 
he resided two and one-half years. During this time he enlisted in the 
military organization known as the Border Brigade, Stricklins Guard, to 
serve on the Union side in the war of the rebellion. He was commissioned 
First Lieutenant, and served six months, principally in Missouri. In 1865, 
he^returned to La Rue Village, where he has ever since resided, and where, 
in'the immediate vicinity, himself and wife own 613 acres of valuable land. 
Mr. and Mrs. Marsh have a family of three children — William L., born De- 
cember 2"), 1855, now in the hardware business in La Rue; Mary Ellen, 
born February 25. 1860, now the wife of E. Anderson, hardware merchant, 



MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP. 845 

La Rue: and Arthur F. , born February 11, 1871, living with his parents. 
Mr. Marsh served as Trustee of the township for nine years, as also in 
various other local offices, and has always taken an interest in all public 
affairs and improvements. Himself and wife have been members for many 
vears of the Presbyterian Church. 

SAMUEL B. MARSHALL, M. D., is a native of Lancashire, England, 
born February 17, 1836, the son of Thomas and Mary (Taylor) Marshall, 
who came to America in 1842, going to St. Louis, Mo., a number of years, 
but settling permanently at Sidney, Ohio, in 1847. They engaged there in 
farming, and in the manufacture of woolen goods. In 1872, they pur- 
chased a farm in Big Island Township, but resided in New Bloomington. 
At this place the father died in 1874, aged sixty -two years, and the mother 
March 16, 1883, aged seventy-two years. Our subject having obtained a 
good education at Sidney Academy and other places, commenced the study 
of medicine under the instruction of Dr. Kidder, of the same place, with 
whom he continued four and a half years. July 3, 1862, he enlisted as a 
private in Company A, Fifty -second Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, 
participating at Perryville, Stone River, Chattanooga (both battles), and in 
all the battles from there to Atlanta. He was slightly wounded at Murfrees- 
boro while acting as Assistant Surgeon. He was honorably discharged in 
1864. He then received an appointment as Hospital Steward in United 
States Army, and subsequently Assistant Surgeon. In I860, he returned 
home. After renewing his medical studies, he moved to New Bloomington, 
and commenced practicing in 1868. He has a drug store at present, and is 
doing a profitable business in connection with his extensive practice. He 
married Sarah E. Arnold, daughter of Putman and Sarah E. Arnold, of 
English ancestry, and natives of the Buckeye State. They are the parents 
of five children, four living — Monteith T., born December 12, 1869; Evlyn 
N., September 15,1874; Wilber J., September 29, 1878. and Mary Z., August 
1, 1882. The Doctor is an enthusiastic Republican; was elected Chief 
Magistrate in 1882, and was commissioned Notary Public the same year. 
He is member of the F. & A. M and of the I. O. O* F. at La Rue. He and 
wife are also members of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Agosta. 
Ohio. 

MRS. ELIZABETH McCLELLAN was born in Camden, Canada, De- 
cember 13, 1819. Her parents were of Holland and English ancestry, and 
natives of Massachusetts and New Brunswick severally. They came to Big- 
Island Township in 1846. They were the parents of fourteen children, 
eight of whom are living— "William, Philura, Samantha, Elizabeth, Fannie. 
Jane, Violet and Andrew. The mother died in 1855, aged sixty-eight years, 
and the father in 1860, aged seventy-five years. Their names were Arte- 
mus and Ann (Cook) Cushman. Our subject married Benjamin McClellan 
in Canada. September 27, 1840. He was the son of Thomas and Esther 
(Barrett) McClellan, of Scotch and German descent respectively, and na- 
tives of New York. They were the parents of eight children, five living 
— Julia A. , Angeline, Eliza. Catherine and Nelson. Mr. and Mrs. McClel- 
lan were blessed with seven children, three living — Hellen. born October 28. 
1841; Harry A, March 30. 184 5. and Eliza G., November 15, 1862. TLe 
names of the deceased are Harriet, died in 1861. aged eighteen years; Horace 
in 1852, aged two and a half years; Fannie, in 1853, aged eleven months, 
and Jane A., in 1868, aged eleven and a half years. Mr. McClellan was 
born January 19. 1813. He bore during life an honorable character, was a 
consistent Christian, and died February 28. 1863. His widow, a highly 



846 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

respefited lady, is the owner of 120 acres of good land, and is a member of 
the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

JOHN W. MEoDOLE, the only son of William McDole, is a native of 
Logan County, Ohio, born September 29, 1845. Having received a limited 
education, he married. September 29, 1870, Mary A.. Henry, daughter of 
Samuel and Susan (Walker) Henry, of English and German ancestry re- 
spectively. During these years of married life, he has been devoting his en- 
ergies to farming. He has a good farm of eighty acres; is a well known 
farmer, a live Republican, and a member of the I. O. O. F. 

THEODORE McELHENY is a native of Montgomery Township, born 
April 21, 1851, the son of Thomas D. McElheny, of Anglo Irish ancestry, 
and natives of Ohio. Having acquired a thorough, practical education in 
the common school, he married, December 27, 1881, Miss Susan C. Smith, 
daughter of Nathan and Mary (McDane) Smith, of English ancestry, and 
also natives of Ohio, Muskingum County. Her people are noted for their 
longevity. Mr. and Mrs. McElheny have one son— John F., born January 
20, 1883. Our subject has been devoting his entire attention to his farm, 
making a specialty of breeding and feeding tine stock for market. By his 
industry, he has accumulated property valued at $10,000. He is highly 
respected; a correspondent of the Marion Independent and Ohio Farmer, and 
takes a prominent part in State elections. He is a Republican and a suc- 
cessful farmer. 

THOMAS D. McELHENY was born in Perry County, Ohio, February 
22, 1819, son of George and Esther (Davis) McElheny, of Irish and Scotch 
ancestry, and natives of Pennsylvania. They were the parents of seven 
children, Thomas D. being the youngest and the only surviving one. They 
moved to Marion County in 1832, settling in Montgomery Township, enter- 
ing 160 acres of land near where La Rue is now located. One year later, 
ho purchased sixty-five acres more, paying the unreasonable price of $600. 
This he cleared and improved, and was a successful farmer generally. He 
held many local offices, and was one of the leading men of his day. Our 
subject obtained his education in the district schools, and has been farming 
the old homestead all his life. July 2, 1814, he married Miss Nancy Davis, 
daughter of William H. and Mary Davis, natives of the State of Delaware 
and parents of twelve children, seven living. Their names are Joshua, 
Maria, Nancy, Mary, William, Harriet and Jane. The deceased are Sarah, 
Elizabeth, Robert and Priscilia. Mr. and Mrs. McElheny have been blessed 
with two children — Ann (born July 19, 1845) and Theodore (born April 21, 
1851), both residing at the old homstead. The son was married January 
4, 1882, to Miss Catherine Smith, daughter of Nathan and Mary Smith, of 
Hardin County, Ohio. The name of their one child is John Fulton (born 
January 18, 1883). Our subject is devoting his entire attention to his farm, 
rearing a great deal of fine stock, and keeping his farm of 196 acres in 
excellent repair. He is public spirited- -ever ready to help any enterprise 
that will redound to the benefit of the people. He was Trustee of the 
township for nine years. His family are members of the Patrons of Hus- 
bandry, and also of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He affiliates with the 
Republican party. 

GEORGE X. MKAR3 was born in Brown County, Ohio. Jauuary 6, 
1823, the son of Samuel and Sarah (Gardner) Mears, of Scotch and Irish 
descent, and natives of Ohio. They were residents of Brown, Highland, 
Clark, Wyandot and Sandusky Counties. They were pioneers in most of these 
counties, zealous Whigs, and died in Wyandot County, he in 1854, and she in 






MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP. 847 

ISTo. Our subject was married, December 27, 1848, to Sarah J. Johnson, 
daughter of Jonathan Johnson, and one heir was born to this union — Princess 
A. (born October 9. 1849, dying in 1860). This wife was born February 28, 
1831, and died March 9, 1853. Our subject again married, October 20, 
1855, Eliza J. Porter, daughter of Robert and Hai-riet Porter, and three 
children have blessed this union, two living — -William L. (born August 15, 
1856). and Ada E. (born May 25, 1863). George D. died March 28, 1862, 
aged four years. This wife was born December 10, 1828, and died Sep- 
tember 3, 1866. He married the third time, May 7, 1868, Deliah Porter, 
sister of the above, born September 1, 1830, and the name of their child is 
Ida B. (born May 19, 1871). Mr. Mears having obtained a limited educa- 
tion, commenced life in earnest, and has been farming and dealing in stock 
so extensively that to-day (1883) he owns 380 acres of land, valued at $100 
per acre. He values his property at $50,0' )0. He is an esteemed citizen, a 
stanch Republican, and a liberal supporter of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. 

ROBERT MEARS, the son of Samuel and Sarah J. (Gardner) Mears, 
was born in Wyandot County, Ohio, December 16, 1838. He received a 
fair education at the district school, and enlisted in defense of his country, 
September 8, 1861, in Company M, Third Regiment Ohio Volunteer Cav- 
alry, engaging in the following battles: Stone River, Chickamauga, Jones- 
boro, and many skirmishes. He was engaged during the Atlanta campaign, 
having his mule shot from under him at Dalton, Ga. ; during his entire 
service, he never asked to be excused from duty. He was Sergeant, and 
was honorably discharged at Columbus, Ohio, having served three years and 
four months. Returning home, be married, February 5, 1874, Miss Martha 
Brown, a daughter of Hamilton Brown, and four children were born to 
them — Frank H, Glenneary M. , Pearl and Lena. He owns a fine farm of 
100 acres, and valuable property in Illinois; he is a member of the F. & 
A. M. and of the Republican party. 

HENRY METZ is a retired farmer, was born in Monongalia County, 
W. Va., November 10, 1822, and is a son of Leonard and Barbara (Michaels) 
Metz. (See sketch Big Island Township.) He married, May 23, 1845, Har 
riet Van Houten, daughter of Peter and Mary (Brady) Van Houten, natives 
of New Jersey. Eight children have blessed this union — Mary, Leonard, 
Catherine, David, Olive and Harry are living. Our subject was a babe when his 
father came to Marion County, consequently he has been identified with the 
pioneers; he spent the best of his life among the logs; he devoted his en- 
tire attention to farming and the raising of stock until he came to La Rue; 
he enjoys the confidence of his fellow-citizens, has amassed a fine property, 
and politically is a Democrat. 

JAMES METZ is the second son of Leonard and Barbara (Michaels) 
Metz, born January 1, 1826. He married, May 18, 1871, Sarah M. Brown, 
daughter of John K. and Angeline D. (Lyon) Brown, of Union County, 
Ohio. Ten children were born to them, seven living — Ann E., Clarinda M., 
John K., Sarah M., Delia J., William M. and Mary L. Elijah W., De- 
borah H. and Alpheus W. are deceased The father was one of the early 
settlers of Union County, Ohio, and died February 1, 1875, aged about 
seventy-three years; his wife died one year later, aged sixty seven years. 
Mr. Metz has ever been a resident of this county, has a fine farm of ninety- 
eight acres, and is a Democrat. He values his property at $8,000. 

THOMAS SNYDER MILLER, farmer and hotel keeper at La Rue 
Village, is one of the oldest residents of the place; he was born. March 26, 



848 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

1823, in Montgomery Township, Chester Co., Penn. His parents, George 
and Margaret (Snyder) Miller, were natives of the same county. The grand- 
father of our subject was George Miller, a soldier in the Revolutionary war, 
and was killed while in that service. His wife, Catherine, died at the house 
of her son George, in Adams County, Penn. The maternal grandfather of 
our subject was a soldier in the war of 1812. When T. S. Miller was six 
years of age. his parents moved to Adams County, Penn., where he lived 
till thirty-six years old. This afterward became historic ground, as the 
sanguinary and fiercely contested battle of Gettysburg commenced within a 
short distance from the homestead. In 1855, in company with his wife, 
her mother, two sisters and a brother, he came to Ohio and located at La 
Rue. The place then had the appearance of simply a pioneer clearing, 
stumps being the most prominent feature of the landscape. The village 
then consisted of only about a dozen houses, all told Seven years after 
his arrival at La Rue, his wife died. Her maiden name was Margaret 
Leber, and he married her in Pennsylvania in 1849. Within ten years after 
his arrival at La Rue, all those who came with him had died. Mr. Miller 
passed his early years on a farm, but while still young learned the carpen- 
ter's trade at Strasburg, Penn., which business he followed until 1853, 
since when he has given his time and attention to hotel-keeping at La Rue. 
He has built four houses in the village for his own occupancy; the first was 
iii 1850, and the last one is the Commercial Hotel building, where he lives. 
Mr. Miller has a farm adjoining the village, which he also attends to. In 
politics, he was formerly a Free-Soil Democrat, but since 1861 has been a 
Republican; he has served the village in various official positions; he was 
the first Village Treasurer, serving for thirteen or fourteen years; also Treas- 
urer of Schools and School Director for many years, member of the Coun- 
cil, etc., etc. He is a charter member of Day Lodge, No. 328, I. O. O. F., 
of which he has acted as Treasurer for over twenty years; he has been a 
firm advocate of the temperance cause all his life, and was a member of the 
first temperance society organized in his section of Pennsylvania; belonged, 
at different times, to the Sons of Temperance, Good Templars, etc.; he has 
been a member of the Presbyterian Church since 1855; he was formerly a 
member of the Lutheran Church, but as there was no congregation of Lu- 
therans here he joined the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Miller was married 
again, January 1, 1863, to Margaret M. Bailey, at her father's, William 
Bailey house, three miles from Gettysburg, Penn. They have two chil- 
dren — Ida Nancy, born August 10, 1864, and Henry F. M., born April 6, 
1866. They are living at home with their parents. 

WASHINGTON E. MILLER is a native of Delaware County, Ohio, 
born May 1, 1824, the son of Royal and Mary (Pangbourn) Miller, of En- 
glish extraction, the latter a native of New York and the former of Ver- 
mont They came to Ohio at a very early day, stopping first at Ports- 
muuth, then at Delaware, but settling permanently in Big Island Township, 
about 1826. They had a family of five children, only two living — W. E. 
and Emaline. Green G. died May 22, 1858, aged forty-two years; John 
T. died in 1870, aged about fifty-three years, and Emma A. died in 1851, 
aged twenty-four years. Our subject acquired a fair practical education in 
the district schools. He married, April 22, 1850, Sarah S. Mason, a daugh- 
ter of Rev. Joseph and Sarah (Sprague) Mason, of English ancestry. Mrs. 
Miller's grandfather Mason, is said to have been the first white man who 
set foot on Ohio soil at Marietta, this occurring about 1787. The above 
marriage has been blessed with six children, all living, save Adele S., who 



MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP. 849 

died February 8, 1865. The surviving are Curtis M. , born December 7, 
1851; Emily P., December 25, 1852; Princess L , March 26, 1856; Frank 
V., May 8, 1858, and Vallandingharn B., July 17, 1862. The mother was 
born September 12, 1824, and died March 6, 1882. Mr. M. began life with 
limited resources, but through industry and economy has accumulated prop 
erty to the amount of $15,000, all the work of his own hands; he has been 
a citizen of the county fifty-six years, and is a stanch Democrat. 

HENRY N. MOON is a native of Big Island Township, born May 1, 
1846, the son of Rev. Gideon H. and Mary B. (Smith) Moon, of English 
stock, and natives of Vermont and Maine severally. They came to Big 
Island and were married there in 1841 ; ten children were born to their 
union, six are living: Henry N, Ellen M.. Amanda E., Flora B., William 
R. and Orrin D. Esther, Eber B., Marilla and Thomas are deceased. 
Rev. Moon moved to Big Island about 1838, settling in the beech woods. 
Two years later, he was ordained to the ministry, and has preached over 
forty years. He went to Wayne County, 111., in 1872, and lives there still. 
Our subject obtained a good education, finishing at the La Rue Schools, and 
taught at intervals for three years. January 21, 1869, he married Leah A. 
Hover, daughter of Isaiah and Mary (Scribner) Hover, of German and 
English ancestry, and natives of Pennsylvania and Ohio severally; his 
father came to Marion County in 1837, and his father entered 200 acres of 
land August 10, 1837, receiving a title from President Van Buren. Isaiah 
and Mary Hover had thirteen children, nine living — Sanford S., Martha S., 
Leah A., Sylvanns, Isaiah. Ellen M., Doratha M., Olive E. and Minnie E., 
Samuel H, aged thirty -three years, and three infants are deceased. Mr. 
Moon commenced life with scarcely anything, but has to-day (1883) fifty 
seven acres of good land, valued at $60 per acre. He is a respected citi- 
zen, a Republican, and with his wife a member of the Free Will Church 
of La Rue. 

DAVID MORRAL. the third son of William and Mary (Watkins) 
Morral, was born in Salt Rock Township September 25, 1857. He ob- 
tained a good education, and was married, October 31, 1878, to Eliza H. 
Davidson, a daughter of James and Minerva (Dalzell) Davidson, of German 
and Irish extraction, and the parents of seven living children — Elizabeth^ 
John, William, George, Jane, HughV. and Eliza H. ; two deceased are Mary 
A., aged nine years, and Albert, aged two years. Mr. Morral receiving but 
a trifle from his father's estate, has to-day, through unceasing efforts, a farm 
of eighty acres, valued at $75 per acre. Recently he erecled a comfortable 
frame house, and made other valuable improvements. He is an enthusiastic 
Republican, and a highly inspected citizen. 

MILTON MORRAL, first son of William and Mary (Watson) Morral, 
was born August 19, 1851. He obtained a good education, finishing at the 
Lebanon Normal School; he taught seven successive winters, but for the 
past five years, has been devoting his attention to dealing in stock; he owns 
150 acres of valuable land worth $65 per acre. He is a prominent and an 
enthusiastic Republican. In 1879, he was nominated for County Recorder, 
and made a very creditable race, though not an aspirant for the office; he 
has been Trustee of the township four years, and in 1883 was elected As- 
sessor; he is an active member of the F. & A. M.. and was the first Master 
Mason at La Rue. 

WILLIAM L. MORRAL is the fourth son of William and Mary 
(Watson) Morral, born April 2, 1861. Having obtained a practical educa- 
tion, he was married. December 25, 1880, to Miss Jennie Huff, daughter of 



850 HISTORY OF MAI! ION COUNTY. 

Joseph and Margaret Huff, of English stock, and natives of Ohio. The 
mother died in 1S82, aged forty-four years, but the father is a resident of 
Scott Town. William L. devotes his energies to his farm of eighty acres, 
and to stock dealing. His farm is valued at $70 per acre, and in stock mat- 
ters he has made a success; he is a stanch Republican and a respected 
citizen. 

JOSEPH MORRIS is a native of Maiion Township, born August 9, 
1835, the son of Benjamin and Sarah A. (Reiley) Morris, of English ances- 
try, and natives of Delaware. They were married in Pickaway County, 
Ohio, July 4, 1815, and came to Marion County in 1824. Having ac- 
quired a practical education in the common schools, Joseph remained with 
his parents until marriage, which occurred September 25, 1856, to Caroline 
McNeal, daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth McNeal, natives of Ireland. 
Mr. and Mrs. Morris have had live children, four living — Elizabeth E., 
Marshall A., William H. and Thomas O. Isaac J. died in 1878, aged six- 
teen years. Mr. Morris commenced with nothing, but to-day he has a farm 
of eighty acres (when purchased, all forest), in a good state of cultivation, 
which he values at $75 per acre. He is worth $7,000. As a citizen be has a 
good reputation. Is a Republican, and, with his wife, a member of the Union 
Presbyterian Church. 

REV. WILLIAM R, MORRIS was born in Pickaway County, Ohio, 
December 19, 1819, the son of Benjamin and Sarah (Reiley) Morris, of 
English and Welsh ancestry, and natives of the State of Delaware. At an 
early age, they came to the above county, and were married July 4, 1815. 
Mrs. Morris was the daughter of John and Elsie (Mitten) Reiley. and one 
of twelve children, seven still surviving — William R., Elizabeth, John R., 
Stephen, Elsie, Joseph and Sarah Z. The deceased were Isaac, born 
May 4, 1816, died September 22, 1838; Maria, born July 4, 1817, died 
October 12, 1839; Lydia, born October 23, 1828, died February 4, 1849, 
and Benjamin, born November 7, 1830, died March 21, 1842, and an infant 
son. Mr. W. R. Morris was brought to this county when only six years of 
age, his parents settling in Marion Township, and he has since remained in 
this county. He obtained a good practical education in the common and 
high schools at Marion, completing his school-days when aged twenty-three 
years. He taught more or less for four years, receiving from $12 to $15 a 
month. He was married in Wyandot County, Ohio, April 10, 1845, to 
Sarah A. Curlis, daughter of Jacob and Charity (Albertson) Curlis, of Ger 
man descent, but natives of New Jersey. They were the parents of seven 
children, three surviving— David; Sarah A., born April 16, 1882; and John 
F. The names of the dead are — Elizabeth, Citturrah A., Rachel and 
Daniel. Mr. and Mrs. Morris have five children, whose names are Olive 
E., born October 1, 1846; Jacob, November 4, 1848; Benjamin W. January 
1, 1851; John F., May 10, 1853; and David M., April 24, 1856; the four 
eldest are married. Mr. Morris owns a fine farm, consisting of 265 acres, 
and is one of the best farmers in the township, and enjoys the full confi- 
dence of his neighbors. He is a stanch Democrat; was appointed to fill 
the vacancy on the Board of County Commissioners, caused by the death of 
W. H. Harvey, and stibsequently was elected to that office in 1863. He was 
Trustee of the township eight consecutive years, is a prominent member 
and liberal supporter of the Methodist Episcopal Church, with which he 
has been officially connected as a minister for many years. 

ISAAC MOUSER, deceased, came to Marion County as early as 1834, 
and bought 240 acres of wild land near Scott Town; here he lived until 



MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP. 851 

1841, when he moved upon a farm of eighty acres one and a half miles east 
of Marion. About eight years later, he sold the 240 acres near Scott Town 
and bought of Gen. Rowe the Histler farm of 320 acres joining the eighty 
acres east of Marion. Here he erected a fine residence and other buildings 
and lived there until the spring of 1854, when he was killed by a train of 
cars, on what is now the N. Y., P. & O. Railroad. He left a widow and 
six children. His son. George Ambrose Mouser, enlisted in the spring of 
1861 in the second military company raised in Marion County, to serve as a 
Federal soldier in the war of the rebellion, and died in October of the same 
year of typhoid fever, at Cumberland, Md. He was a talented young man, 
and considered a natural orator. He was popular in his regiment, and 
would no doubt have made a brilliant record had it not been for his untime- 
ly end. Another son, Homer S. , was also out in the 100- day service. 
Isaac Mouser was married to Ann Eliza Strawbridge, a daughter of Justus 
Strawbridge, who came from England when a boy and settled in what was 
Columbia County, near Harrisburg, Penn. Justus Strawbridge married 
Ann Maus, a daughter of a wealthy German family who traced their ances- 
try to the nobility of Germany. After Isaac Mouser's death, his widow 
moved to Shelby ville. 111. , where she died in March, 1875; her remains were 
brought back and buried in the Marion Cemetery. The children of Isaac 
Mouser and his wife, Ann Eliza (Strawbridge) Mouser, are as follows: J. 
A. Mouser, a practicing physician at La Rue, Marion County, Ohio; Homer 
S., a lawyer at Shelbyville. 111.; Abram C, a lawyer in Sullivan, 111. ; Isaac 
J., a lawyer in Huron, Dakota. Of the daughters, Mary J. married Daniel 
Jacoby and resides in Abilene, Kan.; and Emily H. married Rev. George 
W. Burns, who dow owns a farm near Bloomington, 111., and preaches in 
the vicinity. All the boys except Isaac J. are classical graduates of the 
Ohio Wesleyan University and Mary J. is a graduate of the Ohio Wesleyan 
Female College of Delaware, Ohio. 

J. A MOUSER, M. D., was born in Salt Rock Township, Marion 
County, Ohio, December 13, 1835, and is the son of Isaac and Ann Eliza 
/Strawbridge) Mouser. • The Doctor was reared to the life of a farmer. At 
the age of twenty, he commenced teachiug school, and in March, 1856, be- 
came a student at the Ohio Wesleyan University at Delaware, Ohio, where 
he graduated in the classical course, June 26, 1862. He soon afterward 
commenced the study of medicine, with Dr. R. L. Swenev, of Marion, with 
whom he remained two years. He attended medical lectures at the Ohio 
Medical College at Cincinnati two winters, graduating March 2, 1865, and 
was examined and accepted as Acting Assistant Surgeon of the United States 
Army, and sent to the post hospital at Camp Butler, Illinois. He was mar- 
ried, March 1, 1864, to Sarah E. Delong, a daughter of Dr. H. P. and Ann 
S. (Holmes) Delong. From this marriage there were eight children — May 
Delong, Ambrose Henry, Grant Earl, George, Maud, Lloyd, Howard and 
Roy Homer. At the close of the war, Dr. Mouser came to La Rue July 
31, 1865, and commenced the practice of his profession in partnership with 
Dr. Delong, which continued until 1869; since then he has practiced alone. 
In politics, the Doctor was a Republican until 1872; since that time he has 
acted with the Prohibition party. He has ever been an earnest advocate of 
temperance, and has taken an active part toward the suppression of the traf- 
fic in intoxicating liquors within the vicinity of La Rue. The Doctor has 
served the citizens of La Rue Village as Councilman two terms, and as mem- 
ber of the Board of Education about ten years, of which he is now the Pres- 
ident. He is a member of the F. & A. M., I. O. O. F. and the P. O. S. of 



852 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

A., and also a member of the Ohio State Medical Society, and one of the 
founders of the present Marion County Medical Society. He is very pleas- 
antly situated in La Rue, but has recently made purchases of property at 
Abilene, Texas, with which place he was so favorably impressed that he has 
some idea of moving there with his family. 

JAMES C. MUSTAIN was born in Virginia, October 25, 1817, the son 
of Healeyand Elizabeth (Butcher) Mustain, of English and German ances- 
try respectively, but natives of Virginia. This family migrated to Ohio in 
181:-}, settling in Logan County six years, ^v hen they moved to Marion Coun- 
ty, locating in Bowling Green Township, among the first settlers. He was 
born May 6. 1787, and died February 12, 1863, aged eighty-one years; 
his wife was born March 15, 1791, and died June 26, 1866, aged seventy - 
five years. James C, having received a limited education, married, Dec- 
ember 16, 1841, Sarah Johnson, daughter of Joseph and Matilda (Lobdell) 
Johnson, of English ancestry, but natives of Ohio and New York. They 
were the parents of six children, only two living — Sarah, born February 23, 
1823, and Levi, May 30, 1825. The deceased are Mary, Samuel, Rebecca 
and Jared. James C. and Sarah Mustain have had two children — Maria A., 
born May 5, 1853, and James C, born October 6, 1849, died April 27, 
1875. Mr. Mustain has always given his attention to farming, but fortbir- 
ty-one years bas been a resident of La Rue, purchasing the first lot sold in 
this village; he is a respectable citizen; himnelf and wife have been mem- 
bers of the Baptist Church for the past twenty years; in politics, he is a 
Republican. 

ELIAS MYERS, a retired farmer, born September 12, 1814, in Hamp- 
shire County, Va., is the son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Puckman) Myers, 
who came to Licking County, Ohio, in 1816, remaining there ten years, 
when they moved to Franklin Count\ , Ohio, and came to Marion County in 
1829. They settled in Montgomery Township. Elizabeth, the wife, died 
May 12, 1829, and Jacob in 1856, in Missouri, aged seventy two years. 
The name of their second child is Jonathan. Having obtained a limited 
education, Elias Myers began when fourteen years of age to learn the tan- 
ner's trade, which he completed when twenty years old; that same year he 
commenced the tanning business for himself in Montgomery township, con- 
tinuing in that avocation for twenty-five years. When a young man, he 
with his father, Jacob Myers, and Washington Armstrong, built the first 
mill, ground the first flour and sawed the first log in this township. La 
Rue was then a wilderness. Mr. M. married, September 18, 1836, Jane 
Walker, a daughter of James and Elizabeth Walker, natives of Delaware, 
and the parents of six children, four of whom still survive — John, Jane, 
Mary and Eliza Walker. Jane, the wife of Mr. Myers, died September 18, 
1839, leaving one child, John, who also died aged twenty three years. Mr. 
Myers married again. June 24, 1841, Parmelia, the widow of Richard Tarn- 
any, and a daughter of Peter and Elizabeth Spracklen. This family wor- 
ships at the United Brethren Church. Mr. Myers was a farmer for a num- 
ber of years, and in politics is a Republican. 

GILBERT N. MYERS, Esq., was born in Montgomery Township May 
16, 1842, the son of Jonathan and Elizabeth (Davis) Myers (see Jonathan 
Myers' sketch). Having attained a fair education, Mr. Myers followed the 
business of teaching at intervals for ten years. About this time, he spent 
three years visiting the West, including Nebraska and Kansas and Colorado, 
etc. Returning, he married. May 12, 1874. Miss Harriet Ward, daughter of 
David and Margaret (Pangburn) Ward, and settled in Dudley Township, 



MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP. 853 

Hardin Co., Ohio, and lived there seven years. Two children crowned this 
union — Gilbert C. (deceased) and Vesta L.. aged (1883) six years. This 
wife died September 22, 1877, aged thirty-two years. Mr. Myers married 
again May 5, 1881, in St. Elmo, Illinois, Anna Hollis, daughter of Henry 
T. Hollis, M. D., and Ruth (Teeters) Hollis, and they have had one child — 
Hattie M. While living in Hardin County, Ohio, Mr. Myers served as 
Justice of the Peace three years, and in 1873-74 edited a newspaper in con- 
nection with J . J. Hopkins. He came to La Rue in 1881, where, in 1882, 
he was again elected Justice of the Peace, and in 1883 to the office of 
Treasurer of the township. He is now tilling both of these offices satisfac 
torily. He is a respected citizen, and is identified with the I. O. O. F., 
the Freemasons and the Republican party. 

JONATHAN MYERS is a retired farmer, born in Licking County, 
Ohio, December 25, 1819, the son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Ruckman) My- 
ers, of German and English ancestry respectively, but natives of Virginia. 
They were the parents of two children — Elias and Jonathan. The father 
was born June 14, 1787, and died June 3, 1857, aged seventy years. The 
mother, born March 14, 1784, passed away May 12, 1839, aged fifty-five years. 
Mr. Myers first settled in Marion in the fall of 1829, and settled upon 
the banks of the Scioto, in Montgomery Township, the spring of 1835, 
among the first pioneers of the township. December 24, 1839, he married 
Elizabeth Davis, daughter of William H. and Mary (Johnson) Davis, of 
Welsh and English ancestry, and natives of Delaware. They were the 
parents of fourteen children. The living are Asa Edward, Gilbert Nelson, 
Harvey Wilson, William Jacob, Joshua Davis, Sarah Mariah, Nancy Jane, 
Robert Jonathan, Permela Luella and James Samuel. The deceased are 
Mary Elizabeth, George, Sr., George, Jr. and John Henry. Mrs. Myers 
was born January 1G, 1823, and died September 10, 1869, aged forty-six 
years. Mr. Myers began life a poor boy, and has given his attention almost 
exclusively to farming (though for ten years he worked some at tanning), 
and is the owner to-day of 300 acres of well-improved and valuable land, 
besides town property in Lincoln, Neb., and a beautiful residence in La 
Rue, where he lives at present. He is not an office-seeker, though he has 
served as Trustee of the township. He is worthy of the respect of all, and 
enjoys the same. He is a member of the Free-Will Baptist Church, and 
the Republican party; is still hale and hearty. 

WILLIAM J. MYERS is the son of Jonathan and Elizabeth (Davis) 
Myers, a native of Montgomery Township, born July 5, 1845. He acquirpd 
an education in the common schools and remained with his parents until 
his marriage, which took place October 1, 1873, to Miss Emma Topliff, 
daughter of Lewis and Dorcas (Bent) Topliff. and five children have been 
born to them. Their names are Louis E., born October 9, 1874; John S., 
July 19, 1876; Princess L., January 15, 1879; William, December 15, 
1882; and Mary E., died September 4, 1881, aged five and a half months. 
Our subject has been devoting his entire attention to the art of farming, 
and so successful have been his efforts that he owns 242 acres of fine land, 
located one and a half miles north of La Rue. Recently, he has made val- 
uable improvements. He is energetic, highly respected, a member of the 
I. O. O. F., a Republican, and, with his wife, a member of the Free- Will 
Baptist Church. 

CHARLES NOYES, was born in Wayne County. Ohio, May 1. 1841. 
son of Charles and Susan (Fisher) Noyes, of Scotch, French and German 
ancestry, but natives of Ohio, and Massachusetts respectively. Our subject 



854 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

came to Marion County, in 1860, and married July 2i), 1863, Miss Lydia 
Hastings, daughter of John and Jane Hastings, whowe parents (Jane's) were 
of Irish descent. This union has resulted in the birth of seven children- 
Hiram M., Clarence S., Luther A., Edna E., Susan M., Magdalena J. and 
John C. Mr. Noyes commenced life for himself when aged fourteen years, 
and so successful have been his efforts, that he owns to-day (1883) 1(30 
acres of improved land, valued at $70 per acre. He makes a specialty of 
thoroughbred horses. Politically, he is an Independent voter. 

LARA O'HARA is a native of the Esmerald Isle, born July 11, 1811, 
and emigrated to America in 1833. stopping in New York three years, in 
Connecticut one year, then to Northhampton, Mass., one year, then to 
Gabon, Ohio, where he engaged in a tannery. His advent in La Rue 
occurred in 1853. August 25, 1855, he married Catherine Golather, 
daughter of John and Nora A. Golather, residents of Ireland, and 
the parents of three children — Patrick, Catherine and Ann. Lara and 
Catherine O'Hara are the parents of six children, four of whom 
are living-- Andrew. Catherine Lara, Jr., and Anora. The names 
of the deceased are John and Michael. Mr. O'Hara has been engaged with 
the C, O, C. & I. Railroad, since its construction in 1853, the most of the 
time having in charge the water tank at La Rue. His son Andrew has 
been engaged with the same road, acting for eleven years as operator, and 
three as train dispatcher. At the age of twenty-five years, he was promoted 
to the responsible position as master of transportation at Union City, Ind. 
Mr. O'Hara and family are Catholics; he is a Democrat. 

MRS. JANE (CAREY) OWENS, widow of Hiram A. Owens, was born in 
Sussex County, Del., August 12, 1830, a daughter of William and Agnes 
(Pettit) Carey, of Irish and Scotch extraction, and natives of the same county. 
They came to Zanesville, Ohio, in 1834, remaining there a short time, 
thence to Montgomery Township the same year, settling on the banks of 
the Scicto River, the Indians encamping across the river; thence near 
Carey's Station, living there about five years. They had six children, five 
living — Jane, George R. , Winget L., Nancy A., Mary P.; William died in 
infancy. The father died about 1870. Our subject was married, May 18, 
1862, to Hiram A. Owens, and one daughter, Augusta, was born to them. 
He was a son of Isaac and Margaret (Turpens) Owens, of Irish and Scotch 
ancestry, and natives of Sussex County, Del. They moved to Ohio in 1824 T 
stopping in Pike County eleven years, thence to Putnam County two years, 
coming then to Montgomery Township. As a citizen, he won the esteem of 
the community. He died December 21, 1866, aged seventy-nine years; 
Margaret Owens, his wife, died March 13. 1881, aged ninety- four years. 
Mr. Hiram Owens acquired his education in the common school, and mar 
ried first Miss Satira Sprague, daughter of William and Sarah (Davis) 
Sprague. There ha,ye been born to them three children, two living — Min- 
erva D., born September 8, 1850; William, May 25, 1856. The deceased 
was Irwin C. died September 28, 1849, aged two years. Mrs. Owens was 
born August 14. 1864, and died November 7, 1860, aged thirty one years. 
Mr. O. was an influential farmer, owning at his death 240 acres. His decease 
occurred in 1865. By industry Mrs. O. has added 115 acres, owning with 
her step -son 354 acres, valued at $70 per acre. They make rearing of stock 
a specialty. 

^YILL1AM E. PARKER was born in Zane Township, Logan County, 
Ohio. April 5, 1844. His parents' names were William and Heppy (Ewaus) 
Parker, the former a native of Bourbon County, Kv. . and the latter of Lo- 



MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP. 855 

gan County. Ohio. He passed his youth in Logan County, and learned the 
business of a miller in his father's mill at West Liberty. In 1862, being 
thpn eighteen years of age, he was employed as a clerk for the Quartermas- 
ter of the Fifty fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, then stationed 
near Clarksburg, Va., remaining in this position for eighteen months. In 
1S64, he enlisted in Company B, One Hundred and Thirty-second Ohio 
Volunteer Infantry, for three months; was with a detachment of bis regi- 
ment that participated in the battle of Cold Harbor, and on the expiration 
of his term of service he was honorably discharged October 5. 1864, when 
he returued home. He soon secured a clerkship in the Bellefontaine Kail- 
road freight office, where he remained until 1869, when he was appointed 
railroad agent at La Rue, a position that he held for six years; then he was 
transferred to Anderson, Ind., acting as railroad agent at that place for six 
months; then returned to La Rue and was employed at the wood- bending 
works until April, 1883, when he was appointed Postmaster at La Rue, a 
position which he now holds. In politics, he is a Republican, and has 
served the village of La Rue as its Mayor for one term, and as a member of 
the Council for two terms. He was married in January. 1877, to Miss Emma 
F. Bechtold, a daughter of Christian Becbtold, and by this marriage there 
are two children — Margaret and John Christian. 

CORD H. PRETTYMAN was born in Sussex County, Del., January 9, 
1825, the son of Joseph and Nancy (Walker) Prettyman, of English and 
Scotch-Irish ancestry, and natives of the same State. They came to Cham- 
paign County, Ohio, in 1832, stopping there four Years, and they settled 
permanently in Montgomery Township, Marion County, Ohio. They were 
the parents of twelve children, five surviving — Cord H., Elizabeth, Thomas, 
Sarah and David. The names of the deceased are Mary, Nancy. George, 
Robert, James. Kensey and Violetta. The father died September 25, 1840, 
and the mother January 14, 1871 The subject of this sketch, having ob- 
tained a practical education, was for three years a drover, and two years a 
bartender for Lyman Walker, of Marion. He married, October 29, 1846, 
Comfort O. Wilson, born May 13, 1827, a daughter of Kendle and Amelia 
(Dutton) Wilson, of English ancestry, and natives of Delaware. They 
moved to Obio, and settled in Bowling Green Township. Marion County, 
where he died in 1833. His wife survived until i860. Mr. C. H. Pretty- 
man and wife are the parents of ten children, nine living— Nelson T. , born 
October 23, 1849; Jennie A., November 9. 1851; George W.. Julv 5, 1853; 
Alice, April 29, 1855; Happy V., February 19, 1857; Malinda B. , December 
13, 1859; JeannettaL., November 28, 1861; LoveyA.. June 23, 1864, and 
Nellie V., February 6, 1867. George W. P. was born May 5, 1848, and 
died May 27, 1852. For two years, Mr. Prettyman bought and shipped 
stock, but he has been giving his attention principally to the farm, which 
contains 278 acres of good land. He settled upon it in 1836, when it was 
a dense wilderness. He has been Trustee of the township several terms, 
its Assessor one year, and a member of the Board of Education five years, 
and of the County Board of Agriculture eight years. He is a Republican, 
belongs to the F. & A. M., to the I. O. O. F., and to the Methodist Epis- 
copal Church. 

DAVID PRETTYMAN, son of Joseph and Nancy (Walker) Prettyman, 
was born in Champaign County, Ohio. July 4, 1837, of English and 
Scotch-Irish ancestry. Having acquired a fair education, he married, May 
10, 1857, Martha J. Beacb, who was born February 2, 1839, and three chil- 
dren were born to them — Irven, born March 30, 1858: Joseph, born June 



856 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

19, 1865; and Eloiry, born December 30, 1862, 1 dying April 21, 1863. Mr. 
Prettyman has been dependent on bis own resources since his twelfth year, 
and so successfully has he labored that he now has eighty acres of valuable 
land, worth $60 per acre. He is a worthy citizen, Democrat, and a mem- 
ber of the Meihodist Episcopal Church. 

GEORGE H. POSTLES, sole proprietor of a livery stable at La Rue, 
Ohio, was born in Sussex County, Del., April 15, 1833, the son of John 
and Mary (Gray) Postles, of German descent and natives of the above 
State. They came to this State in 1839, settling in Salt Rock Township, 
Marion County, among the first settlers. They had four children, three of 
whom survive— Mary E. , Rachel A. and George H. ; Eliza J. is dead. Mr. 
Postles was married August. 16, 1855, to Ann Waples, daughter of Benja- 
min arid Kebecca Waples, of English ancestry, and natives of Delaware. 
This union has been crowned with six children — Elnore J., Mary R., John 
E., Georgietta, Harry B. and Louis. Mr. Postles, having obtained a limited 
education, engaged when aged eighteen years in farming, continuing ten 
years, when he followed tanning and other occupations. Some time since, 
he moved to La Lue, purchasing his stable of B. W. Miller. He is keep- 
ing a good outfit in both buggies and horses, and is commanding his share 
of the patronage of the traveling public. He enjoys the respect of the com- 
munity, aud is a Democrat 

SAMUEL R. RILEY is a native of Montgomery Township, born Feb- 
ruary 3, 1857, the only son of William Riley. He was educated wholly at 
the common school, and was married October 1, 1878, to Hannab M. Miller, 
daughter of George W. and Mary (Endreken) Miller. The name of their 
only child is George William, born September 25, 1879. Mr. Riley is a 
promising young man, being strictly moral, energetic and business like. 
Already he has accumulated a property of $3,000. He is a Republican, nnd 
a member of the Free- Will Baptist Church, and she belongs to the M. E. 
Church. 

WILLIAM RILEY was born October 20, 1823, the son of William and 
Vezy Riley, of English extraction, and natives of Delaware, who came to 
Ohio, settling in Marion Count} at a very early date, having obtained a 
deed of some land in this county even before the war of 1812. They had 
six children, three still living — John, W T illiam and Robert. The deceased 
were Nancy, Patience and an infant son, George. The mother died in 
1829, but the father survived until 1846. William Riley, having received 
a fair education from the district schools, married, February 23, 1851, 
Elizabeth Powell, born March 3, 1831, daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth 
Powell, natives of Wales. They have had five children — Lydia J., born 
January 31, 1852; Mary E., August 22, 1854; Samuel R., February 3, 
1857; Sarah E., October 12, 1859, and Princess I., June 24, 1863. Mrs. 
Riley's death occurred October 9, 1880. Mr. Riley received a small pit- 
tance from his father's estate, but has accumulated a snug little fortune, 
having now 145 acres of land, valued at $70 per acre. He was born, 
reared, and has always lived in this county. He enjoys the confidence of 
the community in which he resides, is a member of the Free- Will Baptist 
Church, and is a Republican. 

ALEXANDER ROBINSON was born in Washington County, Penn., 
September 27, 1833, the son of Daniel and Sarah (Farbie) Robinson, of 
German ancestry, and natives of Pennsylvania and Delaware respectively. 
They came to Ohio in 1847, brought up eight children, the mother dying 
in 1875, and the father in 1882. Alexander moved to Marion County when 






MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP. 857 

twenty-two years of age, and married, December 31, 1857, Sarali A. Car- 
ter, born February 25, 1835, the daughter of James and Christiana (Kep- 
ler) Carter, the former of English and the latter of German extraction. 
They came to Ohio in an early day, and to Marion County, settling on the 
present farm of their daughter in 1835. He was one of the first settlers, 
and became prominent in the politics of the day, and in the ownership of 
large tracts of land. His death occurred in 1846. Mrs. Robinson, his 
daughter, has resided nearly a half century on the old homestead. Mr. 
and Mrs R. are the parents of one child — James \V., born August 27, 1859. 
These people commenced life with limited means, but through industry and 
good management have a comfortable home, and a farm of 151 acres, a 
property valued at $10,000. May 2, 1864, he enlisted in the late civil war, 
in Company I, One Hundred and Thirty-fifth Ohio National Guards, and was 
wounded in a battle near Harper's Ferry, being struck on the foot by a 
fragment of a bursting shell; this took place July 7, 1864. In this en- 
gagement, his regiment, numbering 1,000 strong, lost full one-naif in 
killed, wounded and prisoners. His discharge dates, " Camp Chase, Ohio, 
September 28, 1864. " He is a member of the I. O. O. F., at La Rue, Ohio, 
the Republican party, and, with his wife, of the Methodist Episcopal Church 

CHARLES E. SAWYER, M. D., was born near Wyandot, Ohio, Jan- 
uary 24, 1860, the son of Alonzo N. and Harriet M. (Rogers) Sawyer, na- 
tives of New York and Connecticut respectively, and of English ancestry. 
When young, they came to Ohio, and became the parents of six children, 
only Charles E. still surviving. Dr. Sawyer obtained a good practical edu- 
cation at the village school, at Nevada, Ohio, and when aged seventeen 
years, commenced to study medicine, under the instruction of Dr. W. F. 
White, of the same place. He graduated at the medical college, at Cleve- 
land, Ohio, in 1881, and began to practice at La Rue, Ohio, April 26 of 
the same year; during these two years, he has secured an enviable patronage 
for a young man. August 11, 1879, he married at Nevada, Ohio, May E. 
Barron, daughter of Rev. James H. and Abbie J. (Walker) Barron, of En- 
glish ancestry, who were the parents of seven children, all living — Loyal 
W., May E., Ossian E., Minnie O., Metta D., James W. and Jennie N. 
The Doctor has one heir, Charles W., born May 30, 1881. He and his wife 
are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which he is a liberal 
supporter. 

DR. J. K. SCOTT was born in Leesburg Township, Union Co., Ohio. 
March 12, 1844. He passed his early years on a farm, and havino- pro 
cured a good English education, commenced in 1868 the study of medicine 
in the oifice of Dr. S. S. Skidmore, at Pharisburg, Union County, re- 
maining with him three years. During this time, he attended one course of 
medical lectures at Ann Arbor, Mich., and the following winter a course of 
lectures at the Starling Medical College at Columbus. Ohio, where he grad- 
uated in 1871. He immediately commenced the practice of medicine with 
his preceptor at Pharisburg, continuing with him two years, and on the 28th 
of April, 1873, he came to La Rue, where he has been in continuous prac- 
tice up to this time. The Doctor was married in September, 1875, to Ella 
Hastings, who died October 8, 1879. The Doctor married the second time. 
December 18, 1881, Alice Corry; they have two children — Maud and Al- 
fred. Dr. Scott enlisted in August, 1864, in Company I, One Hundred and 
Seventy- fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was honorably dis- 
charged at the close of the war in July, 1865, at Charlotte, N. C. He par- 
ticipated in the battle of the Cedars, at Murfreesboro, Tenn., December 7 

MM 



858 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

1864, where be was wounded by a gunshot in the right arm, disabling him 
nntil the 1st of tbe following March, and on the 10th of March took part in 
the battle of Kingston, and from this to the close of the war in several 
skirmishes. The Doc-tor is a member of La Rue Lodge, No. 463, F. & A. 
M., and is a Prohibitionist in politics. He is also the owner of a fine livery 
stable, located in the east part of the village. 

LEROY SCRANTON was born March 24, 1834, in Cuyahoga County, 
Ohio, the fourth son of Alson and Wealthy ( Whitlock) Scranton, the former 
dying August 20, 1843, and the latter January 13, 1844, aged forty-two 
years. The subject of this sketch, having received a limited education, was 
married, November 9, 1865, to Miss Mary E. Myers, a daughter -of Jonathan 
and Elizabeth (Davis) Myers, and six children have blessed their home. 
Their names are Eva A., born August 30, 1866; Elnora J., March 2, 1870; 
Sarah I., May 16, 1872; John A., February 17, 1876; Ada B., November 
16, 1879; and Orra E., died August 23, 1870, aged two and one-third 
years. Mrs. Myers, born April 1, 1847, was a devoted Christian, a con- 
sistent member of the Free-Will Baptist Church; her death took place 
March 7, 1881. Mr. Scranton began life with but $50, but at present, 
through his indefatigable efforts, owns 120 acres of excellent land. He en- 
rolls his name with the honorable list of " 100-day " men during the late 
war, and having engaged in a spirited contest at Maryland Heights, was 
honorably discharged September 1, 1864, having served his full time. He 
is a stanch Republican, and a member of the Free-Will Baptist Church at 
La Rue. 

WARNER SCRANTON, sole proprietor of the leading house in the 
furniture business at La Rue, Ohio, was born in Grange County, Ohio, 
April 30, 1826, the son of Alson and Wealthy (Whitlock) Scranton, of En- 
glish ancestry, and natives of New York and New Hampshire respectively. 
They were the parents c f seven children, four of whom survive — Warner, 
Edson, Leroy and Edwin; the names of the deceased are Lyman, Sarah and 
Albert. Mr. Scranton married, January 22, 1852, Martha A. (Ward) Hogle, 
widow of Jacob Hogle, and daughter of John Ward. There were born to 
this union two children — George P., born October 6, 1852; and Walter D., 
who died November 23, 1862, aged eleven months and five days. The wife 
died in May, 1864. Our subject married again, April 30, 1865, Margaret 
P. Dillow, daughter of John and Elizabeth (Stewart) Dillow. Mr. Scran- 
ton, having obtained a moderate education, was thrown upon his own re- 
sources at the age of eighteen years by the death of his father. He chose 
for his occupation farming, and in 1857 moved his family to Hardin Coun- 
ty, Ohio, for three years. In 1861 he came to Marion County, losing his 
wife as aforesaid. May 2, 1864. he entered Company H, One Hundred 
and Thirty fifth Regiment Ohio National Guard. He was engaged at 
Harper's Ferry and many skirmishes, and was honorably discharged at Co- 
lumbus September 1. 18'64. Being later irregularly drafted in Madison 
County, Ohio, he obtained a release by the payment of $300. He sold his 
farm of 114 acres, located in Hardin County, Ohio, and moved to La Rue 
in October, 1881, purchasing a lot, and erecting a commodious ten-room 
house. He is conducting a good business with a stock of $1,200. He is 
an exemplary citizen, and a Republican in politics. 

HENRY H. SHARP was born in Montgomery Township December 16, 
1844, and is the son of John and Mary Sharp. He enlisted to serve on the 
Union side in the war of the great rebellion, November 22. 1861, at Marion, 
in Company D, Sixty-fourth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He served three 



MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP. 859 

years, and re-enlisted at Blain's Cross Roads, East Tenn., to serve during 
the remainder of the war as a veteran, and was mustered out of the service 
January 3, 1865, at Columbus, Ohio. He participated in twenty-seven 
battles, and was wounded September 19, 1863, by a gunshot in the left side 
at the battle of Chickamauga, and was again wounded at the battle of 
Rocky Face Ridge. Ga., by a gunshot through the right shoulder and arm; 
From the effects of this wound his shoulder on that side is lower than the 
other. Mr. Sharp was married, March 30, 1870, to Maggie Davis, of Dela- 
ware County. They have two children — Belle, born January 7, 1878, and 
Scott, born August 27, 1879. 

H. L. SIMONS, son of John and Mary Simons, natives of Pennsylva- 
nia. His birth took place February 19, 1840, in Beaver County, Penn. 
When aged fourteen years, he was working upon the tow-path of the Penn 
sylvania Canal; his home, however, was in "Westmoreland County, Penn., 
until 1862, when he emigrated to Upper Sandusky, Ohio. He enlisted in 
the late war August 20, 1862, under Capt. Alonzo Robbins, Company F. 
One Hundred and Twenty- third Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was 
engaged at Winchester under Mulligan, where he was captured and sent to 
Libby, Castle Thunder and Belle Isle two months; when taken to Annapolis, 
Md., he walked to Green sburg, Penn., a distance of 300 miles, rejoining 
his regiment October 20, 1863. At Newmarket, they lost seventy -six men in 
fifteen minutes. At Piedmont, June 5, 1864, he assisted in the capture 
of Gen. Henry Jones. He was at Lynchburg, Parkersburg and Snicker's 
Gap: at the last place but ten men were left in the company, and but forty 
in the regiment. He engaged also at Kerren Town, Hall Town, Opequon. 
Fisher's Hill, Cedar Creek, Hatcher's Run (five days' fight, where he captured 
a reb^l flag), Battery George and Appomattox Bridge, when he was again 
made a prisoner, and retained as such until the surrender of Lee's army, 
and then he was exchanged. His honorable discharge dates " June 12, 1865. 
Camp Chase, Ohio." After the close of the war, he worked at the carpen- 
ter trade. Mr. Simons was married to Malinda J. Spracklen, October 15, 
1868; she was the daughter of the Rev. Alfred and Abigail Spracklen, and 
was born in Seneca County, Ohio, February 17, 1842, and died January 4. 
1878. They had two children — Guy H. and Naomi P. Naomi died March 
24. 1878. Mr. S. married Lydia Bent March 17, 1880; since then he has 
been farming. He supports the Democratic ticket and is a member of the 
Union Presbvterian Church. 

MRS. LYDIA SIMONS, the widow of Charles Bent and wife of the 
preceding, was the daughter of James and Jane (DeMos*) Vezey, and born 
February 4, 1839, in Montgomery Township. Her parents were natives of 
Ohio, but of English and French descent. They were the parents of three 
children — Lydia, Sarah and Betsy. The mother died about 1850, but the 
father survived until 1862. Mrs. S. was first married, November 1, 1862. 
to Charles Bent, born March 17. 1836, son of Elijah and Maria (Carr) Bent. 
They were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which she re- 
mains a member. His decease occurred May 19. 1873. She again mar 
ried, March 17, 1880, Henry L. Simons, as above stated. She inherited her 
farm of 120 acres fjr»in her parents: has erected a fine house and made com- 
mendable improvements. 

JOSEPH SLAGLE, deceased, was born in Scott Township March 5, 
1844, the son of Jacob and Dinah (Zuck) Slagh\ of German ancestry, and 
natives of Maine and Ohio respectively. He came with his parents in 1819, 
to Ross County, Ohio, whpr<^ they resided until 1810, when they moved to 



8ti0 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Marion County, settling in Scott Township. He was one of the rirst set- 
tlers of Ohio, and among the earliest of the above townships. They reared 
a family of seven children, five living — John, Joseph, Thomas F., Marga- 
ret A. and Lydia J. The names of the deceased are Placida and Wesley. 
Having acquired a fair education, Joseph Slagle enlisted in defense of his 
country October 7, 1862, in Company H, One Hundred and Twentieth Regi- 
ment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He participated in the following battles: 
Chickasaw, Arkansas Post, Thompson's Hills, Vicksburg, Jackson a^d 
Snaggy Point (capturing boat); this last was attended with fearful carnage; 
two-thirds of the men were either captured, killed or wounded. Mr. S. 
escaped by traveling through the pine regions to Alexandria, where he was 
assigned to the One Hundred and Fourteenth Regiment Ohio Volunteer In- 
fantry, and went to Alonda, Ala., engaging at Blakely, Ala. He then was 
sent to Texas, joining the Forty-eighth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, 
and was honorably discharged October 14, 1865. Upon bis return he was 
sick two years. In 1869, he came to Montgomery Township, and was mar- 
ried April 18, 1872, to Miss L. A. Miller, daughter of John T. and Hannah 
(Elland) Miller, of English stock. The former died December 30, 1871, 
aged thirty years; the latter is still living. Mr. Slagle owned 100 acres of 
good land, upon which he grazed a large number of stock. He died June 
21, 1883. leaving a kind and affectionate wife, and many friends to mourn 
his loss. He was an ardent Republican and a faithful citizen. 

JOSEPH SLANSER. of the firm of Allen & Slanser, was born Octo- 
ber 5, 1835, in Switzerland, the son of Andrew and Catherine Slanser. His 
father came to America, 1851, settling in Mercer County, Ohio, purchasing 
forty acres of land, and died at the age of forty -five years. The mother 
died in her native land, in 1838. Joseph accompanied his father to this 
country, with a very limited schooling, but by self exertion he has accpaired 
a good education. He first learned the carpenter's trade, but during the 
past eighteen years has been devoting himself to milling. He established 
the present partnership in 1880, planing and manufacturing lumber, and 
much minor work incident to such a business, at times employing fifteen 
hands. 

SARA.H SPRAGUE was born in Washington County, Ohio, August 7, 
1807. and was the daughter of Elisha and Nancy (Allison) Davis. She was 
married, December 28, 1826, to William Sprague. From this marriage 
there were eleven children, four living, as follows: Elisha D., born No- 
vember 11, 1827; Sarah E., June 22, 1838; William H., October 21, 1840. 
and Emilv O. , October 5, 1845. The deceased are Ann E., born December 
9, 1830; Viletta, born August 30, 1833; Arinda, August 11, 1835; Louisa 
A., April 3, 1843; Olive P., April 5, 1848; Wilber N., December 15, 1850 
All of the foregoing children died when from two to seven years of age. 
and Satira was born May 11, 1829. and died November 11, I860., 
William Sprague, the father of these children, was born May 2, 1805, and 
died September 16, 1850. leaving Mrs. Sprague with six children to care 
for. Those that grew to be men and women are highly respected citizens. 
For the last thirty years Mrs. Sprague has depended upon her own manage- 
ment of business affairs, which has been successful. Some time since, she 
sold her farm of 320 acres near Scott Town, and now resides in a pleasant 
residence on Main street, La Rue, with her daughter Emily. She is a mem- 
ber of the Free-Will Baptist Church. The parents of Mrs. Sprague were 
of 'English and Irish ancestry, and natives of Massachusetts and Pennsyl- 
vania respectively, and came to Ohio with their parents at a very early 



MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP. 861 

period. Her father came to Marion County in 1823, remaining about two 
years, and subsequently settled permanently in Montgomery Township, 
where he died aged sixty-seven years. His wife had then been dead twenty 
nine years. 

WILLIAM H. SPRAGFE was born October 21, 1840, in Montgomery 
Township, the son of William and Sarah (Davis) Sprague. He acquired a 
good education, closing with a few months at Hillsdale College, Mich. He 
continued farming with and for his mother until marriage, which occurred 
November 24, 1864, to Miss Jane Clark, daughter of John andHuldah (Mes 
sick) Clark, and their children are Nettie R. , born July 8, 1867, and wife 
of the Rev. W. B. Strother; Sarah P., born August 1, 1873, and an infant 
son, died January 14, 1866, aged twenty days. Subsequent to marriage. 
Mr. Sprague continued farming, but also gave considerable attention to 
dealing in stock. In 1874, he moved to La Rue, and for seven years en- 
gaged in buying and shipping stock, in which he is still dealing. In 1882, 
he resumed farming, owning at present 116 acres of desirable land. He 
estimates his property at $10,000. He is a Republican in politics, and. 
with his wife, a member of the Free-Will Baptist Church. 

HENRY THEW is a native of Lincolnshire, England, born June 10, 
1815, the son of Richard and Ann (Bothamley) Thew, who emigrated to 
America in 1824, settling in Richland County, where they resided until 
death. They brought up eight children, four of whom are living, all in 
comfortable circumstances. The mother died in 1828," the father in 1831. 
Henry Thew, having lived with Robert Ralston three years, came to Marion 
County in 1829. In 1833, he learned the trade of shoe-making, and followed 
the boot and shoe business in Marion twelve years. Disposing of his stock 
in 1848, he bought his present farm, comprising 310 acres, valued at $80 
per acre. He, too, began life with nothing. January 30, 1839, he married 
Hannah S. Hay ward, daughter of Isaac and Ann (Shephard) Hay ward, from 
England. Their eight children are all living, save Henry C., who died May 
31, 1862, from a disease contracted in the army. Mr. Thew's wife died 
February 1 1, 1872. He married again October 8, 1874, Emma Bothamley, 
daughter of John and Mary E. (Thew) Bothamley. They sailed for this 
country in 1853, settling in Marion County. He died about 1857. and she 
May 15, 1864. Mr. Thew, the subject of this biography, is one of the old- 
est and first pioneers of this county, having lived here over half a century. 
At one time he was a prominent candidate for County Commissioner. He is 
a leading citizen, an extensive farmer, a prominent member of the F. & A. 
M., and he and his wife hold a membership in the Methodist Episcopal 
Church. He was a charter member of the old Montgomery Church, and 
for thirty-five years was Circuit Steward of the church, missing only one 
quarterly conference during that time. As a pioneer and respected citizen 
of Montgomery Township, we give the portrait of Mr. Thew in this work. 

MRS. DORCAS TOPLIFF, the widow of Louis Topliff, was born in 
Washington County, Ohio, .December 9, 1820, the daughter of Abner and 
Elizabeth (Dilla) Bent, who were of English descent, natives of Massachu 
setts and Virginia respectively. They had eight children. Dorcas only 
surviving. The names of the deceased are Lincoln G., Henry C. , William 
H. , Susan E., xAugusta and Roena. Abner Bent settled in Grand Prairie 
Township in a very early day, when Marion City was a wilderness. He 
died in 1840, aged fifty-three years; his wife died in 1856. Mrs. Topliff, 
was married, March 13, 1850. in Wabash County, Ind., to Louis Topliff, 
son of Horatio and Sarah (Sargeaut) Topliff. He came to Marion County 



862 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

in is:},"), stopping in Big Island Township one year, thence ho moved to 
Montgomery Township, purchasing land, which amounted in time to 1,000 
acres. He was largoly identified with the building up of the thriving 
village of La Rue. He owned at one time a grist mill, a saw mill and a 
carding mill here. He was an industrious and enterprising citizen, and 
was so generally interested in the growth of La Rue that as long as the 
village stands, so long will his name be remembered. His death took place 
in 1869, leaving a family of three children, four others having died. The 
names of the deceased are Susan A., Louis R. , Cai-rie R., and an infant 
son. The living are Calvin, born December 13, 1856; Emma J., November 
10, 1857, and Princess C. June 8. i860. Mrs. Topliff, with her husband, 
was among the first settlors of La Rue, and hence she has seen the forest 
transformed into a thriving village of 800 inhabitants. At present she is 
living with her son Calvin at La Rue. She is a member of the Free- Will 
Baptist Church, and a liberal supporter of the same. 

MRS. LUCY (BENNETT) VANARSDALL, Thomas Vanarsdall's widow, 
was born in Monroe County, N. Y. , July 17, 1815, the daughter of Zadoc 
and Mary (Parish) Bennett. While on their way to Ohio in 1815, the 
father was overtaken by disease, died, and was buried near Olean Point; 
thereupon the mother i-eturned, riding all the way on horseback. She died in 
Livingston County, N. Y. , in 1860. Mrs. Vanarsdall was married to Thomas 
Vanarsdall October 15, 1837. He was the son of Garrett and Mary (Wood 
beck) Vanarsdall, natives of Holland, but died residents of New York. Mr. 
and Mrs. V. came to Ohio in 1839, settling in Grand Township, and rear 
ing a family of five children, all living — Julia E., Josephine, Jane, 
Charles and John. Mr. V. was an estimable citizen, was Trustee of the 
township several years, and a liberal and active supporter of the Presby- 
terian Church. He was born January 11, 1807, and died May 15, 1876. 
His widow is highly regarded by the community in which she resides, and 
is a consistent member of the Presbyterian Church. 

JOHN A. VANORSDALL, custom boot and shoe maker, is a native of 
Cayuga County, N. Y. , and was born March 20, 1833, a son of Andrew and 
Caty (Vanorsdall) Vanorsdall. John A. came out with his parents to Ohio 
in 1846, at which time they located in Mifflin Township, Wyandot County; 
John A. remained on the farm until the age of twenty, when he learned the 
shoo-maker's trade, and has followed that business to the present time. He 
was married December 29, 1870, to Florinda C. Bailey; they have two 
children — Nellie and Findley. Mr. V. enlisted at Upper Sandusky, Ohio, 
in October. 1861, in Company D, Eighty-first Regiment Ohio Volunteer In- 
fantry, to serve in the Union army during the civil war; served with the 
regiment in Missouri until March, 1862. He took part in the battle of 
Pittsburg Landing, the two battles of Corinth, and from Chattanooga to 
Atlanta in the Georgia campaign. His regiment was in the front, and he 
was present at the action at Snake Creek Gap. battle of Resaca, Rome 
Cross Roads, Big Shanty, Ackworth, Kenesaw Mountain, Decatur and in 
two battles in front of Atlanta, and in all the skirmishes of the regiment on 
that campaign. He was never wounded, although at one time the hair was 
cut close to his head by the passage of a bullet. He was honorably dis- 
charged, and mustered out of the service at Columbus, Ohio, in Octo 
ber, 1864. 

GEORGE W. VIRDEN was born April 24, 1825, in Sussex County, 
Del., the son of Alanson and Elizabeth Virden, of French ancestry and 
natives of the same county. Having acquired a fair education, he con- 



MONTGOMERY' TOWNSHIP. £t>3 

tinned with his parents until his thirty-fifth year. He came with them to 
this county, arriving October 3, 1833. He is a bachelor. He has always 
been a farmer; he now owns 260 acres of good land. For the past twen- 
ty-three years he has been keeping " bachelor's hall," living entirely alone, 
but winning the respect of the people at large. He supports the Demo- 
cratic party, and has held offices in the township. 

HENRY H. VIRDEN is the second son of Alanon and Elizabeth (Wil- 
son) Yirden, born iii Sussex County, Del., May 31, 1822. He came with 
his parents to Montgomery Township, in 1832. He embarked upon life in- 
dependently, when eighteen years of age; worked for his uncle three years. 
June 17. 1849, he married Mary Edgar, daughter of John and Permelia 
(Johnson) Edgar, of Scotch and English ancestry respectively. This mar- 
riage has been blessed with four childreu — John A.., born December 29, 
1850; Diantha J., Juue 19, 1853; Martha A., August 24, 1857, and Norton 
S., February 24, 1859. Their mother was born November 14, 1829. Mr. 
Virden nas been a farmer during his entire life, and has accumulated a fine 
property, having a farm of 195 acres, valued at $80 per acre. He is a re- 
spected citizen, has been Trustee of the township several years, and 
believes in the principles of the Democratic party. 

HENRY M. VIRDEN is a native of Montgomery Township, born Sep- 
tember 7, 1832, the son of William J. and Sarah A. (Vorhies) Yirden, of 
German and English extraction respectively. Having received a fair edu- 
cation, he taught four terms, the last one in Harrison County, Mo., in a log 
house with a sod chimney and clapboard roof. Returning from Missouri, 
in 1857, he became a laborer upon his fathers and neighboring farms, until 
he married, October 31, 1861, to Josephine Yanarsdall, born 1840, a daugh- 
ter of Thomas and Lucy (Bennett) Yanarsdall. Children — John E., born 
October 15, 1862; Charles H., December 19, 1865, and Maurice A., Sep- 
tember 2, 1867. Mr. Yirden is the oldest born resident in his township; 
he has been a faithful laborer, and as one product of his laoor, has 320 
acres of good land. He received from his wife and his father $5,000, 
but has made the remainder of his property; he is now worth $25,000. He 
was Trustee of the Township one term, and was appointed Postmaster at 
Cochranton in 1882. He is a good Republican, and he and wife are mem- 
bers of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

JOSHUA D. VIRDEN is the son of Theodore Virden, born May 21, 
1852. Having obtained a good practical education, he married, November 
18, 1875, Miss Frances Ansleman, daughter of Charles and Annie (Pheltie) 
Ansleman. The name of their one child is Loy Milton, born May 13, 
1883. Mr. Virden has been farming since his marriage, and owns to-day 
(1883) forty acres of land. He votes the Democratic ticket. 

T. D. VIRDEN, the fourth sun of Theodore W. and Sarah (Davis) 
Virden, was born in Montgomery Township September 1, 1847. Having 
acquired a fair practical education, he married, October 29, 1874, Mary E. 
Riley, daughter of William and Elizabeth (Powell) Riley, and they have 
had one child, George F., born January 16, 1876. Mr. Virden has been 
farming all his days, and has to-day (1883) a fine farm of seventy-one acres, 
upon which he has erected a suitable residence, and made other improve- 
ments. His specialty is the rearing of stock. He is a respectable citizen 
and a Democrat. 

WILLIAM A. VIRDEN, son of Theodore and Sarah (Davis) Yirden, 
was born July 6, 1839, in Montgomery Township. The district school crave 
him his education, and he married, October 3, 1861. Miss Mahala Drake, 



864 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

daughter of Zephaniah and Barbara (Bibler) Drake, of German ancestry. 
and natives of Ohio. They were the parents of seven children, six living 
— Mahala, Amanda. David, Julia, Elmer and Martin. Andrew was killed 
in the late war, aged twenty three years. The wife died March 14, 1878, 
and the father married again, Sarah E. Clark, November 30, 1879. He is 
one of the oldest pioneers in the county, and a member of the I. O. O. F. 
at La Rue. Mr. Virden has six children — Alanson, Annie B. , Hellen A., 
John T., Ezra T. and Mary A. He commenced life with limited means, 
but has made a success of farming. He owns today (1883) ninety acres of 
line land, with good improvements. He, too, is a Democrat. 

WILLIAM J. VIRDEN, the oldest pioneer citizen of Montgomery 
Township, was born in Sussex County, Del., December 8, 1804. He is a 
son of Mitchell and Navinna (Jefferson) Virden; his father, a native of the 
same county, was born September 16, 1774; he served in the war of 1812; 
he had four children by his first wife, three of whom are living — William 
J., the subject of this sketch; John W. , born July 23, 1807; Eliza, born 
April, 1810, and Ann, born September 16, 1813, and died in 1868. By his 
second wife he had the following: Benjamin, Joseph, Henry, Mary J., 
Lydia E., Sallie and an infant. Mr. Virden died in Delaware in 1838; his 
first wife preceded him in 1813. Mr. Virden. the subject of this sketch, 
migrated to Ohio in 1827, and remained four years in Warren County. In 

1831, he came to Montgomery Township and entered eighty acres of land; 
he married, October 12, of the same year, Sarah A. Vorhies, daughter of 
Henry and Sarah (Hart) Vorhies, and grand-daughter of John Hart, a 
signer of the Declaration of Independence. Mr. and Mrs. Virden have 
had born to them five children; of these, three are living— Henry M., born 
September 7, 1832; Ann E. , March 3, 1834, and James B., December 2, 
1838. Mr. Virden is the oldest living settler in Montgomery Township; he 
has always devoted his attention to agriculture, and has cleared 140 acres 
of land, owning at present a farm of 200 acres; he served as Trustee of 
the township twenty years, and as Justice of the Peace fifteen years. He 
is a member of the Presbyterian Church, and in politics is a Republican. 
Mrs. Virden departed this life February 11, 1879. 

ELI W APPLES was born in Fayette County, Ohio, April 25, 1827; his 
parents, Benjamin and Rebecca (Prettyman) Waples, were from Sussex 
County, Delaware, and came to Marion County when Eli was but seven 
months old, and located on Rocky Fork, four mile? north of Marion. In 

1832, his father entered 160 acres of land, one and a cuiarter miles north- 
west of La Rue, and lived there seven months. It was then a perfect wil- 
derness, and to get to the land, he was obliged to cut a road through the 
timber for a team to pass; he returned to his home north of Marion, where 
he lived till his death, which occurred April 21, 1844, aged forty years; his 
wife died in September, 1861. Eli Waples was married in 1851, to Martha 
A. Scott, who died October 15, 1856, leaving two children, as follows: Ben- 
jamin F., now a dry goods merchant at Marion, and Martha A., who mar- 
ried Edward Lingo, of La Rue, and died September 21, 1882. Mr. Wa- 
ples was married a second time, March 14, 1859, to Love E. Day. By the 
last marriage there is one child — Demaris. Mr. Waples is a Republican, 
and has served the township two terms as Assessor; he is a member of Day 
Lodge, No. 328, I. O. O. F.. and is a straightforward gentleman and highly 
esteemed citizen of La Rue. Mr. Waples formerly owned a farm of ninety 
eight acres in Big Island Township, where he lived four years; he sold 
this farm and bought 104 acres in Montgomery Township, which he still 



MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP. 865 

owns. In 1867, he moved to La Rue, and was engaged in butchering three 
years, and afterward at teaming, and in 1873, he opened a livery "stable, 
which business he has conducted ever since; he keeps on hand from five to 
ten good horses and six buggies, and has the best location in the village 
for a stable. 

PHILIP WEIST was born in Baden, Germany, December 25, 1831, 
the son of Christopher and Laney (Schrote) Weist, who came to America in 
1839, settling in Richland Township. The father died in 1873, but the 
mother still survives, aged (1883) eighty-four years. Mr. Weist began to 
do for himself at the early age of fourteen years, and by industry and fru- 
gality owns at present 416 acres in Montgomery Township, where he came 
in 1875, valued at $75 per acre. November 2, 1859, he married Mary 
Wilt, daughter of Jacob Wilt, a native of the " Fatherland." Eight chil- 
dren have been born to this union, all living, the youngest aged seven 
years. Mr. W. is a Democrat, and he and wife are members of the Luth- 
eran Church. 

AMOS H. WILSON is a native of Marion Countv, born February 7, 
1843, the son of Amos C. and Mary A. (Bishop) Wilson, of Scotch and En- 
glish ancestry respectively. The father was one of the early pioneers to this 
county, settling on the Whetstone River. He was one of "the first Commis- 
sioners of the county, an enthusiastic Republican, and accumulated a fair 
estate for his eleven children, dying December 25, 1855. He left a request 
that after burial in the old grave-yard, his remains should be removed later 
to the new one. Seventeen years afterward, this request was complied with, 
his body being found in an almost perfect state of preservation. Amos H.' 
was an adept, when a youth, at mastering the common branches, especially 
mathematics. W T hen aged twenty-seven years, he engaged in the mercan- 
tile business at Marion, having however, previously married, June 27, 1866. 
Fannie Guyton, of Clark County, daughter of James and Isabel Guyton, of 
English descent. One heir has blessed this marriage—Louis B. . born July 
1, 1867. This wife died in 1868; he again married October 25, 1876, Vir- 
ginia C. Showen, a daughter of Peter and Susan (Boyer) Showen, and three 
children have been born to them— Byron E., born August 1, 1878; Amos 
C, November 12, 1879. and Frank A., September 2, 1877, and dying fif- 
teen days later. Mr. Wilson served an apprenticeship, three years, learning 
the shoemaker's trade. He then engaged in the manufacture and sale of 
boots and shoes for thirteen years, Charles H. Terpany buying him out. 
He then moved to Montgomery Township, purchasing ninety acres of valu- 
able land. He has recently erected a suitable farm residence, and made 
other desirable improvements. He is an enthusiastic politician, and a 
hearty supporter of the Republican party. James Guyton, the father of 
Mr. Wilson's first wife, was born February 6, 1818, and died at Vicksburg, 
Miss , June 10, 1863, a member of the Union Army, Tenth Ohio Cavalry.' 
His wife, Isabel, was born March 9. 1818, and died December 1, 1865. 
Amos C. Wilson was born February 7, 1792, and died December 23, 1856. 
His third wife, Mary A. Graves, was born April 28, 1799, and is still 
living. 

JAMES M. WOOD, M. D., was born in Big Island Township, Marion 
County, March 1, 1853, and is a son of Hampton Wood, an early settler of 
that township, and mentioned elsewhere in this volume. Dr. Wood passed 
his early years on his father's farm in Big Island Township. From the 
age of eighteen to twenty-three years, he followed the calling of a teacher, 
though during this time he attended three terms as a student at the Ridge- 



86b' HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

ville College, at Ridgeville, Ind. When twenty-three years of age, he com- 
menced reading medicine with Dr. R. C. Bowdish, of Big Island. He pur- 
sued his studies with Dr. Bowdish three years, meantime attending lectures 
at the Columbus Medical College, graduating at that institution in 1879, 
and soon after commenced the practice of his profession at Yelverton, Har- 
din County. The following year the Doctor moved to La Rue, where he 
has since resided, and besides his practice owns and operates a drug store. 
In October, 1882, the Doctor took in Mr. M. H. Virden as a partner in the 
drug business, the firm now being Wood & Virden. Dr. Wood was mar- 
ried November, 1879, to Lucy F. Potter, a daughter of Josiah Potter, of 
Dudley Township, Hardin County. They have two children — Mamie Ella 
and Aubry Hampton. Dr. Wood was appointed Postmaster at La Rue in 
1881. and acted until April 10, 1883. 



CHAPTER IX. 



PLEASANT TOWNSHIP. 

AN impenetrable and almost unbroken forest, with no timber removed 
save that which time and the disturbing element had plucked and de 
stroyed, and whose primitive beauty and density remained as a natural shelter 
for the savage beasts and scarcely less savage men, and as beautiful bowers in 
which "the Indian lover wooed his dusky mate," is, in a measure, descrip- 
tive of Pleasant Township at the dawning of the present century. Beneath 
those leafy bowers and in the many shady dells, mythical, legendary and 
traditional scenes have been enacted, which, together with indisputable 
facts, have traced the pathway of the years to the present time and formed 
a fascinating history of the township for a period extending over four- 
score years. It is our purpose, however, to record only well authenticated 
facts in this chapter, leaving the traditional or uncertain history to be 
handed down from one generation to another, or to perish, unforgotten in 
the past. Yet, however interesting the history of the red man, and possi- 
bly the Mound -Builders, of this territory, however much we should like to 
know of their habits, customs, modes of living, and the minute details of 
their every -day life, or even however much we should like to record the 
many amusing, as well as the many touching incidents of early pioneer 
life, all must be omitted unless well authenticated. 

He who attempts to trace the outline of the history of this township from 
the past to the present, with the aid of but few records or the assistance of 
but few living witnesses, must needs go but a short distance into the back- 
ward path ere he becomes involved in a labyrinth of mystery scarcely less 
dense than the primeval forests themselves. However, there are authenti- 
cated historical facts that especially concern the present and the future gen 
erations of this township which in nowise should here be omitted. 

ORGANIC HISTORY. 

Pleasant was one of the original townships of this county, it being the 
name given to the greater portion of surveyed Township No. 6, Range 15, on 



PLEASANT TOWNSHIP. 867 

the second day of the first session of the County Commissioners, after the 
organization of Marion Couuty. The board, then consisting of Matthew 
Merritt, Amos Wilson and Enoch B. Merriman, Commissioners, and Hez- 
ekiah Gorton as Auditor, met in first session on June 7, 1824, and on June 
8 we find the following entry: 

_ , . _, , Marion, June 8, 1824. 

Ordered, That surveyed Township No. 6. in Range 15, except two tiers of sec- 
tions on the west, be and the same is herebv set off as a new township bv the name 
of Pleasant Township. 

This name was suggested by Humphrey Mounts. 

A full surveyed township, made in accordance with the law, consists of 
sis sections square, or thirty-six sections, so that, according to the above 
order, Pleasant Township did not originally include the full surveyed 
township by two tiers or twelve sections on the west side. But since then a 
number of changes have been made, until now it includes a greater portion 
of the originally surveyed township. The first change was made at the 
June session in the following year, when those two tiers of sections were 
restored to Pleasant Township, as will be seen from the following entry: 

„ . . Marion. June 6, 1825. 

Commissioners present, John Page, Amos Wilson, Zachariah Welch: 
Ordered, That so much of Green Camp Township as lies in surveyed Township 
JNo. 6. in Range 15, be and the same is hereby set off to Pleasant Township. 

A cont ention and stri f e for the possession of these two tiers of sections seems 
to have been going on at that time between the citizens of Green Camp 
and Pleasant Townships; for at the December session of the County Com- 
missioners in the same year, we find the following order recorded, which 
gave back to Green Camp Township one tier of sections, the half of which 
had been recently restored to Pleasant Township: 

„ , , m . Tuesday, December 6, 1825. 

Ordered, That one mile on the west side of Pleasant Township be, and the same 
is hereby set off to Green Camp Township. 

But this boundary was not destined long to remain. In March, of the 
following year, the Couutv Commissi oners' record shows the following en- 
try: to 

„ , , _. Tuesday, March 7, 1826. 

Ordered, 1 hat so much of Green Camp Township as lies in surveyed Township No 
<>. in Range 15, be and the same is hereby set off to Pleasant Township, except the Sec- 
tions No. 6, 7 and 18. 

A year later the following order was made by the Commissioners: 

r, , , _,. . Tuesday, March 6, 1827. 

ordered, lhat the south tier of sections now belonging to Big Island Township and 
one-half mile on the west side of Township 6, Range 15 south, be and the same is here- 
by set off to Green Camp Township; and that the east half of Sections 6. 7 and 18 in 
said township above described be and the same is hereby set off to Pleasant Township. 

There were still other changes made in the boundaries, as will be seen 
from the following portion of an entry made in the Commissioners' record 
in the year 1838: 

March 5 (1st Monday), 1838. 
Commissioners met pursuant to the statute in such case made and provided Pres- 
ent, Charles Merriman, John Shunk and George Beckley. Whereupon, on petition of 
John Britt and others, it is ordered that the half-mile strip taken off of the west end of 
Township 6 south, Range 15. in this county, and attached to the township of Green 
Camp in said county, also the whole of Township No. 6 south, Range 14, in this coun- 
ty, be and the same is hereby detached from said township of Green Camp and attached 
to the township of Pleasant in this county. * * * 

In the year 1848, another change worthy of mention was made, as we 
gather from the records of that date as follows: 



868 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

June 5, 1848. 

This day the Commissioners of Marion County met pursuant to the statute. Pres- 
ent: Hugh v . Smith and John Uncapher, Commissioners; and Peter Beerbower, County 
Auditor. 

This day came Alexander Porter and others, being the majority of the householders 
residents within the territory hereinafter described, and made application by petition 
for an alteration in the boundaries of Green Camp and Pleasant Townships, by attach- 
ing to said Green Camp Township the following described territory from Pleasant 
Township, to wit: Sections 1, 2, 3, 11 and 12, and the north half of fractional Section 
13, in Township 6 south, Range 14, and the west halves of Sections 6 and 7, and the 
northwest quarter of Section 18, Township No. 6, Range 15. And it appearing to the 
satisfaction of the Commissioners that legal notice of said application had been given, 
and that said proposed alteration is necessary, it is ordered that the said territory above 
described be and the same is hereby attached to the said township of Green Camp. 

In June, 1848, when the township of Prospect was organized, a portion 
of Pleasant Township was added to the new township, as will be seen from 
the following portion of an entry made at that date: 

Marion County, Ohio, June 5, 1848. 
This day came George Beams, Christian Gast and others, being a majority of 
householders within the territory hereinafter described, and made application by peti- 
tiou for the erection of a new township to be called Prospect, to comprise and inclose 
the following territory, to wit: All those portions and parts of Radnor and Thompson 
Townships attached to the county of Marion by the act erecting the county of Morrow, 
passed February 24. 1848, including that portion of Radnor Township incorporated in 
Waldo Township by the Commissioners of Marion County at their March meeting in 
1848; also Sections No. 31, 32, 33 and 34 in Township 6 south, Range 15, being in 
Pleasant Township; also fractional Section No. 36, Towmship 6 south, Range 14, in said 
Pleasant Township. * * * 

On the following day, a portion of Section No. 33 and all of Section 34 
were restored to Pleasant Township, as will be seen from a portion of an 
entry made in the Commissioners' record of that date: 

Tuesday Morning, June 5, 1848. 
On application and good cause being shown, it is ordered that the order of the 
Commissioners entered as of yesterday, erecting the new township of Prospect, in 
Marion County, be so amended that the whole of fractional Section No. 34 and the east 
half of fractional Section No. 33, Township 6 south. Range 15, be restored and at- 
tached to the township of Pleasant, from which the same was taken. * * * 

On the same day, an order was made by the Commissioners, which gave 
a portion of the territory belonging to Pleasant Township to Waldo 
Township, as will be observed by the following portion of an entry made 
at that time: 

Tuesday. June 6, 1848. 

This day came Daniel S. Drake and others, being a majoritj' of the householders 
within the territory hereinafter described, and made application by petition for an al- 
teration of the boundaries of Waldo and Pleasant Townships, in Marion County, by at- 
taching to said Waldo Township the following territory from said Pleasant Township, 
to wit: The whole of fractional Sections No. 34, 35 and 36, and the south halves of 
Sections 25. 26 and 27 and the southeast quarter of Section No. 28, in Township 6 south, 
of Range 15. * * * 

Thus it will be seen by the preceding entries, taken from the Com- 
missioners' records, that while the western and southern boundaries of this 
township have been frequently changed, the northern and eastern bound 
aries have remained undisturbed. The township original 1}' consisted of 
twenty -four sections, being six sections in length from north to south, and 
four in width from east to west. In the second entry of date of June 6, 
1825, it will be observed that "so much of Green Camp Township as lies in 
Surveyed Township No. 6, Range 15." was restored to Pleasant Township, 
thus making it at that time the full originally surveyed township, contain 
ing thirty full sections and six fractional sections. Subsequently, all of 
surveyed Township No. 6, Range 14, at first belonging to Green Camp 



PLEASANT TOWNSHIP. 869 

Township, and comprising all of the territory of that township lying east 
of the Scioto River, was added to Pleasant, as will be seen by the entry of 
the date of March 5, 1838. and remained an undisturbed portion of Pleas- 
ant Township for more than ten years, at which time it, with the exception 
of fractional Sections 24, 25, and the south half of fractional Section 13, 
was restored to Green Camp. At that date the west halves of Sections 
6 and 7, and the northwest quarter of Section 18, in Pleasant Township, was 
given to Green Camp Township, and thus stands the western boundary of 
Pleasant Township to this day. Off of the southern boundary has been 
taken fractional Sections No. 31, 32, 33, 34, 35 an^ 36, also the south 
halves of Sections No. 25, 26 and 27 and the southeast quarter of Section 
28. Of this territory, Sections 31, 32 and the west half of Section 33 now 
belong to Prospect Township and the remainder of it to Waldo Township. 
Pleasant Township is composed wholly of Congress lands and the surface 
is generally level. The soil is the richest and most productive, perhaps, of 
any portion of this fertile county. 

SETTLEMENT. 

Among the early settlers of this township, and perhaps the very first of 
the number, was the Rev. Jacob Idleman. who, with his wife and three 
children, came from Highland County, Ohio, to a place in this township 
known then as ".Slab Camp," one mile north of the Greenville treaty line, 
just on the opposite side of the road, from where Levi Jones now resides. 
He arrived there early in February, 1820, and there he hastily erected a 
temporary cabin, in which he and his family passed the remainder of the 
winter and the following summer. In August of that year, Mr. Idleman 
attended the land sales at Delaware and purchased 160 acres of land one 
mile north of that point, on what is now the Marion & Delaware pike, 
where he resided till his death, and where his son Silas has since resided until 
within the last two years. On this farm Silas Idleman was born in 1822, 
being the first white child born within the present limits of the township, 
and here also the members of his family were born and reared. 

Rev. Jacob Idleman was soon joined by other settlers, and among them 
were William Wyatt and family, who came in the summer of 1820 and set- 
tled on the place where John W. Myers now resides. Afterward, but during 
the same year, Van Horn and family, David Tipton and family, John Stal- 
ey (or Stealey) and family and Henry Peters became a part of this settle 
ment In the autumn of that year, a settlement was being formed in the 
southwestern portion of this township in a territory which, when the coun- 
ty was first organized, was given to Green Camp Township, but which, for a 
number of years, has been a permanent portion of Pleasant. The first of 
this band of settlers were Humphrey Mounts and his family, who came 
here from Radnor Township, Delaware County, in the fall of 1820, and 
who were soon joined by John Matthews and his wife, who were also from 
that county. Early in the following year, Joseph Boyd and his family, 
natives of Pennsylvania, but more recently from Delaware County, joined 
this settlement. In 1822, John Nickleson and his family also became 
members of this community, and in the following year William David and 
his wife Magdalene, from Delaware County, also joined the settlement. 
Later, Friend Biggerstaff and Hugh Cummins, with their families, were 
numbered among the settlers here, and year after year immigration here 
from Delaware County and other places increased the population until much 
of the fair lands of this portion of the township were occupied and the set- 



870 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

tlement had extended its limits far in the direction of the one started by- 
Mr. Idleman. 

In the meantime, other settlements? were being formed in the township, 
and the one in the western or northwestern part is. perhaps, the next in 
chronological order. Frederick Court and family were among the hrst to 
take up their abode there, which they did in 1830, and in 1834 Messrs. 
William and Frank Gooding joined them, and Sylvester Gooding came the 
following year. Mr. Beamer and family also located in this settlement at 
an early date. Each of these settlements received many new accessions 
from time to time, until the individual settler is lost in the multiplicity of 
acquisitions. 

PROGRESS. 

These early settlers for the most part were possessed of indomitable 
wills, untiring energy and unflagging industry. Soon around their cabin 
homes sufficient land was cleared to raise ample crops of grain and vegeta 
bles for the sustenance of their families. Year after year, these clearing;- 
were extended into fields and meadows of no small pretensions and later 
the orchards and vineyards planted by the hand of the prudent husband- 
men, yielded in abundance their rich and luscious fruit, and the comforts 
and conveniences of home were added as the years went by. 

Since the organization of this township in 1824, a most wonderful 
transformation has taken place. "What was then dense forests, interspersed 
with only a few humble cabins of the hardy pioneers, have been changed 
into beautifully arranged and well-tilled farms, upon whose broad acres of 
richest soil, annually, luxuriant grasses, golden grain and extended fields 
of corn wave to the winds of Heaven like inland seas of verdure and beau- 
ty Instead of the wild and ferocious animals that infested the country at 
that time, making night hideous with their ceaseless orgies, disturbing the 
peaceful slumbers of the woodman and his family, the people now have 
many useful domestic animals, together with flocks and herds that can 
scarcely be told or numbered. The red man, whose treachery, cunning and 
love of .revenge was the occasion of constant fear and dread, has gradually 
disappeared before the advancing tide of civilization and left the superior 
race in the enjoyment of the unbounded wealth of the lands that he once oc- 
cupied as hunting grounds. 

In comparison with the primeval picture above drawn, contrast the fol- 
lowing figures, compiled from the last Assessor's report: 

Wheat, acres sown, 2,498; bushels produced, 36,047; number of acres 
sown for harvest 1883, 2,270. Oats, acres sown, 525; bushels produced. 
11,417. Corn, acres planted, 2,675, bushels produced, 105,740. Meadow, 
acres, 965; tons of hay, 1,434. Clover, acres, 537: tons of hay, 688; 
bushels of seed, 734. Potatoes, acres planted, 88f ; bushels produced, 
6,442. Butter, 38,971 pounds. Sorghum, acres planted, f. gallons sirup, 
79. Maple sugar, 50 pounds; gallons sirup, 45. Bees, 35 hives; pounds 
of honey, 120. Eggs, 33,642 dozen. Grapes, 1.725 pounds. Apples, 
acres occupied. 285; bushels produced, 6,589. Peaches, bushels produced. 
278. Pears, bushels produced, 60. Apples, acres cultivated, 6.117. 
Lands, number of acres pasture, 2,294; number of acres woodland, 3,298; 
total number of acres owned, 12,208. Wool, 6,507 pounds. Milch cows r 
406. Dogs, 150. Sheep killed by dogs, 52; value, $171; injured by dogs, 
82; value, $216. Hogs died, 64; value, $273. Sheep died, 14; value, 
$34. Cattle died, 13; value. $297. Horses died, 13; value, $1,095. 

Owen Station is located in this township on the Columbus & Toledo 



PLEASANT TOWNSHIP. 871 

Railroad, which traverses the whole length of the western half of the town- 
ship from north to south. At this point is located a post office named 
Owen, a hotel, store, express office, etc. In this vicinity John Owen burns 
and ships considerable quantities of quick-lime; a quarry here also fur- 
nishes a good quality of building Btone. 

EDUCATIONAL. 

At an early date, schools were founded and religious societies formed, 
both of which at first held their meetings at the humble dwelling of some 
cottager. The first school that was held in this township was organized in 
the early part of the winter of 1821, and consisted of fifteen pupils. The 
term was of three months' duration, and the teacher was paid from private 
funds. The school was taught in the cabin first occupied by Van Horn and 
family and afterward owned by Henry Peters. The first schoolhouse 
erected in what is now Pleasant Township was built in 1823, on a farm then 
owned by John Nickleson. but which now is in the possession of Mrs. 
Patterson. 

The schoolhouses built in those early days presented a strange contrast 
to the modern handsome brick and frame structures with all of their con- 
veniences, comfortable patent seats, with desks attached, and with black- 
boards, maps and charts in plenty that now adorn their walls. This, the 
first schuolhouse in Pleasant Township, was no exception to the rule. It 
was a rude structure, unattractive in appearance and quite uncomfortable 
in many respects. It was constructed of split logs, the flat sides of which 
formed the walls of the interior of the building and the chinks were 
stopped by moss being placed in the crevices. The large fire-place was 
built of wood, with clay back-wall and jambs. The chimney was built of 
small sticks, cemented together with a mortar made from clay. The door, 
made of clapboards, hung on two huge wooden hinges. The floor was con- 
structed of puncheons laid loosely upon the " sleepers " and the writing 
desks were formed by putting long pins into the wall and placing puncheons 
along on thera. There was a window on either side about eight inches in 
width, running the entire length of the building. The sash were formed 
by placing small sticks perpendicularly in this aperture about every twelve 
inches, over which greased paper was placed, which, although not trans- 
parent, served to admit a dim, though sufficient light. 

The first teacher who taught in this schoolhouse was a young lady by 
thp name of Hannah Baker, who was also paid ovit of private funds. She 
made her residence in the schuolhouse, and although she did not furnish it 
in the most elegant or extravagant style, she managed to live there and 
teach the young ideas how to shoot for a period of one year, at the end of 
which time she was married to Mr. Wood. It is said that while she resided 
in the schoolhouse the furniture used was a rudely- constructed bedstead, a 
few rickety chairs; and a store box. used as a cupboard and table, completed 
the entire outfit. 

SOCIAL. 

In common with the custom of that day. the "quilting bee," the " husk- 
ing bee," the "wood chopping," the "apple cutting," and such other gath- 
erings, which partook of both an industrial and social nature, were of fre 
quent occurrence, and much work was thus accomplished by the combined 
mutual and reciprocal labor of the various households of the different com 
munities, and also much pleasure and enjoyment were derived by the young 
people from the social feature which invariably followed. 



872 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

In 1825, Henry Milisor married Betsey Berry, which was the first event 
of the kind that transpired in the township. 

MISCELLANEOUS. 

In the early history of this township much sickness prevailed. Among 
the most deadly diseases was that of the trembles, or milk sickness. Among 
the many early victims of this dread disease were Henry Stealy and wife, 
James Ales and wife and a Mr. Meeks and his wife. Henry Stealy was 
tbe first of the number, and his death doubtless was the first that occurred 
in the township, he having died in the early autumn of 1823. At, that 
early time, no graveyard was yet started, and the dead were frequently bur- 
ied in the door-yard, about the only places then cleared. The remains of 
Mr. Meeks and wife repose in what now constitutes George Rupp's door- 
yard, and those of James Ales and wife slumber beneath the lawn in front 
of Ephraim Luke's door. 

Samuel Fish, one of the three oldest surviving pioneers of Pleasant 
Township, was born in Foster, Providence Co., R. I., September 27, 1793, 
son of Preserved and Elizabeth (Sherman) Fish, of Portsmouth. Island, of 
Rhode Island and Rhode Island. Parents were married in Rhode Island, 
and came to Union County, Ohio, in October, 1821. The next spring they 
came to Pleasant Township, where Mr. Fish entered eighty acres of land 
from the Government and cleared about two acres, where he expected to 
build. In June, while cutting out a road, a tree fell upon him, killing 
him. His widow survived him until August, 1822. They had two children' 
— Samuel and Eliza A. The latter died in August, 1822. 

Samuel Fish, the subject of this sketch, was reared on a farm until 
eighteen years of age, when he served an apprenticeship of seveu years at 
the carpenter's trade. This he followed until 1821, when he came to Dar- 
by Plains, Union County, Ohio, where he resided until his father was 
killed; he then moved to Pleasant Township and took charge of the home- 
stead. At the death of his mother and sister, he became the sole owner of 
it. He cleared up that land and made all the improvements upon it. In 
1847, he built a frame residence, 18x41 feet in size and two stories high. 
This was the first frame house in the township and the best residence at 
that time. He added to his land possessions until he owned 700 acres, 
entering about 600 himself. He dealt some in real estate, and during his 
last years on the farm he was engaged in rearing fine cattle and 
sheep. He was an exhibitor at one of the first fairs in the county. Mr. 
Fish resided in Marion a year about 1825, and March 31, 1880, he re- 
turned to town after having spent a long life upon the farm. He has lived 
retired, however, about twenty-five years, his son, Royal Fish, taking 
charge of the farm. 

In 1821, he married Hannah Love, daughter of Charles and Mary Love. 
She was born in Coventry, Kent Co., R. I., December 5, 1801, and died 
April 3, 1850. Of their nine children, eight are living: Susan E., wife 
of Elias Riley; William P., born April 28, 1825, the first male child born 
in Marion; Samuel S., who died March 3, 1854: Royal, Eliza A., wife of 
T. P. Cratty; Ruby J., wife of T. H. Roberts; Louisa E., wife of Joseph 
Underwood; Hannah C, wife of Hiram W. Riley; and Effie M., wife of F. 
W. Fish. 

Mr. Fish is a Republican; formerly a Whig. Was Justice of the Peace 
nine years, and Township Trustee one term. His land he has divided 
among his children. Mrs. Fish owns 240 acres of laud in Marion Town- 
ship. 



PLEASANT TOWNSHIP. 873 



RELIGIOUS. 



The first religious society in this township was formed by Henry Pe- 
ters, Jacob Idleman and Christian Staley in 1820, and was of the Methodist 
Episcopal denomination. Meetings were first held iu the various cabins of 
the settlers and were conducted by a local preacher named Stewart, until in 
the following year, when a minister named James Murray was sent them 
by the Methodist Episcopal Conference and soon after they were received 
into the Delaware Circuit. In 1823, tbe society built a church on the 
Idleman purchase. The building was of hewed logs, with clapboard roof, 
containing rough benches for seats and a strangely modeled and rudely con- 
structed pulpit- This church was formally dedicated by the Rev. James 
Gilruth in the year 1823. This, doubtless, was the first church building 
erected in the township and -was used many years by this society, but in 
1866 a frame edifice thirty-eight feet square, was erected upon another por 
tion of the Idleman farm, on Section 14, at a cost of $2,100. There are 
now about thirty members. Among the pastors have been Revs. Powell. 
Matthews, Farrow, Fant, Mattison, Squires, etc. The Sunday school, of 
fifty pupils, is presided over by Michael Waddel. This is known as the 
" Locust Grove Church. " 

The Pleasant Ridge Methodist Episcopal Church was organized and 
their house of worship (frame) built in 1871, on Section 17. The member- 
ship now numbers ten, and Sunday school pupils forty; Superintendent. 
William H. Stallsmith. The pastors have been Revs. L. A. Belt, William 
Jones, L. C. Webster, I. R. Henderson, D. D. Waugh and S. O. Young. 
There is no pastor at present. 

Mount Union Church of the United Brethren in Christ, house of worship 
in the southwestern part of the township. It is 28x37 feet, and built about 
1855, at a cost of $800. The first meeting of this denomination here was 
about 1836, at William Strode's, Pleasant Township, conducted by Rev. 
Kaufman. The society was organized in 1837 or 1838, at 1). Barnhart's, 
this township, with the following members: G. and D. Barnhart, William 
and E. Strode, and William and M. Biggerstaff. Meetings were held at 
D. Barnhart's until 1845; then at a log church at the Mounts Graveyard 
until about 1857, when the new church was occupied. Pastors, Revs. J. 
Staub, 1852; J. T. Seiter, 1853 and 1854; S. Jacoby, J. Bright, W. Martin. 
J. C. Beady, J. W. Wagner, D. F. Cender, and others. Present member- 
ship, thirty. Official members, N. C. Barnhart, Samuel Biggerstaff and I. 
J. Nickelson. 

Another church of this denomination exists near the northeast corner 
of the township, comprising about fifty -five members, with a Sunday school 
of sixty or more pupils; J. J. Myers, Superintendent. Rev. A. . Davis. 
of Marion, is pastor. They have a nice house of worship, erected about 
1870. 

Trinity Congregation, Evangelical Lutheran. — This society was organ- 
ized about thirty years ago, under Rev. Lasar. He was followed by Revs. 
Kornbaum, Eirich, G. Reif, P. H. Mueller, and since 1877, Rev. J. J. Sut- 
ter. Members: The families of Frederick Romoser, Christian Rausch. 
J. Maechtle, L. Strobe I, C. Baessler, J. Straub, W. Kroener, E. Lauer, J. 
Fink, J. Schlecht, Jacob Lust, John Lust, John Romcser, A. Hirsch, J. 
Hoch, W. Hoch, K. Hoch, F. Laner, J. Brauinger, C. Romoser, T. Kroe- 
ner, J. Augenstein, J. Gabler, M. Loeffler, J. Benzler, Z. Berger, J. Lichten- 
berger, G. Maier, C. Fatzler, J. Wolfinger, John Augenstein, Jr., Jacob 

NN 



874 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Thibaut, J. Thibaut, W. Thibaut, Gottlieb Behner, H. Behner, John 
Behner, O. Weisseise, F. Loeffler. A. Sauter, A. Reuter and G. Dutt. 

About fifteen years ago, a new church edifice (frame) was erected under 
Rev. G. Reif. 

From the county records we learn the United Evangelical Dreieinig- 
keits Church was organized January 1, 1853, the house of worship being 
situated at the southeast corner of Anna Idleman's land, in Pleasant Town 
ship. Membership, fifty-nine. Justus Bender, John C. Neidhart and 
Daniel Klein, Trustees: John Buck, Moderator; and George Ruhl, Clerk. 
This was a union of the German Reformed and Lutherans, called "United 
Dutch Evangelical Dreieinigkeits," being a denomination of Christians 
usually called German Reformed. This church built a meeting house 
about 1853, in dimensions about 24x32 feet, in which they still worship. 
They have a Sunday school with an average attendance of thirty-seven. 
Jacob Ullmer is Superintendent; present Eiders, Daniel Augenstein and 
George Neidhart; Deacons, Justus Zieg and Christian Zieg. The pastors 
have been Revs. Philip Ruhl, Aschmyer, Joseph Kester, etc. 

Canaan Church of the Evangelical Association. — This church was or- 
ganized in 1870, by Rev. C. F. Negley, since whose time the following 
have served in the pastoral relation: Revs. G. Heinrich, 1871-72; A. 
Leonhard, 1873; D. Stull, 1874-75; J. Strome, 1876; C. Halderman, 1877; 
E. B. Crouse, 1878 to 1880; H. T. Strauch, 1881; F. K. Tuthers, 1882; 
John Stull, 1883. The last named resides at Steam Corners, Morrow 
County. This church elected Trustees November 12, 1877, and March 16, 
1880. The house of worship (frame), 35x42 feet, was erected in 1870, at 
a cost of $2,200, and was dedicated by Bishop R. Dubbs. The member- 
ship now numbers sixty- four; Michael Click, Class-Loader; Henry Millisor, 
Assistant Class-Leader. The Sunday school, comprising a hundred pupils, 
was also organized in 1870, since which date Joseph Klinefelter has been its 
Superintendent. 

Presbyterian. — The first church, built of hewed logs, was erected by the 
Presbyterians in the Mounts Graveyard. Rev. Henry Van Deman was the 
first Presbyterian minister to preach in the township and held meetings in 
the house of Hugh Cummins in 1825 or 1826. Rev. Barbour organized 
the first Presbyterian Church; and Joseph Boyd and Samuel Cratty were 
elected Elders. This church was afterward used by the United Brethren, 
as before noted. 

Besides the foregoing, there is a German Methodibt Episcopal Church, 
and a German Reformed Church, on Section 24, in this township. 

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 

In the following sketches, dealing with the principal men among the old 
and new settlers, will be found information bearing directly on the history 
of the township, its early settlement and its progress: 

GOTTLEIB BEHNER was born in Wittenberg, Germany, July 17, 
1835. His parents came to Marion County in 1848, settling where John 
Behner now resides. They added to that farm the Henry and Caleb Behner 
farms. His parents were Caleb and Rosanna (Berger) Behner, who reared 
a family of seven children. The father died in 1850, ag^d fifty-two, and 
the mother died aged sixty. Our subject inherited eighty acres and now 
owns 220 acres, valued at $75 per acre. He has made all the improvements, 
and cleared eighty acres himself. He has split 500 rails in one day; cradled 
three to four acres of wheat, and mowed two and a haif acres of stout grass 



PLEASANT TOWNSHIP. 875 

in the same length of time. April 19, 1860, Mr. B. married Catherine 
Geigar, a daughter of Henry and Caroliue Geigar. This union has re- 
sulted in the birth of six children — Mary (wife of Adam Laner), Catherine, 
Caroline, Henry, Elbert and Christian. This family holds a membership 
in the Lutheran Church, of which he has been Trustee and Treasurer for the 
past eight years. 

JOHN BEHNER was born in Wittenberg, Germany, May 14, 1843, the 
son of Caleb and Rosanna (Berger) Behner. He inherited and bought his 
farm of 157 acres, upon which he has made all the improvements except the 
bouse. He values bis farm at $90 per acre, and keeps the best grade of 
stock. Mr. B. has done mam good days of labor. Many a day he has split 
350 rails, or two cords of wood of any length. His family associate with 
and are membprs of the Lutheran Church. Our subject was first married, 
in 1871, to Miss Caroline Dutt, daughter of Frederick Dutt. She died 
April 23, 1874, in her twenty sixth year. He married again February 9, 
1875, to Miss Sarah Augenstein, daughter of Jacob and Catherine Augen- 
stein, of Illinois. Four children have resulted from this union— Clara A., 
Arthur L.. Frank B. and Milton M. 

JAMES H. BERRY is a native of Marion Township, where he was 
born June 16, 1833. He is a son of Abraham and Ann (De Witt) Berry. 
Our subject's great-grandfather, Alexander Berry, and grandfather emi- 
grated to Ohio in 1822. The former, of Scotch-Irisb descent, entered the 
south half of the site of Marion City. James, his father, purchased sixty 
acres, where our subject now resides. Mr. B.'s education was obtained 
wholly at the common schools. He inherited twenty acres, and bas since 
purchased forty acres more, making sixty acres of good land, valued at $100 
per acre. He has made all the improvements — the barn in 1868, costing 
$500, and a fine house in 1878, costing $1,500. He owns good stock. April 
3, 1856. he married Matilda Clark, daughter of William and Sarah Clark, 
of Morrow County. She was a highly respected lady, but departed this 
life in 1883, aged forty- nine years, leaving two children — Martha A. and 
Eva E. Our subject officiated as Town Treasurer three years, Constable 
one year and Trustee two years. 

ROBERT G. BOYD is one of the pioneer settlers of Marion County. 
He was born in Allegheny County, Penn., August 30, 1816. He is a son 
of Joseph and Jane Boyd, who came to Delaware County, Ohio, in 1817, 
and January 20, 1821, settled in what is now Pleasant Township, Marion 
County, where Mr Boyd bought land. He increased his farm to 380 acres, 
and after clearing sixty acres died in 1847, aged fifty four years. His 
widow survived him until 1869, when she died at the age of seventy eight. 
They raised a family of eight children, four of whom are living at the 
present time. One son, Thomas G. Boyd, a physician in Beaver County, 
Penn., and Joseph F. Boyd, Superintendent of the Cumberland Valley 
Railroad (Penn.). Robert G. Boyd is of a strong and healthy family. His 
grandfather came from Ireland in 1771, and was a soldier of the Revolu- 
tion. His uncle. Henry Boyd, was a soldier of the war of 1S12, and with 
four brothers were ministers of the Presbyterian Church. His father and two 
brothers were Justices of the Peace, and also Elders in the same church. At a 
re-union of the Boyd faimly at Beaver, Penn., in 1881, sixty relatives at- 
tended, one-third of whom were teachers, and about fifty members of the 
Presbyterian Church. The family, from our subject's grandfather, num- 
bered, in 1881. 621, which does not include the fifth and sixth generations. 
Mr. Boyd, the subject of this sketch, was reared on a farm, and obtained 



876 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

most of his education in a log schoolhou.se, 12x16 feet in size. In 1838, 
he purchased eighty acres, to which he added eighty acres more. He also 
owns 240 acres of farm land in Nebraska and two lots in Lincoln, that 
State. In 1860, he erected a substantial brick reside ace on the homestead, 
at a cost of $1,500. February 8, 1841, he married Miss Rebecca Hall, a 
daughter or John and Jane (Shields) Hall, by whom he has had eight chil- 
dren, viz., John H. , who was killed at the battle of Kenesaw Mountain in 
1864; Jane E., wife of Ezekiel Hughes; Mary M., wife of W. H. McNeal; 
Joseph S., died in 188i; Harriet E. ; Sarah A., wife of P. H. Otis, and 
Ella A., who died in 1874. The family are members of the Presbyterian 
Church. Mr. Boyd was a member and an Elder at the organization of that 
church at Prospect. 

MICHAEL CLICK was born April 19, 1844, in Pleasant Township, 
the son of Michael and Catherine Click, who came from Germany about 
1830, settling in Fairfield County, Ohio, for a number of years. He came 
to Pleasant in 1836, and bought the farm where our subject now resides, 
paying therefor $600. They had six children. The father died in 1844, 
and the mother in 1872, at the age of seventy-one. The subject of this 
sketch obtained a limited education. He inherited and purchased the old 
homestead, which he values to-day at $80 per acre, drained, as it is, by 300 
rods of tile. He built a fine barn in 1877, and a good granary in 1881; 
the cost of both being about $1,200. He anticipates building a suitable 
home in 1885. Our subject served nearly two years in the late war. At 
tirst he entered Company H, Eighty-second Regiment Ohio Volunteer In 
fantry, and was engaged at Chancellorsville and Gettysburg. His final 
service was in Company H, Sixty-sixth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, 
when he went with Sherman to the sea. October 22, 1868, Mr. C. married 
Catherine A. Gable, daughter of Peter and Mary (Boyer) Gable. This 
union resulted in six children, as follows: Noah M. (deceased), John W., 
Fernanda E., Clara E., Mary A. and Elizabeth V. This family belongs to 
the Evangelical Church, with which he is officially connected. He is a 
Republican and a stanch Granger. 

B. FRANK COURT was born in Pleasant Township February 15, 1858, 
the son of Joseph and Maria Court, whose sketch is given elsewhere. Our 
subject received a good education, and assumed the duties of the pedagogue 
for one term. December 7, 1881, he married Lida Rider, daughter of 
Harvey and Chloe Rider. The name of their one child is Anua Ina. Mr. 
C. bought and inherited the old Court homestead, of 146 acres, which he 
keeps in good repair and values at $100 per acre. He has a good home 
and keeps tine stock, 

GEORGE COURT is one of the old pioneers of Marion County. He 
resided one mile west of Owen Station. He was born February 25, 1810, 
iu Hardy County, Va. , son of Frederick and Ozilla Court, who came to 
Ross County, Ohio, in 1815, and to Pleasant Township in 1825, locating at 
Owen Station upon 160 acres of land. They reared eight children. The 
father died in 1845, at the age of sixty-nine years, the mother having died 
in 1827, at the age of forty-two years. The old gentleman cleared 100 
acres of forest land. Our subject received his education in an old log 
schoolhouso. December 29, 1831, he married Fannie Allen, daughter of 
Orren and Ruth Allen, of Pleasant Township. Mrs. Court was born De- 
cember 17, 1812. Eight children have blessed this home, five of. whom are 
living — Orren A., Frederick W., Wilson S., James and Christiana E. 
(wife of John Bricker). Their daughter Fannie and husband, Arthur Ju- 



PLEASANT TOWNSHIP. 877 

lian, were buried in 1881, in the same grave, both fallng victims, within 
thirty hours of each other, of that dreaded disease, consumption. Our sub- 
ject bought eighty acres adjoining his present farm in 1884, paying $150; 
this he increased to 200 acres in time, but he has disposed of the most of it 
to his sons, retaining only seventy-five acres. His comfortable house he 
built in 1868. Like his father, Mr. C. has been a worker, having cleared 
100 acres of timber land. Mr. Court has served as Justice of the* Peace of 
the township for eleven years. Township Clerk two years, and Treasurer 
five years. He was also, at one time, an Infirmary Director. 

JOSEPH COURT, Jr. Our subject is a young man of promise. He 
is a son of Joseph and Maria (Sherman) Court, of Marion, and his birth 
took place December 22, 1852. He obtained his education in the common 
schools, and December 3, 1873, he married Jennie Cosner, daughter of 
William and Abigail (Johnson) Cosner. Three children have blessed this 
union — Carrie, William J. and Nelson. Mr. C. commenced life by renting 
Henry Folk's farm for one year; then he purchased the Le Fevre farm, liv- 
ing upon it till 1876, when he bought his present home of 140 acres, pay 
ing $50 per acre; it is valued to-day at $75 per acre. He is engaged iti 
farming and rearing fine stock. 

CHRISTIAN H. CROMER was born February 15, 1845, in Pleasant 
Township. He is a son of John and Louisa (Zahtner) Cromer, who came 
from Germany, settling in this township, where they entered eighty acres 
of land, to which they added forty acres later. The father cleared sixty 
acres of forest land, reared a family of ten children and died in 1855. The 
mother is still living. Our subject obtained a limited education, since, at 
the age of ten years he was obliged to labor by day and month for his own 
support. He was married, April 6, 1870, to Martha Renolds, daughter of 
Lewis Renolds, who died of a disease contracted in the late war. The 
names of their three children are Anna N, Lulu M. and Catherine C. Our 
subject rented his present farm of eighty acres eleven years, purchasing it 
in 188 1 . He paid $45 per acre, and values it to-day at $65 per acre. Mr. 
C. has ever been a stanch Democrat; has held the office of Township Trustee 
four years, that of County Commissioner one term and has been recently 
nominated for a second term. He has the confidence of his party at 
large. 

ISAAC D. CUNNINGHAM was born November 11. 1841, in Marion 
Township. He is a eon of James and Nancy (Barks) Cunningham, who 
came from Virginia and reared a family of nine children, one of whom — 
John — became a skillful surveyor. Our subject, having obtained a mod 
erate education, went to California when a young man, passing four years 
there, and then spent one year in Illinois. Upon returning home, he was 
married, March 27, 1874, to Miss Sarah Suit, daughter of the "Widow Har- 
riet Suit. They have an adopted child, named James. Immediately after 
marriage, they went to California, remaining three years, leaving in charge 
of another party a large farm of 670 acres. In 1881, he purchased his 
present farm of eighty acres, paying $5,300, valued to-day at $6,000. Mr. 
C. is a successful faircer and a respected citizen. 

RICHARD B. DAVIS was born January 17, 1832. in Fairfield County. 
O hio, and is a son of John B. and Elsie (Biggerstafi) Davis, who came from 
Maryland to the above county in 1 820; thence to Pleasant Township in 
1832, setiling near the Almendinger farm. They reared a family of nine 
boys and two girls. The father died in 1853. aged fifty nine, and the 
mother in 1856. aged forty-one. The father was a soldier in the war of 



878 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

L812. Our subject received more than a common school education, for he 
attended a few terms at Delaware andOtterbein Colleges, and taught nearly 
seven terms of school. He reuted the first nine years of his life, princi- 
pally. Eliza Boyd's farm. In 1854, he purchased a farm in Union County, 
Ohio, upon which he remained a few years. He bought his present resi- 
dence in 1863. consisting then of forty four acres, to which he added later 
fifty-live acres, all valued at $100 per acre, and well drained and fenced. 
Mr. D. has done a great deal of hard work in his day. When fifteen, he 
split 250 rails in a day, and cradled four acres of oats in the same time. 
He has cleared 100 acres of heavily timbered land. October 6, 1855, he 
married Leah B. Hane, daughter of Daniel and Elizabeth Hane. The 
names of their children are Merrick E., Hattie H. , Henry F., William R., 
John W. and Annie E. The family are prominent members of the United 
Brethren Church, in which he has served in nearly every capacity. He is 
at present Ulass Leader. 

PHILIP DUTT was born August 27, 1857, in Richland Township, and 
is a son of Frederick and Christina Dutt, who came from Wurtemberg, Ger- 
many, in 1844. They raised a family of ten children. He died in 1880, 
at the age of fifty-seven, and she in 1864, aged forty. Our subject obtained 
a moderate education, and commenced, when twenty-one, renting of George 
Gooding. He purchased his home, of sixty acres, in 1880, paying $65 per 
acre. It is well fenced, and worth to-day $100 per acre. His fine house 
was built in 1831, at a cost of $1,500. Our subject knows how to work, as 
is indexed by the fact that he cut, in a single day, 100 shocks of corn ten 
hills square. September 20, 188L he married Miss Ella Rupprecht, daugh- 
ter of Michael and Mary Rupprecht, of Columbus, Ohio. They have one 
child —Alice Winifred. Mrs. D. is a jlady of good education and has 
taught several terms of school. 

BYRON FOLK is a native of Pleasant Township, where he was born 
October 19, 1839, the son of Henry and L. Ann (Pease) Folk, who came 
from New Jersey about 1830, entering eighty acres, known to-day as the 
"old Folk farm." The family moved here three years later, and in time 
made their farm number 315 acres. They were the parents of five 
children. He died in 1876, at the age of seventy-two, while she 
passed away in 1840. Our subject received a limited education. He in- 
herited tifty -eight acres of land, to which he has added seventy acres more, 
valued at $00 per acre. His suitable home was built in 1880, at an expense 
of $2,000. He has a good farm in excellent repair, stocked with fine 
grades. October 27, 1864, Mr. F. married Mary Court, daughter of Joseph 
and Maria (Sherman) Court. Five children have crowned this union — 
William H, Frank A, George E., Anna M. and Inez I. He has been 
Town Trustee one year, refusing to serve longer. 

ADAM FREE was born April 12, 1838, in Pleasant Township, the 
son of Michael and Catherine Free, whose people originated m Germany, 
but who came from Pennsylvania in 1826, and entered eighty acres where 
Adam Free now resides. rhey reared a family of twelve children, one be- 
ing Dr. D. Free, of Green Camp, Ohio. The father died in 1866, aged 
seventy, the mothor in 1842, aged forty. Our subject, having secured a 
moderate education, was married, December 6, I860, to Miss Permslia Le 
Fevre. Four children crowned this union, only one of whom survived — 
MaryE., wife of G. W. Cromer. Mr. Free, with his brother John, who 
lives with him, inherited the old homestead of eighty acres, to which they 
have added forty acres more, all in good repair. They have good graded 



PLEASANT TOWNSHIP. 879 

stock. This family holds a membership in the United Brethren Church, 
of which our subject has been Trustee for three years. 

CHARLES H. GOODING is a reliable citizen, and is a native of 
Pleasant Township, the son of Sylvester and Eliza (Love) Gooding, who 
emigrated from New England in 1823; he was a native of Massachusetts 
and she of Connecticut. They located where our subject now resides, en- 
tering eighty acres of land, which is now increased to 200 acres. The 
father was a hard worker, having cleared in his day 160 acres. He reared a 
family of seven boys, and died in 1872, at the age of seventy-four. His 
wife still survives, in good health, aged seventy-nine. Her grandfather, 
Tuttle, was a Revolutionary soldier. The common school gave Mr. G. his 
education. At the age of twenty-one, he went West for eight years, two of 
which he spent in Illinois and sis in California. He took with him, on his 
passage across the plains, a drove of cattle, and four months were spent in 
making the trip. Upon his return, he purchased and improved the old 
homestead of 200 acres, .vtiich is now well drained, fenced and cultivated. 
His farm is stocked with the best grades. Oar subject's marriage to Miss 
Mariam Jordan, daughter of Timothy and Climena Jordan, of Maine, oc- 
curred December 1, 1862. Their five children are May, Clara O, Anna- 
delie, Clifford C. and Harry. Mr. G. has never been an office-seeker, but 
has been a member of the County Board of Agriculture for six years, and 
of its Executive Committee five years. 

GEORGE GOODING is one of the leading, enterprising citizens of 
Pleasant Township, of which he is also a native; was born February 22. 
1828. He was a son of Christopher and Sarah (Jones) Gooding, who hailed 
from the States of Massachusetts and Vermont, respectively, and were of 
English descent. Christopher Gooding was a soldier in the war of 1812. 
Abuut 1820, he removed from New York to Ohio, locating where our subject 
now resides. They reared a family of seven children. His death took place 
in 1875, at the age of eighty-eight years, while his wife attained the age of 
seventy, five. Mr. Gooding, having obtained a practical education in the 
common schools, bought the Freeman farm, of eighty acres, which was 
the nucleus of his present farm of 376 acres, valued at $90 per acre. His 
farm is well drained, in good repair and well stocked. His fine country 
residence was built in 1870, costing from $15,000 to $20,000. It is finished 
with all the modern improvements, hot and cold water being found in every 
room. It is also elegantly furnished, and visitors are most hospitably en- 
tertained. Mr. G. keeps the best of live stock, and has been dealing in 
the same for many years. He owns a lime kiln, from which he ships an- 
nually seventy-five to a hundred car loads. He was married, March 13, 
1860, to Miss Martha Humphrey, whose birth took place July 22, 1833. 
She is the daughter of William and Mary (Reece) Humphrey, of Green 
Camp Township, and is a lady of excellent judgment. Their one daughter 
and only child, Ella, was born in 1861, and was the idol of both father and 
mother, but in her twentieth year consumption, that pale boatman, rowed 
her across life's stream. The products of her facile brush brighten the 
home of her bereaved parents. The piano at which her hand was accom- 
plished stands idly by. " Gone, but not forgotten," impresses one from 
every room. 

JOHN GOODING was born September 10, 1813. He is a native of 
Pleasant Township and a son of Sylvester R. and Eliza Gooding. Having 
obtained an ordinary education, he passed one season in the State of Col- 
orado. Returning in 1874, he married, September 22, Ellen Millisor, 



880 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

daughter of Jacob and Margaret Milliaor, of Pleasant Township. They 
have two children — Daisy E. and Dallas O. Mr. Gooding bought his 
present residence in May, 1874. consisting of 102 acres, for which he paid 
$7,500; it is now valued at $8,000. He has four acres of orchard, mostly 
apples and peaches. He is building this summer a neat, substantial resi- 
dence, which will cost $1,000. 

FREDERICK GORENFLO. Jr., was born August 30, 1846. in 
Baden, Germany, the son of Frederick and Catherine Gorenflo. Our sub- 
ject came to America and settled in Marion County in 1854, with his 
mother. Subsequent to his marriage, he rented, for three years, the Jacob 
Lust farm, and then for two years the Russell farm. In 1877, he bought 
his home of eighty acres for $62.50 per acre. He has a good farm and out- 
buildings, having repaired the latter in 1882. March 26, 1874. he mar- 
ried Miss Mary Lust, daughter of Jacob and Ann M. Lust, of Marion 
Township. Their union has resulted in six children, three dying young. 
The three living are Gertrude, Pearly and Henry F. Mr. and Mrs. G. 
associate with the Lutheran Church. 

ADAM HAIN is one of the substantial men of Pleasant Township. He 
was born February 11, 1814, in Perry County, Penn.. the son of Daniel 
and Elizabeth (Young) Hain. He obtained his education in the cabin 
schooihouse, going only five days in Ohio, to which State he emigrated in 
1830. At the age of twenty- one, he left home, and worked by day and job 
for nearly three years. In 1840, he commenced buying where he now re- 
sides, having to-day 158 acres, valued at $75 per acre. It is in good repair. 
The present barn was built in 3856, for $500, and his comfortable home in 
1858, costing $2,000. Our subject has cleared in his time sixty acres of 
forest land. November 30, 1837, he married Mary Ann Ebert, daughter of 
Samuel and Comfort (Wonn) Ebert. This union was blessed with four 
children— Saruuel E. ; Adeline, wife of Samuel Snyder; Eli A., who was killed 
at Gettysburg July 3, 1863, after nine months' service, and Martha A., wife 
of Daniel Huffman. His wife died in 1851, at the age of thirty-two. Our 
subject then married Ann Forsha, daughter of Anthony and Martha Forsha. 
Their one daughter, Mary E., is the wife of H. De La Grange. Mr. H. 
served as Trustee, Clerk and Assessor of his township. The family are 
members of the United Brethren Church, he being an official member. 

DANIEL HAIN, deceased, was a native of Pennsylvania. He, with 
his wife — whose maiden name was Elizabeth Young, also a native of Penn- 
sylvania—and their family of ten children — Elizabeth, Henry. Adam, Ann, 
Daniel, Catharine, Esther. Mary Magdalene. Christian and Susan — came 
to Ohio in 1830. locating five miles south of Marion, within a few rods of 
where the Locust Grove Church now stands. One and a half miles west of 
that point, he entered eighty acres of land. Here he built, a log house, and 
two years after their arrival the family moved into it. Previous to this, 
they had lived in a rented cabin near the church. This cabin was small, 
affording not much room for furniture. Among the effects brought with 
them was a large wooden chest, which doubled its uses, acting also in the 
capacity of a table as long as they lived in the cabin. During this time, 
their daughter Ann was married to Daniel Wyatt, and the wedding dinner 
was eaten from off this table; and, as one said who was present, the party 
was as merry as though sitting around the choicest mahogany. Daniel 
Hain's farm was located on the east half of the northwest quarter of Sec- 
tion 15, Township 6, Range 15. He improved forty acres of this land, and 
when fairly prepared to raise crops for the support of his large family, he 



PLEASANT TOWNSHIP. 881 

was taken sick, and died in August, 1837. He left a family of twelve chil- 
dren, one being born three weeks after his death. His children born in 
this county were Leah. Lydia and William. His widow died at the house 
?Lq dail S hter Esther > a short distance from the old homestead, July 6, 
J 878, aged eighty-four years ten months and seventeen days. These pio- 
neers were buried in the graveyard on the farm now owned by J. W. Myers 
in Pleasant Township. Daniel Hain was a tailor, but in Ohio always fol- 
lowed farming; he was also a weaver. He and wife were much respected 
and were members of the Reformed Church. 

REUBEN HOPKINS is another pioneer of Marion County. He was 
born August 8, 1825, in Caroline County, Md., son of William and Sarah 
(Eaton) Hopkins, who came to Marion County in 1828, settling where 
Joseph Court, Jr., now resides. They reared a family of ten children 
The father died in 1851, aged fifty-six, while the mother died in 1877, aged 
seventy-nine years. Our subject obtained his education in the log school - 
house, like the average boy of his day. He remained wih his mother, farm- 
ing, until his marriage, which occurred March 30, 1861, to Catherine E 
Snider, daughter of Jacob and Barbara Snider, of Pleasant Township 
The names of their two boys are Samuel E. and Leonard R. Our subject 
purchased first eighty acres of his present farm, which now numbers 190 
acres, valued at $75 an acre. Mr. H. made everv improvement upon his 
farm, has split most of the rails and cleared eighty acres. He continues to 
carry on the business of farming. He is rearing Norman horses prin- 
cipally. x 

BYRON KAN ABLE is one of the substantial, energetic men of Pleasant 
Township. He was born March 8, 1836, in Richland County, Ohio, and is 
?fi£? ° f J °^ n and Elizabeth K anab]e, who came from Pennsylvania in 
1830, stopping i fl the above county twelve years, thence to Marion Countv. 
locating two miles east of Marion. Having raised a family of live chil- 
dren, and having served through the late civil war. the father died, 1866, 
aged sixty-four. The mother still survives, aged eighty-five, living with 
our subject. The Kanables originated in Germanv. One Daniel Kanable 
was m the war of 1812. Byron, having obtained a moderate education 
enlisted m Company B, One Hundred and Thirty-sixth Ohio National 
Guard, serving four months near the city of Washington, receiving an 
honorable discharge. In 1860, he and others bought the old stone Meth 
odist Church at Marion, and converted it into a sash and blind factory 
They disposed of it to Huber & Co. in 1865. Thence he went to Green 
Camp with George Foster and built a grist mill and saw mill, conducting 
them until 1870. In 1872, he purchased his present home, of eighty acres 
of heavy forest land, paying $4,000. He has made all the improvements, 
building house and barns and clearing sixty acres. The past two years our 
subject, with A. C. Mounts, has been building a pike from Marion to Pros- 
pect, repairing the Marion & Owen portion. Their work gives entire sat 
isfaction. Mr. K. first married Sarah Free, daughter of Michael Free. 
She died in 1867, leaving two children—Willis and Harvey. In 1870, he 
married Almiretta D. Parmenter, daughter of Rev. C. O. Parmenter, of 'the 
Baptist Church. She died in 1878, leaving one surviving child, Carrie. 
Our subject is still a widower, and has affiliated with the I. O. O F at 
Marion. 

JOSEPH KLINEFELTER, a respected citizen of Pleasant Township 
was born January 9, 1842. His parents were Rev. Jacob and Susannah 
Klinefelter, who came from Pennsylvania in 1826. settling where Joseph 



882 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

now resides, and entered 160 acres. His f n.ther was known far and near as 
a pioneer preacher of the " Albright " faith. He reared a family of seven 
children, and departed this life in 1856, aged sixty-two years. The mother 
still survives, aged seventy- eight years. Their ancestors came from Ger- 
many. Joseph was educated at the common schools. In 1862, he enlisted 
in Company H. Eighty -second Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He en- 
gaged in the severe battles of Chancellorsville and Gettysburg. In the 
latter, he received a severe wound in his thigh. and was then honorably dis- 
charged. He was married, December 5, 1873, to Susannah Dreisbach, 
daughter of Rev. Abraham E. and Mary A. Dreisbach, of Tiffin, Ohio. 
This union has resulted in five children — Clara M. , Iva A. , Benjamin F. 
and Lillie M. (twins) and Emma S. Mr. K. bought his farm of 160 acres 
(inheriting one-seventh) in 1868, which is to-day valued at $80 per acre 
Near his house stands a fine bank barn, built in 1880 at a cost of $1,000. 
He anticipates erecting a good house the coming year. He and family be- 
long to the Evangelical Association, of which ho has been class leader for the 
past six years; also Superintendent of Sunday school for the past twelve 
years and Church Trustee for four years. He has been Treasurer of the 
township one term. During the past year, he has been confined to the 
house through a debilitated state of health. 

HENRY KNICKEL, son of Henry and Mary (Bender) Knickel, was 
born in Germany October 12, 1832, and emigrated with his parents to 
America in 1852. They settled in Prospect Township, purchasing 100 
acres of land at $9 per acre. This farm is to day in a high state of culti - 
vation. They were the parents of five children, three living — Henry, Chris- 
tian and Margaret; Mary and Philip are deceased. Our subject remained 
with his parents until he was married, September 15, 1858, to Minnie, 
daughter of John and Barbara (Brock) Haberman, also natives of Germany. 
They came to this country in 1844, and had a family of thirteen children, 
four surviving — Margaret, Elizabeth, Catherine and Minnie. Mr. and Mrs. 
Knickel have seven children— Henry, John, Christina, Mary, Philip, Will- 
iam and Minnie. Mr. K. moved upon his present farm in the spring of 
1882, purchasing it at $60 per acre. He keeps it in good repair. He en- 
joys the respect of his neighbors, is a Democrat, politically, and he and 
family are members of the German Reformed Church. 

GEORGE MACK was born July 16, 1840, a native of Pleasant Town- 
ship and a son of Matthias and Christiana Mack, who came from Witten- 
berg, Germany, about 1830, settling where our subject now resides, where 
he bought 160 acres. He reared a family of six children, cleared with his 
boys' aid, 100 acres of forest land and died in 1874 atHhe age of seventy. 
The mother passed away in 1873, at the age of sixty-one. Our subject in- 
herited and bought the old homestead, and added by purchase forcy acres 
more, all valued at $00 per acre. His buildings are good, and the farm in 
fine repair. Mr. M. has good stock, his Durham short-horns being fine 
and valuable. He is an able worker, having cleared fifty acres himself. 
He was first married January 29, 1872, to Caroline Schwartz. Four chil- 
dren were born to them, one dying young. The names of the living are 
Willaim W., Mary A. and Bertha A. His wife died in 1879, at the age of 
twenty-nine. His last union took place August 16, 1881, to Mary A. Smith, 
of Sandusky County, Ohio. The family are members of the Evangelical 
Church. 

JACOB MILISOR is one of the oldest settlers, in residence, in the 
county; his settlement here occurred in 1819. He was born April 11, 1808, 



PLEASAiNT TOWNSHIP. S83 

in Fairfield County, Ohio, and is a son of Barnum and Elizabeth (Server) 
Milisor, who came in the above year, entering in 1820 eighty acres of land. 
He increased this with another eighty acre lot and cleared forty acres. 
Their family numbers eleven children. The father died in 1863, aged one 
hundred and two years; the mother passed away in 1854, aged ninety-one 
years. Their forefathers came from Germany. When they first arrived, 
there were only two houses in Marion, and Jacob Idleman was their only 
neighbor. They went to Fairfield County, Ohio, for milling purposes. The 
hominy hopper was popular in that day. Our subject entered 120 acres, and 
later added forty acres more, all of which is valued at $80 per acre. His 
brick house was built in 1854. He was a great hunter in early life, some- 
times bringing home five to six deer per day; and in his lifetime has killed 
not less than 500 deer. As a laborer, he has reaped with sickle forty dozen 
of wheat, or mowed three acres of grass, in a day. Mr. M. spent seven 
years upon the Ohio Canal, cutting stone. His oldest brother, Barney, 
served in the war of 1812. As a citizen, our subject was a Justice of the 
Peace for twelve consecutive years. He was First Lieutenant of an inde- 
pendent company for a number of years. September 25, 1834, he married 
Margaret Barks, daughter of John and Rebecca (Odel) Barks. They have 
had thirteen children; their names are Ursula (deceased), Newton (de- 
ceased), Sarah J. (wife of George Moon), Jasper, John W., M, Ellen (wife 
of John Gooding), Barney F., James B., Henry E., Sarah A., Isadora, 
William E. and Samuel V. Mr. and Mrs. M. belong to the United Breth- 
ren Church, in which be has served in nearly every official capacity. They 
are both vigorous for their years. 

AMOS C. MOUNTS was born in Pleasant Township, and is a son of 
Humphrey and Sarah (Fleming) Mounts; the former, of German descent, 
was a soldier of the war of 1812 and came from Maryland; the lattei*, of 
Irish extraction, came from Pennsylvania. His parents settled where he 
now resides about 1820, entering eighty acres of land and clearing one-half 
of it. The death of his father took place in 1862, while the mother lived 
until 1880, aged eighty-two. They reared a family of thirteen children, 
eleven becoming adults. Our subject, having received a moderate educa- 
tion, enlisted in 1861 in Company D, Twentieth Regiment Ohio Volunteer 
Infantry. He served nearly four years, being honorably discharged as Ser- 
geant. He was engaged at Fort Donelson, Pittsburg Landing, Corinth, 
Vicksburg and in many skirmishes. He was under Grant and Sherman, 
going with the latter to the sea. He bought and inherited the old home- 
stead of 156 acres, clearing fifty- six acres himself. He keeps none but the 
best graded stock. November 23, 1865, he married Miss Sarah Phillips, 
daughter of Thomas and Margaret (Mays) Phillips. The name of their 
one child is Henry N. His wife belongs to the Presbyterian Church, while 
he is a Free Mason, a member of Lodge No. 444, at Prospect, Ohio. Dur- 
ing the past two years, our subject and Mr. Kanable have been building and 
repairing a pike from Marion to Prospect, Ohio. 

JOHN J. MYERS was born September 30, 1827, in Pleasant Town- 
ship, the son of Joseph and Nancy (Jones) Myers, who came from Pennsyl- 
vania about 1820, settling where our subject now resides and buying 110 
acres of land. They reared a family of two children. The father 
died in 1828, aged thirty-two years, while the mother continued until 
1880, aged seventy-three years. John J. 's great-grandfather, Wagoner, 
was a Revolutionary soldier. Our subject's education was obtained 
in the common schools. He inherited and purchased the old home- 



884 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

stead; also, in 1882, eighty acres more adjoining, making 190 acres 
of good land, valued at $90 per acre. He built his barn in 1860, at 
an expense of $500, and his house in 1867, for $1,500. He has fine stock, 
especially Cotswold sheep. Mr. M. has cleared in his time fifty acres of 
heavy timbered land, and often has cradled four acres of wheat in a day. 
He was married to Elizabeth Snyder, daughter of G-eorge and Christina 
(Ulsh) Snyder, April 8, 1852. The names of their four children are S. Ella 
(wife of William Stiffler), Samuel W. , W. Scott and Louis J. Our subject 
and family are consistent members of the United Brethren Church, with 
which he has been officially connected for thirty years. 

MRS. MARY MYERS is Daniel Myers' widow and a daughter of 
Michael and Elizabeth Jacoby, of Richland Township. Her birth took 
place January 8, 1836, and her marriage occurred October 18, 1855. Six 
children were born to this union — Addie E., Michael J., Wesley J., Nettie 
A. (invalid), Ambrose H. and Homer T. They rented, the first fifteen 
years of married life, the old Worline farm, buying their present farm of 
256 acres in 1870. This is valued at $75 per acre. Their $1,500 house 
and $500 barn make an attractive home. Mr. Myers died in 1874, aged 
forty, having been Treasurer of Richland Township, Trustee of Pleasant 
Township and a Class Leader at the time of death. The family also be- 
long to that church. Mrs. M. is a respected and intelligent lady, and con- 
ducts the farm, with the aid of her sods, in a commendable manner. 

JOHN NICKELSON was born February 7, 1820, in Juniata County, 
Penn., son of James and Catharine Nickelson, who came to Ohio in 1821, 
settling the following year where our subject now resides, having entered 
eighty acres of land. The father died in 1822; leaving the mother with 
three children; she died in 1875, aged seventy- eight. John Nickelson' s 
grandfather came from Ireland, and his grandmother from Holland. He 
obtained his education in the log schoolhouse. January 4, 1849, he married 
Mary E. Sanford, daughter of Amasa Sanford. Five children blessed this 
union — Ira J., Martha A. (wife of H. R. Van Houten;, Almira (deceased), 
John H. and Sarah M. (wife of Robert Williams, of Missouri). Mrs. 
Nickelson's death occurred in 1882. Mr. N. , receiving by inheritance forty 
acres, bought the rest of the old homestead,and also forty acres lying north 
of it, so that he has to-day 120 acres, valued at $80 per acre. His house 
was built in 1853; in fact, he has made all the improvements and cleared 
forty acres of forest land in his time. His farm is well drained. When in 
his prime, our subject often cradled four to four and a half acres of wheat 
daily. He has been Trustee of Pleasant Township twenty years. He is a 
member of the I. O. O. F., at Prospect. Ohio, and has been a stanch Dem- 
ocrat all his days. 

PHILIP O. REDD was born December 24. 1818, in Washington 
County, Penn., son of Daniel and Margaret Redd, who migrated to Marion 
County in 1827, settling where our subject now resides. They bought an 
extensive farm, of 225 acres, and reared six children, the father clearing 
100 acres of land. His death took place in 1857, aged sixty six years, and 
the mother in 1840, aged forty years. The Redds originated in Germany, 
and both grandfathers —both Redd and Oiler — engaged in the war of inde- 
pendence. Oar subject inherited eighty acres, which he has increased to 
1 12| acres, valued at $100 an acre. His house was built in 1861. for $2,- 
000. His stock is well graded. In his vigor, Mr. R. was an able worker, 
cradling: five acres of wheat or six acres of oats in a single day. He has 
cleared fifty acres of forest land. In 1849, he crossed the plains to Cali- 



PLEASANT TOWNSHIP. 885 

fornia, walking two-thirds of the way, but was accidentally shot in the 
right arm, compelling his return. June 29, 1843, he married Miss Eliza- 
beth Rupp. daughter of George and Mary M. (Wolf) Rupp. The names of 
their nine children are James K. , Minerva (wife of Samuel Berry) and 
Mary (wife of John Srneltzer), twins, and Margaret (wife of Jacob Smelt- 
zer). Lee G.. Tabitha (wife of Willis Worline), Addison T. and Nettie 
A. (twins) and Ella B. The family belong to the Methodist Episcopal 
Church, of which he has been Trustee for twenty- four years. Steward for 
ten years and Superintendent of the Sunday school for several jears. 

DAVID RETTERER is an enterprising, industrious young man and a 
native of Richland Township. He is a son of Jacob and Sophia Retterer, 
of the same place. The common school gave him his education, and March 
27, 1873, he married Miss Elizabeth Blocksom, daughter of Samuel and 
Catherine Blocksom, of Richland Township. Five children have blessed 
this union — Alice, Anna, Lillie, Eva and Katy. Until 1882, Mr. R. rented 
his father's farm, when he pirrchased his present residence consisting of 
seventy-seven acres of good land, paying $71 per acre, valued to-day at 
$100 per acre. He has a good home, a farm in good repair and keeps the 
best of stock. 

HARVEY RIDER was born March 8, 1832. He is a son of Daniel 
and Sarah (Matheny) Rider, who were of German and Irish parents re- 
spectively. They came from Virginia to Ohio in 1836, and were the par- 
ents of eleven children. Mrs. Rider died in 1854, and Mr. Rider again 
married, in 1858, to Miss Rachel Abrams, by whom he has had five chil- 
dren. Harvey Rider was reared on a farm, and educated in the common 
schools. March 22, 1855, he was married to Miss Chloe, daughter of 
Daniel and Maria (Adams) Manter, of Delaware County, Ohio. Their two 
children are William L., married Susan M. Strine (have one child — Eri 
W.); Lidia, the youngest, is the wife of B. F. Court. In 1861, Mr. Rider 
moved to Pleasant Township and rented until 1869, when he purchased 
sixty-two acres, to which he has since added twenty acres. The farm is 
drained with 1,000 rods of tile, and valued at $100 per acre. In 1869, he 
built a house, at a cost of $1,000. and a barn completed in 1882 at an ex- 
pense of $800. Mr. Rider, for several years, has taught vocal music. He 
served as Trustee of the township two years, and as Assessor three years. 

GEORGE E. SALMON is an influential citizen of Pleasant Township. 
His bii'th occurred April 10, 1839, in Columbia County, Penn. , and he is a 
son of Isaiah and Sarah (McMurtrie) Salmon. One of his ancestors came 
to America in the historic Mayflower. His great-grandfather, John Sal- 
mon, migrated from. France, while his grandfather was captured by the 
Indians in the French and Indian war. remaining with them two years. 
His father reared a family of thirteen children, eight sons and five daugh- 
ters, two of whom, James and Clark, are Presbyterian ministers. At the 
age of fifteen, our subject lost his father, and he was then apprenticed to a 
cabinet-maker for three years. At the end of this time, he returned to his 
mother's farm, remaining till twenty-one. He then engaged in a woolen 
mill until his enlistment in 1864, in Company I, Two Hundred and Seventh 
Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry. He was engaged at Fort 
Steadman. Welding Railroad, and was wounded at Petersburg April 2, 
1865: whereupon, after lying in the hospital several months, he was honor- 
ably discharged July 7, 1865. In the spring of 1866, he went to Michi- 
gan, where he engaged in farming, and also for eight years in the mercan- 
tile business. June 12, 1878, he married Miss Anna Gooding, daughter of 



886 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Francis and Harriet (Salmon) Gooding. Mrs. S. is an intelligent and 1 
highly respected lady. Their two children both died in infancy. Mr. S. 
bought his present farm in 1880, upon which he built, in the same year, a 
beautiful home, which, with other improvements, cost $3,500. His farm 
is stocked with the best of grades. While in Michigan, our subject made- 
an acceptable Justice of the Peace. He is a Free Mason, and both he and 
his wife are members of the Presbyterian Church. 

WILLIAM M. STALLSMITH is a sterling young man, born Septem- 
ber 13, 1853, in Randolph, Portage Co., Ohio, son of David H. and Julia 
A. Stallsmith, of Green Camp Township, who reared a family of seven 
children. Our subject, having obtained a good education from the common 
schools, commenced teaching when eighteen years old, and followed that 
profession for thirteen terms. He was married to Miss Elizabeth A. Owens, 
daughter of John Owens, February 9, 1879. They have one child — Medill 
Irvin. The past two years, Mr. S. has been renting 100 acres of his father- 
in-law, which he keeps in excellent repair, and upon which he makes a good 
living. He keeps the Norman horse and short-horn Durham cattle. He and 
wife hold a membership in the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which he is 
Trustee and Superintendent of the Sunday school. 

ALPHEFS STIFFLER was born August 11, 1844, in Prospect Town- 
ship, the son of Jacob and Elizabeth (Gast) Stiffler, who came from Penn 
sylvania about 1830. The family is of German descent. The district 
school gave him his education, and in 1872 he bought the Barnum farm, 
where he lived until 1880, when he purchased his present residence of 125 
acres, paying $73 per acre. His farm, being well drained and fenced, is 
valued to-day at $100 per acre. His house is finely finished, and cost 
$4,500, while he has an $800 barn. His marriage to Miss Martha Owens, 
daughter of John and Ann (Jones) Owens, occurred December 29, 1870. 
Their three children are John J., George W. and Albert L. Mr. S. and 
family are members of the Lutheran Church. For the past sixteen years, 
our subject has acted as Justice of the Peace, filling that position cre<lit- 
ablv and honorably. By trade, he is a carpenter. 

ADDISON TAVENNER is one of the highly respected men of Pleasant 
Township. He was born May 2, 1825, in Loudoun County, Va. , and is a 
son of Jonah and Pleasant (Warner) Tavenner, who came to Marion County 
in 1836, settling five miles east of Marion. The mother died the subse- 
quent autumn, while the father died in 1846, aged forty-eight years, leaving 
a family of seven children. They are. of Scotch-German descent, and the 
grandfather Tavenner was a teamster in the Revolution. The common 
school gave Mr. T. his education, and in 1850 he purchased seventy acres, 
where he now lives, to which he has added thirty acres more; all rated at 
$90 per acre. The improvements are good, the barn being built in 1859. 
May 11, 1848, he married Mary Rupp, daughter of David and Sarah 
(Ntble) Rupp. Their only child, Almy, is the deceased wife of J. W. 
Myers. Mrs. R. is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Our 
subject has been Justice of the Peace in Pleasant Township for three years. 
He is still active, though for the past twenty years he has been in declining- 
health. 

CHARLES VAN HOUTEN is an intelligent and respected citizen, 
burn August 5, 1830, in New Jersey, son of David and Margaret (Light- 
hype) Van Houten. His father died when he was but thirteen years old. 
His people came originally from Holland, and he holds in his possession a 
Bible, published in 107 4. which his grandfather brought from Holland and 



PLEASANT TOWNSHIP. 887 

carried through the war for independence! Our subject came with his 
mother from New York State to Delaware County, Ohio, when quite young. 
At twenty-one, he visited California, remaining five years. In 1800, he 
bou ght a farm of 120 acres near Centerville, Ohio, upon which he lived 
about one year. In 1862, he moved upon his present farm, then eighty 
acres, belonging to his wife. He has purchased two lots near, of 102 acres, 
so that their farm numbers 182 acres of good land, valued at $80 per acre. 
He has an attractive home. Mr. Van Houten's married life has been sub- 
ject to considerable transition. He first married Susan M. Roberts, De- 
cember 4, 1850, who died within a year, leaving a son — Highalmer R. He 
married his next wife, Miss Harriet Jones. January 6, 1857, who died four 
years later, leaving no children. His last marriage was solemnized August 
25, 1862, to Mrs. Mary Boyd, daughter of Isaac and Elizabeth Simpson, 
with no issue. Our subject enlisted in 1862, in Company B, One Hundred 
and Twenty-first Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, entering as a private, 
serving nearly three years, and was dischai'ged as Captain. He was en- 
gaged in sixteen battles besides many skirmishes, and went with Sherman 
" to the sea." He was honorably discharged, having contracted disease, 
from which he never recovered. Mr. V. has served his township as 
Clerk two years and as Justice of the Peace for the last fifteen years. Both 
he and his wife are members of the Presbyterian Church at Prospect. Mr. 
Van Houten has kept a record of the weather three times a day, continu- 
ously, for the last fourteen years, noting the change of the mercury in the 
thermometer and barometer, with remarks of storms, clear days, wind, etc. 

CHRISTIAN ZIEG was born December 2, 1842, a native of Pleasant 
Township and a son of Peter and Margaret Zieg, who came from Germany 
in 1839. He bought in time 110 acres of land, sixty acres of which he 
cleared. His family numbered three children. The mother died in 1876, 
at the age of sixty-six, and the father still survives at the age of seventy- 
five. Our subject purchased and inherited 210 acres, which he keeps in 
good repair. His large and inviting house was built in 1880, costing $3,000; 
standing near is his large $700 barn, built in 1882, fed by a windmill pump. 
May 8, 1862, Mr. Z. married Margaret Knickle,» daughter of Henry Knickle, 
of Prospect Township. Seven children have crowned this union, one dying 
an infant; the names of the living are Christian Henry, John W, Samuel 
B., .Elizabeth and Franklin. For the past twenty years oxu 1 subject has 
been engaged in buying and shipping stock, cattle, sheep and hogs. He 
has often handled $300,000 worth of hogs annually. He and his family 
worship at the German Reformed Church, of which he is Deacon. His 
fellow-citizens made him Trustee one term. 

JUSTUS ZIEG is a son of Peter and Margaret Zieg, a native of Pleas- 
ant Township, and was born October 28, 1840. His people came from 
Germany about 1839, settling in the south part of the township. Justus 
"bought eighty acres, but added later, by purchase, 108 acres, owning in all 
188 acres, valued at $80 per acre. He completed a fine house in 1879, at 
an expense of $1,200, and a large barn in 1877, costing $600. His farm is 
supplied with good stock generally, and at one time he bought and shipped 
considerable stock. His marriage to Caroline Neidhart, daughter of Conrad 
Neidbart, took place May 1. 1862. Their union has been blessed with five 
children, one dying young; the surviving are Caroline, Mary, Hannah and 
AVilliam. This family worship at the German Reformed Church, of which 
he has been Trustee and is at present Deacon. Mr. Z. has been Town 
Trustee two terms. 



888 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 



CHAPTER X. 



PROSPECT TOWNSHIP. 

ORGANIC. 

r T^HIS is one of the most recently formed townships of Marion County. 
J_ In the year 1830, an effort seems to have been made to erect a new 
township from off tbe west part of what was then Pleasant Township, but the 
plan failed, as will be seen from the following entry taken from the Com- 
missioners' record of that date: 

" Tuesday, March 2, 1830. — A petition was presented, praying for a new 
township to be laid off from the west part of Pleasant Township, which, 
being read, was rejected." 

It was not until after the General Assembly had passed an act in Feb- 
ruary, 1848, erecting the new county of Morrow, and giving to Marion 
County certain portions of Delaware County, known at that time as a part 
of Marlborough, Thompson and Radnor Townships, that Prospect Town- 
ship was organized. It was carved out of Pleasant and Green Camp Town- 
ships, and also made to include the territory of that portion of Thompson 
and" Radnor Townships which was given by the act of the Legislature in 
February. 1848, to Marion County, from off of Delaware County, although 
the territory included in the Marion portion of Radnor Township had al- 
ready been incorporated into a recently organized township, designated 
Waldo, all of which will clearly appear from the following entry, copied 
from the Commissioners' record of that date: 

"Auditors' and Commissioners' office, Marion. Marion Co., Ohio, June 
5, 1848: This day tbe Commissioners of Marion County met, pursuant to the 
statute. Present, Henry V. Smith and John Uncapher, Commissioners, and 
Peter Beerbower. County Auditor. This day came George Beames, Chris- 
tian Gast and others, being a majority of householders residing within the 
territory hereinafter described, and made application, by petition, for the 
erection of a new township, to be called 'Prospect,' to comprise and in- 
close the following territory, to wit: All those portions and parts of Rad- 
nor and Thompson Townships attached to the county of Marion by the act 
erecting the county of Morrow, passed February 24, 1848 (including that 
portion of Radnor Township incorporated in Waldo Township bj the Com- 
missioners of Marion County at their March meeting, 1848). Also Sec- 
tions No. 31, 32, 33 and 34, in Township No. 6 south. Range No. 15, being 
in Pleasant Township, and also Fractional Section No. 36 south, Range 
No. 14, in said Pleasant Township, and also Fractional Township NTo. 7 
south, Range No. 15, in said Pleasant Township. Also the following por- 
tion of Green Camp Township, to wit: Beginning at the northeast corner 
of Survey No. 9,923, being the northeast corner of George Cryder's land, 
on the Scioto River; thence west along the north line of said survey to the 
northwest corner thereof; thence southwardly along the west line of said sur- 
vey to the northeast corner of John Sharp's 210 acres of land, in Survey No. 
10,240; thence westwardly to the northwest corner of said John Sharp's land; 



PROSPECT TOWNSHIP. 889 

thence southwardly along the west line of said Sharp's land to the south 
line of said Survey No. 10/240; thence along said line to the line between 
Marion and Union Counties; thence southwardly with said last-mentioned 
line to the Greenville treaty line; thence eastwardly along said Greenville 
treaty line to the Scioto River: thence up said river, with the meanderings 
thereof, to the place ol beginning. And it appearing to the satisfaction 
of the Commissioners, that legal notice of said application has been given, 
and that the erection of said township is necessary, it is ordered that the 
above territory be and the same is erected into a separate township, by the 
name and style of 'Prospect.' and that the boundaries thereof be recorded 
accordingly. " 

For some reason, which does not clearly appear from the record, the 
Commissioners were induced, on the following day, to amend their order 
above given, as to that portion denning the boundaries of Prospect Town- 
ship, and restore to what was then Pleasant Township the east half of Sec- 
tion No. 33 and all of Section No. 34, and also to add to the new township a 
goodly portion of Virginia Military Lands from Green Camp Township, as 
will b° seen from the following entry: 

"Tuesday morning, June 6, 1848. — On application, and good cause 
being shown, it is ordered that the order of the Commissioners entered as 
of yesterday, erecting the new township of Prospect, in Marion County, be 
so amended that the whole of Fractional Section No. 34, and the east half 
of Fractional Section No. 33, Township No. 6 south, Range No. 15, be re- 
stored and attached to the township of Pleasant, from which the same was 
taken, and that the following additional portion of Green Camp Township be 
and the same is attached to and made a part of said township of Prospect, 
to wit: Beginning at the northwpst corner of Survey No. 9,923; thence 
westwardly on line of said survey to the southeast corner of William and 
Aaron Market's 119^ acres of land; thence westwardly along said Markel's 
land, and continued westwardly on the south line of said tracts of land to 
the west line of Marion County, thence southwardly along the line between 
Union and Marion Counties, to the south line of Survey No. 10,240; 
thence eastwardly on said south line to the southwest corner of John 
Sharp's 210 acres of land; thence northwardly, on the west line of said 
Sharp's land to the northwest corner thereof; thence eastwardly to the 
northeast corner thereof; -thence northwardly on the west line of said Sur- 
vey No. 9,923 to the place of beginning." 

GENERAL ASPECT. 

Prospect Township is one of the smallest, yet one of the most densely 
populated, as well as one of the richest and most fertile townships of Mar 
ion County. Its surface is undulating, being gently diversified by hill and 
dale. It is traversed its entire length from north to south by the Scioto 
River. Although organized recently, comparatively, it was formed from 
territory much of which had been occupied for over twenty years by the 
early settlers of that portion of this and Delaware Counties. Yet, since 
then, wonderful changes have been wrought; extensive woodlands have 
been cleared away; beautiful farms of well-arranged fields have been 
formed, and the fertile valley of the Scioto has been made to bloom and 
blossom as the rose. Handsome farmhouses, with convenient and comfort 
able surroundings, have taken the place of the rude structures occupied by 
the early settlers, and all traces of frontier life have passed away. A few 
of the old pioneers of this township, who have braved the dangers and the 

oo 



890 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

hardships incident to establishing new homes in unbroken forests, have 
lived to see their families grow up about them, surrounded with all the 
luxuries and refining influences of civilized life. Churches and school- 
houses, the sure forerunners of the highest type 'of Christian civilization, 
have sprung up in this township as if by magic, until now every locality is 
provided with a church of some denomination in which the people meet 
to worship and to return thanks to a kind and beneficent Providence for 
the bounteous prosperity which they enjoy at His hand. Each school 
district is now supplied with a good, substantial school building, where 
the youth are gathered together six months in every year, and given in- 
struction in the common branches by able and competent teachers. 

SETTLEMENT. 

The first settlement effected within the preeent limits of this township 
was made near the present site of the town of Prospect. Richard Tibbitt, 
Ephraim Markley and Evan Evans, with their families, located at a point 
about one mile north of Prospect, in the year 1814, the former on the west 
side of the river and the two latter on the east side, and were soon joined 
by Thomas Pugh, Phillip Thomas, James Thomas, John Diver and their 
families. Another settlement was made in the year 1815, by Darius Lan- 
don a ad his brother, Cyre Landon, and their families, along the west bank 
of the river, just opposite where Prospect now stands. In fact, a portion 
of the lands then occupied by them is now within the present corporation 
limits of Prospect, as now extended on that side of the river. They were 
joined by William Patten in the year 1818. From time to time other fam- 
ilies were added to this settlement, and among them was that of Christian 
Gast, in 1832. The third settlement that was made was commenced by 
Robert Cratty, in the year 1819, about one mile east of Prospect. Maley 
Goodwin and William Dutton located near there in 1828. 

As years went by, other families were added, and erelong the three set- 
tlements were united into one. This band of hardy pioneers formed the 
nucleus around which, in after years, a large and prosperous community 
gathered. The families of Aaron Allen, William Foughty, George Clay, 
Thomas Phillips, John T. Williams, Elijah Adams, Benjamin C. Adams, 
Phillip Lawrence, John Wayne, and others were afterward, between the 
years 1829 and 1833, added, and this colony, after enduring many months, 
and even years, of toil, suffering and privation, emerged from their severe 
trials of hardships, and became a permanent and thrifty settlement. From 
these families, and from later accessions without, this township has been 
peopled. Pennsylvania German and the Welsh composed the greater por- 
tion of these early settlers, of whom the latter, perhaps, predominated at 
the time, which, doubtless, was occasioned by the extensive settlement of 
Welsh people in Radnor Township, Delaware County, that existed there 
even at a much earlier period, and from which many of the first families of 
Prospect Township came. Other nationalities were also represented among 
these early pioneers, and to-day, owing to the many intermarriages, it is 
difficult to determine which of them have a distinctive predominance; yet 
many of the old Pennsylvania German and Welsh families still remain dis- 
tinct, and have retained not a few of their national characteristics. 

Robert Cratty was born in Chambersburg, Penn., in the year 1784, and 
with his family emigrated from there to Delaware County in 1817. Three 
years later, they removed into the present territory of this township. Mr. 
Cratty is now the oldest citizen living withiu its borders, and he informs 



PROSPECT TOWNSHIP. 891 

us that he helped build the first house that was erected in Middletown. 
and that he and Mr. Christian Gast, as Directors, built the first school- 
house within the township. It was a rude structure, consisting of hewed 
logs, having a rough, clapboard roof, and the windows of paper to admit 
the light. David Davis was the first teacher who presided therein, and 
swayed the scepter over the few urchins intrusted to his care, and in their 
youthful minds implanted the germs of education, which, under proper 
cultivation, have developed into the elements of the highest type of social 
and business training. The first church building was also a hewed-log 
structure, of modest appearance, and was built in the year 1825, near 
Mounts' residence, north of Prospect. It was of the Presbyterian denom- 
ination, and the first pastor in charge was Thomas Cratty. 

The first marriage that occurred within the limits of this township was 
that of Mr. Simpson with Miss Duff. Elizabeth Tibbitt and Jane Tibbitt, 
twin daughters of Richard and Sarah Tibbitt, were the first white children 
born in this township. The lands of this township are composed of Con- 
gress, United States Military and Virginia Military lands, the greater por- 
tion of which consists of Virginia Military, which include all that portion 
of the township lying west of the Scioto River. The United States Mili- 
tary include all the lands south of the Greenville treaty line and east of the 
Scioto River. The Congress lands comprise that small remaining portion 
lying east of the river and north of the Gieeoville treaty line. The 
drainage of the lands of the entire township is effected by a perfect net 
work of brooks and rivulets, which make their debouche into the Scioto 
River. These runs are spring-fed, keeping a constant flow of pure and 
healthful water, thus affording desirable water privileges of inestimable 
value. Of these numerous streams, the most important are Patten and Bat 
tie Runs, the latter of which derived its name from tne following incident, 
which will be of interest: 

" WAR WITH THE WYANDOTS." 

In the early settlement of this township, and white the Greenville treaty 
was yet in existence, the feeling between the whites and the Indians was 
not always entirely pacific, and frequently the revengeful feeling of the 
unsubdued Wyandot broke out into open acts of hostility. In the year 
1820, a local disturbance of no great magnitude convulsed the communities 
bordering on the Wyandot Reservation, and what was known as the " War 
with the Wyandots" ensued. It was noted for the absence of much blood 
shed, and also for being of brief duration; but even after its close bands 
of organized men were kept armed and in readiness to prevent marauding 
bands of Indians from molesting the frontier settlements, and to summar- 
ily punish any attempt made by them of that kind. It was at this time 
that a troop of horsemen, called the Light Horse Guards, were stationed at 
Big Island. This small company made frequent excursions through the 
settlements, and kept a vigilant watch over the property, life and interests 
of the settlers, and apprehended and punished any band of Indians whom 
they found committing depredations of any character ..gainst the whites. 

It was on one of these excursions that the company, while watering 
their hcrses at a run that passes around the south side of the present site of 
Prospect in a semi-circle or crescent form, came in contact with an Indian 
apparently somewhat intoxicated, but who, in fact, was only feigning 
drunkenness, as was subsequently learned. Some of the men were dis- 
mounted, and the horses were slaking their thirst from the cool, crystal 



892 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

waters of the stream, when the savage was first observed approaching the 
group from the skirts of the woods close by. His manner and his walk 
gave signsof intoxication. His salutation and his subsequent effort at com- 
munication with the company was such a jumbling of brokon English as to 
seem only the idle vaporings of an intoxicated brain. The horsemen were 
all soon again mounted, save one named Morgan, whom they urged to do 
so, as they desired to hasten on their way, and leave the apparently barm- 
less Indian unmolested. But unfortunately for Morgan the amiable red 
man had taken a fancy to his white necktie, and upon being refused this 
little token of friendship assumed the aggressive, insisted and demanded 
that it should be given him, and so pressed Morgan, that in his efforts to 
evade the Indian, who was insolently following him up so closely, as he 
backed out of the immediate reach of the savage, that he stumbled and fell 
over a log. This so enraged Morgan, that upon regaining his feet he seized 
the aggressor's gun, wrenched it from him and dealt him a heavy blow over 
the head, which felled him to the ground. No sooner had Morgan wrested 
the weapon from the hand of his adversary and administered the blow, 
than more than a hundred dusky forms instantaneously sprung from their 
concealment in the adjacent woods. 

It was then discovered, for the first time, that a band of Indians lay in 
ambush watching the proceedings, which evidently had been inaugurated 
by them for the express purpose of provoking the Light Horse Guards into 
some overt act of hostility, and create an excuse for revenging themselves 
upon the hated white men, who were keeping the actions of Wyandots 
under such close surveillance. In utter amazement, Morgan mounted his 
horse, and soon joined his companions, who continued on to the residence 
of Elijah Adams, some two miles south of this point, where they spent the 
night. 

It was determined in the morning that a compromise must be effected 
and the hostile savages conciliated, in order to prevent further molesta- 
tions from them. Accordingly, they at once returned to the Indian camp. 
Here they found the Indian, who initiated the trouble of the previous day. 
seated upon a flat stone with a blanket thrown about him, enjoying a course 
of steaming, a favorite method of treatment by the Wyandots for all ills 
that Indian flesh is heir to. Dispensing with all ceremony usually ob- 
served on such occasions, the parties proceeded at once to effect a com- 
promise, which was soon accomplished by the principal offenders confessing 
their hastiness, and Morgan agreeing to furnish the Indians with a load of 
pumpkins, and the wounded savage in return to furnish the whites with a 
si Idle of venison. Thus this difficulty was ended, and the pipe of peace 
having been smoked, all again was quiet along the valley of the Scioto. 

AN ANECDOTE OF THE CHASE. 

| It is related that a party of four, consisting of Messrs. Landon, Davies, 
Elijah Adams and his son, Benjamin C, one beautiful moonlight evening 
in the early autumn of 183f>, embarked in a large log canoe and launched 
out upon the placid waters of the Scioto, at a point near the present site of 
Prospect, in anticipation of a pleasant hunting excursion. They passed up 
the river quietly, propelling their substantial but cumbersome barque, 
using long poles instead of oars, reaching the mouth of the Little Scioto 
about 8 o'clock. Here the party stopped and spent an hour in rest and prep- 
aration for the evening hunt. At the expiration of that time, a canoe 
containing four men, with their guns and ammunition, but with only one 
person visible could have been seen moving stealthily up the stream. 



PROSPECT TOWNSHIP. 893 

Soon a herd of deer greeted the sight of the occupants of the boat. The 
unsuspecting animals had corne down to the water's edge, and were slak- 
ing their thirst and feeding upon the long grass which at that time grew in 
abundance along the margin of the river. Noiselessly the boat containing 
the hunters approached within two or three rods of where the deer were 
quietly feeding, and simultaneously three human forms arose to a sitting 
posture, and the sharp report of three rifles rang out upon the still night 
air, and two of that small herd of deer fell in the shallow water as the 
first fruits of the evening hunt. The remainder at once took fright, and 
bounded off into the deep wood, and were soon lost to sight. 

The little party, after securing their game, again quietly proceeded 
down the stream, until they rounded the bend in the river and came to a 
poiut opposite where Wynn now lives, where they discovered another herd 
of deer, apparently in the act of crossing the river, and among them was 
a very large buck, that attracted the attention of Landon and Davies, both 
of whom fired at him at the same time. Only one ball, however, took effect, 
and that only to slightly wound the animal, which at first fell in the water, 
but soon regained his feet and was about to escape into the darkness of 
the adjacent woods, when his retreat was cut off by the intervening of 
a boat between him and the shore. Being thus prevented from escape in 
that direction, the animal turned his head to the opposite shore, and was 
soon into the deep water, swimming toward that point, when the boat 
again overtook him, and one of the occupants — Benjamin C. Adams — 
sprang upon his back; but so sleek, strong and agile was the animal, that 
after carrying Adams a short distance down the stream from the boat, be 
made a sudden turn and left Adams in the water, which at that point was 
about five feet deep. The occupants of the boat had thrown a long board 
paddle to Adams, and it had now drifted so near to him that he seized it, 
and the deer still being within his reach, dealt him several severe blows, 
knocking off his, horns, and otherwise so seriously wounding him that he 
was soon easily captured. After applying the hunter's kuife to his throat, 
and his life-blood had flown away, the body of the deer was lifted into the 
boat and the party turned their bark in a homeward direction. On their 
return, four more deer were captured in a similar and as exciting a man- 
ner. Thus it will be observed that the early settlers readily combined sport 
and pleasure with the duty of providing for their families. 

WESLEY PUGH's NARROW ESCAPE. 

Wesley Pugh, whose parents came to that portion of Delaware County 
that is now included in Waldo Township, this county, in 1802, and who 
afterward, in 1819, removed to a place one mile north of Mr. Cratty's farm, 
in this township, where he was born in 1819, and where he has since re- 
sided, has witnessed much of the development and improvement of this and 
Waldo Townships. His early boyhood and manhood are replete with ex- 
periences incident to pioneer life. It is said that during his early man- 
hood, while those townships were yet nothing but primeval forests, consist 
ing of heavy timbers of massive oak, tall and graceful maple and other 
trees of a kindred nature, together .with dense undergrowth, and while yet 
the roads from one settlement to another were mere paths along which a 
wagon could pass, or two persons could ride on horseback comfortably side 
by side, and where the howling of wolves and the screams of panthers wire 
familiar sounds to all who resided within the borders of these townships. 
Young Pugh often had occasion to pass over these lonely roads. One even- 



894 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

ing. as lu> was returning home on horseback from Waldo, where he ha 1 been 
spending the afternoon, and where he had been detained by friends until a 
late hour, as he was riding leisurely along, not noticing thac the shades of 
night were gathering fast, and the sky was becoming obscured by dark and 
murky clouds which soon made the road and woods gloo>ny with impene- 
trable darkness, he was suddenly aroused from his reverie and pleasant 
thoughts of his visit with the kind friends whom he had so recently left, to 
the realization of the dangers that he would probably have to encounter be- 
fore reaching home by the howling of wolves in the distance, which, al- 
though at first were few and indistinct, seemed to increase in number and 
volume as he advanced on his lonely road. He had now reached a point 
some two miles from any human habitation. Soon it became apparent to 
him that these hungry animals were closing in around him, and that he was 
probably the sole object of their prey. He was not, therefore, astonished, 
although somewhat frightened, when he discovered a number of them close 
upon him, and from the eagerness and swiftness with which they were pur- 
suing him there was no longer any doubt that an attack was imminent; 
and that escape from a pack of such hungry and ferocious animals was ex- 
ceedingly doubtful. Young Pugh was wholly unarmed. The peril of the 
situation flashed upon him with overwhelming weight as, for a moment, 
he considered the situation. Here he was, in the heart of a dense forest, 
without a weapon of any kind with which to defend himself, without the 
hope of help from any human hand, sought, pursued and almost sur- 
rounded by a vast number of dangerous animals when taken together, and 
especially when driven to an attack by the desperation of hunger. 

But he had no time for reflection. The wolves were now at his horse's 
very heels, howling, snarling, snapping and springing forward with that 
certainty and exultation so characteristic of animals of prey when they con- 
sider their victims within their power. Something must bo done, and 
done quickly. Pugh, who, although he had been riding at a rapid ga> t. 
had up to this time been considering the propriety of returning to Waldo, 
as it was the nearest point in case of certain danger, now observed that he 
was intercepted, and retreat in that direction made utterly impossible, and 
that the only hope for him was to dash through the circle that was rapidly 
surrounding him, and make good his escape in the direction of his father's 
home. This he determined, if possible, to do; and urging his horse to 
greater speed than before, he was leaving the wolves in the rear, when sud- 
denly those coming to the chase from the opposite direction sprang upon him 
as he was passing; and had it not been for a rough stick, in the form of a 
cane, which was used with the power of desperation, and with which Pugh 
declares he actually felled two wolves with one blow, as they sprang upon 
and had taken hold of him, he would certainly have been killed. To the 
vigorous use of this club and the fleetness of his horse, which continued its 
flight with almost unabated swiftness to the homestead, he owes the preser- 
vation of his life on that occasion. 

AGRICULTURAL. 

The following is the annual report for 1833, giving the present agricult- 
ural status of Prospect Township: Wheat, acres sown. 2,680; bushels 
produced, 4,174; number of acres sown for harvest of 1883, 2,600. Oats, 
acres sown, 250; acres sown for crop of 1883, 91; bushels produced, 5,030. 
Corn, acres planted, 2,251; acres planted for crop of 1883, 2,271; bushels 
produced. 94,085. Meadow, acres, 471; tons of hay, 730. Clover, acres. 



PROSPECT TOWNSHIP. 895 

1,046; tons of hay, 1.027; bushels of seed, 301. Potatoes, acres planted, 
84; bushels produced, 6,750. Butter, 39,380 pounds. Bees, 35 hives; 
pounds of honey, 380. Eggs, 34,530 dozen. Apples, acres occupied, 235; 
bushels produced. 2.000. Lands, acres cultivated, 2,103; acres of pasture, 
2,829; acres of woodland, 2,294; total number of acres owned, 11,770. 
Wool, 8,831. Milch cows, 306. Dogs, 90. Sheep killed by dogs. 97; 
value. $534. Hogs died, 40; value, $382. Sheep died, 116; value, $438. 
Cattle died, 13; value, $379. Horses died, 16; value, $2,440. Losses by 
floods: Grain, etc., value, $200; fences, value, $100. 

VILLAGES. 

Three villages have sprung up within the present borders of this town- 
ship, one being called Columbia, one Centerville and the other Prospect. 
The first-named was laid out by Elijah Adams in 1832, about one mile 
north of Prospect, along the river, on the farm now owned by John Decker, 
and a number of lots were platted, but the place not having the natural ele- 
ments and surroundings to insure prosperity, no enterprising persons in- 
vested in property or located there, and its founder soon gave up the hope 
of building a town upon this site, and the place finally reverted into a 
field, and now there is scarcely a monument of any kind left to mark the 
spot. 

Centerville is a small town located on the line of the New York, Penn- 
sylvania & Ohio Railroad, about ten miles southwest of Marion. It was 
laid out in October, 1863, by George Clay, and is situated in the Virginia 
Military District, in Survey No. 10,240, lying west of the northwest corner 
of a lot of land owned by Joseph Tunis, and being on the northeast 
corner of George Clay's land. It contains one general grocery store, saw 
mill and a warehouse for the temporary storage of grain, a schoolhouse. 
and dwelling houses to the number, perhaps, of a dozen. Its growth has 
been neither rapid nor remarkable. 

THE VILLAGE OF PROSPECT. 

Prospect is situated in the fertile valley of the Scioto River. It is some 
ten miles distant from Marion, and is located principally on the left bank 
of the river. It was first known by the name nf Middletown, and was 
laid out by Christian Gast while that portion of Prospect Township yet bo- 
longed to Delaware County. The town was surveyed and laid out Septem- 
ber 17, 1835, and originally consisted of eighty-one lots, besides one do- 
nated by the proprietor for a schoolhouse, church and burial grounds. The 
plat was left for record at the Recorder's office in Delaware December 25, 
1835, and was there duly recorded December 28 of the same year. These 
eighty-one lots lay between Elm street and the river, and extended as far 
north as Market street. Most of these lots found ready sale, and a number 
of business buildings and many private residences were soon erected. Mi*. 
Gast found it necessary, erelong, to make an addition, which he did in Oc- 
tober, 1837. This is known as Christian Gast's First Addition to Middle - 
town. It consists of twenty -six lots on the east side of Elm street, running 
the entire length of the original plat, being, however, only one lot deep. 
Christian Gast, whose ambition and enterprise kept pace with the village, 
made two additions subsequent to that date; one in 1839, which lies north 
of Market street, along the river, and consists of thirty-six lots; the other 
in 1855, which consists of forty-six lots, running the entire length along 
the east side of what was then Middletown, bringing it to East street. 



896 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Two years prior to the date of the filing of Christian Gast's Third Ad- 
dition, a small addition known as Berry & Patten's Addition was made to 
Middletown, which lies on the west side of the river, north of Water street 
as now extended, and consists of six lots. This addition was surveyed, 
platted and recorded in May, 1853. This is the first date that the ambi- 
tious little Middletown began to extend her limit as to take in territory on 
the west side of the river. 

Early in January, 1876. Christian Gast, Jr., filed in the Recorder's 
office of Marion County a plat of sixty lots, which he had recently caused 
to be surveyed and laid out, about one-third of which lay on the east side 
of the Columbus & Toledo Raih-oad, which was then in process of construc- 
tion, and which ran through the territory east of Middletown about one- 
fifth of a mile. This was at that time entirely disconnected from Middle- 
town, and was designated " Prospect" by the proprietor. The new town 
lay entirely on the south side of River street, and on it the depot and 
other buildings were soon erected. 

About this time, the citizens of Middletown petitioned the Court of 
Common Pleas to have the name of their village changed from Middletown 
to that of Prospect, alleging as their principal reason that there were 
several other towns and post offices of that name in the State, and that, it 
caused great inconvenience and trouble in regard to mail matters to the 
citizens of the village and the public generally, and accordingly, January 
31, 1876, the court granted their request, and the entire village has since 
been known as " Prospect." 

In March, 1876, the first addition to the new town of Prospect was 
made by Margaret and Peter Leist. It consists of six in -lots and two out- 
lots, and lies on the north side of River street, directly opposite the sixty 
lots laid out by Christian Gast, Jr. Early in January, the following year, 
David Gast and J. T. Davies made another addition to Prospect, which con- 
sists of seventy-one in- lots, * and lies between East street and that portion 
of the town laid out by Christian Gast, Jr., and Leist's Addition, thus 
connecting the two parts of the village and making it one complete whole. 

In August, 1876, a petition was presented by the citizens of Prospect 
to the County Commissioners, asking that certain contiguous territory 
should be annexed to the village, which request was granted by the Com- 
missioners at that date, and the proceedings were duly recorded in the Re- 
corder's office on October 28 of the same year. Of that territory on the east 
side of the river, forty-four and a half acres belonged to David Gast, twelve 
and one-fourth to Christian Gast, Jr., thirty-six and a half to Margaret 
Leist, forty-seven and a half to Catharine Davis, fourteen and one-fourth 
to J. L. Farnum, nine and three- fourths to the heirs of Philip Gast, and 
two acres to J. Cope. On the west side of the river, three and a half acres 
of the Switzer farm, thirteen and a fourth acres belonging to the Patten 
heirs and twenty-three and a fourth acres belonging to J. L. Farnum were 
included in the corporation limits thus extended. Thus it will be seen that 
the little town has gradually extended its limits until it has acquired a con- 
siderable territory, and its growth in population and business interests 
has been equally as steady and healthful, until now it has become a village of 
no little importance. 

Christian Gast, the original proprietor, was born and reared in Bed- 
ford County, Penn., a mountainous and almost barren district. There 
he spent his boyhood and early manhood. There he was married, and there 
his nine children were born. But as his necessities increased, a desire to 



PROSPECT TOWNSHIP. 897 

inhabit a more fertile and more productive country and to possess a goodly 
portion of it, prompted him to emigrate to this portion of Ohio, where he 
had been correctly informed of the beauty and richness of the Scioto Val- 
ley. He arrived here in April, 1832, and purchased the properly just south 
of the village that his son David now occupies, and also the land upon 
which the village now stands. A very few acres were cleared around Mr. 
Gast's new home at that time, but with the aid of his sons, Benjamin C. 
Adams and other help that was available, he soon cleared a number of acres, 
and among the first was the present site of Prospect. After raising two 
crops thereon — one of corn and one of wheat — he conceived the idea of lay- 
ing out a town, and accordingly, in September, 1835, he had the town sur- 
veyed and platted as previously mentioned. As this location was about 
midway between Delaware and Marion, the proprietor gave it the name of 
"Middletown." The first house built in the town was a log cabin erected 
by Robert Cratty; the second was a log schoolhouse built by Robert Cratty 
and Christian Gast, as Directors. The first frame building in the place waB 
erected by Dr. Samuel Gast, which was built on the southwest corner of 
the square, where it still stands. There the Doctor had his residence, his 
office, and there he also engaged in selling goods, for which he had ex- 
changed 120 acres of land, lying east of town, to George C. Knight. The 
next frame building in the place was erected by Robert Watkins, Sr., and 
stood just north of where Watkins' brick hotel now stands. Here Mr. Wat- 
kins kept tavern for a number of years, and by supplying his table always 
with the best obtainable in those days, and extending to his guests that old- 
time hospitality, won for himself many warm-hearted friends and an envi- 
able reputation. 

The next building erected was on the northeast corner of the square, 
and was owned and occupied by Nathaniel Fields. James Pickett, from 
Delaware, was, perhaps, the first regular merchant that located here. He 
erected a frame building on the southeast corner of the square, for resi- 
dence and store room, and here kept a general stock of goods, such as the 
wants of the people demanded at that time. He occupied the place for a 
number of years. The building, though still standing, is removed back to 
the end of the brick building now on the same corner, which is occupied as a 
drug store. Thomas Humphrey was one among the first business men lo- 
cated in Middletown. He was engaged here a number of years in the sale 
of merchandise, and was a reli'able, honorable and successful merchant. 

The people of Middletown received their mail at Radnor, in Delaware 
County, up to 1837, at which time a post office was established here, and 
Jonathan P. Brookins was appointed and acted as the first Postmaster in 
the place, holding the office two years. The mail for a number of years 
was brought once a week from the only one point, Radnor, and was so light 
that it could be easily carried by one man on horseback over the roughest 
roads in any season of the year, and the revenue of the office for the first 
two years was less than $5 per year. 

Robert Watkins, Sr. , who, with his wife, came to Middletown in 1830. 
was prominently connected with the business interests and early history of 
the place. Among other industries that he set on foot and helped to carry 
forward, was that of establishing a foundry, which he and his brother 
Thomas carried on. with marked success, from the year 1845 to the year 
1853, at which time Thomas Watkins died, and he being the molder and 
practical workman of the firm, the business was soon after abandoned and 
the property disposed of for other purposes. The name of Watkins is a 



898 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

time- honored and respected one, and although Robert Watkins, Sr., and his 
brother Thomas, have long since passed away, their families remain as high 
ly respected members of this community. 

In the year 1850, a distillery was erected in the village by Barnes & 
Barrickman, who carried on the business of distilling liquors for a period 
of five years, when the proprietors, becoming greatly involved in this and 
other business, were compelled to make an assignment, and the manufact- 
ure of liquors in this place was from that time discontinued. 

The first grist mill erected here was built by a company of which Jacob 
Spade, Christian Gast, John Gast and others were members, and was lo- 
cated on the east bank of the river, in the northern part of town, on the 
site where the present mill now stands. It was built in 1852, and did a 
general milling and storage business. On the 3d day of July, 1858, sparks, 
emanating from the engine, ignited a fire in the dry and inflammable ma- 
terial of the mill, and when it was discovered, there being no organized fire 
company in the village, the flames could not be suppressed until the fire 
had extended into what was then considered quite a little conflagration, 
completely destroying the mill, the Lutheran Church, a dwelling house 
and a doctor's office— the last two of which belonged to Dr. Cook, and were 
occupied by Richard Patten and Dr. Thatcher. Insurance on property was 
not then so general as now, and no policy rested on the mill, the residence 
or the church, to bear the burden and share the loss with the owners. The 
mill was at once re-built, on the same old foundation, by William Gast, 
and was afterward sold to George and John Van Brimmer, and subsequent- 
ly they sold it to Herbster & Reeser, who, some time afterward, disposed of 
it to Morrow Bros. , its present owners. 

It might be well to mention that, before tbe erection of any grist mill 
in Middletown, what was known as a "corn-cracker" was built about mid- 
way on the lot south of the one on which Watkins' frame tavern stood. 
This "corn cracker" was run by horse-power, and served to grind corn into 
meal, which was used extensively at that time as the material for "corn 
pone," "Johnny-cake" and other "cakes," the recipes for the making of 
which are now seldom found in the ordinary cook book. 

George C. Knight came here from the East about 1840, and engaged in 
selling and trading goods of almost every description that were at all mar 
ketable here. He was a shrewd speculator,, and exchanged much of his 
goods for lands and town property. He lived in what was then termed 
"fine style," having at his residence many of the conveniences and comforts 
of an Eastern home, also keeping a colored servant, and was looked upon 
by the plain people as a kind of an aristocrat among them. 

Mr. Knignt, during his five or six years' residence in Middletown, had, 
by his trading, acquired much of its property, and now that he was about 
to leave was desirous of turning if, into money. He conceived the idea of 
copying the plat of the town, so that he could the better display the loca- 
tion of his property and its surroundings to parties who might desire t > 
purchase, but who for any reason, such as distance and expense, could not 
have an actual view of the premises. Accordingly, he secured the services 
of a skillful pencil artist, and caused the plat of the town to be drawn oft* 
in elegant style and flashy colors, with the Scioto in its full width washing 
the town on the west, and flowing majestically by. Upon its smooth sur- 
face steamers of various sizes were sketched, some lying in port while 
others were slowly pushing up the stream laden with the products of the 
place, thus giving Middletown the appearance of a thriving little city on 



PROSPECT TOWNSHIP. 899 

the bank of a navigable stream, which, to all appearances, was already util- 
ized as a means of transportation. Providing himself with thi-, and a 
copy of the act of Congress which declared the Scioto River navigable up 
to the mouth of the Little Scioto, he went to Pennsylvania, among some of 
the good, honest Quakers of that State, who, in their child- like faith and 
simplicity, thought Mr. Knight and all others as honest and conscientious 
as they. Mr. Knight exhibited his map, together vdth the act of Congress 
declaring the Scioto River navigable beyond this point, and talked of the 
growth and advantages of the place and the beauty and fertility of the 
country surrounding it, until he caused them to believe that here was a 
chance for an exceedingly good investment. The result was the sale of his 
entire possessions in the town to the Quakers, at what was then considered 
a fabulous price. The purchasers, in the course of time, came on to take 
possession of and improve their property and engage in the business activ- 
ity of the little city; but when they arrived and found it as yet a mere 
hamlet in the woods, on a stream that appeared to them anything else but 
navigable, with but few improvements of any kind as yet discernible, they, 
with disgust pictured upon every lineament of their features, turned their 
backs Upon the place and quit it forever. It is needless to say that their 
interest in property here was afterward secured at a mere nominal figure. 

Although the picture was grossly overdrawn by Knight, who can say 
but that, treated as a prophecy, it may not yet be partially realized? Only 
about thirty-five years have since elapsed, during which time rapid strides 
have been made in its growth, beauty and business industries, and to day 
it ranks among the thriftiest and most handsome villages in the State. It 
has grown from what was then a mere hamlet, of a few unpretentious 
houses, with only a territory of 143 lots, to an ambitions and enterprising 
village with its hundreds of frame and brick buildings and numerous busi- 
ness blocks, and possessing a territory of 207 acres of land, in addition to 
its 340 lots. Although the river has not yet been utilized for the trans- 
portation of freight and passengers to and from this point, much better fa- 
cilities for these purposes have been secured. Among them in the location of 
the Columbus, Hocking Valley & Toledo Railroad through the eastern por- 
tion of the village, which connects it directly with Columbus and Toledo 
and other important points along the line of this road; and also gives it 
easy communication and quick transportation to Cleveland, Dayton and Cin- 
cinnati. Almost every branch of business is now represented here, and 
energetic and enterprising men are found in almost every department of 
trade. 

There are now five dry goods establishments, two drug stores, two hard- 
ware stores, four provision stores, two clothing stores and one merchant 
tailoring establishment and two millinery stores. A bank was located here 
in 1880, and another in 1883; also a newspaper printing office. The Village 
is in an excellent financial condition. 

The village is well provided with religious societies and church edi- 
fices, there being five in number, viz., the Presbyterian, the Methodist Epis- 
copal, the Baptist, the Lutheran and the German Reformed. There is at 
present one schoolhouse, and although not of sufficient capacity to accom- 
modate all the pupils of the village, the board has rented two public halls, 
in which free schools are held, thus providing educational facilities for the 
rapidly increasing number of pupils until a new and commodious school 
building can be erected, which is now under contract at a cost of $10,000. 

These things speak well of the morality and culture of Prospect citi- 
zenship. 



900, HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

The growth of Prospect and the increase of population dur ing the last 
few years have been truly wonderful. In 1376, when the village was in- 
corporated, the census was taken, as the law requires, and the total number 
of inhabitants was then 355, and in 1880 — only four years afterward — at 
the regular decennial census, the population had increased to 600, making 
an average increase of sixty- one persons annually. At that rate, Prospect 
now contains about 725, by the extraordinary growth from immigration 
during 1881-82. As shown by the statistics of voters, there is now a popu- 
lation of nearly 800 souls. 

EARLY EVENTS. 

The first child born in Prospect Village was Albert Gast, the son of Dr. 
Gast. 

The first blacksmith shop in the village whs kept by Robert Cratty, Jr., 
where Cook's drug store now stands. 

The first flouring mill built in the township was a steam mill, erected 
by a company, on the site of the present mill in Prospect Village. 

Christian Gast and Robert Cratty, Sr., erected the first schoolhouse in 
Prospect Township— probably in 1833. It was made of hewed logs, and 
occupied the site of the present Union School building. 

REMINISCENCES BY B. C. ADAMS. 

The first settlers of what is now Prospect Township were Ephraim 
Markley and sons, George Rite, John Driver, Richard Jones, Richard Tib- 
bett, Fred Huff, Cyre Landon, Darius Landon, Thomas Pugh, John A. 
Jones, John T. Williams, Robert Cratty, James Thomas, John Bowen, Mala 
Goodin, Philip Lawrence, John Clay, David Lloyd, Friend Biggerstaff, 
William Patten, David Cadwallader, Christian Gast and Robert Wat-kins. 
Of these, all have passed away but three, viz., Robert Cratty, now almost a 
centennarian, John A. Jones and Joan Watkins, widow of Robert Watkins. 
These were among the very first that settled in the township They came 
when the red man and the wild beasts of prey were the undisputed sov- 
ereigns of this then nature's wild -dominion. The ax and muscle of the 
pioneer have cleared away the forests and opened up the beautiful farms 
which their posterity now enjoy. All honor to tho memory of these brave 
men! 

It may be of interest to some to know what we lived on in those early 
days. The chief articles on which we subsisted were corn dodger, hominy, 
mush and milk, with wild turkey and venison — the latter being the most 
plentiful. Corn meal was made in the following manner: A large stump 
was selected, and a round hole burned in the top, large enough to hold a 
peck or more of corn; then a forked pole set upright in the ground, with a 
pole passing over the fork for a sweep. To the end of the sweep would be 
attached a solid stick of timber, made the proper size to fit the mortar; 
then, by mounting the stump and plying the sweep we soon had meal. I 
have taken many a sweat at it. 

The next improvement was the "hand mill," being two flat stones, the 
lower one bedded on a block or trestle; a stick with a spike in one end, 
and a hole drilled near one edge of the upper stone, to receive the spike; 
the other end attached to a joist by a "whan," or strap. Thus, one or two 
men, by applying nerve and muscle, would soon grind out a half bushel of 
corn. The next improvement was the horse mill, propelled by horse- power, 
a very slow and hard way of grinding meal and flour. 

Then came the water mill. An incident is said to have taken place at 



PROSPECT TOWNSHIP. 901 

one of these mills, near tbe mouth of the Little Scioto, that is worth relat- 
ing. It was a rude mill, not inclosed, and had a clapboard roof for shelter. 
Two neighbors, each having shouldered a half-bushel of corn, went to the 
mill to get it ground. The water was very low, and the grinding very 
slow. However, they determined to wait their turn. A large, half starved 
hound had followed them, and laid himself down near the meal chest. One 
of the grists was placed in the hopper, and to pass away time the men 
baited their hooks for a fish. Not long after, they heard the hound howl, 
bow-wow! Then there was silence for a time. Then bow-wow again. 
This lasted for some time. Then, supposing the grist to be out, they re- 
turned; and lo, and behold, the hound had devoured the meal as fast as it 
left the spout, and while it was collecting stood anxiously gazing up the 
spout and bow-wowed for more! 

I have taken a sack of corn, on horseback, ten and fifteen miles to mill, 
returning home at night through an unbroken forest, the wolves howling on 
all sides. 

I could tell of many adventures of those early days; trapping, fishing 
and hunting; several times being attacked by a wounded buck; then it was 
business, sure — though I had the fortune each time to come off victorious, 
only minus a good suit of home-made jeans. 

Deer were very numerous in those days, and somewhat troublesome to 
the early settlers, large herds frequenting the wheat fields in the early 
spring, while the ground was soft, eating and trampling the grain to such an 
extent, that if not driven off they would quite ruin it. I have gone out with 
dogs and what was called the " horse-fiddle," and given them a scare many 
a night, the hide and flesh being of no value at that season of the year. 

The deer and its habits have been so often described, I will not enlarge; 
and yet there are many young men that know but very little about the change 
of color they take on as the season changes. The question sometimes arises, 
does the male deer shed his antlers, or horns, once a year? Certainly they 
do. about the middle of Februaiy, and about tbe 1st of June new ones make 
their appearance, soff> and woolly like velvet. They grow rapidly, and in 
a short time become hard and sharp. 

The deer were slaughtered in great numbers in those days. One of the 
most successful, and T think the most unfair, ways, was with the canoe and 
light — called " light hunting." It was done in this way: A post was set 
upright in the bow of the boat, with two clapboards nailed or in a "V" form. 
A large candle placed in front would throw the light from shore to shore 
in the front, but behind the blind all was dark. The deer having found 
their way to the stream in great numbers, to feed on a moss or grass that 
grew very plentifully in or on the water. In those days, it required skill 
on the part of the steersman to keep the game in the light; and with skill 
you could get within a few yards. Then, with a musket or gun well 
charged with buck-shot or a number of balls, there was but little chance of 
escape for the poor deer. The month of June being the best time for this 
kind of hunting, I have known a few men, too lazy to work, to follow this 
kind of hunting during the season just for the hides, which were worth 
from 6 to 12 cents a pound, and leave the meat lying for food for the wild 
beasts and buzzards. 

In those early days, in company with two other young men, I set out on 
a hunt of this kind, having poled the canoe from this place (Prospect) to 
the mouth of the Little Scioto, some six miles; went to shore, struck a fire 
and smoke to keep off the mosqui toes. "When darkness had fairly set in, 



902 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

we lighted our candle, and commenced to move slowly and cautiously down 
the stream. We had not gone far until we discovered a very large buck 
gazing at our light. We moved with great caution until within a few yards, 
then tired. The buck fell, but quickly arose and made for shore. The 
order was, " Run the canoe on him;" but missing our aim, the word was 
" Spring on him.*' I being young and spry made the leap, landing on his 
head and neck, grasping his horns. We had it up and down for some time. 
The water being deep, the struggle was a hard one. I believe I was upper- 
most full half of the time. We took him in, with two others, that night 
and arrived home at daybreak, wet and hungry, took our breakfast, then 
the scythe, and went to the clover field, feeling proud of our spoil. 

But few of the young men of these days have any idea what labor it 
took to clear up those beautiful farms that now cover the Scioto Valley. I 
have gone to log rollings and house-raisings for twenty one days in succes- 
sion, Sundays excepted, dividing the hands and ground. Every muscle 
and nerve taxed to the last pound! There are only a few of those old 
heroes now living. 

I was asked a few days ago if I could tell what gave rise to the name 
" Battle Bun." Was there a battle fought there, or not? Well, not much 
of a battle, I will say. The facts in the case are these: Word got out that 
some unfriendly Indians had been seen a few miles north of this, now 
called Prospect. Several of the neighbors collected on horseback and went 
to investigate, finding it was a false alarm. On their return, they stopped 
at the little stream now called Battle Bun, to let their horses drink. A 
man by the name of Morgan having alighted from his horse, an intoxicated 
Indian attacked him, demanding his necktie. Morgan refusing to give it 
up, the Indian drew his tomahawk. Morgan caught hold of the Indian's 
gun, wrenched it from him and gave him a heavy blow with the gun-barrel 
over the head, which brought him to the ground. At that moment, several 
Indians who had been concealed behind the logs and trees, sprang out with 
their guns, giving chase. The horsemen put spurs to their horses. The 
road, at that time, led around the hill. The Indians, taking a straight cut, 
came into the road a short distance behind and tired several shots, some of 
which passed through the clothes of the fleeing white men. They made 
good their retreat, however, without the loss of a single man. The next 
thing was a compromise. Early the next morning a company repaired fc> 
the battle-field, found the Indian that Morgan had struck sitting with a 
blanket over his head, over a pot with water, and every few minutes a hot 
rock was dropped into the kettle. He was taking a good sweat. A horrid 
gash was seen cut in his head. A council was called, and the following 
terms of peace were agreed upon: The Indian who insulted Morgan was to 
give Morgan a saddle of venison — the two hind quarters — and Morgan, 
for striking, was to deliver to the Indian a cart-load of pumpkins The 
pipe of peace was then smoked, each one taking a draw. 

CHURCHES. 

Methodist Episcopal Church. — The first Methodist preaching in the vi- 
cinit) of Prospect Village was probably by an itinerant named Swazy, in 
1810 or 1817, at the residence of B. C. Adams' parents, who, among others, 
were converted, and soon a society was formed, consisting of the above 
named and Robert Perry and wife, Cyre Landon. John Hoskins, Darius Lan- 
don, Bichard Tibbitts and Thomas Pugh and their wives. Mr. Adair s' resi- 
dence was a preaching place fur many years. Some of the preachers were Bevs 



PROSPECT TOWNSHIP. 903 

J. B. Finley, Thomas Pugh, Jacob Hooper, Bishop T. A. Morris, John Stuart 

(colored), James Gilruth, Mitchell, Russell Bigelow, Lorain, 

Goff, William Reynolds, Samuel Shaw, John H. Powers, Leonard B. Gurley 
and many others. In Middletown, meetings were mostly held in a room over 
a store, until about 1837, when a frame church, 24x30, was built, on the lot 
where the present church stands. That building has been moved, and is 
now used for a barn. The present edifice, 36x54, with capacity for seating 
450, was built in 1858 and dedicated the following year. It cost $1,050. 

The pastors since 1809 have been Caleb Hill, two years; William W. 
Zance, two; Frank B. Olds, two; Henry E. Pilcher, one, when a great revival 
was enjoyed, 105 joining the church; John Graham, one year; John W. 
Hill, 1877-78; Benjamin B. Powell, 1878-81; James C. Clemens since the 
last date. 

The church now numbers 200 members, and is in a healthy and pros 
perous condition. Class Leaders: Emanuel Knachel, Lewis Wasser, Is- 
rael Hedges, Jacob Hoskins, John Glass, Frederick Freeman, — - — Haywood 

and Howison. Stewards: George Noble. Wesley Pugh, Samuel 

Markley. 

First Baptist Church of Prospect. — The first meetings held in Prospect 
by people of this denomination between 1840 and 1850, in school and pri- 
vate houses; the preachers being Revs. O. Owens, J. Frey, D. D. Walden 
and others. The church was first organized in November, 1863, in their 
meeting-house, by a council of pastors and delegates from other Baptist 
Churches ; but they had been worshiping about six years as a branch of the 
Radnor Baptist Church. The number of members at organization was for- 
ty; S. L. and A. P. Johnson, Deacons; E. Dix, Clerk, and Rev. J. G. Tuni- 
son, Pastor. Rev. D. Pritchard preached at Prospect while this society 
was a branch of the Radnor Church. The first church building, 30x45 
feet in size, and costing $750, was erected in 1850. The present edifice, 
brick, with slate roof, 40x60 feet, «nd costing about $6,500, was built in 
1873. A fine parsonage, worth $2,500, belongs also to the church. 

Pastors: J. G. Tunison, seven years; B. J. George, eight and a half 
years; S. F. Hull, two years; H H. Witter, three years, M. Squibb, two 
years; A. J. Wiant, for the last three years. Principal revivals in 1854, 
1860, 1862, 1866, 1875 and 1882, under the pastorates of Revs. Tunison, 
George and Wiant. Present membership, about 207. Clerk, I. M. Rob- 
erts. Deacons, Daniel Robinson, J. Q. Roads, H. Worline and Isaac 
Roberts. Treasurer, Adam Morrow. The missionary zeal of this church 
has been very marked. Rev. Mr. George, while pastor here, baptized the 
present President of Brownson University, Rev. R. R. Williams. D. D., 
whose labors during the past ten years among the Tulugus, in India, have 
greatly prospered. 

Pisgah Presbyterian Church. — The first Presbyterian meeting in Pios- 
pectwas held May 3, 1850, in the Methodist Episcopal Church, when there 
was preaching by Rev. Henry Van Deman, and the church was organized 
by Rev. H Hess, with the following seven members : Jane Boyd, Rachel 
Matthews, Rachel Selanders, Thomas Johns, Mary Johns, R. G. Boyd 
and Rebecca Boyd. Thomas Johns and R. G. Boyd were elected Rul- 
ing Elders. Rev. Mr. Hess sei-ved as pastor three years: S. K. Hughes, 
one; E. Evans, two; I. N. Shepard, two; C.K.Perkins, eight; N. S. Smith, 
one; Mi*. Anderson, one; D. D. Waugh, two; Charles Torry, one, and Thorn 
as, the present incumbent, two. There are now forty members, with John 
Cellar and R. G. Boyd as Elders. Rev. Perkins was the only installed 



904 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

pastor, all the others being stated supplies. In connection with this church 
are an " Evergreen" Sunday school and a Woman's Foreign Missionary Socie- 
ty — the latter meeting monthly. There have been received into this church, 
since its organization 126 members, but the greatest number at one time 
was forty -one. 

The first church edifice was built in 1852, 31x37 feet, at a cost of 
$700, where services were held until in 1881, when an $1,800 church was 
erected, 30x40 feet. 

Otterbein Chapel, United Brethren in Christ. — First meeting was held 
about the 1st of February, 1855, and the same year or next the church was 
organized, with a membership of twenty, by Revs. Atkinson Berry, P. E. , 
and Wilson Martin, P. C. First official members: S. C. Mounts, W. B. 
Davis, W. H. Conkright, E. Griffith and J. B. Stoutenberg. June 5, 1856, 
a lot four rods square was bought, on Survey 9,923, Prospect Township, 
for $20, and the same year a church was built. The first Trustees were 
Michael Kurtz, S. C. Mounts and William Conkright; the present are 
John Wynn, R. Baxter Davis and W. B. Patten. J. S. Mills, Elder; Rev. 
S. Wertz, Pastor. Meeting every two weeks. 

St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church. — The following sketch of this 
church, in its pioneer days, is taken from the old church records: 

Christian Gast and his brother William Gast, members of the Lutheran 
Church, settled, in the spring of 1832, with their families, in the vicinity 
of what is now Prospect Village (then Middletown). They were religious 
people, and, desiring to hear the Gospel preached, during the summer of 
1833 secured the services of the Rev. A. Weil, then the pastor of the Lu- 
theran congregation at Delaware, who preached for them about once in 
eight weeks, at the house of Christian Gast. This continued for' about six 
months, when the pastor resigned his charge at Delaware. The Delaware 
congregation was afterward supplied by the Rev. S. S. Kline, who con- 
sented to preach regularly once in four wefks at the house of Christian 
Gast, and subsequently iu the Middletown Schoo [house. Several other 
Lutheran families having settled in the vicinity, a small congregation was 
organized by electing and installing Elders and Deacons, and adopting cer- 
tain articles as a constitution for the order and discipline of the church. 
The first members of the organized church were Christian Gast, his wife 
Elizabeth, and daughter Margaret, William Gast and his wife Elizabeth. 
The first confirmation in this congregation occurred April 30, 1836, when, 
having been previously instructed in the catechism by the pastor, seven 
young people were confirmed, and the next day, being Lord's Day, they were 
admitted to Holy Communion with the congregation. 

In the fall of 1841, the pastor, S. S. Klme, resigned his charge of the 
Middletown congregation. 

During the pastorate of the Rev. B. Pope, who in the year 1842 re- 
ceived and accepted a call from the Delaware and Middletown congrega- 
tions, a house of worship was erected on a lot of ground donated for that 
purpose by Christian Gast, on what would be Lot No. 82 of Prospect Vil- 
lage plat. In 1845, a subscription was started for this purpose, and in 
1846 the house was partially completed, so that the congregation could oc- 
cupy it in pleasant weather. It was not finished until 1849, after Pastor 
Pope had resigned and Rev. M. Loy had taken charge of the congregation 

The services of this church were first held exclusively in the German 
language, but the wants of a service in the English language increawing, 
i t became necessary, ev«n in Pastor Pope's time, to have part of the service 



PROSPECT TOWNSHIP. 905 

conducted in the English language, until at present (1883) three-fourths of 
the service is in the English language and one-fourth in German. For 
many years, including Pastor Loy's time, services were held in English and 
German on alternate Sundays. 

In November, 1857, Pastor Loy resigned his charge of Middletown 
congregation, and Rev. Philip Gast became its pastor. Thenceforth, serv- 
ices were held every Lord's Day. The congregation lost its pastor by 
death October 20, 1865, and Rev. Jonas Simon was installed July 22, 
1866. He died November 18, 1866, and was succeeded by Rev. George 
Long, who was installed April 28, 1867. He continued over one year, 
when the charge was again vacated until occupied by Rev. F. E. Harsh, 
who was installed February 14, 1869, and died October 27, 1869. Rev. J. 
Humberger became pastor June 26, 1869, and was installed November 20, 
1870. He resigned January 1, 1875, and J. O. Huffman took charge until 
July, 1882. June 1, 1883, the Rev. David Simon was installed, and is the 
present pastor. 

The congregation having grown, and desiring a larger church edi- 
fice, a subscription was taken up, and funds secured for that purpose, 
January, 1855. The proposed house was immediately commenced on In- 
lot No. 94 of the village plat. The lot was donated by Peter Leist. The 
work was vigorously prosecuted, and the edifice completed and dedicated 
in 1856. This is the present brick church house occupied by the congre- 
gation. It was built by Christian Gast, Jr. , and Peter Leist for $1,250. Af- 
terward, other expenses were added, in furnishing steeple, etc., which in- 
creased the cost to $1,397.25. The first church edifice built by this con- 
gregation was destroyed by fire several years after their removal to the brick 
church. The present edifice is fitted very neatly, and supplied with a fine 
pipe organ, which was bought in 1879. Mr. J. Albert Davis has acted as 
organist since its purchase. The choir is supplied by twelve voices. 

The present membership is about 150, and a flourishing Sunday school 
is maintained. 

Zion's Reformed Church. — Of this denomination, meetings began to 
be held in 1845, in the Middletown Schoolhouse, Rev. H. Hess, minister 
The church was organized April 13, 1846, with twenty-five members, name- 
ly, J. J. Wottring, George Butz, Philip Wottring, Samuel Bachman, Abra- 
ham Bechtel, Daniel Williard, Samuel Bechtel, Jr., Jonas Bechtel, Lewis 
Wottring, John Moyer, Samuel Moyer, Jonathan Bechtel, Elizabeth Bech 
tel, Hannah Wottring, Elizabeth Wottring, Elizabeth Hess, Rosena Mover, 
Mary Bechtel, Nancy Seifle and Catharine Bechtel. 

Their first church building, 25x30, was erected in 1845, at a cost of 
$500. Their present house of worhsip, 32x45, was dedicated October 
25, 1874, and cost $2,500. Pastors: H. Hess, three years; S. K. Denires, 
three years; William D. C. Rothrock, two; M. G. Stei-n, two; J. B. Thomp- 
son, three; J. Winter, three; J. H. Stepler, two; John Hoyman, two; 
Joseph Kester, nine; William Herr, one; Philip Rnhl, the last four and a 
half years. Present number of members, fifty-nine. Church officers: 
Levi Wottring, J. P. Williams, C. L. Mohr and E. Brownmiller. 

PROSPECT CEMETERY. 

These grounds, wherein lie so many of Prospect's pioneers, are located 
within the corporation limits of the village, on the west bank of the Scioto 
River. The south end of the grouud was used as a burial -olace as early as 
1836, and came to be located there in this way. Christian Gast had do- 



906 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

nated, when he laid out the village, land for that purpose on the east side 
of the river, it being the first lot north of Lot 81 of the original plat, where 
seven or eight bodies still (1883) lie buried. This burial ground was 
thought to be too near the center of the village, when Mr. Oast proposed 
that as the location of the burial-place was to be changed, that ground for 
the purpose might be selected at any other place on his land that the citi- 
zens might choose Mr. Knight and W. W. Patten also offered to donate 
land for the purpose, and finally the site was selected on Patten's land. 
It at first contained but about half an acre, but subsequently a son of Mr. 
Patten made an addition and laid it out into lots, which were sold to dif- 
ferent parties. Previous to this, it had been a free burial-place. When 
the grounds, under the statute, became the property of the township in 

1881, there was an addition made, so that the grounds now comprise seven 
or eio-ht acres, occupying the land from the gravel road to the river. The 
surface slopes to the east, and the situation generally is very beautiful, 
First burials: Mary Jeannette Knight, September 28, 1836; B. S. Knight, 
October 2, 1837. 

SOCIETIES. 

Prospect Lodge, No. 444, F. d- A. M. — The first who met under a dis- 
pensation were Dr. E. R. Cook, C. B. Linsley, W. J. Woods, George Van 
Brimmer, John Van Brimmer, Henry Hain, John F. Utz, J. P. Brookins, 
Jr., John M. Edelman, S. S. Shoup, Reuben Lavender, Clark Decker, P. 

C. Sells, J. S. Harman, B. M. Hord and John A.. Kyle. The above peti- 
tioned the Grand Master for a dispensation, which ( was granted June 7, 
1870, under which the following were appointed officers : Dr. E. R. Cook, 
W. M; C. B. Linsley, S .W. ; W. J. Woods, J. W. The lodge, at its 
first meeting, appointed Oeorge Van Brimmer T. ; Henry Hain S. ; J. P. 
Brookins, S. D. ; John F. Utz, J. D. ; and P. C. Sells, Tiler. Charter for 
a lodge was granted October 19, 1870. The lodge now numbers fifty-four 
members, and is in a prosperous condition. Meetings, every Wednesday 
evening on or before the full moon. Present officers: B. N. Hord, W. 
M.; J. H. Wishek, S. W.; M. Strelitz, J. W. ; F. M. Cook, Treas.; Benry 
Hain, Sec; Joseph Cratty, S. D.; J. D. Griffith, J. D. ; J. P. Penry, Tiler. 

Prospect Lodge, I. O. F., No. 483. — This lodge was instituted the 
18th of July, 1871. The charter was granted from the Grand Lodge of the 
State on the same date. The charter members were A. D. Neimeyer, J. 
W. Statler, L. H. Wottring, Judson N. David, Reuben M. Butz, W. A. 
Dill, F. C. Freeman (Noble Grand), J. V. Boyd, Austin A. Boyd, Alvin 

D. Mohr, John Reithanaier, Reuben Neimeyer, John H. Thomas, Perry 
McAdams, James W. Noble. 

The present, membership is fifty-five, and officers as follows: Austin A. 
Boyd, Noble Grand; G. W. Dunbar, Vice Grand; James W. Noble, Record- 
ing Secretary: J. V. Boyd, Per. Secretary; J. H. Howison, Treasurer. 
Appointed officers: C. L. Mohr, Warden: W. C. Wottring, Conductor; J. 
W. Statler, Outside Guardian; J. F. Wottring, Inside Guardian; F. D. 
Lewis, R. S to N. G. ; G. A. Fritch, L. S. to N. G. ; J. F. Decker, R. S. to 
V. G. ; L. C. Wasser, L. S. to V. G. ; S. J. Farnum, R. S. S. ; S. Kaub, 
L. S. S. This lodge has a neat, well- equipped room for their meetings, 
and is in a prosperous condition. 

Durward Lodge, No. 155, Knights of Pythias, was instituted January 
2, 1883, by the Grand District Deputy, S. A. Court, of Marion. The 
members under the dispensation, which had been granted December 26, 

1882, were J. H. Wishek, P. C. ; Charles Rosenthal, V. C. ; Mitchell Stre- 



PROSPECT TOWNSHIP. 907 

litz, C. C; W. F. Knachel, M. of Ex.; G. W Sells. O. G. ; James Kaub; 
W. H. Lake, P.; Jacob Fox; A. M. Trickey; H. K. Clows, K. of R. & S. ; 
N. O. Brenizer, I. G. ; S. M. Kaiib, M. of F. ; C. R. Herr, M. at A. ; C. 
Abel, J. Flack, H. R. Money, D. Miller, T. J. Oswald, G W. Dunbar, 
Noah Gast. Regular meetings, Thursday evenings at Castle Hall. 

Woman's Christian Temperance Union. — This association, auxiliary 
to the State Women's Christian Temperance Union, was organized at the 
Baptist Church in Prospect December 1, 1882, after a temperance address 
delivered by Rev. L. A. Belt, of Marion. The organization was superin- 
tended by Mrs. Search, of Marion, delegated for the purpose. Present 
number of members, seventeen, who meet alternately in the Presbyterian, 
Baptist and Methodist Episcopal Churches the second Wednesday of each 
month. Mrs. A. J. Wiant, President; Mrs. E. E. Rigour, Secretary; Mrs. 
Sarah Jennings, Treasurer. 

BRASS BANDS. 

The village supports two excellent brass bands, supplied with the best 
of musical instruments, and having a reputation, at home and abroad, of 
being equal to the best. 

Van Guard Band. — This was started in April, 1872, with eleven pieces; 
it now has fifteen pieces. First they were under the directorship of S. E. 
Hull; since April, 1877, J. Albert Davis. They have silver instruments, 
of French manufacture, valued at $400. 

Star Band. — This also was organized in 1872, with about the same 
number of pieces, under the directorship of S. Kenyon; since 1881, J. F. 
Mohr. They have brass instruments, valued at $300, American manu- 
facture. 

Each of the bands retains a majority of its original members, are all 
neatly uniformed and have good band-wagons, especially the Star Band, 
whobe cost about $700. 

RAILROADS. 

When the Columbus & Toledo Railroad was first surveyed, the line was 
run straight from Marion to Columbus, about two miles east of Prospect; 
and had it not been for the energetic exertions of a few of the citizens of 
Prospect Village, who had the foresight to appreciate the advantages it 
would furnish to the place, the road would have been built on the line first 
surveyed, as it was nearer between the two points. The first move that 
was made to change the line and bring the railroad to Prospect was made 
by David Gast, who went to Columbus, and represented so strongly to the 
officers of the company the advantages that would accrue to them by mak- 
ing a change in the line, that they finally consented to consider the matter, 
and appointed a meeting to be held at Prospect to discuss the question. 
At this meeting the officers were so favorably impressed, that they appointed 
a final meeting at Columbus, to further discuss the question and come to a 
decision. At that meeting, the following citizens of Prospect were present: 
David Gast, George Gast, C. L. Mohr, Watt Watkins, P. C. Sells, S. H. 
Gast and J. J. Wottring. At this meeting the officers decided to bring the 
railroad to Prospect, providing the village and township would make a do- 
nation to the road of $10,000, and also subscribe for $25,000 stock. 

This ultimatum of the company was presented to Mr. David Gast. 
He immediately, in the name of the citizens of Prospect, promised that the 
money would be given and the subscription and stock raised. He, with 
those present at the meeting and other citizens, took energetic measures, 
and David and S. H. Gast were appointed as a committee to get subscrip- 



908 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

tions and secure the right of way for the road, which was successfully ac- 
complished. 

But for the work and energy of the citizens named, Prospect Village 
would never have been, but the place would have retained the name of 
Middletown, and would have been two miles at least, or over, from rail- 
road communication. Among the principal contributors of money and 
stock may be named David Gast, J. T. Davis, Herbster & Reeser, Christian 
Gast, Watkins Brothers, $1,200 each, and others. 

Grading was commenced in the summer of 1875, and trains began run- 
ning in 1876. 

Present station agent, R. Gilmore, appointed November, 1881. 

New York, Pennsylvania & Ohio Railroad. — This railroad runs through 
the northwestern corner of Prospect Township, where there is a small sta- 
tion called Centerville. 

BUSINESS ENTERPRISES. 

Elevators. — There are two steam grain elevators in the village of Pros- 
pect, both owned by Wyatt & Watkins Bros. The one on the west side of 
the track was built in 1877, by S. E. De Wolfe, of Marion. It has a capac- 
ity of 7,000 to 8,000 bushels. The one on the east side was built by the 
present proprietors in 1881, at an expense of $6,000. It has a capacity of 
12,000 bushels, and is fitted with all the modern improvements for clean- 
ing, handling and shipping grain. The firm has shipped, on an average, 
from this elevator 200 car loads per annum. 

Prospect Bank. — This, the first bank in Prospect, was organized in 1880 
by B. K. Herbster and W. H. Mohr, with the former as President. It was 
a private bank, and proved of great advantage to the business interests of 
the community. March 8, 1882, it was re-organized by a stock company, 
comprising B. K. Herbster, President; W. H. Mohr, Cashier; David Mohr, 
Reuben Wottring, B. C. Adams, L. H. Wottring, J. Q. Roads, J. L. Far- 
num, Cook Bros., Evan' T. Jones and Jacob J. Wottring. At the election 
March 8, 1883, G. W. Cook was elected Cashier. They have a neat and 
commodious banking-room adjoining Cook's drug store, fitted with first- 
class fire and burglar proof safes and all other conveniences necessary to 
the business. 

Citizens'' Bank. — This was established April 26, 1883, by Morris 
Humphreys and Watkins Bros. F. C. Freeman, President, and Joseph 
Cratty, Cashier. Cash capital, $13,000. The stockholders are personally 
and individually liable for all deposits and obligations of the bank. For 
this institution there is now in process of erection a brick building, to be 
fitted with fire and burglar proof safes and all the conveniences and essen- 
tials of a first-class bank building. 

Wottring Bi'os. & Co/s Satv and Planing Mill was put in operation in 
December, 1882, with a six-horse power Huber engine. The firm consists 
of W. C. and S. L. Wottring and L. C. Wasser. 

Brenizer Block. — This is one of the finest business blocks of the village, 
and was erected through the enterprise of Brenizer Brothers, consisting of 
W. G. Brenizer, of Cardington, Ohio, and C. H. Brenizer, of Prospect. 
It was commenced in the spring of 1881, and completed in 1882 at a 
cost of about $12,000. The block is built of brick, three stories high. The 
lower floor is fitted up and occupied by stores; the second fioor has six con 
venient offices, while the third and upper floor was specially built for and 
fitted up as an 

Opera Hall. — This is one of the institutions of Prospect Village, and 



PROSPECT TOWNSHIP. 909 

one of the neatest halls for the purpose found in towns of the size of Pros- 
pect. It has a seating capacity for 800 to 1,000 people. The stage is 
28x65 feet, and fitted up with tasteful and appropriate 6cenery and all the 
modern paraphernalia. The whole building speaks well, not only for the 
enterprise of the builders, but of the town. The opera house, consisting 
of the third floor, is now owned by C. H. and Dr. N. O. Brenizer. 

PHYSICIANS. 

The resident physicians of Prospect areDrs. G. H. Masters, B. Engeles- 
man, T. J. Gb'dden, J. L. Farnum, regular, and N. O. Brenizer, homceo- 
pathic. 

VILLAGE OFFICERS. 

Mayors — A. M. Vaughan, 1876-77, S. H. Gast, to fill the vacancy 
caused by Mr. V.'s removal from the village, 1877-78; T. L. Bartow, 1878; 
J. H. Wishek, 1879 to the present. 

Clerks— M. W. Pettey, 1876-77; J. F. Wottring, 1878-79: Charles A. 
McFarland, one month, and J. F. Wottring the rest of the year and to 
the present time. 

Treasurers — B. K. Herbster, 1876-77; Owen Richmond, 1878. to the 
present. 

Marshals— J. S. Kline, 1876, resigned, and David Little, 1877-^80; 
Isaac G. Stratton, 1880, to the present. 

Middletown was incorporated April 3, 1871, when C. L. Mohr, C. R. 
Thomas and Joseph Gast were elected Trustees — Mr. Gast, President, and 
Mr. Mohr, Secretary. Afterward, the Trustees were: 1872 — Joseph Gast, 
C. L. Mohr, J. T. Davis; 1873-74— C. L. Mohr, J. T. Davis, B. K. 
Herbster. 

TOWNSHIP OFFICERS. 

Trustees: 1858— A. F. Avery, J. W. Boyd, Prior Cox; 1859— W. J. 
Woods, James Tunis, Joseph Dunbar; 1861 — Thomas Smith, R. W. Wat- 
kins, William Strowbridge; 1862 — James Tunis, W. C. Strowbridge, Levi 
Marlow. 1863— E. Dix, James Tunis, Levi Marlow; 1864— Thomas Smith. 
Henrv Stepler, R. W. Watkins; 1865 — Thomas Smith, E. Dix, Benjamin 
McNeal; 1866— C. Willauer. Thomas Smith, Levi Marlow; 1867— Joseph 
Canouse, Charles Romoser, Christian Willauer; 1868 — J. M. Edelman, 
Meker Battenfield, John Van Brimmer; 1869 — J. M. Edelman, John Van 
Brimmer,M. Battenfield; 1870 — J. M. Edelman, John Van Brimmer.H. W. 
Curren; 1871— Thomas Smith. H. W. Curren, F. C. Freeman; 1872— W. 
F. Courts, John Decker. W. Pugh; 1873 — John Decker. H. W. Curren, E. 
A. Finefrock; 1874— E. A. Finefrock, J. W. Boyd, Levi Wottring; 1875— 
Levi Wottring, L. D. Harshberger, A. D. Northrop; 1876 — John H. Howi- 
son, Joseph Weisel, J. W. Bovd; 1877— J. Weisel, J. H. Treese. G. W. 
Dunbar; 1878— J. H. Howison. G. W. Dunbar. D. Gast; 1879— S. Lan- 
don. B. K. Herbster, David Gast; 1880 — S. Landon, B. K. Herbster, David 
Gast; 1881 — Adam Hecker. Henry Hain. E. A. Finefrock; 18^2 — Adam 
Hecker, Henry Hain. John D. Lyon; 1883 — G. VV. Dunbar, S. Landon. P. 
H. Moyer. 

p Clerks— J. L Farnum. 1858-63; J. T. Davis, 1804; J. L. Farnum, 
1864-65: J. P. Brookins. 1866: A. D. Neimever, 1867-68; J. P. Brookins, 
Jr., 1869-70; A. D. Neimever. 1 870-71 ; J. W. Statler, lbT'J: M. W. Pet- 
tey, 1873; George A. Stifflor. 1874; M. W. Pettey. 1875-79: J. F. Wott- 
ring, 1880 to the present. 



910 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Treasurers— W. H. Mohr, 1861; G. W. Courts, 1862; C. L. Mohr, 
1864-69; P. C. Sells, 1870-74; B. K. Herbster, 1875-77; O. Richmond, 
1878-80; G. W. Cook, 1881 to the present. 

Justices of the Peace — William H. Conkright, 1857; Henry Hain, 1861- 
70, 1876; Edward A. Finefrock, 1866;, James Johnston, 1867; David 
Gast, 1870, 1873; Joseph H. Freese, 1873; A. M. Vaughan, 1876; J. H. 
Howison, 1877-83; J. F. Wottring, 1882. The above are dates of elec- 
tion for terms of three years. 

PROSPECT POST OFFICE. 

Abont 650 letters per week are delivered at this office, 1,500 papers, 400 
circulars and 500 postal cards. About 550 letters per annum are registered. 

Postmasters, with the date of their appointment — Jonathan P. Brookins, 
March 2, 1837; Chester W. Sherman, December 20, 1849; Isaac W. Tay- 
lor, October 11, 1853; Edwin S. Adams, May 24, 1861; John M. Tucker, 
December 26, 1879; John J. Roberts, October 3, 1881, the present incum- 
bent. 

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 

To complete a history it is essential that the persons who contribute to 
make subjects for its pages should be dealt with particularly. In local 
history this becomes an absolute necessity, for without personal sketches 
of its principal citizens, much of all that could interest and instruct would 
be lost. Consequently, the plan has been extended to this department of 
the work, as well as to the other chapters of township history, with the result, 
we hope, of giving perfect satisfaction. 

CHRISTIAN ABEL, carriage and buggy manufacturer, Prospect Vil- 
lage, was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, April 29, 1843. His parents' 
names were George and Gottlieben (Fiegle) Abel; the father is deceased, 
and the mother is still living in Germany. October 1, 1865, our subject ar- 
rived at the port of New York, then being twenty- two years of age. He 
immediately came to Ohio and commenced learning the blacksmith's trade 
with Jacob Smelzer, one mile southwest of Marion, with whom he remained 
three and one-half years, when he went to Bethlehem and operated a black- 
smith shop for six years, shoeing horses and doing all kinds of repair work. 
At this period, about 1874, he commenced the manufacture of buggies, at 
which business he has succeeded. He remained at Bethlehem till 1881, 
when he came to Prospect Village, where bis factory occupies two large 
buildings. The paint shop and show rooms two stories high and 40x60 feet; 
the blacksmith and wood shop 22x95 feet. In the establishment he em- 
ploys twelve hands the year round and manufactures about 100 different 
vehicles per annum, which sell at prices averaging from $145 to $250 each. 
The establishment also does a large amount of repairing. It is one of the 
most important business interests of Prospect, as well as one of the most pros- 
perous. Mr. Abel is a thorough and energetic business k man, and his suc- 
cess is owing to his own industry and business tact. He was married, in 
1869, to Miss Catharine Isler, a daughter of Samuel Isler. They have six 
children — Edward, Nelson, Lydia, Charles, and Flora and Cora are twins. 

BENJAMIN C. ADAMS. Abraham Adams, the grandfather of the 
subject of this sketch, was probably a native of England. He afterward 
lived in Luzerne County, Penn.. and came with his family to Ohio in 1807 
or 1808, locating on a farm in Harlan Township, Delaware County, where 
he and his wife both died. The father of Banjamin C. Adams was Elijah 
Adams, born January 2, 1778, in Luzerne County, Penn. He was married 



PROSPECT TOWNSHIP. 911 

in Pennsylvania to Nancy Carey, daughter of Comfort Carey, and came to 
Ohio in the fall of 1810, bringing his wife and family of three children, 
as follows: Mercy Ann, born October 5, 1804; Simeon, born September 
3, 1806, and died aged fourteen yeai's. and Julia Ann, born March 4, 1809. 
They came to Harlan Township, Delaware County, during the winter of 
1810-11. Elijah Adams bought a farm of 200 acres in Radnor Township, 
two and a half miles south of what is now Prospect Village. During th it- 
winter, he also built a log house on this land, 18x20 feet in size; and in 
March, 1811, moved into it with his family. They had the following chil- 
dren born on this place — Benjamin O, June 24, 1811; Abraham, March 4, 
1814; Susannah, May 22, 1816; Eli, Jr., March 19, 1818;. Margaret, April 
19, 1820; John, March 13, 1822, died aged thirty-five years; Hosea, Feb 
ruary 19, 1824, and died aged seven years; James G., May 7, 1826. Eight 
of their children lived to have families. Elijah Adams was a Justice of 
the Peace for thirty years, besides serving in nearly all the offices of the 
township. In politics, he was a Whig, and afterward a Republican. He 
was a stanch member of the Methodist Church, and was a firm friend and 
supporter of the cause of education in the pioneer schools. He taught 
school for several winters in this township. His wife died in 1834 or 1835, 
aDd he was married again to Mary Landon, by whom he had one child; she 
also died before him. Elijah Adams died May 4, 1873. Benjamin C. 
Adams was born in the pioneer home of his father, two and a half mile« 
south of Prospect Village, June 24, 1811, as will be seen, only three months 
after his parents had moved into their log house, then located in a perfect 
wilderness. Here he passed his early years, assisting on the farm and 
also becoming an adept, when a boy, in hunting all the wild animals then 
abounding in the foreet The taste for hunting while a boy still adheres to 
him in his advanced years, and now, when making visits to his married 
child in distant Dakota, he invariably takes his hunting tackle, and there, 
in the western wilds, with his grandson, re-enacts the scenes of his boyhood 
and pioneer days. He learned the carpenter's and blacksmith's trades when 
a young man; the latter business he followed in Prospect Village for seven 
years; at this place he was also engaged in the mercantile business for sev- 
eral years. Mr. Adams was married, September 24, 1833. to Nancy Wol- 
fley a daughter of Ludwig and Mary Wolfley, and they had two children 
— Mary, who grew up to womanhood and was mai-ried to Aden Fields, and 
died leaving one child — Newton Fields — who married, and is still living. 
B. C Adams' wife died September 12, 1836, and September 12, 1S42, he 
was married to Rachel Waters, a daughter of Samuel B. and Mary (Adams) 
Waters. The children by this marriage that lived to grow up were these: 
Spencer G., born August 7, 1844, married Nancy Williams and lives in 
Dell Rapids, Dak., where he acts as a Gospel minister in the missionary 
work, and Ida F., born December 6, 1858. married George M. Curtis, and 
lives in Radnor Township, Delaware County, Ohio. Benjamin C. Adams' 
second wife died September 27, 1863, and April 25, 1867, he married 
Catharine E. Williams, a daughter of John T and Kittie E. Williams; no 
children by this marriage. Mr. Adams commenced the battle of life in his 
young manhood with little of this world's goods. With his axe and hands 
he started even-handed with fortune, and has, by a career of industry and 
straightforward, honest conduct through life, been successful in not only 
acquiring a comfortable competence, but also in earning and holding the re 
spect and confidence of all who know him. Besides being engaged in black- 
smithing, merchandising, carpentering, etc., at different times, he was for 



912 HISTORY OF M IRION CO! N 

twenty-one yours of his life actively engaged in farming; he has now retired 
from business Be is b Btookholdex in tho Prospeot Bank, and occupies himself 
in looking after his invested interests of different kinds. He has been a mem 
her of tho Methodist Chnich for over tatty years, serving during that time 
in Dearly all the official positions of tho church and Sunday BohooL In 
politics, ho is a Republican. Mr. Adams has probablj resided longer in 
Prospect Township than an\ person now living within its borders, and in- 
teresting reminiscences from his pen will be found elsewhere, 

1 ICOB \1 MEN DINGER, farmer, was born in Waldo Township, June 
15, 1841, and is a son of David and Louisa C. Ahnendinger, Mr. Almon- 
dinger has lived on a farm all his life, with the exception of one year that 
he bpent at carpentering. He bought the farm of eighty acres on which he 

os in 1878 He was married in 1864 to Lydia Book, and they have 
had four children Louisa C, Mary A., John W. and (.'lava. His wife 
diod in IS75, and he n i tried rabitha Johnson, and bj this marriage there 

bree ohildreu, namely, Jesse IV. William D, and an infant Mr. Al 
mendinger lives in the north part of Prospect Pownship, and i> one of the 
substantial farmers of his vioinity. 

FRIEND BIGGERSTAFF, farmer, died November IT. - ged 

seventy-four years He wj Ij settler in Marion County, and entered 

and sottlod upon eigthj acres of land in Prospect Pownship in 1821. He 
was . native of Hampshire County, Va . b I roh 20, 1790, a son of 
William and Phebe BiggerstafF. He was married to Phebe Harlan, and 
thej had tho Following children: Rebecca, born November 18, 1817, in 
Alleghany County, Md •. Mary, born in Fairfield County, Ohio, February 

17, 1820, K. s OOUnty, Ar... 1822; IS roh 28, 1824, 
and William. August 19, 1826. Friend Biggerstaff lost h.is wife by death, 
and he was again married, in Fairfi< 1 nty, Ohio, Febro s 

to the widow of John Cool, whose maiden name was Hannah Ettee, a daugh- 
U ohael and Rachel i Rice, all natives of Pennsylvania, where 

she was bom December 18, 1796 Bj her marriage with Friend Big 
staff, there were the following children: Phebe, born D 31, 1829: 

\ vember 11, 188 .-.both. July 31, I s 

mother died Decembei s s B> her d with John Cool there 

g children: Sophia, born . 1822; E - 

18, 1824; vi George, June IT. 182 v chael R fanner, a 

I the preceding, has always boon engaged in fanning 

- his farm of 150 acres, one and a half miles north of 
Pros] \ he east side of th< S River He was married, 

1 . vii V\ elch, daughter of Solomon and Lavina (Smith) 
h, the former a r. 

had a family of five child] . born 

Jul> ^ 85S abeth, 1861; 

S, 1867; 3 oarp 10, 1880 Politically, Mr. 

MEEKER BOTTENFIELD, farmer, f A nesburg, 

n s His parents, Job] Mari 

^ with their family, includ subject of this par 

-. 
both lived until their death Meeker Botl Tied in E 

; • • • 

daugl Hubbell, 

h S. Y„ but io: both died 



PROSPECT TOWNSHIP. 918 

two years after Mi. Bottenfield's marriage, he lived aear Galena, Delaware 
Co., Ohio, where he leased land and cleared fifty aores tor other parties, 
taking as pay Bftji aores of unimproved land; the property is located east 
nf Prospect Village, and is now owned by John <,>. Roads, They lived here 
nix years and In £ugusi, 1852, bought the farm of I'M aores where fchej 
qow reside; about twenty aores of this (arm was cleared al that time; there 
arc now seventy aores of the homestead In ;i line state of cultivation. The} 
lived there just twenty eight years In a log house, and then built, at an ex 
pense of $1, 500, the fine frame building In whioh they now reside. Mr, 
and Mrs. Bottenfield have had eighl ohildren Mary Annis, born Deoember 
15, 1848, and died January 24, 1861; John II., born January 19, IM- r >, 
died September 28, L875; Stephen J., born A.ugust ;'<", 1846; Oarey J., 
February 20, 1840; RozettaJ., January 8, 1851; Helen Drusella, June 6, 
1854; Emma H., June 28, 1857; WilliamM., Ootober I, 1862. Mr. and 
Mr; Bottenfield have been members of the Baptist Church since 1847. 

Al'STlN A BOYD, farmer, was born in Waldo Township, this coun 
ty, January 6, 1841, and was the son of Sylvester and Melindu S. (Selan 
ders) Boyd. Mi'. Boyd has always been engaged in farming, and is cow 

Tannine- forty acres of Iheold homestead in I 'rospect Tow n: h i p. which wns 

bought by Ids father in 1862 His father died on this farm January 81, 
1871, and the widow slill resides there. Our subject was married November 
2, 1871, to Marv E. Wasser, a daughter of Charles Wasser, of Prospect 
Township. They have three ohildren Edna May, born Deoember I, Lo74; 
Charles Carey, November 23, 1876; and Mart E., August IS, 1878. Mr. 
Boyd is a member of Prospect Lodge, No. 488, I. o. ( >. \<\, and in politics, 

iH <i Republican. 

JOHN WESLEY BOYD, farmer, was born in Licking County, Ohio, 
Ootober5, 1817, and is a son of Joseph and Sarah (Devol)Boyd, both born 

near the I'otomac Iviver in Maryland, who came to ( )hio about I he year 1814, 
and located in hick i Qg < 'ounty, and in L825 Or 1826, came to Marion 

County and entered eighty aores of land three miles north of Waldo. 
They subsquently bought L60 aores of land in Pleasant Township, Bom< 
three or Tour miles west of their first farm. The father died on the old 
farm in 1850, and his wife died at the same place four years afterward 
They had f our children Edwin, Sylvester, John W. and George. Previoui 

to his marriage to Sarah Devol, he was married to Miss Scott, by whom he 

had the following ohildren: Joseph, Hiram, William. Eleanor, Ann and 

Mary, all deceased. he was an old line Whig in politics, and served the 
township as Justice of the Peace two terms. John Wesley Boyd, the suh 

jeot of this sketch, was reared on a farm, and when twenty one yen 

age his lather deeded (he 160 acres in I'leasant Township to him and his 

brother Sylvester, where he resided for the next ten or twelve years. During 
this time, he was married to Isabel M. I >avids, daughter of William and Mar 
garet Davids, of Pleasant Township. The ceremony was performed Lpril 
21, 1845. From this marriage there were two children; one, C. J. Boyd, 
married Christina Smith, and died January 19, L888, Leaving four children; 
the other one is deceased. Mr. Boyd's wife died in L856 or 1857, and he 
was again married, January I". L861, to Mary E, Roads, daughter of John 
and Margaret (Winegardner) Roads; by the last marriage there were six 
children Mary K. Alice K., Henry H .. Louisa and Wilson G., and Frank 
E., who .bed m infancy, [n 1852, Mr Boyd bough! the LOO acres of Land 

where he resides, at $1 I per acre It is now valued al $100 per acre. It 
was then nearly all wild land: al present it is all improved except fifteen 



914 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

acres of timber. His present residence was built in 1877. It is one of the 
finest farm residences in the township. The farm lies two miles east of 
Prospect Village. Mr. Boyd is a Republican, and although this is a Dem- 
ocratic township, he has been elected and served as Trustee two terms; also 
as Judge of elections. Mr. and Mrs. Boyd and their two eldest children 
are members of the Baptist Church. 

N. O. BRENIZER, B. S., M. D., a practicing physician at Prospect 
Village, was born in April, 1854, at Cardington, Morrow County, Ohio, and 
is the son of William Gr. and Anna (Shaw) Brenizer. The Doctor's youth 
was passed on his father's farm in Morrow County, in the meantime attend- 
ing the common schools of the neighborhood. When nineteen years of age, 
he became a student at Otterbein University, of Westerville, Ohio, where, 
at the end of five years, he graduated in the scientific course. The last year 
of bis university course he applied himself to the study of medicine; after 
graduating, he continued his nodical studies, and in the fall of 1878, be- 
came a student at the Homoeopathic Hospital College, at Cleveland, Ohio, 
graduating at that institution in 1880. On completing his medical course, 
he located at Prospect Village, where he is still practicing his profession. 
The Doctor was married, December 30, 1880, to Anna Clime, a daughter of 
W T illiam Clime, of Columbus, Ohio; They have one child named Vivian 
Perses. 

DR. E. R. COOK (deceased). This gentleman during his lifetime was 
one of the most enterprising and best esteemed citizens of Prospect Village. 
He had an extensive practice professionally, and for many years, in addi- 
tion to his practice, carried on the drug business at Prospect Village; the 
drug store that he established in 1869 is still carried on by his sons under 
the firm name of Cook Bros. He was born in Montgomery County, N. Y.. 
September 12, 1816, and was the son of Eli and Elizabeth (Rider) Cook; 
he was married, April 6, 1845, in Mercer County, Ohio, to Mary A. Sands, 
a native of Lisbon, Cumberland County, Penn, and daughter of John and 
Hannah Sands. He studied medicine with Dr. Stimpson, of Albany, Frank- 
lin County, Ohio, and came to Marion County in 1849, locating at Latim- 
berville, and in 1853 at Prospect Village, where he died, November 6, 
1879. Thus it will be seen that the Doctor was a practitioner in this coun- 
ty for a period of thirty years, though about three years of this time was 
spent in traveling in the West. He was a Democrat in politics, and took an 
active and leading part in the politics of this section. He belonged to the 
Masonic fraternity, and was a charter member of Prospect Lodge, No. 444, F. & 
A. M. He was its first Master, and, with the exception of two years, held that 
position the balance of his life. He was one of the most active members 
of the lodge, and took a prominent part in getting stock subscribed where- 
with to build the present Masonic Hall at Prospect. He was buried in the 
Marion Cemetery, where a fine monument marks his last resting place. 

FRANK M. COOK, of Cook Bros., druggists, and son of Dr. E. R. 
Cook, is a native of Morrow County, Ohio, and was born February 24, 1847; 
until twenty-one years of age, his time was mostly passed in attending 
school. During this period he also took a course of study at the Commer- 
cial College in Delaware, Ohio. From there, in 1868, he entered as a clerk 
in the drug store of his father. In 1874, he became a partner in the drug 
business, under the firm name of Dr. Cook & Son; this partnership contin- 
ued until the death of Dr. Cook, in November, 1879. The next month, 
December, 1879, G. W. Cook was admitted as a partner, and the firm name 
changed to Cook Brothers. F. M. Cook was married in Clinton County, 



PROSPECT TOWNSHIP. 915 

Mich., to Miss A.lice R. Myer. He is Democratic in politics, and has 
served the citizens as member of the Village Council and of the Board of 
Education. 

G. W. COOK, druggist and cashier of the Prospect Bank, is a son of 
Dr. E.. R. Cook, and was born in Prospect Township, Marion County. Oc- 
tober 27, 1856. His early years we v e passed at school and clerking in his 
father's drug store in the village of Prospect. In 1879, he became a part- 
ner in the drug business with his brother, F. M., the firm being Cook Broth- 
ers, in which he is still interested. He was elected cashier of the Pros- 
pect Bank on the 8th of March, 1883, in which position he is now acting. 
Mr. Cook was married, May 4, 1882, to Miss May Dix, daughter of Elijah 
Dix. Mr. Cook has served Prospect Township as Treasurer three terms; in 
politics, he is a Democrat. 

COOK BROTHERS, druggists. This business was established by Dr. 
E. R. Cook in 1869; it is the oldest drug store established in Prospect. 
The present business is carried on by the Doctor's sons, F. M. and G. W. 
Cook. They carry a full line of goods pertaining to a first-class general 
drug and prescription store, and command an extensive trade. 

JOHN J. COURT, farmer, is a son of Joseph and Maria (Sherman) 
Court, and was born in Pleasant Township, this county, May 28, 1849. He 
lived in that township until twenty-one years of age, when he bought the 
farm of 133 acres in Prospect Township, in which he now resides. Mr. 
Court was married Septemper 5, 1872, to Miss Anna Clark, who was born 
August 15, 1855, and a daughter of William B. and Harriet Clark. The 
ceremony was performed by the Rev. A. D. Matthews, of Marion. They 
have three children living — Eva Maneta, born August 28, 1873; Clara 
Idella, September 29, 1876; and Lulu, May 11, 1881. 

WILLIAM F. COURT, farmer, was born in Pleasant Township, this 
county, December 19, 1836. He was reared on the homestead of his par- 
ents, Joseph and Maria (Sherman) Court, in Pleasant Township, and when 
twenty- two years of age, bought land in Green Camp Township, which he 
sold two years later, and, with his brother George as partner, kept a gen- 
eral store; subsequently, he sold his interest to T. Cratty and bought 100 
acres of land southwest of Richwood. After living on this farm eighteen 
months, he entered trade with his brother in the merchant tailoring busi- 
ness at Richwood, which continued for two years, when he bought the farm 
of 182 acres where he resides, in the southwest part of Prospect Township. 
He was married, in 1863, to Charlotte Watkins, who was born October 6, 
1845, and was a daughter of Thomas Watkins, an early settler of Prospect 
Township; from this marriage there were six children — John F., born 
January 4, 1864, and died September 8, 1864; Thomas J., born December 
29, 1865; Margaret M., August 4, 1867; Ida B., August 2, 1869; Joanna 
L., March 17, 1875; and Mary Elizabeth, November 27, 1880. Mr. Court 
is one of the substantial farmers of the township. 

JOSEPH CRATTY is a son of Robert and Ellen (Porter) Cratty, and 
was born on the homestead, one mile east of Prospect Village, July 12, 
1842. In March, 1861, he went to Illinois, and in September. 1861, en- 
listed in Company L, Third Illinois Volunteer Cavalry, for three years, to serve 
in the war of the great rebellion. The regiment was soon ordered into act- 
ive service, and with it he participated in the battles of Pea Ridge, Ark., 
siege of Vicksburg. Champion Hills, Carrion Crow Bayou, La. He was at 
Memphis when Forest made his raid, the Third Regiment taking a promi- 
nent part, and in various skirmishes in the States of Missouri, Arkansas and 



916 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Louisiana. On the expiration of his term of enlistment, he was honorably 
discharged at Memphis, Tenn., September 19, 1804. He then returned to 
Prospect, Marion County, and attended school until 1866. On leaving 
school, he engaged with various parties as clerk, and about the year 1870, 
became a partner in tbe general merchandising business at Richwood, Ohso, 
under the lirm name of T. P. Cratty & Co. About 1872, he bought his 
partner's interest; in 1874, he moved his goods and opened at Ashland, 
remaining three months; then to Shawnee and to Orbiston, February 19, 
1S77, and from there to Prospect Village, in May, 1878; here he formed a 
partnership with J. M. Tucker, which continued six months. He carried 
on business alone until 1880, when he formed a partnership with P. C. 
Sells, continuing until February 1, 1883, at all the above places he was en- 
gaged in general merchandising. Mr. Cratty was married October 1, 1872, 
to Miss Isabella J. Hamilton, a daughter of the Rev. William Hamilton, of 
Licking County, Ohio. Mrs. Cratty died January 22, 1882. By this mar- 
riage there were three children — Arthur H., Robert J., who died aged four 
years and eleven months; and Helen M. Mr. Cratty is a member of Prospect 
Lodge, No. 444, F. & A. M., of which he has been Master for four years. 
He is a Prohibitionist Republican in politics. He is one of the most en- 
ergetic and enterprising business men of Prospect Village. 

ROBERT CRATTY, pioneer farmer, is the oldest person now living in 
Marion County, and was born August 24, 1784, at Chambersburg, Franklin 
Co., Penn. His parents' names were Thomas and Jane (McKinney) Cratty, 
the former a native of Ireland and the latter born on the same farm as our 
subject. His maternal grandparents were natives of Ireland. The father 
of Robert came to America as a soldier in the British Army about 1750 to 
1755, and married his wife in Franklin County, Penn. They had ten chil- 
dren, our subject being next to the youngest. The family moved to West- 
moreland County, Penn., in 1786, and in 1797, to Butler County, Penn. In 
the latter county, Mr. Cratty was married to Elizabeth English, a daughter 
of Samuel English. He. with his wife and family of seven children — Sam- 
uel, Thomas, William, Robert, James, Jane and Eliza Cratty — came to 
Ohio in 1817 and located near Ostrander, Delaware County, where they 
remained three years. In the fall of 1819, he purchased, at $3 per acre, 114 
acres of land, one mile east of Prospect Village, joining the boundary line. 
The folllowing winter, he built on this land a round log house, 18x20 feet 
in size, and March 3, 1820, took up his residence in it, with his family. 
The neighbors were mostly Seneca Indians, only three other white families 
living near; they were tbe families of Thomas Pugh, one mile north; 
Ephraim Markley, one and a half miles northwest; and Elijah Adams, 
about three miles southeast. The first season the family were much afflicted 
with chills and fever. Mrs. Cratty died in the fall of 1820, leaving seven 
children. In tbe fall of 1821, Mr. Cratty was married at Milford Center, 
Union County, to Ellen Porter. By this marriage there were twelve chil- 
dren, as follows: Mary, John, Harvey, David, Hiram, Madison, Jane, 
Harvey W., Joseph and three died at birth. December 24, 1844, Mr. Crat- 
ty's second wife died, and in October. 1845, he was married to Sarah Bur 
rell, who died May 26, 1860, leaving no children. He was married the 
fourth time, July 23, 1861, to Mrs. Sarah W. Kilburn, now eighty-six 
years old, daughter of Ezra and Mary Wyatt. Mr. and Mrs. Cratty are now 
living on the old homestead that Mr. Cratty bought in 1819, and where be 
has continuously resided. This land was originally covered with a heavy 
growth of white oak, hickory, walmit. ash and beech timber. For many 



PROSPECT TOWNSHIP. 917 

years after bis settlement here, his taxes were only about $2.50 per annum, 
having as much or more stock tban he has ever had since, though no stock at 
that time was taxed until after three years of age; now on the same prop- 
erty the taxes amount to $130 or $140 yearly. But he adds that it was as 
hard to get the $2.50 then as it is to get the $130 or $140 now. Then he 
was obliged to haul his wheat over dreadful roads to Delaware for 37£ 
cents per bushel, and the best of pork for $1.50 per hundred pounds, and 
has hauled loads of forty bushels of wheat to Sandusky City, getting 62 
cents per bushel, starting Monday morning and arriving home Saturday or 
Sunday night, at times bringing back a load of salt, leather, etc., for mer- 
chants. He has in fine cultivation eighty acres of the homestead, princi- 
pally cleared through his own exertions. Mr. Cratty is now in his one 
hundredth year, and is exceptionally hale and hearty for a man of his age. 
He served as an Ensign at Fort Erie in the war of 1812, and four of his 
sons and two grandsons served in the war of the rebellion. Mr. Cratty was 
Supervisor of the township for several years, and supervised the clearing 
up of many milee of the present township roads. Since the age of twenty- 
one, he has been a member of the Presbyterian Church, and in politics was 
formerly a Whig, and of later years a Republican. 

JOSIAH T. DAVIS, residence and post office address, Prospect Village, 
was born at Port Byrou, Westchester County, N. Y., December 27, 1815. 
His youth was spent in farming, and at the age of eighteen years he com- 
menced learning the carriage-maker's trade at Unionville, Broome Co., N. 
Y. When twenty-one years of age, in company with his parents, one 
brother, Hubbard, and three sisters, Eliza, Sally Ann and Mary Jane, he 
came to Ohio and located at Sunbury, Delaware County, December 2, 
1836. He was married September 2, 1845, to Cathrine Gast, born Feb- 
ruary 12, 1822, a daughter of Christian Gast, the original proprietor of the 
plat of Middletown, now Prospect. From this marriage there were five 
children; two died in infancy unnamed. Lafayette, born June 26, 1853; 
and died November 14, 1863; J. Albert, born September 26, 1849, is 
now residing at Prospect with his parents, and is a teacher of in- 
strumental music; E. Eugene, born November 14, 1858, married Mary 
A. Kelly and now resides in Cincinnati, where he is the proprietor 
and director of the musical school known as the " Cincinnati Grand 
Conservatory of Music." Our subject was actively engaged in the 
carriage-making business at Prospect Village, but has now retired from 
active business, his time being mostly occupied in looking after his 
real estate interests. He has made two additions to the village plat. The 
lots extending from the old town nearly to the depot on Water street were 
nearly all laid out and sold by him — about thirty-six lots. The other addi- 
tion was eighteen lots on North street. Mr. Davis has erected four dwell- 
ing houses in Prospect Village, one of which he occupies as a residence; it 
is one of the neatest and best residences in town, and cost about $2,000. 
Mr. Davis has been a life-long Democrat, taking at times an active part in 
politics. Himself, wife and children are members of the Lutheran Church. 
His father was Daniel Davis, a native of Horseneck, Conn, who was a son 
of Thomas Davis, a native of Wales. The latter during the reign of King 
George II, bought the township of land in which the city of Norwalk, 
Conn., is now located, and was the original proprietor of the first village 
plat of the present city of Norwalk. His mother's name before marriage 
was Priscilla Belden. Daniel Davis died March 31. 1855. and his wife 
Priscilla October 5, 1866, both deaths occurring at their son's, Hubbard's, 



918 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

house, who then resided three miles southeast of Prospect, on a farm now 
occupied by William Ludwig, the first aged seventy-nine years, and his 
wife aged eighty-one years. 

ELIJAH DIX, farmer, Prospect Township, has been a resident of 
Marion County for thirty-eight years. His first visit to the county was as 
a teacher, a calling which ho followed for some ten years. He was born in. 
Troy Township, Delaware County, Ohio, August 6, 1822, and was a son of 
David Dix, a native of the State of Vermont, and the first settler in Troy Town- 
ship. Our subject's mother's maiden name was Mary Main, a daughter of 
Peres and Rebecca Main, natives of Connecticut, and also early settlers in 
Troy Township. Elijah Dix was married July 2, 1848, to Phebe Bigger- 
staff, a daughter of Friend Biggerstaff. They have the following named 
children: Medill M., Charles S., William Warren and May. Mr. Dix is 
the owner of a valuable and highly improved farm of P25 acres nearly ad- 
joining the corporate limits of the village of Prospect. He purchased this 
property in 1846, then all wild land; now 100 acres are subject to the plow. 
He is a Democrat in politics and has served the county and township in 
various official positions, among which were County Surveyor for two terms 
of three years each, Justice of the Peace for six years, Township Trustee 
repeatedly, and at different times nearly all of the township offices. He is 
one of the most substantial and best respected citizens of Prospect Town- 
ship. Himself and wife have been members of the Baptist Church for up- 
ward of thirty years. 

DIX BROTHERS, clothiers, Prospect Village. The members of this, 
firm are M. M. Dix, C. S. Dix and W. W. Dix. They opened up their cloth- 
ing establishment, consisting of a fine stock of clothing and gents' furnish- 
ing goods, on the 15th of March, 1883. It is the only store in Prospect 
that deals exclusively in men's furnishing goods They carry a choice, se- 
lected stock of upward of $5,000 worth on their shelves, and buy their 
goods direct from the largest manufacturers and dealers of Eastern cities. 
The firm are also operating a store at Paulding, Ohio, which is doing a 
prosperous business under the management of C. S. Dix. M. M. Dix, of 
the firm above, was born December 24, 1855, in Prospect Township, fol 
lowed the life of a farmer until 1882, since which time he has been con- 
nected with mercantile pursuits in Prospect Village. He was married, July 
27, 1882, to Miss Ella Wottring, a daughter of Philip Wottring, of Dela- 
ware. C. S. Dix, of this firm, was born September 8, 1858, in Prospect 
Township. He graduated at the Normal Department of Denison Univer- 
sity in 1881, and since that time has engaged in mercantile pursuits. W. 
W. Dix, also of this firm, was born in Prospect Township. May 17, 1861; 
is first leader of the Prospect Star Band, He is junior partner of this firm, 
and is living at home with his father. 

JAMES L. FARNUM, M. D. This gentleman is one of the oldest 
practicing physicians in Prospect Township. He was born in Pleasant 
Township, Marion County, September 28, 1825, and is a son of Erastus 
and Nancy (Robinson) Farnum. Two months before he was twenty-one, by 
agreeing to pay his father 50 cents a day for all the "fair days" in these two 
months, he was permitted by him to leave home and strike out for himself. 
He immediately took a job of cutting and putting up hay, which, when 
completed, averaged him $1.06 per day for his labor, the amount earned 
being $25.84. Of this money he paid his father $12, being part of the 
amount due him for the two months. Thus he had P13.84 left. With this 
money he paid for three months' board and schooling at Marion, and the 



PROSPECT TOWNSHIP. 919 

following winter he taught school in Wyandot County at $10 per month and 
his board. At the close of his school, he returned to his father's and 
worked for him one month as final payment for the month lost before of 
age. He then attended school at. Millville, Delaware County, for three 
months, worked at harvesting after his school ended, and in the fall at- 
tended another term of three months at the Millville School, and in the 
winter taught school four months, in Radnor Township, Delaware County, 
at $15 per month. The next summer he commenced reading medicine in 
the office of J. P. Blake, M. D., at Prospect Village, and taught another 
term of school in Crawford County in the winter at $15 per month. On 
the completion of his medical studies in 1850, he became a partner in the 
practice of his preceptor, Dr. Blake. At this time Dr. Farnum was in debt 
for his education $200, with only 25 cents assets, which it took a couple of 
years to pay off. With very brief intermissions, the Doctor has practiced 
his profession in Prospect Village up to this date. He was so afflicted with 
rheumatism at one time as to be obliged to give up his practice, when he 
taught school one term in the village, and afterward removed to Richwood 
and taught a spring term of three months and a winter term of four months' 
school; this was the last school the Doctor taught. Having regained his 
health, he returned to Prospect and again commenced the practice of his 
profession, to which, in connection with farming, he has given strict atten- 
tion up to this time. The first seventeen years of his practice through the 
country was attended to wholly on horseback, his rides extending fifteen 
miles north and west of town, through a newly settled country, especiallv 
toward the north, which was dense woods for miles. He would frequently 
be called on dark and stormy nights to ride through these woods several 
miles away, with nothing but a bridle path to follow, over great logs three 
feet through, which his horse would be obliged to leap. In 1861, the Doc- 
tor bought his first piece of land, sixty-six acres in Pleasant Township, for 
$2,000. He now owns 321 acres of land, its average value being about 
$100 per acre. A portion lies within the corporation of Prospect Village. 
He made an addition to the village plat that was recorded in the spring of 
1883, on the west side of the Scioto River. He owns a fine residence in 
the village where he resides, as well as some other property. He is one of 
the wealthiest men of the township, as well as one of its most enterprising 
and honored citizens. Be is a Democrat, and has filled various offices in 
the township, among which was Township Clerk for several years. Dr. 
Farnum was married in March, 1850, to Ann Eliza Wottring, daughter of 
Jacob J. Wottring, an early settler. The Doctor and his wife have three 
children — M. Ellen, Samuel J. and William H. Samuel J. was married 
June 3, 1881, to Miss Addie Davis, daugther of David J. Davis, of Union 
County, Ohio. He is a farmer, residing half a mile north of Prospect Vil- 
lage. 

JACOB F. FOX, Sr ., farmer, was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, 
March 4, 1812. His parents were born at the same place and left Germany 
January 28, 1834, and the same year in the fall settled in Prospect Town- 
ship. Jacob F. was next to the oldest child. The names of his parents 
were Christian and Magdalena Fox. His father bought ninety-seven acres 
of wild land, which he and his boys cleared up. Himself and wife are 
deceased. Mr. Fox was married, in November, 1841, to Mary Ann Sells; 
by this union there were six children — Jacob F., Jr., Eliza Jane, Caroline, 
Mary, Martha Ellen and John. His wife died and he was married to Cath- 
arine Engelhardt. by whom there were six children — Sophia, Joseph W., 



920 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY". 

William, Susannah, Samuel and Rachel. This wife also died, and he was 
married again, to Mary Anna Sintz; by her there were three children- - 
Herman, Elizabeth M. and Philip H. This wife died, and he was married Oc- 
tober 3, 1879, to Elizabeth C. Milhaus, widow of John Milhaus. Her 
maiden name was Loebrich. Mr. Fox owns 149 acres of land, on which he 
resides, 100 acres of which he has cleared. It was formerly covered with 
heavy timber, some oaks measuring six feet in diameter. 

JACOB F. FOX, Jr., farmer, was born in Prospect Township, and is a 
son of the above mentioned. He enlisted, August 15, 1864, in Company I, 
One Hundred and Seventy- fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, as a 
soldier in the civil war, and served to the close, being mustered out of serv- 
ice at Camp Tod, Columbus, Ohio, in July. He was present at the follow- 
ing battles: Averill's Creek, the Cedars, Tennessee, and of Wise Forks, N. 
C. He was married, March 3, 1867, to Maria Ludwig, and they have had 
six children — John Harvey, Flora Mertie May, Carey Elmer, Elsie Ellen, 
Kelsie and Minnie, the last two being twins; Kelsie is deceased. Mr. Fox 
is the owner of forty acres in the northwest part of Prospect Township, 
where he resides. 

CHRISTIAN OAST, bom April 23, 1726, and his wife Christina, born 
in 1729, were both natives of Wurtemberg, Germany. About the year 1750, 
immediately after their marriage, they emigrated to America, first settling 
in Maryland, not far from Philadelphia, Penn., and subsequently moving 
to Center County, Penn., where they passed the remainder of their lives. 
They had two sons and one daughter who grew to maturity and raised fam- 
ilies. Their names were John, Nicholas. Catherine and Christian. The 
last mentioned bought a farm on the banks of the Juniata River in the 
town of Frankstown, Huntingdon Co., Penn., where he and his wife both 
died, he at the advanced age of about eighty years. They rasied a family 
of ten children, who grew to be men and women. Their names were as fol- 
lows: Catherine, born February 12, 1789; Christian, August 9, 1790; 
John, November 13, 1793; George, February 8, 1796; Jacob, March 24, 
1798; William, March 15, 1800; Mary, March 21, 1803; Margaret, De- 
cember 15, 1805; Sarah, December 17, 1807; Samuel, January 19, 1810. 

CHRISTIAN GAST, one of the children last mentioned, was married in 
Huntingdon County, Penn., about the year 1813, to Elizabeth Moyer, a 
daughter of Philip Moyer, and settled on a farm in Greenfield Township, 
Bedford County, Penn. The y emigrated to Ohio in 1832, bringing with 
them a family of nine children, who were named as follows: Margaret, 
born March 3, 1814; Elizabeth, March 14, 1816; Philip, February 24, 
1818; Christian, November 10, 1819; Catharine, February 12, 1822; 
George, November 16, 1823; Sarah, April 1, 1826; David, December 17, 
1828; Mary, November 25, 1830; the next and youngest child was Abigail, 
born in Marion County, May 23, 1833. On the arrival of the family in 
Ohio they located in what is now Prospect Township, Mr. Gast buying 600 
acres of land at $4 per acre. It was then a wilderness, only fourteen acres 
having been improved at all. On this clearing there was an old round-log 
house, into which the family moved, April 27, 1832, and occupied as a res- 
idence until 1840, when he erected a stone house on nearly the same site. 
In this house he and wife passed the remainder of their lives. His son 
David now owns and occupies this bouse as his residence. It is situated on 
the eaBt side of the road and is the first house going south from Prospect 
Village after crossing the bridge that spans Battle Run. The 600 acres of 
land that he purchased was on the east side of the Scioto River and in- 



PROSPECT TOWNSHIP. 92 ] 

J ( . 1835, then consisting of eighty-one lots hp^.l^ w«, ^ ° A oepwjmDer 
for c hnr e h cho , and burial pl-pLT t^Sfyt. tad Ihr^e "aT 
ditions to the village, consisting of 110 ir,f Q w uidae tnree ad- 

tion HtoseH and wife were m e m bers onZ^ellmX^n CWh" 
which denomination he served in various oftW« f „. umeian ^»rch, 

first church built in the village a ^T^^^^t^^ £" 
site of the present brick schoolhouse. was built princtalh bv trUZ^ 
from him; he afterward contributed largely in the erec L J ?n tnbutlons 
brick Lutheran Church. In politics belt ^l"TgjL^ ^ 
vote being cast for Gen. Jackson for President- he snLnZ, L 
Whig, and in the latter days of his life a Ke'publi"n ^Wh^ h W te 
Pennsylvania, he served his community as Justice of the Peace WLr 
mg his residence m Prospecr, Township served in many of its lo^f offl 
He was a man of sterling wor^h a symnathi^ncr a ^i 7 i k, ? ffices " 

those who needed and asked advice 3 en oyed the eoifid ^T^ f ° r 
of his fellow-citizens to an eminent ^^ J ^ h ^2^h?^ ^ 
the 29th of December 1858, the townsnip lo^o^^^t^St 
zens and pioneers. His worthy wife departed thi« i,-f Q w . ort y citi- 

afterward They had lived a £pp/nS^ 

forty-hve years, and now lie side by side in the village cemeterv nlJi Z 
mg the waters of the placid Scioto. 7 At the funera of M Ga7 a stmt 
. was preached m the German language from the fourteenth 'chapl eZt 
John, hrst and second verses; also in the English lauo-uao-e from f hi 
end epistle of Paul to Timothy, fourth o^ 9 U^d^^ d ^^rZ 
Mr. Gast in his early years learned the trade of a wao-on- maker and 
during bis residence in Prospect followed that business to aCator Lss 
extent, in connection with his farming and other interests. It a meet W 
held m Prospect a year or two since, there were thirty-six iamuL Z g , 
who lived within two miles of Prospect Village tha t^ SSt 
some degree of relationship of the pioneer Christian Gasl ffis descend 
Township. 110 " am ° ng ^ bGSt ^ —Respected citizens of "t 

CHRISTIAN GAST, born November 10, 1819 and a son rf Ph.- *■ 
an Elizabeth (Moyer) Gast, before mentioned pa'ed hT ylth on! Z 
father s farm, and lived with his parents until twenty-three /ears of a^e 
During this time he learned the wagon-maker's and carpenter's trade K« £ 
7« February 17. 1842. to Miss Mary Oratto,*fr^£^%™ 
with whom he lived seven years, when he was on the 20th of Juoe 184^ 

ch IT:" a id wn * ^ ' ^1? ""^ th ™ ™ ^Toho^l 
TohnTi I ^i?^ Wllham W " born September 2, 1843° 
John M., November 16, 1845; and Mary Ellen, Mav 12 1848 Tha f 11 
ing year, on July 5, 1849, Mr. Gast was married a sist^of his Sr 
wife, Miss Jane Cratty, who was born January 1 1833 rJ fh ? 
there were three children-Philip M.,born vSSuZi llL^tmL^T^ 
camber 28, 1855 and now deceased; and Ida L., November 28 1^' ' Mr 
Gast is one of he most substantial .and respected citizens of Prospit 
Township, and all those enterprises that advance the prosperity ami en- 
lightenment of the community he is ever ready to promote and LT I 
personal influence and liberal 'donations. Himself Z ? wife are members ? 



QQ 



922 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

the Lutheran Church, in which he has held some office, such as Trustee, 
Deacon, etc., for many years. He has made farming the business of his 
life; in this calling he has been successful, and now owns 100 acres of val- 
uable land with tine improvements, adjoining the corporation of the village 
of Prospect. In politics he is a Republican. 

DAVID GAST. This gentleman is one of the leading citizens, finan- 
cially and socially, of Prospect Township. He is a son of the original 
proprietor of Prospect Village mentioned above, and was born in Franks- 
town Township, Bedford County, Penn., December 17, 1828. He was mar- 
ried at Circleville, Ohio, May 9, 1852, to Miss Catharine M. Row, a daugh- 
ter of David and Catharine (Hoffman) Row, of that place. From this mar- 
riage there were seven children, only two of whom are living, as follows: 
George F. , who married Mattie Boxwell, is a farmer and resides in Pros- 
pect Township, and Samuel, who lives at home. Mr. Gast has lived on a 
farm since infancy, and has been engaged in farming pursuits all his life, 
and, as he was the youngest son, always resided with his parents at the 
homestead, where they settled in Prospect Township in 1832, and of which 
he is now the owner, including 180 acres of land, mostly adjoining the 
corporation of Prospect Village. In connection with his farming and other 
interests, for the last thirty years he has devoted much of his time to the 
study and treatment of diseases of horses and stock. In the treatment of 
these diseases he has been eminently successful, and he is known as a suc- 
cessful veterinarian over a wide extent of country. He has for the last 
few years devoted much time to the successful treatment and cure of can- 
cers, his method being by outward appliances and internal remedies, but in 
no case using the knife. His treatment in many cases has proved a cure, 
restoring the patients to perfect health. Mr. Gast is a Republican in poli- 
tics, and although the Democrats are in the majority in Prospect Town- 
ship, he has been elected to many of its local offices. He was Justice of 
the Peace nine years, Township Trustee three years, and Township Super 
visor for many years. He has been a member of the Lutheran Church for 
thirty-eight years, and his wife thirty. five years. He has held the office of 
Deacon of this church for about eighteen years, and some kind of church 
office continuously for thirty years. In all matters pertaining to the welfare 
of the church and Sunday school, he takes an active part, and for the past four 
years has acted as Superintendent of the Sunday school, a position he had 
previously filled for several years. As a representative citizen of this town- 
ship, we give the portrait of Mr. Gast in this work. 

GEORGE GAST is a son of Christian and Elizabeth (Moyer) Gast, 
and was born November 16, 1823, in Pennsylvania. He passed his youth 
and early manhood on the homestead with his pareuts, during this time 
following the vocation of a farmer and also learning the carpenter's and 
wagon-maker's trades. "When about thirty-three years of age, he was mar- 
ried to Miss Margaret Edelman, a daughter of John and Elizabeth Edel- 
man, of Marion County. The marriage ceremony was performed January 
1, 1856. From this union five children were born, as follows: Arthur L., 
Mary Elizabeth (who is now the wife of Dr. G. H. Masters, a practicing 
physician at Prospect Village, and they have one child — Emma); Eva and 
Amelia — all living with their parents except the married one. They lost 
one child, an infant, named Jesse Raymond. Mr. and Mrs. Gast are mem- 
bers of the Lutheran Church. He has officiated as leader in the Lutheran 
Church choir continuously for nearly thirty years, and also as Sunday 
school teacher and librarian for several years. Mr. Gast has an excellent 



PROSPECT TOWNSHIP. 923 

farm of 100 acres adjoining the village of Prospect, on which he has a 
large and commodious residence, with other line impi*ovenients. A fine 
barn was destroyed by tire, supposed to be the work of incendiaries, who 
were enraged at the very decided stand he took against intemperance and 
the traffic in spirituous liquors in the vicinity. He is a firm advocate of 
temperance, a good citizen, and a liberal, conscientious Christian gentleman, 
and a worthy descendant of his pioneer father. He has in his possession 
an Indian relic which he found near Battle Run many years ago. It is an 
Indian tomahawk of fine make, inlaid with six pieces of silver, the hammer 
end beiug made hollow for use as a pipe. From its fine workmanship it is 
inferrable that it once belonged to a chief. 

G. F. GAST, a native of Prospect Township, was born August 25, 
1856, a son of David and Catharine M. (Row) Gast. This gentleman has 
always followed farming, and now resides one mile west of Prospect Vil- 
lage, adding to his farming the raising of fine poultry. He was married, 
January 2, 1881, to Mattie A. Boxwell, daughter of Titus and Lucetta 
Boxwell, of Pleasant Township. 

JOHN B. GAST was born September 18, 1827, and is a son of Will- 
iam Gast, who was born March 15, 1800; his mother's maiden name was 
Elizabeth Lingerfelter. At the age of sixteen he learned the tailor's trade, 
and afterward learned the cabinetmaker's trade, which business he carried 
on in Prospect Village for eighteen years, when he bought sixty-six and 
one- half acres of land west of the village, where he has ever since resided. 
He was married, January 1. 1832, to Miss Sarah Smith, a daughter of Ja- 
cob and Frances Smith, who came to Ohio about 1839. Mr. and Mrs. Gast 
have two children — Elizabeth Frances, born March 16, 1853; and Candace 
Ann, born August 5, 1865. Mr. and Mrs. Gast are members of the Lu 
theran Church. 

JOHN M. GA.ST, teacher of vocal and instrumental music, was born on 
November 16, 1845, and is a son of Christian and Mary (Cratty) Gast. 
He passed his youth and young manhood at the homestead of his father 
near Prospect Village, during this time acquiring a good literary education 
at the Prospect Schools. Exhibiting a decided taste and talent for music 
he early applied himself to its study, under some of the best teachers of 
vocal and instrumental music in the country, among ttiem Prof. Minelli of 
Delaware, when attending the Academy of Music at Xenia, Ohio, and Dr. 
George F. Root, of Chicago, 111. For the past eighteen years, Mr. Gast has 
been a successful and popular teacher of vocal and instrumental music in 
this county, and is at present teaching six different classes in vocal music, 
besides having thirty-six pupils in instrumental music. He has a fine farm 
of eighty-five acres adjoining the corporation of Prospect Village, valued 
at from $100 to $150 per acre, on which he has an elegant residence, 
within a few rods of the corporation line and near the railroad depot. Mr. 
Gast was married, December 15, 1872, to Mellusina Leist, born January 5, 
1849. a daughter of C. B. and Isabel Leist, natives of Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. 
Gast have a family of three children— Cora Estella, born August 11, 1877 • 
"William A., born September 25, 1880; and Carrie Belle, born March 20, 
1882. Mr. Gast is a member of the Lutheran Church, and in politics is a 
Republican. 

REV. PHILIP GAST (deceased), was a son of Christian Gast. the 
proprietor of the original plat oi Prospect. He was a Lutheran minister, 
coming to Prospect in 1832. In 1857, he became the pastor of the Evan- 
gelical Lutheran Church at this place, where he preached about nine years, 



924 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

when he was prostrated by the typhoid fever and died October 20, 1865; 
about the same time, two of his sons fell victims to the same disease. His 
widow, whose maiden name was Lucy A. Dressier, was a native of Penn- 
sylvania and a daughter of Samuel Dressier. She diod in Prospect in 
1881, and both are buried in the village graveyard on the banks of the 
Scioto River. They had nine children, live sons and four daughters, two 
sons and four daughters living; one died when an infant. Matthias and 
William both died of typhoid fever, aged respectively nineteen and eight 
een years Samuel H. is living in Prospect Tillage, a partner in the 
hardware business with B. K. Herbster, the firm being Herbster & Gast. 
He has been Mayor of the village one term, member of the Council. School 
Board, etc. In politics, he is a Republican. The other son, Edward C. 
Grast, is now living in Fremont, Ohio, following the hardware business. 
Samuel H. Gast was married, May 24, 1883, to Miss Louisa C. Herr, of 
Gallon, Ohio; they reside in Prospect Village. 

PHILIP M. GAST is a son of Christian and Jane (Cratty) Gast. and a 
grandson of Christian Gast, the original proprietor of Prospect Village. He 
was born February 2, 1854. When twenty-four years of age he engaged 
at clerking in Prospect Village, a business he followed the greater part of 
the time for live years. He owns sixteen acres of valuable land, in and 
adjoining the village corporation, on which there is a fine residence, where- 
in he lives with his family. He is now engaged principally in farming, 
and has charge of the homestead, 100 acres, owned by his father. Mr. 
Gast was married, March 11, 1877, to Miss Hattie C. Jelley, a daughter of 
John H. Jelley, of Findlay, Hancock County, Ohio. She was born Novem- 
ber 24, 1859. Thev have three children — Metta Gertrude, born February 
11, 1878; Christian Scotfc, May 10, 1880; Robert Roy, May 18, 1882. Mr. 
and Mrs. Gast are members of the Lutheran Church. 

WILLIAM W.GAST is a native of Prospect Township, and was born Sep- 
tember 2, 1843. He is a son of Christian and Mary (Cratty) Gast; he lived 
at the homestead of his parents until twenty-one years old, meanwhile re- 
ceiving the advantages of a common school education. At this age, he 
commenced business for himself by buying forty-eight acres of land a 
half mile east of Prospect Village, for $2,300, which ho sold in 1870 for 
$3,600. He subsequently bought 110 acres one and a half miles east of 
Prospect Village, for $5,000, which he still owns, and is valued at $100 
per acre. In the fall of 1882, he bought live-eighths of an acre of land 
just east of the railroad depot in Prospect Village, for building purposes, 
on which he has erected a large and commodious brick house for his resi- 
dence, at a cost, with outbuildings, of nearly $3,000. In addition to his 
farming business, he has for the past five years been successfully engaged 
in the sale of agricultural implements. He is of an energetic disposi- 
tion, enterprising and progressive, and is known and respected as one of 
the best citizens of the township. He was married January 3. 1867, to 
Esther G. Grigsby, of this township, and a daughter of John Grigsby 
They have a family of three children — Elida, born February 22, 1871; 
Clara M., born December 20, 1875, and Mary Jane, born December 2.1880. 
Mr. Gast is a member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church. 

T. J. GLIDDEN, M. D. Dr. Glidden is a native of Westfield, Morrow 
County, Ohio, and was born in June, 1836. His father, T. P. Glidden, was a 
physician and practiced at Cardington, Morrow County, for many years. T. 
J. commenced reading medicine in the office with his rather in 1857; after 
reading with him four years, he entered Starling Medical College at Colum- 



PROSPECT TOWNSHIP. 925 

bus, Ohio, as a student and graduated in 1865. On finishing his medical 
course, he began practicing in Radnor, Delaware County, remaining there 
until 1872, when he removed to Prospect Village, continuing his practice 
there until the present time. He has a practice extending for miles around 
Prospect, and owns and operates a drug store in the village. He has re- 
tained the most of his old patients in Radnor Township, where he first 
commenced, they having followed him. He was married, at Cardington, 
Ohio, to Miss Millie Liggett, daughter of Alexander Liggett, of that place. 
They have three children — Nellie M., Edna V. and Anna A. — all living at 
home except Nellie, who is now the wife of Dr. Gorslene, of Radnor. 
The Doctor is a Republican. 

HENRY HAIN, Esq., Notary Public at Prospect Village, was born in 
what is now Liverpool Township, Perry County, Penn , August 2, 1812. 
His parents' names were Daniel and Elizabeth (Young) Hain, both natives 
of Pennsylvania, and mentioned elsewhere in this volume. Henry Hain 
was raised on a farm and worked out at different kinds of labor until twen- 
ty-one years of age, his father receiving the proceeds. When he became of 
age, he was working at a steam mill, and remained there until December 
23, 1833, when he obtained a position as clerk with T. M. Sloan, of Marion, 
with whom he remained three years. During this time, January 31, 1835, 
he was married to Hannah Noble, of Pleasant Township; by this marriage 
there were two children. He lost his wife by death, September 25, 1843; 
one child had preceded her, and the other child died June 25, 1844, aged 
about four years. He was married a»ain, November 14, 1844, to Susan- 
nah Barnhart, who died in Clay County, Ind., June 30, 1872. For several 
years after 1835, he followed clerking at various places — some fifteen 
months at Norton, Delaware County, and six months at Letimberville. His 
health having failed, he followed farming three years, living in the house 
where he was married. On regaining his health, he returned to Marion, 
and commenced clerking for T. Search & Son; while with them in 1844, 
he was elected Recorder of Marion County, which office he filled for nine 
years, also attending to his duties as Clerk at the same time. In 1853, he 
was elected Auditor of the county, serving two years, and in 1859 was 
elected Infirmary Director, which office he filled for six years, and since 
his residence in Prospect Township has acted as a Justice of the Peace for 
twelve years and a half. He is now a Notary Public, this making the 
fourth year that he has filled that office. Since 1830, Mr. Hain has, with 
the exception of three years spent in Indiana and fifteen months in Norton, 
been a continuous resident of Marion County up to this time. He is very 
popular in the section where he resides, and is honored and respected by 
all who know him. He has been fairly successful in a financial sense, hav- 
ing a comfortable fortune for his support and enjoyment, and follows out 
the maxim " to live and let live," both in theory and practice. 

L. D HARSHBERGER, farmer, was born October 31, 1845; his par- 
ents were Leonard and Margaret Barbara (Snider) Harshberger; the father 
died in June, 1845, about four months before L. D. was born; his widow 
afterward married C. F. Hopkins and died in May. 1875. The subject of 
this sketch was married, April 4. 1866, to Elizabeth Andrew, born August 
25, 1845, a daughter of Peter and Mary (Hopwood) Andrew, the former a 
native of Maryland, and the latter of Fairfield County. Ohio. They were 
married July 10, L842. Peter Andrew Bettled in Green Camp Township at 
a very early date, wheru he served as Justice of th^ Peace for many years. 
He was a man of good education and greatly rpspected for his many excel- 



926 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

lent qualities. He died June 9, 1863; his wife died February 10, 1861. 
L. D. Harshberger and wife have five children — Maggie Lillian, born Jan- 
uary 17, 1867; Jennie Leora, Julv 19, L870; Daisy I.. October 31, 1873; 
Dora H., June 2, 1876; and Hattie May, born March 30, 1879. Mr. Harsh- 
berger has always been a farmer, and now owns 120 acres of excellent land, 
two and a half miles north of Prospect Village, on Section 31, Prospect 
Township. The farm is finely improved, lying along the east side of the 
Scioto rtiver. A few rods from its banks is Mr. Harshberger's residence. Its 
site is one of the prettiest locations in the county. Mr. Harshberger is a 
member of Prospect Lodge, No. 444, F. &. A. M., and has served as its 
Treasurer for several years. He has resided where he now lives since April 
4, 1857, and is one of Prospect Township's most substantial men. Mr. 
Harshberger enlisted, August 8, 1864, in Company I, One Hundred and 
Seventy-fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Iufantry, and served until the 
close of the war, and was honorably dischai'ged at Charlotte, N. C. , June 
28, 1865. He was present at the battle of Averill's Creek, December 4. 
1864; the Cedars, December 7, 1864, where he was in the skirmish lino all 
day; the evacuation and burning of Decatur, Ala., November 27. 1864; 
Kingston. N. C, and at the surrender of Gen. Joseph E. Johnston's army, 
in 1865. 

BENJAMIN K. HERBSTER, merchant, was born in Albany Town- 
ship, Berks County, Penn., December 6, 1843; his parents were Benjamin 
and Lydia (Kumrer) Herbster; the father of Benjamin was John. The 
Herbsters came from Wurtemberg, Germany, at a very early date and set- 
tled on a farm in Pennsylvania, where our subject was born, he being of the 
fourth generati on born on this farm. He was reared to the life of a farmer; 
at the agH of twenty-one years, he commenced learning the trade of a mil 
ler in Schuylkill County, Penn. ; after remaining there eighteen months, in 
the spring of 1866, he came to Ohio and worked as a miller in Delaware, 
Prospect and Marion until 1871, when he formed a partnership with Will- 
iam Reeser, under the firm name of Herbster & Reeser, and bought the 
Prospect mill, which they operated until 1877, when they sold the mill to 
Morrow Brothers. In 1878, the firm built the two large brick dwelling 
houses where they now reside, at an expense of about $10,000. They were 
then the best private dwellings in town. The first bank ever started in the 
village was the Prospect Bank, organized in 1880, by B. K Herbster and 
W. H. Mohr, with Mr. Herbster as President. It was then a private bank. 
Its establishment proved a great convenience to the business community, 
and on March 8, 1882, it was re-organized into a stock company, Mr. 
Hersbter still acting as its President, In 1882, Mr. Herbster became a 
stockholder in the Richwood Importing Company, which has been the means 
of introducing some of the finest stock horses from France into this and ad- 
joining counties. In February, 1882, in connection with his other inter- 
ests, he formed a partnership with S. H. Gast in the hardware business at 
Prospect, under the firm name of Herbster & Gast, which business is still 
continued. They carry a full line of all kinds of hardware and agricult- 
ural implements. In politics, Mr. Herbster adheres to the principles as rep- 
resented by the Democratic party, and has served in various/ official posi 
tions, among which were Village Cou cilman six or seven years, Township 
and Village Treasurer two years, and Township Trustee two years. He 
takes an active and leading part in the politics of his vicinity. He was 
married, in 1868, to Miss Henrietta Wottring, a daughter of Philip Wot- 
tring. They have had three children, only two living — Richard and Mary. 



PROSPECT TOWNSHIP. i*27 

The one deceased was named Raymond, and died in infancy. Mr. Herbster 
is one of the most substantial and enterprising business men of Prospect 
Village. 

JOHN H. HO WISON was born near Brentsville, Prince William Co., 
Va., August 9, 1880; his parents were John and Louisa (Cornwall) Howi- 
son, who came to Muskingum County in 1838, remained two years and re- 
turned to Virginia; came to Ohio again in 1847, locating on land in Delaware 
County in 1850, where his youngest son- Stephen G. Howison — now lives. 
He died in April, 1865; his widow now resides with her son, John H. In 
1S53, John H. Howison, in partnership with his brother, Charles O, bought 
212 acres of wild land on Survey 6,162, Prospect Township; the same year 
they divided this land, each taking 106 acres; here Mr. Howison has lived 
ever since. He has cleared sixty-five or seventy acres of this land and still 
owns seventy -soven acres of the original purchase. In addition to the 
home farm, he has cleared some forty acres of land once owned by him, 
but now by Simon Rogers, in Claibourne Township, Union County. He 
was married, March 28, 1861, to Mary A. Adams, born in Sussex County, 
near Brighton, England, October 2, 1840, and was brought to the United 
States by her father, Robert Adams, when she was but two and a half 
years old Robert Adams was an early settler in this neighborhood. Mr. 
and Mrs. Howison have had eight children — Amanda J., born January 10, 
1863; Henrietta L., January 25, 1865; Thomas E., February 16, 1867; 
Angelina A., December 26, 1869; Walter G., November 12, 1872; Sarah 
E., March 1, 1875; Alfred K, May 19, 1877, and died July 31, 1877, and 
Ivy D., March 28. 1881, and died June 9, 1883. Mr. Howison is a Demo- 
crat, and has served the township as Trustee two years, Justice of the Peace 
six years, and is now serving his third term. Esquire Howison and wife 
are both members of the Methodist Church and are among the best respected 
citizens of Prospect Township. 

EVAN HUGHES, farmer, was born December 9, 1837, in Montgomery- 
shire, North Wales, and is a son of David and Mary (Evans) Hughes, who 
emigrated from Wales and located in Radnor Township, Delaware Coun- 
ty, in 1838; they were the means of a large colony emigrating from Wales, 
who settled in that township. Evan Hughes has always followed the call- 
ing of a farmer. The first land that he bought was 130 acres, one-half 
mile south of Richwood, Union County. Two years afterward, he sold this 
farm, when he bought the farm of 201 acres where he now resides, in 
Prospect Township. He has since added to this so that he now has 217 
acres. His father died when Evan was but eleven years old, and he was 
left the chief support of his widowed mother. When he was fourteen vears 
of age, his mother died, after a sickness of eighteen months, during which 
time she was confined to her bed. and cai*ed for by her son Evan. To his 
good mother and her guidance in his youth he ascribes much of his present 
success in life. When he was eleven years of age, in order to keep him 
from idle company in town, she hired him out to a farmer, at $2 per 
month for six months, thus teaching him the habits of industry and frugal- 
ity. The Evans family in Wales was a very nncient one, and the farm 
called " Nant J. Deflaid," belonging to the family in Wales, has been 
handed down from father to the eldest son for the past 500 years. Evan 
was married, March 12, 1859, to Sarah Kyle, daughter of David and Mar- 
garet Kyle. The former is deceased and his widow is now the wife of 
Adam Dilsaver, of Union County. Mr. Hughes lost his wife by death, 
January 9, 1874, leaving to his care six small children, the youngest only 



928 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

two years of ago and the oldest thirteen. Their names are as follows: 
Mary Florence, now the wife of James F. Decker, of Prospect Township; 
Margaret Ellen, David, Kate, Orrel, Lee and Sally. 

JAMES JOHNSON was born in Fairfield County, Ohio, September 16, 
1814; his father's name was James Johnson, a native of the North of Ire- 
land, who located in Pleasant Township, Marion County, about the year 
1820. Hie wife Elizabeth was of German origin and died in Fairfield 
County, Ohio. The subject of this sketch was married September 9, 1834, 
to Catharine Clay, born March 9, 1820, a daughter of John and Mary Ann 
(Heiser) Clay, all natives of Pennsylvania. The family of the Clays lived 
near Carlisle, Penn., and emigrated to Ohio about the year 1832. Their 
means of conveyance for the family and household goods was a heavy 
wagon drawn by one team Mary Ann Heiser Clay, the mother of Mrs. 
Johnson, died in Pennsylvania, leaving three children. Her father married 
his second wife, and when they started for Ohio the party consisted of her 
stepmother and her three children, Mrs. Johnson and her brother, George 
Clay. They were four weeks on the trip, and Mrs. Johnson walked the 
whole distance except one day that she rode in the wagon. Her father and 
the family located on a farm in Prospect Township, where Mr. Komoser 
now lives. It consisted of seventy-three acres. Her father was of fpeble 
health and died on this farm. James Johnson and his wife, in the spring 
of 1848, bought a farm of twenty nine acres in Prospect Township, mostly 
wild land, located near where Mr. Dunbar now lives. The farm was in- 
creased to forty-two acres, and in the fall of 1857 they moved to Thompson 
Township, Delaware County, where they bought a farm of fifty acres, but 
remained there only until 1864; they then returned to Marion County and 
bought the farm of 100 acres in the northwest part of Prospect Township, 
where the family now reside. Mr. Johnson died on this farm in 1876. 
During his life, he took an active and prominent part in the affairs of the 
community where he lived. While in Delaware County, he served two 
years as Justice of tiie Peace, and for ten years in this county he acted in 
the same capacity. One of his sons, Peter S. Johnson, was a soldier in the 
cavalry service of the Union during three years of the war of the rebellion, 
and in an engagement was wounded severely in the head. James Johnson 
and Catharine (Clay) Johnson had a family of the following named chil- 
dren: John O, born June 23, 1835; Naomi, March 13, 1837; Nathan C, 
April 30, 1838; Susannah C. , September 13. 1840; James W., November 4, 
1842; George W., June 25, 1844; Peter S., March 16, 1846; Tabitha E., 
January 24, 1848; Eliza J., December 3, 1849; Samuel L., March 23, 1851; 
Mary C. M. E., February 21, 1853; Ammi Cassius, January 8, 1855; Jes- 
sie F., May 6, 1856: Lewis Olney, March 29, 1858; Andrew J. F., Februarv 
25, 1860; William Theodore, March 30, 1863. The widow still lives a"t 
the homestead with several of her children, genial and happy in her de- 
clining years. She has sixteen grandchildren living, and five great grand- 
children. 

WILLIAM KIRTS, farmer, was born in Prospect Township, March 5, 
1827; his parents' names were Michael and Elizabeth (Simpson) Kirts, na- 
tives of Pennsylvania, near the Maryland State line. They were of Scotch 
and German parentage; are both now deceased and buried in the Otterbein 
graveyard in Prospect Township. They came to Marion County in 1826, 
locating near Prospect Village, and subsequently bought the farm now 
owned and occupied by William B. Thomas and cleared it up. The build- 
ings on this farm were erected by them. They had ten children— Mary 



PROSPECT TOWNSHIP. 929 

Ann; George; Henry, deceased; Julia Ann, deceased; William; Daniel, de- 
ceased; David and Jane (twins), Matilda and Isaac. Himself and wife 
are members of the United Brethren Church and were much respected. 
William Kirts, the subject of this sketch, lived with his father until twen- 
ty-one years of age, when he went to Upper Sandusky and worked at mak- 
ing rails and gathering cranberries for two years. During that time he 
made 28,000 rails and helped to clear 100 acres of land. He then came 
hofne and farmed his father's place for three or four years, when he bought 
106 acres of land, at $0 an acre, where he now resides. The land was then 
covered by a dense forest. He immediately made a clearing and erected a 
log cabin; the same year (1853) he was married to Ruth Ann Williams, a 
daughter of John Williams, one of the early settlers of the county. They 
moved into the log cabin February 27, 1854. He has since added to the 
home farm, so that it now consists of 230 acres, of which 190 acres are 
cleared. He has 110 acres in Union County, fifty [of which are cleared. 
The old log cabin has b^en superseded by a fine frame residence, sur- 
rounded by convenient barns and out-buildings, with a tine well of water. 
This last was very expensive to obtain, as Mr. Kirts dug seventeen different 
wells before securing a good one; and, as he says, among all of his improve- 
ments it has cost as much as any one of them. He has assisted in rolling logs 
at thirty-one places in one spring. Mr. Kirts is one of the self made men of 
the county; he acquired all his home farm by hard work and industry, 
though afterward he received a legacy of $2,500 and forty acres of land 
from his father's estate. Mr. and Mrs. Kirts have the following children: 
Mary Ellen, AJbin D., Elizabeth Sivonia, John Michael, Silas Spencer, 
Eva, Ada Thalia, Thomas Edwin. Mary Ellen, who married Frank 
Butts, lives with her husband on her father's farm in Union County. 
Elizabeth married Samuel Johnson, and lives on the home farm; Eva Flor- 
ence married Fuller Johnson; the rest of the children are living with their 
parents. 

EMMANUEL KNACHEL, meat market, Prospect Village, was born June 
22, 1830; his parents were George and Maria (Aulsebouse) Knachel, who 
came to this county in 1841 and settled on wild land in the woods, one and 
a half miles west of Prospect. The father died in the spring of 1879, aged 
seventy-seven years: the mother is still living, aged seventy-eight years. 
Our subject passed his youth on his father's farm. In 1850, he went to- 
California, where he prospected and mined for gold, meeting with fair suc- 
cess. He returned in 1852, and in 1853 was married to Rosina Tyler, a 
daughter of Richard Tyler, of this county and formerly of Virginia. From 
this union there are three children — Bertha R.. born March 28, 1858; Wil- 
son F., October 24, I860: Jennie P., August 9, 1866. Mr. Knachel en- 
listed as a soldier in 1864, in Company I, One Hundred and Seventy -fourth 
regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry to serve in the war of the rebellion, and 
took part in the battle of Kingston, Tenn. , August 26, 1864. At the close 
of the war in 1865, he was honorably discharged and mustered out of serv- 
ice. He is a Republican. 

DAVID D. LITTLE, drayman and carpenter, was born in Union Coun- 
ty, Ohio, February 23, 1843. and is a son of Simon Peter and Mary Mag- 
dalene (Shafer) Little, both early settlers in Union County. The latter was 
born in Westmoreland County, Penn., in 1808, and came to Harrison 
County, Ohio, with her parents when she was but eleven years old. Simon 
Peter Little was born in Maryland in 1807, and was the son of Adam and 
Mary (Hendrickson) Little, he of New England parentage, and the latter of 



930 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

English origin. Simon Peter Little died in 1857; his wife is still living, 
and resides with her son, David D. Little. The latter, in the spring of 

1864, enlisted in Company C, One Hundred and Seventy- fourth Regiment 
Ohio Volunteer Inf a ntry for three years, and was present with his regiment 
at the battles of Murfreesboro, Stone River, and in a number of skirmishes 
in Tennessee. He went with Gen. Sherman's army on his famous march 
to the sea as far as Columbia, Ala., where, being taken sick, he, with some 
200 others, was returned to Franklin, Tenn. Here they lay two weeks 
awaiting transportation. Owing to the hurried movements of the army, 
sufficient rations had not been furnished to these invalids, on account of 
which they suffered considerably, especially as the country was swarming 
with bushwhackers and guerrillas. Mr. Little was finally sent to Harwood 
Hospital, at Washington, D. C, where he remained until the war ended, 
during the latter part of his stay there acting as hospital steward On his 
return home, he engaged in farming for one year. The succeeding years up 
to 1870, he was engaged as contractor in the grading of graveled roads in 
Marion, Delaware and Union Counties. Mr. Little was married, March 10, 
1870, in Radnor Township, Delaware County, by the Rev. Mr. Lyons, a 
Baptist minister, to Mary J Kyle, daughter of James and Elizabeth Kyle, 
old residents, Mr. Kyle being the second white child ever born in that 
township. Mr. and Mrs. Little have three children — Mary E., born July 10, 
1871; Arlington D., March 8, 1873, and Gracie B., November 7, 1882. 
From about the date of his marriage Mr. Little followed farming for six 
years, when he moved to Prospect Village, since which time he has been 
principally engaged in the drayage business and in contracting for and 
building grades for gravel roads. He is a Republican in politics and since 
his residence in Prospect has served the village as its Marshal for three 
years. Himself and wife are members of the Baptist Church. 

BRYAN MALONEY, farmer, was born June 13, 1835, in the parish of 
Kilgobbin, County Kerry, Ireland. The names of his parents were John 
and Mary (Shayhan) Maloney. The mother died in Ireland: subsequently 
the father, with his five children, emigrated to America, landing at 
the port of Quebec, Canada, July 4, 1847. The names of the children 
were Bridget, Bryan, Mary, Patrick and Julia. From Quebec the family 
passed to Kingston, and thence to Syracuse, N. Y., where they located, and 
in 1852 the family moved to Delaware County, Ohio. Bryan Maloney was 
married in 1858, at Delaware, Ohio, to Margaret Deen, a daughter of John 
Deen, now of Galion, Ohio. Seven years after his marriage, on April 5, 

1865, he came to Marion County and bought 110 acres of land in Prospect 
Township, where he now resides. It was then mostly wild land. He has 
since added to his farm »o that the homestead now consists of 196 acres. Of 
this farm, Mr. Maloney has cleared of its timber 125 acres. December 15, 
1874, Mrs. Maloney died, leaving six children, named Mary E., Josephine, 
Julia, James, Margaret and Bridget. Mr. Malony was married the second 
time May 2, 1876, to Johanna Tobin, a daughter of William Tobin, and by 
this marriage there are two children — William and Bryan. The subject of 
this sketch is one of the foremost farmers of Prospect Township and enjoys 
the respect and esteem of its citizens in a high degree. He is a member of 
the Catholic Church. 

C. L. MOHR, senior partner of the firm of C. L. & J. F. Mohr, general 
merchants, of Prospect Village, was born in Macungie Township, Lehigh 
County, Penn. , August 13, 1838. When fourteen years of age, he learned 
the tailor's trade at Delaware, Ohio, where he remained two years and re- 



PROSPECT TOWNSHIP. 931 

turned to Prospect; for the following four years he was engaged in that busi- 
ness, and in 1859 he removed to Esses, Union County, Ohio, and started a 
general store; this proved a success. In L862. he returned to Prospect Vil- 
lage, since which time he has been engaged in general merchandising 
there. Politically, he advocates the principles represented by the Demo- 
cratic party, in the affairs of which in his section ho takes an active and in- 
fluential part. He has served his fellow citizens in various offices, among 
which was Township Treasurer for several years. City Clerk, Councilman 
nine years, and as a member of the School Board for the special district, 
which he helped to organize, for fifteen years, a position which he also 
filled while living in Union County. Mr. Mohr has always taken a deep 
interest in the educational and religious matters of the township, freely 
contributing of his time and means for the support of institutions of the 
kind. He was one of the Building Committee of the Reformed Church of 
Prospect, in the erection of which he contributed largely. He has been a 
member of the church consistory and has filled other offices in the service 
of the church at different times. Mr. Mohr was married February 26, 
1863, in Prospect Township, by Rev. J. H. Stepler, pastor of the Reformed 
Church, to Miss Mary H. Adams, a native of Delaware County, Ohio, and 
of English descent. There have been four children born from this union, 
only two of whom are living — Lydia C. and Eliza C. The deceased were 
Charles F. and Edwin V. 

DAVID MOHR. Prospect Village, was born in Upper Saucon Town- 
ship, Lehigh County, Perm., May 19, 1804. He was reared to the busi- 
ness of a miller, commencing as helper in his father's mill at the age of 
eleven years, where he remained until nineteen years old, when he con- 
tracted to pay $10 and work nine months as pay to learn the tobacconist's 
trade. He worked at this three years; the following seventeen years he 
worked at farming and milling, a part of the time on his own account. In 
1848, he bought fifty acres for $3,300, on which he lived some four years, 
and in the spring of 1852 came to Ohio and located with his family on a 
farm north of Prospect Village, adjoining the corporation, where he re- 
mained until fall, when he moved to Prospect Village, where he has re- 
sided ever since. He has been engaged as miller at Marion and Prospect 
Village at different times, and in 1858, in company with his son, W. H. 
Mohr, entered into trade in a general store at Prospect Village, under the 
firm name of W. H. Mohr and Co. This firm continued till 1862, when C. 
L. M ohr bought out W. H. Mohr's interest and the firm became D. Mohr & 
Son. This was continued until 1869, when David Mohr sold his interest to 
his son, James F. Mohr, and the firm has ever since been C. L. & J. F. 
Mohr. Mr. David Mohr has now retired from active business and still re- 
sides at Prospect Village. The ancestors of Mr. Mohr were all of German 
origin and very early settlers of Pennsylvania. His father and grand 
father Mohr were both named Frederick, and were also natives of Pennsyl- 
vania. His farther was a miller by trade, and also carried on farming; he 
died in Pennsylvania. His mother's maiden name was Elizabeth Eckel, a 
native of Pennsylvania; her father's name was Henry Eckel, a native of 
Germany. David Mohr was married, October 12. 1834. in Macungie 
Township. Lehigh County, Penn., by the Rev. Daniel Zeller, of the Re- 
formed Church, to Miss Catharine Neimeyer, born May 8, 1817, a daughter 
of Conrad and Lydia (Diefenderfer) Neimeyer, all natives of Lehigh 
County, Penn. The father of Conrad Neimeyer, above mentioned, was also 
named Conrad, and was born on the Atlantic Ocean while^his parents were 



932 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

emigrating from Germany to America. His father died on the voyage. 
The father of Lydia (Diefenderfer) Neimeyer was named Henry Diefender- 
fer; his wife's name was Susannah J arret. He died in Macungie Town- 
ship, and she in Berks County. Penn. "When David Mohr came to this 
county in 1852, he brought with him his wife and family of five boys, as 
follows: William H, Charles L., James F., Mandes M. and Alvin D. The 
first two were born in Miicungie Township, Lehigh County, Penn., and the 
others in Upper Milford Township. One son — Albert C. — was born in 
Prospect, Ohio; all are now living. 

JAMES F. MOHR, merchant, Prospect Village. Mr. Mohr enlisted 
in the war of the rebellion in 1861, at Marion, Ohio, in Battery H, Fifth 
United States Artillery. He served in* various engagements with his bat- 
tery, among which were the battles of Shiloh, Corinth, Stone River, Chick- 
amauga, Missionary Ridge, and in other minor engagements. His term of 
enlistment having expired, he was honorably discharged from the service at 
Nashville, Tenn., October 24, 1864. Mr. Mohr is a son of David Mohr and 
was born in Upper Milford Township, Lehigh County, Penn., September 
12, 1840. He has been a member of the firm of C. L. & J. F. Mohr, 
general merchants of Prospect, since 1869. He was married at Marion. 
Ohio, by the Rev. A. D. Matthews, pastor of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church, to Miss Ann Eliza Gooding, of Marion. They have a family of 
three children— Ivy Dell, Paulena R., and Mary E. 

ADAM T. MORROW, miller at Prospect, was born June 14, 1844, in 
Washington County, Penn., and is a son of Joseph and Julia A. (Jump) 
Morrow. He followed the occupation of a farmer till twenty-seven years 
of age, when he and his brother, Joseph K., formed a partnership and es- 
tablished a carriage and wagon-making shop at Prospect. This business 
continued for seven years, when they, in 1877, traded their shop as part 
payment for and bought the Prospect mill, since which time he has been 
engaged in the milling business. The firm is known as Morrow Brothers. 
Mr. Morrow was married, December 20, 1877, to Miss Araminta F. Beem, 
daughter of Jacob Beem, of Claiborne Township, Union County. They 
have two children —James L. and Earl S. Mr. Morrow is a Prohibitionist 
and a member of the Baptist Church. 

JOSEPH MORROW , farmer, was born in Washington County, Penn. 
He, with his wife, Julia A. (Jump) Morrow, and family of three children, 
came to Ohio in 1853, locating on i seventy-five acres of land in Pleasant 
Township, where Mr. Morrow died. September, 1855, a member of the 
Baptist Church; his widow now resides in Prospect Village. , They had 
four children — James M., Adam T., Joseph K. and Sarah A. The last was 
born in Marion County; the three first in Pennsylvania. 

MORROW BROTHERS, proprietors of the Prospect Mills. This mill 
has 'three run of stone for wheat and one run of stone for corn. It is 
otherwise fitted with modern mill improvements, and has a capacity for 
giinding eighty barrels of flour every twenty- four hours. The firm buys 
wheat for grinding purposes only, and also do a general custom business; 
they grind annually 35.000 bushels of wheat and 10,000 of corn. 

JOSEPH K. MORROW, of the firm of Morrow & Brothers, was born 
August 27, 1850, in Washington County, Penn., and is the son of Joseph 
and Julia A. (Jump) Morrow. Mr. Morrow is a member of the Baptist 
Church, and in politics is a Prohibitionist. He has served as Village 
Councilman two terms, and is much esteemed as a citizen. 



PROSPECT TOWNSHIP. 933 

JAMES M. MORROW, the eldest son of Joseph Morrow, resided on 
the farm nntil the fall of 1862, when he eDtered the ranks of the Urion 
Army as a member of Company D, Sixty-fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer 
Infantry. He rendered his country gallant service for nearly three years, 
and fought in several hard battles. He was killed in an engagement on 
Rocky Face Ridge, near Atlanta, and now sleeps with the many fallen 
heroes of the civil war, covered with the laurels of a faithful soldier. 

CONRAD NETMEYER, hardware merchant, Prospect Village, was 
born in Prospect, August 24, 1853, and is a son of Reuben Neimeyer, men- 
tioned elsewhere* He learned the carpenter's trade from his father, with 
whom he remained until the age of twenty-two years. He was married to 
Sarah Lake, of Richwood, a daughter of Isaac Lake; subsequently he fol- 
lowed carpentering and building, and in 1880 he entered in the hardware 
business, and in 1881 formed a partnership with W. H. Lake in the same 
business at Prospect, which continued until January, 1883, when it was dis- 
solved, Mr. Neimeyer, howevei*, continuing the business alone. He is still 
engaged in building. During the past four years, he has erected five fine 
buildings, costing from $1,000 to S3, 500 each. The best one he now oc- 
cupies as a residence. His sales in the hardware business average about 
$6,000 annually. His success is somewhat remarkable, as four years ago 
he commenced with a capital of only $20. His prosperity is wholly due 
to his own energy and business tact. In politics, Mr. Neimeyer is a Demo- 
crat. 

REUBEN NEIMEYER, carpenter and builder, was born in Macungie 
Township, Lehigh County, Penn., January 27, 1823. His parents' names 
were Conrad and Lydia (Diefenderfer) Neimeyer, both natives of Macungie 
Township. The grandfather of our subject was born on the sea while his 
parents were emigrating from Germany. They settled in Pennsylvania 
prior to the Revolution. The parents of our subject died on the old farm 
in Pennsylvania where he was born. They had twelve children, as follows: 
Charles, George, Jacob, Isaac, Reuben, John, Henry, Andrew, Susannah, 
Catharine, Lydia and Elizabeth. The subject of this sketch was raised on 
a farm; at the age of twenty yeai's he went to learn the carpenter's trade, 
and has been engaged at that business ever since. He came to Prospect 
Village April 8, 1S53, bringing his wife and children, and has continued 
to reside here ever since. He is a member of the Lutheran Church and a 
greatly respected citizen. 

DAVID PENRY, farmer, Radnor Township, Delaware County, was 
born November 4, 1806, the first white child born in that township. His 
parents were David and Mary (Pugh) Penry, the former a native of Breck- 
enshire, and the latter of Radnorshire, Wales. Our subject's parents came 
to Ohio in 1806, settling in Radnor Township, bringing one child with 
them to America, who died in Baltimore, Md. They had twelve children 
born in Radnor Township, as follows: David, Mary, Hannah, Walter, 
William, Jane, John, Edward, Thomas, Evan, Amelia and Margaret. Our 
subject was married, November 14, 1833, to Joanna Jones, who was born iu 
Radnorshire, South Wales, May 20, 1812, and came to Radnor Township 
with her pai'ents, John P. and Mary (Penry) Jones, in 1818. From this 
marriage there were ten children, five now living, as follows: Thomas L. , 
John P., Mary M., Hannah J. and Amelia D. ; those who died were Reuben, 
aged eight years; Margaret Ann, aged sixteen years; Ann, an infant, and 
two infants not named. Our subject has lived on his present farm in Rad- 
nor Township since 1833. When he purchased it, it contained 130 acres; for 



934 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

this be paid $1.50 per acre, and split rails at 50 cents a hundred to get 
money to pay for the land. He still owns this farm. Our subject's father 
was a soldier under Gen. Harrison, in the war of 1812. He is a member of 
the Baptist Church, and his wife of the Presbyterian Church. 

THOMAS L. PENRY, son of the preceding, was born in Radnor 
Township, Delaware Co., Ohio, August 7, 1838. January 1, 1862, he mar- 
ried Lucinda A. Arnold, who was born in Perry Township, Licking Co., 
Ohio, December 3, 18-43, a daughter of John H. and Elizabeth S. (Yates) 
Arnold, formerly of Virginia. Mr. and Mrs. Penry have five children — 
Elizabeth Joanna, born September 8, 1863; Harvey O., 'April 19, 1867. 
William Henry, December 11, 1869; John Q., November 10, 1873; Wat 
kin D. , September 3, 1877. Mr. Penry has always followed farming, and 
now resides on and owns 151| acres of land, one and a half miles east of 
Prospect Village. The farm is improved with a tine brick residence, built 
by himself, in which he lives with his family. The farm was known as the 
" Thomas Cratty Farm. " Mr. Penry is a straight Republican in politics. 

JOHN P. PENRY, farmer,is a native of Radnor Township. Delaware 
County, and was born July 19, 1840. He is a son of David and Joanna 
(Jones) Penry. John P. Penry enlisted at Delaware, Ohio, October 
2, 1861, in Company D, Twentieth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infan- 
try, was a soldier in the war of the great rebellion. He served 
until the close of the struggle, having re enlisted as a veteran in 1863, 
in the same company and regiment. He was present at and par 
ticipated in the following battles: Fort Donelson, Pittsburg Land- 
ing, Middleburg, Iuka, Miss., the second battle of Corinth, Holly 
Springs, Vicksburg, Little Kenesaw Mountain, Big Kenesaw and Atlanta, 
where he was wounded through the right shoulder and chest by a musket 
ball July 22, 1864. He still carries the rebel lead in his body. This 
wound disabled him from carrying a musket in after service. When he had 
sufficiently recovered, he was detailed as an Orderly for Dr. J. W. Guthery, 
at the headquarters of the Seventeenth Army Corps. In that capacity he 
went through with Oen. Sherman's army on its march to the sea. He was 
in the charge at Pocatalgo, N. C. , and at the burning of Columbia, S. C, 
and was present at the surrender of Joseph E. Johnston's army at Durham 
Station, N. O, and was finally present at the grand review of the army at 
Washington, D. C, in 1865, and was mustered out of the service with his 
company; July 15, 1865. He now receives a small pension from the Gov- 
ernment on account of disability, which pension should be quadrupled at 
least. Mr. Penry has a farm of fifty acres in Prospect Township, where he 
resides. He was married, July 2, 1871, to Augusta G. Fleming. They 
have four children — Myrtis, born October, 1873; Henry C, born March 23 y 
1876; Charles, March 3. 1877, and David, April 12, 1878. 

THOMAS PHILLIPS, pioneer farmer, was born in Radnor Township, 
Delaware Co., Ohio, February 22, 1810. He passed his youth on his fath- 
er's farm, amidst the early scenes and customs of pioneer times. Cloths of 
all kinds, for wearing apparel, were difficult to obtain and expensive. The 
winter clothing for the men and boys was mostly made of buckskin. Tea 
and coffee were 75 cents to $1 a pound, and other luxuries in proportion. 
He was a child three years old at the time of " Drake's defeat," and was in 
the wagon from which, according to accounts published heretofore, a boy — 
one Robert Penry — was lost; but Mr. Phillips says the boy was not lost, but 
on falling from the wagon was picked up by a young man and carried to a 
house near by. where his parents stopped to pick up another family. Mr. 



PROSPECT TOWNSHIP. 935 

Phillips' father was obliged to go forty miles to mill, and when short of 
flour were sometimes obliged to live on " roasting ears " for a week at a 
time. His market for wheat was principally at Portland, now Sandusky, 
on Lake Erie, requiring a week to make the trip. As a boy, our subject at 
tended the old-fashioned subscription school, in a log house on his father's 
place. The windows were greased paper, and the chimney made of mud 
and sticks; and when about twenty years of age Le attended two terms of 
the common or free school. This was all the schooling he ever received. 
His father helped to build the first church edifice erected in Delhi; it was 
made of logs. In this house our subject went to the first religious meeting 
he ever attended. In 1832, Mr. Phillips bought 125 acres of land, on 
which, in 1833, he set out an apple orchard — some trees still living — where 
he now resides, for which he gave two horses, valued at $200, making the 
cost per acre $1.60. It was "Virginia Military lands, and had no improve- 
ments of any kind, not a stick having been cut on it by white men, unless 
for hunting purposes. No roads passed near it in any direction, aud there 
was not a house between it and the present village of Prospect. In Janu- 
ary, 1838, he built a log house, 18x20 feet in size, and on February 8, 1838, 
was married to Margaret Maize, born June 9, 1818, a daughter of Francis 
and Margaret Maize, who were both natives of Frankstown, Huntingdon Co. , 
Penn. On the 5th of April, 1839, himself and wife took up their abode in 
this cabin. That spring, he cleared five acres of this land and planted it to 
corn. His horses and other stock ranged the woods for their feed, and had 
to be hunted up every night and morning. The meat used by the family 
for a long time was principally game — turkeys and deer being very abun- 
dant. Of the last-named. Mr. Phillips has killed a great many. The near- 
est mill was at Millville, Delaware County, fifteen miles distant. In 1854, 
he burnt a kiln of brick and built a brick residence near the site of the log 
cabin, but on the 6th of October. 1871. the brick residence was destroyed by 
fire, and the family were obliged to return to the old log cabin. Eighteen 
months afterward, he re-built on the same site, and moved into the large 
brick residence where he now resides. Mr. Phillips is the second oldest 
freeholder now living in Prospect Township, and is one of the township's 
best citizens, having always assisted, by influence and means, the educa- 
tional and other interests of the township. He subscribed and helped pay 
for the Methodist, Baptist, Presbyterian and Lutheran Church buildings at 
Prospect; he furnished all the brick from which the last-named was built, 
donating to the church 2,000 brick. In 1833,Mr. Phillips,with three other men, 
erected, for Obadiah Taylor, in Kenton, Hardin County, the first house ever 
built in that town. He relates that in May, 1834, he went for a neighbor 
to Detroit with a drove of cattle. They started to return home the 16th of 
May, by boat to Portland, and that during a storm they were almost wrecked, 
being anchored some hours. It had turned very cold; wave after wave 
washed the deck, the water freezing to everything it touched. They finally 
arrived safe in port, after considerable suffering. This same season, the 
wheat and crops were killed throughout Ohio Mr. and Mrs. Phillips have 
a family of eight children — Sarah E., born December 9, 1838; John F., 
October 23, 1840; Eliza J., December 31, 1842; Ellen J., March 31, 1845; 
Zenas L., August 17, 1850; Emma V., April 8, 1855; "Wilhelniina I., No- 
vember 15, 1858, and Hattie V., March 15, 1861. Mr. and Mrs. Phillips 
state, what few other families of the same size can say, and that is, they 
have never had but three professional visits from a physician to their family 
during their married life. The parents of our subject were John and Han 



936 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

nah (Pugh) Phillips, both natives of South Wales. They emigrated to the 
United States, and settled in Delaware in 1806. He died in 1849, and his 
wife in 1863. They had eight children. 

THOMAS PUGH, deceased, pioneer farmer of Prospect Township, was 
born August 18, 1784, in Montgomeryshire, North Wales. He emigrated 
to the United States in 1802, landing at the port of New York. He came 
to Ohio subsequently, and was married, in Wayne County, Ohio, November 
7, 1805, to Elizabeth Smith, a daughter of Samuel C. and Sarah (Bishop) 
Smith. Thomas Pugh, with his family, located in Radnor Township, Del- 
aware County, in 1810, and in 1810, bought 122 acres of land, well tim- 
bered, at $2.50 an acre, on Section 6 of what is now Prospect Township. 
Not a stick had been cut on this land by white men, except for hunting 
purposes. He cleared about forty acres of this land, and died only four 
years after making it his place of residence; his death occurring September 
27, 1824. He left a widow and six children — Sarah, born October 22, 1806, 
who married Samuel Martin, both deceased; Jane, born July 21, 1809, and 
married Samuel Cratty, both deceased; Lucinda, born June 17, 1815, and 
married John Hughes, she is deceased; Phoebe, born December 2, 1817, and 
married the Rev. Samuel Allen, became a widow and married the Rev. 
Samuel Gossard, and now lives in Iowa; Wesley, born March 18, 1820; 
Mary, born March 26, 1822, and married William A. Palmer, and died in 
Montgomery Couuty, 111. The subject of this sketch was a soldier of the 
war of 1812. 

WESLEY PUGH, retired farmer, Prospect Village, is a son of Thomas 
Pugh, a pioneer, and was born on the old homestead iu Prospect Township 
March 18, 1820. He was reared a farmer, and has followed that occupation 
all his life. He bought the old homestead from the other heirs and lived 
there until thirty-seven years of age, when he sold the place and bought a 
farm one mile north of Prospect Village, on the east side of the Scioto 
River, where he lived for twenty-five years. He then removed to Prospect 
Village, where he now resides, with his wife. Mr. Pugh was married 
March 31, 1846, to Martha Welch, a daughter of Solomon and Lavina 
Welch. They have had a family of five children, all of whom are de- 
ceased; two died when infants; Thomas died aged three years; Martha 
Jane died aged nine years, and Lucinda died March 3, 1879, aged sixteen 
years. Mr. Pugh has been a member of the Church for forty years, and in 
politics has been a life- long Democrat. He has served his township in 
various local offices. He is an earnest advocate of temperance, and for the 
past two years has acted with the Prohibition party. He is one of the old 
est residents of the township now living, and one of its substantial and best 
respected citizens. 

JOHN RANDALL, deceased, was a farmer and early settler in Prospect 
Township, coming to this county in 1833 or 1834 and locating on 100 acres 
of wild land one and a quarter miles west of Prospect Village. This land 
he mostly cleared. He sold it, and bought a farm on the Greenville treaty 
line, in the west part of the township, which he has also cleared. He lived 
on this place from 1839 to 1853, when he sold again and moved to the farm 
of 186 acres on the Marysville & Marion State road, where his son Keisey 
E. now lives. This was partly improved, but John Randall improved about 
ninety acres of it. This place he owned at the time of his death, which 
occurred October 11, 1880. John Randall was a native of Vermont, where 
he was born February 12, 1803. He was married to Jane Hoskins, a daugh- 
ter of John Hoskins, of Delaware County, Ohio. From this union there 



PROSPECT TOWNSHIP. 937 

were four children, nanielv, Charles, born April 23, 1839; Emma, March 6, 
1844; Morris F* September 2, 1848, and Kelsey E., August 13, 1851. Mr. 
and Mrs. Randall were both members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 
The widow of John Randall is still living, and resides with her children. 

KELSEY E. RANDALL, farmer, is a son of John and Jane (Hoskins) 
Randall, is a native of Prospect Township, and born August 13, 1851. He now 
owns sixty and one- half acres of the old homestead where his father died. He 
has bought other land adjoining, so that his farm now embraces 12 1^ acres. 
With the exception of two years spent in working at and learning the har 
ness-maker's trade, he has always followed the vocation of a farmer. He 
was marriod, April 1, 1873, to Hester A. Couch, of Harrison County, Ohio. 
They have had a family of four children, two living — John E., born Janu- 
ary 17, 1874, and Lida A., born January 29, 1879 Mr. R. is a member of 
the Baptist Church, and in politics is a Republican 

M. F. RANDALL, farmer, was born in Prospect Township Septem- 
ber 2, 1848, and is a son of John and Jane (Hoskins) Randall. He was 
reared on a farm, and has always followed the vocation of a farmer. He 
was married, November 13, 1873, to Miss Elizabeth Black, a daughter of 
Christian and Phoebe (Elliott) Black, of Marlborough Township, Dela- 
ware County. From this marriage there are two children — Clara, born June 
26. 1875, and an infant. Mr. and Mrs. R. are members of the Baptist 
Church. They reside on a fine farm of their own, near the old homestead 
of Mr. Randall's father. 

WILLIAM REESER, retired, was born in what is now Perry Town- 
ship, Berks Co., Penn., and is a son of Abraham and Elizabeth (Sells) 
Reeser, who were natives of Pennsylvania, where they are also buried. 
Mr. R. passed his youth on a farm. At the age of nineteen, he learned a 
trade, and on coming to Ohio carried on the business of builder and con- 
tractor for several years at Delaware, whence he removed to Fayette Coun- 
ty, 111., and followed the same business. He returned to Ohio, and lived 
one year at Delaware, and located at Prospect Village in 1875, where he 
became a partner with B. K. Herbster in the flouring mill, continuing some 
years. He has been very successful, in a financial sense, the result of his 
own efforts, as all that he has was acquired by himself. He has been twice 
married, but is now a widower, and has one child by each marriage, as fol- 
lows: Canty Reeser, who married Charles E. Herr, they reside with Mr 
Reeser; Etty, his youngest child, lives with her grandparents at Delaware. 
Mr. R. lives in one of the finest residences in town, built some years since 
by himself, and is one of the solid citizens of Prospect Village. He is a 
member of the German Reformed Church. 

JOHN REILEY (3d), farmer, was born in Pickaway Count} r , Ohio. 
August 23, 1818. His parents. William and Love (Vezy) Reiley, were 
from the State of Delaware, and settled in this county about the year 1823; 
they both died in Marion Township. Mr. Reiley is one of the few early 
residents of this county still living who remembers the Indians who inhab 
ited this region. He was married, March 19, 1840, to Miss Nancy Ann 
Fouty, a native of Mason County. Va. , where she was born, near the 
mouth of the Big Kanawha River. April 16, 1S20, a daughter of Stephen 
and Drusilla (Biggerstaff) Fouty. Mr. Reiley bought his present farm, in 
the north part of Prospect Township, in 1853; only twelve acres of it was 
cleared land, while now, principally by his own labor and industry, there 
are sixty-five acres in excellent coudition. The fine property that he now 
owns was acquired by the industry of himself and his good wife; as when 

RB 



938 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

they were married they commenced with very little means. Mr. and Mrs 
Reiley have had six children, two of whom are living, as follows: Love J., 
born October 9, 1842, now the wife of David Cratty. and Nancy A., born 
May 29, 1861, and now the wife of Edwin L. Butler. 

JACOB C. RINGER, retired farmer, was born in Franklin Township, 
Westmoreland Co., Penn. The names of his parents were Christian and 
Mary (Ringer) Ringer, the last named being a daughter of Michael Ringer. 
When twenty years of age, Mr. Ringer commenced learning the carpenter's 
trade. He came to Ohio in 1850, and located near Marion, and followed 
carpentering and house-building exclusively until 1864, when he bought a 
farm of 100 acres on Section 33, Marion Township, which he still owns. 
After the purchase of the farm, he still continued at house-building, at- 
tending to his farm interests at the same time, and in 1877 erected a com- 
fortable residence in Prospect Village, where he now resides, having partial 
ly retired from business. He was married, in 1853, to Catharine Unca 
pher. by whom he had two children, both deceased. Mr. Ringer was again 
married December 3, 1868, to Jane Williams, born January 31, 1841, a 
daughter of John T. and Kittie E. (Berry) Williams, who were early set- 
tlers in this county. By his last marriage there are two children — Mary 
E., born June 18, 1870, and Perry W., born January 1, 1872. Mr. Ringer 
is a Prohibitionist in politics, and has served as Village Councilman for 
three years. Himself and wife and daughter are members of the Baptist 
Church. 

JOHN Q. ROADS, farmer and sheep-raiser, was born four miles south- 
west of Newark, in Licking Co., Ohio, August 17, 1828. When he was 
fifteen years of age, he was hired out for two years and nine months to 
learn the milling business, for which he was to be paid $100. From the 
expiration of this time until 1847, he worked as a journeyman miller. At 
the date last mentioned, he started on a trip West, where he remained sev- 
eral months, and on his return, in the spring of 1848, he took charge of 
and operated a mill at Chatham, Ohio, for one season, and in September, 
1848, took charge of the old " Summit" mill, three and a half miles south- 
west of Newark, Ohio, where he learned his trade; here he remained until 
1850. During this time — in 1849— he was married to Margaret Ann 
Arnold, who was born in Fauquier County, Va., August 6, 1828. She was 
a daiighter of John H. and Elizabeth S. (Yates) Arnold. John Q. Roads 
first came to Marion County on a visit October 18, 1849, and returned in 
March, 1851, when he bought 150 acres of land where he now lives, for a 
little more than $9 per acre. All except thirteen acres of this land was 
then covered with heavy timber; 115 acres of the tract is now improved and 
well cultivated. Mr. Roads and his wife took up their abode on this farm 
November 14, 1851, in a log house some distance south of their present res- 
idence, and have continued to reside there to the present time. Mr. Roads 
subsequently purchased twenty-five acres adjoining, for which he paid $70 
per acre; so that the homestead now consists of 175 acres, and is valued 
at from $90 to $100 per acre. The farm is located one and a half miles 
east of Prospect Village. Besides his farming interests, Mr. Roads has 
been interested in other enterprises at different times. In 1873, in com- 
pany with A. J. Blake, S. M. Blake and T. P. Cratty he organized the Union 
County Bank, at Richwood, Ohio. Mr. R. is now a stockholder in the 
Prospect Bank. He is a man highly esteemed by all who know him, as an 
enterprising citizen aod Christian gentleman, Himself and wife are mem- 
bers of the Baptist Church. In politics, he was formerly what was known 



PROSPECT TOWNSHIP. 939 

as a " Free-Soil Democrat," but since 1854 he has been a Republican. He 
is a member of Prospect Lodge, No. '444, F. & A M. Mr. and Mrs Roads 
have had three children, only one of whom is living, whose name is Benja- 
min Jay Witter Roads, born March 30, 1809. We give on another page a 
portrait of John Q. Roads. The Roads family are originally of German 
ancestry, and were early settlers in Lancaster County, Penn., and afterward 
of the Shenandoah Valley, Va. John and Margaret (Winegardner) Roads 
were the parents of John Q. Roads; the father born in Page County, Va.. 
March 22, 1803, and the mother in Loudon County, Va., in July, 1807 
They were married. May 25, 1825; she died in Licking County, Ohio, 
August 14, 1835; he is still living, and resides in Prospect Township. 
John Roads was a son of John and Catharine (Brubaker) Roads, and came 
with his parents to Licking County, Ohio, in 1814. His wife, Margaret 
(Winegardner) Roads, was a daughter of Herbert and Margaret f Jordan) 
Winegardner, both natives of Virginia, and their parents were natives of 
Germany. 

J. J. ROBERTS, Postmaster at Prospect Village, is a native of Rad- 
nor Township, Delaware County, and was born April 7, 1852. His parents' 
names are IsaixC and Lettis (Jones) Roberts; the first a native of Denby- 
shire, Wales, and the latter of Delaware County, Ohio. During youth Mr. 
Roberts received the advantages of a good English education, and for sev- 
eral years followed the occupation of teaching during the winter months 
and working at carpentering and farming during the summer. He was 
married, in the fall of 1870, to Miss Bertha R. Knachel, daughter of 
Emmanuel Knachel, of Prospect. The following year, he entered the store 
of P. C. Sells, as clerk, where he remained until 1881, when he formed a 
partnership with his father-in-law, Mr. Knachel. in a general store. He 
was appointed Postmaster October 25, 1881. July 15, 1883, he sold out 
his interest in the store, and is now, in connection with the post office, 
handling books, pictures, stationery, etc. He is a Republican. 

DANIEL T. ROBINSON, farmer, was born in the town of Newport, 
Herkimer Co.. N. Y. August 30. 1815 His parents, James and Mary 
(Brown) Robinson were natives of Massachusetts, and lived near Lowell. 
They settled in Radnor Township, Delaware County, in 1830. Daniel T 
RobinsoD was reared on a farm, and March 18. 1841, was married to Nan- 
cy Phillips, a daughter of John Phillips, In 1851, he bought sixty-five 
acres of land, where he now resides, in Prospect Township. All of this land 
was entirely wild, except four or five acres partly cleared, on which was an 
old log cabin, unfit for use. ' In the fall of 1851, he built a log cabin, into 
which he moved with his wife and five children on Christmas Day. Since 
th6n, he has made an addition to the homestead, which now consists of 100 
acres, sixty acres of which he has cleared himself. His wife died in April, 
1877, a member of the Baptist Church, as also is Mr. R. They had the 
following named children: William PL, John A. (who was killed on the 
steamer " Sultana"), Hannah M. (now the wife of Leroy Tyler, of Rich- 
wood), Martha (deceased), Sarah Ann (now the wiEe of Douglass Lynn, and 
resides at the homestead), Lydia (now the wife of E. E. Hazen, of "Union 
County) and Charles A. (of Marion County). 

WILLIAM A. RUSSELL, retired farmer, Prospect Village, was born 
in Thompson Township, Delaware Co., Ohio, December 12, 1S27, and is a 
son of Joseph and Betsey (Edmunds) Russell; the former a native of Ver- 
mont, and the latter of Connecticut. They came to Ohio in 1819, and set- 
tled in Thompson Township. He was a blacksmith by trade, but always 



940 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

followed farming after coming to Ohio. All their children but the oldest 
were born in Ohio. Their names are Edmunds, Daniel M. , Mary B. , 
Joseph B., William A., Sarah A. (who died, aged three years) and Elmira. 
Five of the children lived to have families. The mother died December 29, 
1856. and their father died four hours later, December 30, 1856. Mr. 
Russell was married, December 27, 1849, to Susan M. Fleming, who was 
born October 12, 1831, a daughter of Henry C. and Susannah (Jones) 
Fleming, early settlers of Delaware County. Henry C. Fleming was of 
Irish descent, and his wife was a native of Wales and a daughter of John 
Jones. Mr. and Mrs. Russell have had eight children — Lucina, born Octo 
ber 12, 1850, married, and died May 14, 1873; Cynthia, born January 4. 
1852; William M., August 29, 1855; Elmira J., February 15, 1858: M. I., 
October 7, 1851, and died January 18, 1864; Carie D., June 7, 1867; Hosea 
L., September 7, 1870, and Corda A., March 14, 1872. Our subject owns a 
farm of 150 acres in Prospect Township, but he has partially retired and 
lives in Prospect Village. Himself and wife are members of the Methodist 
Church. He is a Republican. 

^ WILLIAM M. RUSSELL, farmer, is a native of Prospect Township 
and was born August 29, 1856. He is a son of William A. Russell, of 
Prospect Village. He was married, September 9, 1880, to Clara Baruuin, 
a daughter of Charles Barnum, and they have one child — Lida May, born 
January 24, 1882. Mr. Russell now has charge of his father's farm in 
Prospect Township. In politics, he is. a Republican. 

ORSAMUS RUTTER, farmer, was born November 8, 1832, in Amanda 
Township, Fairfield Co. , Ohio; parents were Martin and Mary (Garber) 
Rutter, who came to this county about 1850. Martin Rutter owned 227 
acres of land, just north of Prospect Village, now owned by Dr. Farnum; 
also 200 acres in Delaware County. He was a native of West Virginia, and 
his wife of Stavinton, Penn. At the age of seventy years, lie died on a 
farm owned by bis wife, and now owned by William A. Russell. His wife 
died on the same place, aged seventy- four years. Mr. Orsamus Rutter has 
always followed farming. He was married, September 21, 1851, to Mary 
A. McCloskey, and their children, since born, are Barbara A., Melinda E., 
Rosina and Benjamin G. Mrs. Rutter died March 24, 1877, and he was 
married again, July 5, 1881, to Miss Linnie Ginder, a daughter of David 
and Catharine (Shoff) Ginder; the former a native of Germany and the lat- 
ter of Pennsylvania. Mr. R. owns 101 acres of land, on which he resides, 
and 100 acres of land in Labette County, Kan., besides presenting to bis 
sons-in-law 200 acres of land in the above county in Kansas some years 
since. Mr. Rutter enlisted, August, 1864, in Company I, One Hundred and 
Seventy -fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry; was in the last battle 
of Nashville, at the engagement of Wheat Swamp, N. C, and one near 
Murfreesboro. He was honorably discharged at Charlotte, N. C, June 28, 
1864. 

P. C. SELLS, merchant, is a native of Waldo Township, this county, 
and was born September 28, 1840. He is a son of Peter and Catharine 
(Stambaugh) Sells, both natives of Franklin County, Penn. They after 
ward moved to Claibourne Township, Union Co., Ohio, where Mr. Sells 
still resides, his wife having died. P. C. Sells lived on his father's farm 
until twenty -five years of age, when he opened a general store at Prospect, 
Ohio. The first year's sales amounted to about $1,000, and the taxes were 
15 cents. He started with a capital of $250, at the same time buying on 
credit, for $600, the building and lot in which he commenced business. In 



PROSPECT TOWNSHIP. 941 

1880, Mr. Sells built the large brick store which he now occupies, and sit- 
uated just one door north of his first stand, which he still owns. On mov 
ing into the new store, in 1880, he admitted Joseph Cratty as partner, un- 
der the firm name of Sells & Cratty. This continued until February 1, 
1883, when he bought Cratty 's interest, and the business is conducted un- 
der the old name of P. C. Sells. The store is the largest in Prospect, and 
as large as any in Marion. The sales now average $25,000 and upward per 
year. Mr. Sells was married, in Pleasant Township, Marion Co., Ohio, 
October 20, 1860, to Elizabeth Landon, daughter of Cyrene Landon. Mr. 
S. has the following children: Molly Kate, Benjamin P., Pearl H. , Mattie 
Belle and Bessie. He is a Bepublican, and although in a strongly Demo- 
cratic Township, has served seven years as Township Treasurer, also as one 
of the Village Council, etc. 

S. N. SMITH, grocery merchant, was born in Prospect Township, Sep 
tember 19, 1846. He lived on his father's farm until 1877, when, on ac- 
count of failing health caused by a sunstroke, he left the farm, came to 
Prospect Village, and was engaged in the butchering business until the 
spring of 1879, when he bought a stock of groceries and fitted up a store; 
since then, he has been keeping a general stock of staple and fancy grocer- 
ies. The store is neatly arranged, is the best one in the village, and on 
account of the liberal patronage that he receives from the citizens his stock is 
kept fresh, being constantly replaced by new purchases. He is genial, ac- 
commodating and enterprising, and ' deserves success. His sales average 
about $7,000 per annum. Mr. Smith is a son of Thomas and Sophia 
(Transue) Smith, mentioned elsewhere. He was married, October 31, 1870. 
to Miss Mary E. Willauer, a daughter of J. P. "Willauer, of Thompson Town- 
ship, Delaware Co., Ohio. Himself and wife are members of the Lutheran 
Church. 

THOMAS SMITH was born in Haycock Township, Bucks Co., Penn., 
and is one of the early settlers of this county still living. He passed his 
early years on the farm in Pennsylvania, and at the age of eighteen years, 
learned the carpenter's trade. He arrived in Prospect Township April 16, 
1838. In 1838. he bought forty acres of land, at $5.62 per acre, one mile 
west of Prospect Village. It was covered with a heavy growth of timber, 
and was also considered very wet land. On this place he built a small log 
house, into which he moved with his wife and one child. Subsequently, 
he added to this farm thirty-four acres of wild land, at $6.37 per acre, and 
afterward another piece of twenty acres, partly improved, for which he paid 
$1,200. The last piece of land he afterward sold for $2,500, and still 
owns the home farm of seventy-four acres, which he improved principally 
by his own Isbor. The log cabin has finally given place to a fine frame 
residence and other outbuildings, and it is one of the best improved farms 
in the township. The horse stable on the place is forty-two feet long, and 
made especially for the keeping of horses. Mr. Smith is a Democrat, and 
has served in various local offices; was Assessor of the Township during the 
war; has also served as Trustee, etc. He has been a member of the Luther- 
an Church since eighteen years of age. which church he served as Deacon 
several years. He is still hale and hearty, and prepared to enjoy the fort- 
une which he has honestly earned in a lifetime of industry; enjoying, as 
he passes down the pathway of life, the confidence and respect of all the 
people with whom he has lived so long. Hi' was m.trried, December 22, 
1835, to Sophia Transue. of Williams Township. Northampton Co.. Penn., 
and has three children, as follows: Mary Ann, now the wife of Nathan 



942 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Moll, of St. Louis, Mo.; Lavina, the wife of J "W. Gast. of Prospect, and 
Samuel N. , a grocery merchant in Prospect Village. Mr. Smith has re- 
tired from active business and now resides in the village of Prospect. 

CHARLES E. THOMAS, farmer and stock- dealer, was born in Prince 
William County, Va., August 31, 1848, the son of Benjamin F. and Sarah 
A. (Howison) Thomas. He lives on his farm of seventy acres, about one 
and a half miles east of Prospect Village, and is also a member of the firm 
of Thomas Brothers, buyers and shippers of stock for Eastern markets. 
Mr. Thomas was married, December 20, 1876, to Lettie M. Gast, a daugh 
ter of William Gast, of Delaware County. He is Superintendent of the 
gravel road between Prospect and Waldo. 

B. F. THOMAS, brother of tbe above, was born in Washington. D. C, 
November 6, 1853, and was married, March 1, 1882, to Hattie O. Detwiler, 
daughter of John and Mary (Ely) Detwiler, of Thompson Township, Dela- 
ware County. They have one child — Harry Earl, born February 18, 1883. 
Mr. T. is a member nf the firm of Thomas Brothers, above referred to. 

WILLIAM B. THOMAS, farmer, was born in Scioto Township, Dela- 
ware Co., Ohio, May 17, 1825, and is a son ef Lord and Elizabeth (Brock- 
way) Thomas, the former a native of New York, and the latter of Virginia. 
William B., in his early manhood, worked at different kinds of labor. In 
May, 1843, *he went to Delphos, Ohio, and worked on the canal, and in the 
fall of 1843 went to Kenton, Hardin County, where he worked ,at brick- 
making and as a brick-mason until December, 1848; from there he went to 
New Orleans, La., to work on the United States Custom House, then being 
built. Three days after his arrival, he was taken with cholera. After re- 
covering he found himself penniless, his doctor and nurse bills having 
taken his last dollar. He secured employment of a man named Blunt, to 
work at getting out Cyprus staves, near the mouth of the Red River, at At- 
chafalaya Bayou, where he labored with four other men for one month, when 
Mr. Blunt skipped the country, with all his "blunt," if he had any, and 
Mr. Thomas and his comrades did not receive a cent for their month's labor. 
While there, a panther attacked some men in a shanty near by, killing one 
of the men. After this, Mr. Thomas worked at floating out cypress logs, to 
be rafted down the bayou. In this he had better success ; and received pay 
for his work. Next, he went to New Orleans, and took passage for Cincin- 
nati on a steamboat. During the trip thirteen of the passengers died of the 
cholera. He arrived in Marion County March 13, 1849, and just one year 
afterward — March 13, 1850 — with six others, started by the overland route 
for California. While the train of which they were a part was crossing 
the plains, near St. Mary's River, at the bank of the stream they camped. 
During the night, two mules and a mare were stolen by the Digger Indians. 
One night, shortly afterward, the two men on guard reported stealing In- 
dians. When Mr. Thomas and three others went out to investigate, they 
went some sixty rods, keeping about twenty feet apart, till they came to 
the ridge of a hill, when one of the party fired at an Indian near a sage 
bush. Immediately some ten or fifteen Indians sprang to their feet, whoop- 
ing and running. In the melee that ensued, an Indian approached very 
near Mr. Thomas, when he and his right-hand comrade both leveled their 
pieces and fired at the same time. The Indian fell dead, and this ended 
the tight. The rest took to their heels, and from that on the train was not 
molested by thieving [ndians. On his arrival in California, Mr. Thomas 
worked in the mines until November 15, 1851; during this time clearing 
about $2,000. He then returned on an ocean steamer, by the way of the 



PROSPECT TOWNSHIP. 943 

Isthmus, and arrived in New York December 20, 1801. Mr T. was mar- 
ried, July 15, 1852, at Marion, Ohio, to Mary Jefferson, born July 21, 
1833, on the Isle of Ely, Cambridgeshire, England, and a daughter of 
William and Phcebe (Dann) Jefferson. Her parents emigrated to the United 
States when she was but eighteen months old, and settled in Scott 
Township, Marion County. Her father died the year following, leaving a 
widow, three sons and one daughter. The widow died in December, 1 800, in 
Iowa. December 20, 1852, Mr. Thomas, accompanied by his wife, again started 
for California, this time by steamer, by way of the Isthmus. They arrived at 
Panama on New Year's Day, and were delayed there, by the sickness of 
Mrs. Thomas, until February 5. They then took passage by the steamer 
" Golden Gate" for San Francisco, where they arrived after a voyage of 
thirteen days. During this voyage, seventy-two passengers died of fever, 
eleven dying in one day. On the trip, a fellow who was working his pas- 
sage affronted one of the ladies on board, when, as a punishment, one end 
of a pork barrel was knocked out, a hole large enough to admit his head 
was cut in the other eud; with this for an overcoat, his hfiad sticking out, 
he was obliged to walk on deck one hour each day for the rest of the trip. 
During Mr. Thomas' stay in California, three of his children were born; 
Nevada and William Jefferson both died; Angeline, born October 1, 1850, 
is still living. October 20, 1857, he, with his family, started on their re- 
turn by steamer, and in due time arrived in Marion County, in possession 
of $5,000 as the reward for his few years' labor in California. He soon 
afterward bought an eighty-acre farm in Claridon Township, where he 
went to reside. He afterward increased this farm to 184 acres. He lived 
there until 1874. In March of this year, he bought 112 acres in Prospect 
Township, on the west bank of the Scioto River, where he has ever since 
lived. The farm is valued at $100 per acre. Mr. Thomas has been the 
architect of his own fortune, never having anything given to him for a 
start. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas have three other children, born in Marion 
County —John H, June 10, 1859; Lincoln E., July 18," 1801, and Orrin 
Ellsworth, October 25, 1807. 

HENRY TREESE, farmer, is a native of Pennsylvania, and was born 
in Berks County (now Lehigh County), November 8, 1811. He came to 
Ohio as a teamster in 1833. Shortly after his arrival in the State, he lo- 
cated in Delaware Township, Delaware County, remaining there some 
two or three years, when he went to Radnor Township, same county, where 
he was married, September 4, 1842, to Jane Cratty. He resided in Radnor 
Township for a number of years, and in 1852 moved upon the farm of 125 
acres where he now resides. Mrs. Treese died September 9, 1800. They 
had a family of children as follows: Joseph H, John Dunlap (deceased), 
Samuel O, Nancy Jane and Margaret Isabella. Mr. Treese' s farm, when 
he first bought it, was in a rough condition, the timber only having been 
cut over; no sign of a fruit tree cr other improvements. By his industry, 
ninety acres of this land has been made subject to the plow, and 100 fruit 
trees set out. He commenced a poor boy, and on his arrival in Ohio had 
but $15, and by hard work and perseverance and economy has acquired his 
property, which is amply sufficient to support him in comfort in his old 
age. He has been a member of the Presbyterian Church for twenty -four 
or twenty- five years, and in politics is a Democrat. 

WASHINGTON PIKE WARD, farmer. Prospect, was born in Dela 
ware County, Ohio, September 17, 1858, and is a son of William Ward, a 
native of Shropshire, England, ;ind who died in Delaware County, Ohio, in 



944 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

1861. His mother was Sarah A. (Howison) Ward, born in Prince William 
County, Va., February 6, 18 14. The Howisons were from Scotland, and 
trace their ancestry to John Howison, a burgess of the city of Edinburgh 
in 1450, and were of kin to Sir William Wallace. The American branch 
of the Howison family, of whom our subject is a descendant, settled in 
Prince William County, Va.. from whom numerous branches are scattered 
throughout the United States. The first husband of Mr. Ward's mother 
was Benjamin F. Thomas, to whom she was married in June, 1836, at 
Washington City. D. C. Mr. Thomas was also a native of Prince William 
County, Va. At Mr. Thomas' death she was left with eight children, with 
whom she came to Delaware County, Ohio, in 1856. The names of the 
children were Mary, Virginia, Catharine Juliette, John H. (the present 
Clerk of Marion County), Charles E. and Benjamin F. After their arrival 
in Delaware County, in 1857, Mrs. Thomas was married to William Ward, 
who, as before stated, died in 1861. Mrs. Ward is still living, and resides 
with her son, Washington P. Ward, a mile and a half east of Prospect Vil- 
lage. The latter was married, December 12, 1882, to Miss May Armon- 
trout, a daughter of Abel Armontrout, of Cardington, Morrow Co., Ohio. 

WATKIN WA.TKINS was the first of this family that came to America. 
He was a native of North Wales, where he was married to Elizabeth Evans. 
They, with their family of two, or possibly three, children, pmigrated to 
America. On the voyage all the children died from fever. This was about 
the year 1800, or perhaps a few years earlier. They first lived in Phila- 
delphia, where Mr. W. worked at his trade of carpenter. They came to 
Ohio at an early day, locating on a farm in Kadnor Township, Delaware 
County, where he lived, and died in 1887. Himself and wife were Episco- 
palians. Bobert Watkins, son of the foregoing, and an early settler of 
Prospect Village, was born June 3, 1805, in Philadelphia. He learned the 
carpenter's trade of his father, which he followed, in connection with cab- 
inet-making, more or less, all his life. He was married, September 15, 
1830, to Miss Joan Parry, at Millville, Delaware Co., Ohio, by the Bev. Mr. 
Vandeman, a Presbyterian minister. She was a native of Gundthure, 
South Wales, and daughter of Urich and Jane (Penry) Parry, both natives 
of Wales, in which country, also, the father died, leaving a widow and 
five children — Ann, Mary, Walter, Joan and David. The three first came 
to America with their uncle, William Penry, who came to Badnor Town- 
ship in 1819. The widow of Uriah Parry, with her two youngest children, 
came with her brother, Walter Penry, who emigrated in 1820, also locat- 
ing in Badnor Township, Delaware County. Mrs. W. died in Columbus, 
Ohio, in the fall of 1823. Bobert Watkins and family came to Middle- 
town, now Prospect, in December, 1837, moving into a log house nearly 
opposite where Mohr's store now is, in which they kept the pioneer hotel of 
Prospect. They afterward bought the lot where the Watkins House now 
stands. There was a frame house on this lot, which they fixed up and kept 
as a hotel. Afterward, they built the present brick hotel, and moved the 
frame to it as an addition. Here Bobert Watkins lived until his death, Octo- 
ber 29, 1853, and he was buried in what was known as the Delhi Grave- 
yard, in the north part of Badnor Township. Bobert Watkins was an old- 
time Democrat, and served his township in various local offices. He was 
an early settler of Prospect. He and wife had a family of ten children — 
Elizabeth, born July 16, 1831; Sarah, October 25, 1834; Watkin, Novem- 
ner 2, 1837; Bobert U., October 22, 1839; Thomas P., December 28, 1841; 
Joan. February 2. 1844, and died June 14, 1848; Walter D., born August 



PROSPECT TOWNSHIP. 946 

25, 1847, and two infants not named; Walter D. is also deceased. The 
grandparents on the maternal side of Mrs. Robert Watkins were Walter 
Penry, who came to Radnor Township, where he died, and his wife, who 
died in Wales; her name was Ann Davis, and she was a sister of Bishop 
Davis, of South Wales. 

WATKlN WATKINS, importer and dealer in horses, was born in Pros- 
pect Township, on the farm now owned by Thomas L. Penry, November 2, 
1837. His parents were Robert and Joan (Parry) Watkins, who are men- 
tioned in this volume. Mr. Watkins passed his early years in his father's 
hotel at Prospect, in the meantime attending school in the old log school house, 
the first school building erected in Prospect, and after that was torn down, 
in other school buildings erected on the same site. During the time he was 
eighteen to twenty years of age. he learned the saddler's trade, and since 
that period his principal business has been dealing in horses and import- 
ing horses from France, being now one of the well-known firm of Watkins 
Bros. His residence is located west of the Scioto River, in Prospect Vil- 
lage. It is surrounded by large grounds, neatly arranged. The building 
is of brick, and is the largest and most elaborately finished of all private 
residences in the village. Mr. Watkins was married to Miss Leda B. Pat- 
ten, a daughter of Richard and Susan (Kennedy) Patten, of this county. 
They have one child, named Richard L. Watkins. 

REDDEN S. AYEISEL, steam saw mill, and lumber dealer, Prospect 
Village. Mr. Weisel is a native of New Jersey, and born September 9, 
1847, a son of Joseph and Mary (Smith) Weisel. He was brought by his 
parents to Prospect Township when but two years of age. At twenty years 
of agp, he commenced business on his own account, and the fall he was 
twenty-one he bought a steam saw mill in Pleasant Township, which he 
operated for three years, when he took in a partner. The firm also manu- 
facturpd tile, ran a cider mill, etc. This partnership was closed out in 1879. 
During these years they had bought a thirty-horse power engine and saw 
mill, which Mr. Weisel now owns and operates at Prospect Village. The 
mill averages about 4,000 feet of sawed lumber per day. Mr. W. ships 
mostly to Cjlumbus and Cleveland. Mr. W T eisel was married, in 1877, 
to Miss Martha Pettey, of Green Camp Township. They reside in Prospect 
Village, 

SOLOMON B. WELCH, pioneer farmer of Prospect, was born in the 
State of Vermont September 16, 1799. He bought and settled upon 122 
acres of land in this township about 1830-33. He cleax'ed about ninety 
acres of this farm. Hie first wife was Lavina Smith, born December 27, 
1803, and died December 6, 1834. By this union there were the following 
children: Emily, born November 17, 1821; Martha, August 16, 1823; 
Thomas W., January 20, 1827; Presley, April 9. 1832; Lavina, December 
17, 1833. He was again married, January 6, 1836, to Mary Carnahan. 
born June 5, 1817, in Indiana County, Penn., and a daughter of Samuel 
and Margaret (Lloyd) Carnahan; natives, respectively, of the North of Ire- 
land and Wales. By Mr. Welch's last mai-riage were the following children: 
Uriah H, born February 2,1838; Elizabeth, July 14, 1840; Miriam D. 
January 29. 1842. and died August 22, 1851; John W., June 19, 1843; 
Corintha S. December 9, 1846; Solomon O, June 13, 1850; Mary A., No- 
vember 27, 1852; Wealthy V, September 7, 1856, and died October 24. 
1866; Addis A., January 18, 1861. Solomon B. Welch died at his homo- 
stead in this township October 23, 1862. His widow still resides there, and 
relates that when she first settled there, traveling was all done a- foot or on 



946 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

horseback. The meetings were held in schoolhouses or at private resi- 
dences. There was scarcely any fruit except wild plums arid gooseberries; 
but they had plenty of maple sirup and sugar, which was used in place of 
fruit. Eggs sold for 3 cents per dozen, and they would receive but $1.50 
per hundred weight for pork, after carrying it to Delaware. Their clothing 
was all made from flax and wool, spun in the family. Mrs. Welch still en- 
joys good health, is a pleasant, genial and worthy type of the pioneer 
women and long may her years be numbered among those of the living. 
She is a member of the Methodist Church. Uriah H. Welch, farmer, son 
of the above, enlisted in Company B, One Hundred and Twenty-first Regi- 
ment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, at Delaware, Ohio, September 8, 1§62, to 
serve in the war of the rebellion. He honorably participated in many bat- 
tles, and was one of Gen. Sherman's army on its famous march to the sea. 
He served until the close of the war in 1865. 

JAMES F. WOTTRING, Assistant Cashier of the Prospect Bank, was 
born in this township July 21, 1852, and is a son of Louis and Rachel L. 
(Waters) Wottring. Until eighteen years of age, he clerked in his father's 
grocery store. At this age, too, he learned the painter's trade, but now, as 
above stated, is acting as Assistant Cashier of the Prospect Bank. In poli- 
tics, Mr. W. advocates the principles as represented by the Democratic 
party, and has served the township and village in various offices. He is 
now Justice of the Peace, has been Clerk of the village si nee 1878 and 
Township Clerk since 1880. He has been Clerk of the Village School Dis- 
trict for two years, and member of the Village Board of Education for three 
years. He is a member of Prospect Lodge, No. 483, I. O. O. F., and of 
the Richwood Encampment, No. 185. He was married, December 24, 1874, 
to Lydia D. Leist, a daughter of Peter and Margaret (Gast) Leist. Mr. 
W. has a family of two children — Louis Claud, born September 9, 1876, 
and Margaret Ethel, born January 8, 1.8S1. 

L. H. WOTTRING, retired merchant and farmer, was born at Stocker- 
town, Northampton Co., Penn., February 5, 1827, and came to this county 
with his parents, Jacob J. and Hannah (Mohr) Wottring, in 1839. He was 
married, September 3, 1848, to Rachel L. Waters, a daughter of N. B. 
Waters, an early settler of Prospect, and formerly of Pennsylvania. Mr. 
Wottring was engaged in mercantile pursuits for many years; first as a 
clerk in a dry goods store, then, with his brother, carried on the grocery 
business at Clyde, Sandusky County, for eighteen months, when he returned 
to Prospect, whei*e he opened and conducted a grocery store until four years 
ago; he then closed out, and retired to live on his farm of 109 acres, a half 
mile north of Prospect Village, where he occupies his time in overseeing 
his farm. Mr. Wottring is a member of the I. O. O. F., also member of 
Mizpah Encampment of Marion, and is a charter member of the lodge in 
Prospect Village. In politics, he is a Democrat. 

JOHN B. WYATT was born October 18, 1 826, in what is now Waldo 
Township, but formerly Marlborough Township, Delaware County. His 
parents were Samuel D. and Lavina (Brundige) Wyatt, both natives of 
New York State and pioneers in this county. John B. remained with his 
parents until he was twenty-three years of age. Up to this time he had at- 
tended the common schools of the township. He then attended a select 
school at Marion for six months, and the following winter taught school. 
In the summer of 1850, he attended the university at Delaware, Ohio, for 
five months, and the next winter taught school at Prospect Village. In the 
summer of 1851, he formed a partnership with Stephen Curren, and they 



PROSPECT TOWNSHIP. 947 

opened a dry goods store at Norton. This continued but one season, when 
he, with his brother David, went to La Rue, where they built a house. It 
was commenced in 1 8 T> 1 and finished the next year, and the second house 
erected in La Rue after the village plat was laid out. Mr. Wyatt had 
bought the lot some time before. His brother had never been there until 
they went to build; there was no sign of streets or any improvements; noth- 
ing but stumps and an old pasture field; his brother was vexed, and de- 
clared that the place would never amount to anything, but finally consent- 
ed to go ahead and build. They sold this building the next year, 1853, and 
Mr. Wyatt returned to Prospect and opened a dry goods store and continued 
for three years, when he sold out and bought 158 acres of land four miles 
east of Prospect Village, in Waldo Township, for which he paid |8.25 per 
acre. The land was in a perfectly wild condition and unimproved, but is 
now in a high state of cultivation, with fine buildings and other improve- 
ments. He still owns this property. He lived there till November, 1881, 
when he moved to Prospect Village, where he had previously erected a fine 
brick residence, near the depot, in which he now resides with his family. 
Previou-i to moving to Prospect, he was for three years engaged in buying 
and shipping grain, at Prospect, for Mr. De Wolfe, of Marion. He then 
formed a partnership with Watkins Brothers, under the firm name of Wyatt 
& Watkins Bros., for the purpose of doing a general warehouse business, 
as noted on a preceding page. Mr. Wyatt was formerly a member of the 
Free-Will Baptist Church, and afterward of the United Brethren Church, 
but as neither of these denominations hold regular services at Prospect Vil- 
lage, Mr. Wyatt attends other meetings. In politics, he is a Republican. 
Mr. W. was married, April 1, 1852, to Elizabeth J. Watkins, who was born 
July 16, 1831, a daughter of Robert and Joan (Parry) Watkins. They 
havH three children, named as follows: David W. , born February 11, 
1853; Thomas W., born September 23, 1858; Santford D., born July 10, 
1865. All the boys live on the farm in Waldo Township. Mr. Wyatt is 
one of the most substantial and enterprising citizens of Prospect. 

CHARLES WYNN, farmer, was born in Wales May 28, 1822; came to 
this county with his father, John Wynn, mentioned elsewhere. He owns 
100 acres of land, with fine improvements. He, by his own labor, cleared 
fifty acres of this farm. He was married, in 1856, to Sarah Canous, 
daughter of Joseph Canous. They had four 4 children— Harvey A., died, 
aged fourteen years; William E., married Fannie Mayfield, and lives in 
Prospect Township; C. S. and Joseph F. died, aged respectively four and a 
half months and five years and four months. Mr. Wynn's wife died June 
26, 1877, since which time he has remained a widower. 

EDWARD WYNN, farmer, was born in Wales, and is a son of John 
Wynn, Sr., mentioned elsewhere. Mr. W. lives on and owns the old home- 
stead of his father. He has always followed the occupation of farming, 
though meanwhile has worked some at carpentering, He was married, No- 
vember 24, 1850, to Martha Ann Canous, who was born April 4, 1833, 
a daughter of Joseph Canous, who was an early settler of Tuscarawas 
County, Ohio, and afterward of Marion County. Mr. and Mrs. Wynn have 
eight children — Rachel A., born October 7, 1852; Sarah Olive, July 31, 
1854; Joseph H., June 13, 1857; Benjamin A., February 6, 1861; Viola 
M., September 12, 1863; Isaac E., July 31, 1866; Clara Iona, February 6, 
1869; George Evan, July 29, 1872. Mr. Wynn is one of Prospect Town- 
ship's most respected citizens. 



948 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

JOHN WYNN, farmer, is a native of Wales, and is a son of John and 
Phoebe (Gaugh) Wynn, mentioned elsewhere, and was born March 15, 1819. 
When nineteen years of age, he commenced for himself, working at farm 
labor. Mr. Wynn moved upon the farm which he now owns and where he 
lives, in 1852. It consists of 180 acres of the most productive land 
in Prospect Township. The farm is well fenced and drained, and in 
the way of buildings is one of the most attractive places in the county. 
The house and outbuildings were built by Mr. Wynn, at an expense 
of about $4,000. He is one of the most substantial and enterprising farm- 
ers of Prospect Township, as the surroundings of his home would indicate. 
He voted as a Whig for Gen. Harrison, but since the formation of the Re- 
publican party has acted with them. Mr. Wynn has been married twice. 
The first time to Miss Mary Owens, October 24, 1844; she died fifteen 
months afterward, and he was married, March 16, 1848, to Sarah A. 
McCray. By the last marriage there are ten children, as follows: George, 
born January 23, 1849; Jennie, November 17, 1850; Joseph, August 31, 
1852; Mary, Mav 9, 1854; Sarah E., January 14, 1856; Emma E., Febru- 
ary 18, 1858; John. Jr., December 25, 1859; Walter, January 27, 1862; 
Wilbur E., May 28, 1865; Reuben S., October 11, 1867. Mr. and Mrs. 
Wynn are members of the United Brethren Church. 

GABRIEL M. YOUNG, harness and saddlery, Prospect Village, was 
born in Wayne County, Ohio, December 6, 1840, and is son of Reuben T. 
and Maria (Brouse) Young; the former born near Niagara Falls, Canada, 
and the latter in Wayne County, Ohio. G. M. Young learned his trade in 
the shop of his father, who was a harness-maker. Soon after he completed 
his trade he came to Prospect Village. He was married, in 1863, to 
Maggie A. Landon, daughter of Rev. P. P. Landon, of Prospect, and in 
the spring of 1866 he opened a harness-shop in the village on his own ac- 
count. He continued business here until the fall of 1867, when he moved 
to Platte County, Neb. , where he took up a homestead of eighty acres, situ- 
ated six miles from the Union Pacific Railroad, and seventy-five miles west 
of Omaha. Their habitation, into which they immediately moved, was a 
" dug-out," or a hole dug in the side of a hill, with a dirt floor, wall and 
roof; the roof was supported by poles. The family subsisted mostly upon 
game meat for the first three years. The first shot that Mr. Young fired at 
game in that region was at a six-prong buck, which he killed. From the 
door of his " dug-out " he shot and killed six wolves the first year, and 
many a night heard the wolves scratching at his door to make an entrance. 
In this habitation the family lived nine years, when he built a frame house. 
While living on this land Mr. Young still worked at his trade, doing the 
work in the dug-out. He bought his stock at North Bend, a town thirteen 
miles distant, on the Union Pacific Railroad. His only means of getting it 
home was by wheelbarrow power. When the work was finished, it was 
taken to town by him in the same way. The only mill where he could get 
flour or meal ground for the family was twenty-five miles away. The fam- 
ily Jived on this land for twelve years. He sold the homestead in June, 
1879, and moved to Schuyler, Colfax Co., Neb., where he worked at his 
trade until September 1, when he bought the stock and harness shop of J. 
W. Monroe, of Schuyler, and continued in the business there for twenty-one 
months, when he sold out and returned to Prospect. Mr. and Mrs. Young 
have seven children, as follows: William P. (born in Shelby, Richland Co., 
Ohio), Mary Virginia (born in Prospect), Granville Penn, Simeon A., David 
P.. Morrison J. and Mabel Sylvania; all except the two first were born in Ne- 



RICHLAND TOWNSHIP. 949 

braska; the last two are twins, the boy is of the brunette type and the girl a 
perfect blonde. R. T. Young (father of G. M.) and four sons were in the army, 
at one time, during the last war. William Perry was killed at the charge on 
Kenesaw Mountain June 27, 1864. At that time, Gabriel M. Young was 
under Gen. Grant; his boy, born the following month, July 20, 1864, he 
named after the fallen hero boy, the youngest of the four. The oldest — 
Milton — was killed in Chattanooga Creek, January 12, 1865, leaving a 
wife and son. 



CHAPTER XI. 



RICHLAND TOWNSHIP. 

RICHLAND TOWNSHIP was one of the first constructed in Marion 
County, it having been organized June 8, 1824, and made to include 
surveyed Township No. 6, Range No. 16. Richland, however, is not a full 
surveyed township, it containing only twenty-seven sections and six fra^ 
tional sections, instead of thirty-six, the requisite number of a full sur- 
veyed township. The above entry does not show this, but such is and ever 
has been the full extent and size of this township. Since its first organ- 
ization, its boundaries have not been disturbed, neither has there been any 
attempt to change them. 

The township consists wholly of Congress Lands. The soil is unusu- 
ally rich, fertile and productive, and adapted to raising all kinds of grain, 
fruit and vegetables which grow in this climate. The surface is level in 
the northern part and gently rolling in the southern portion. The lands 
are abundantly watered by innumerable springs and properly drained by 
a perfect network of streams and rivulets which flow into the Whetstone 
River, that passes angling through the township from northeast to south- 
west, thus rendering fertile the valley of the Whetstone, and making it the 
finest and best yielding land in the country. So productive are the lands 
here that the few early settlers who lived within the territory of the town- 
ship at the time of its organization, in 1824, desired to give it the appro- 
priate name of Rich-land or Richland, and their wishes were respected; 
the name was granted by the Commissioners, and thus it has ever since re- 
mained as one, indicating the true quality of the soil within its borders. 

SETTLEMENT. 

Early in the spring of 1820, Mr. Gleason and family located on the 
place now occupied by Mr. Oborn, and soon after Peter Dunklebarger and 
family came and built their cabin on the farm now occupied by George 
Retterer, Sr.; John Emery and wife Catherine came next in order and lo- 
cated on the place now owned and occupied by Mrs. Emery. 

Mrs. Emery stated that she is the oldest settler now living within the 
township. She was born in Perry County, Penn., August 14, 1800. At the 
age of twelve years, she came to Monroe County, Ohio, with her parents, 
Matthias and Barbara Harter. In 1818, while yet in Monroe County ._she 
was married to John Emery, who was born in Virginia, December 14. 1797. 
In the spring of 1820, they came to Marion County, venturing beyond the 
limits of any white settlement, as they thought, and knew not of any white 



950 HISTORY OF MARION COUNT V. 

man's habitation so far north as they had come. Imagine, then, their sur- 
prise the following Sunday after their arrival to receive a visit from Peter 
Dunklebarger, who had preceded them a few weeks and whose location was 
still further removed from the established settlements of Delaware County. 
It was a visit of welcome, and never, perhaps, was welcome more genuine. 
The ring of Mr. Emery's ax in the deep forest during the week, as he, for 
himself and wife, was preparing, as it were, 

" To hew the shaft and lay the architrave, 
And spread the roof above them," 

was sweet music to the ear of Mr. Dunklebarger, as the echoing notes came 
reverberating through the deep wood, attracting his attention. So Mr. 
Dunklebarger had hastened to make the new-comers' acquaintance, which, 
as the years went by, grew into a permanent and lasting friendship. 

The next family in order that came was that of Samuel Scribner, who 
located on a part of the farm now owned by Jacob Retterer, in 1820, and 
Adam Conklin came the same year and settled just where Jacob Retterer 
now lives. Joseph Oborn built a cabin in the township during the same 
year, but did not come with his family until the following season, at which 
time came also his brother, Daniel Oborn. 

The following year Henry Worline and family came and located near 
where Michael Jacoby now lives, and there built a cabin, and soon after a 
saw mill was erected by him, which was the first one in the township. 
Gilson and family also came about this time and settled where George 
Gump now lives, as did also Mr. Kelly and family. Booth and family came 
soon after; so also did Henry Sailer, John Williams and Van Crissup and 
their respective families. Some time daring the same year, or the year fol- 
lowing, came Daniel Firstenberger from Germany, who, perhaps, was the 
first foreign-born settler of this township; but he was soon joined by a Mr. 
Miller from the same country. 

Michael Jacoby is one of the few early settlers of this township who are- 
still living. He is son of John and Catherine Jacoby, both of whom were 
natives of Pennsylvania, John Jacoby having been born in Schuykill Coun- 
ty of that State, as was also Michael, which last event occurred March 30. 
1809. Michael Jacoby resided in Schuylkill County with his parents un- 
til he became fifteen years of age, when he removed with them to Fairfield 
County. Ohio, where they remained about six months, at the end of which 
time they came to this county, arriving in what is now Waldo Township 
February 15, 1824, and lived there one year. They then moved into Rich- 
land Township and located about one and a half m^es southeast of where 
Michael now lives. Here Michael lived with hie oarents until he was 
twenty-three years of age, when he was married to Miss Elizabeth Worline, 
daughter of Henry Worline, one of the early Bottlers of this township. Th^ 
marriage occurred November 1, 1832. Not many years after this, Mr. 
Jacoby' s parents died. 

Mr. Jacoby says that there were about thirty families in the township 
when they came in 1825, and among them, in addition to those already 
mentioned, were Christian Staley and family, John Waddel and family, 
Mr. Clark and family, William W. Smith, Jacob Emery, Thomas Rogers, 
Coonrod Suit, James Dipert, David Suit, Alva Payne, David Phips, Jacob 
Phips and the two families of Jacob Book and Daniel Lust, from Germany. 

Some of those who came between 1825 and 1830 were William Harruff, 
Jeremiah Blockson, Job Blockson, Amos Wilson. Andrew Kepner and Joseph 



RICHLAND TOWNSHIP. 951 

Dunbar. In 1830, the tide of immigration to this township from Germany 
began with renewed vigor and continued with but little cessation for ten 
years, which about completed the settlement of the township. The settle- 
ment was first made along the river valley, thence west to Pleasant Town- 
ship; and it was not until about 1835 that the settlement of the eastern 
and southeastern portions of the township was begun. Hence, those parts 
were occupied by the Germans who came in after that date, and among 
those yet living are George Heimlich, Jacob Pfrich and a few others. 

As an instance of the hardships which the early settlers had to undergo, 
we may relate that while Mr. Emery was absent in search for his lost 
horses, which he never succeeded in finding, his noble wife would daily 
take her spinning wheel and go into the little field, and there, while pro- 
tecting the growing crop from the squirrels, she would spin the thread that 
was afterward woven into the cloth which made their garments! 

IMPROVEMENTS. 

No regularly established roads passed through this township for many 
years. Two roads, however, were laid out in 1822, one on either side of 
the river, both of which led to the Norton settlement. Neither of these 
roads had ever been regularly established, although the one on the west 
side of the stream has become a permanent road, having been established 
by usage, while the one on the east side has been wholly abandoned. 

One of the first saw mills built in the country was erected here. Henry 
Worline, who resided in Delaware County some time previous to his com- 
ing here in 1822, built a saw mill on the bank of the Whetstone, near where 
Michael Jacoby now lives. The mill was erected by Mr. Worline in 1821, 
the year previous to his moving his family to this county, and was run by 
him until the time of his death, September 30, 1824. Mr. Worline, «in the 
early part of that year, had built the frame of a grist mill within about five 
rods of the saw mill, but he never completed it. S. W. Knapp finished 
the grist mill soon after Mr. Worline' s death, and it was run until about 
1844, at which time it was torn down and a new and more commodious one 
was built on the opposite side of the river. Steam power was used in this 
and it was run until in February, 1881, when it was burnt to the ground. 
After the death of Mr. Worline, Mr. Jacoby tuok charge of the saw mill 
and ran it until in 1838, when it was torn down. 

In 1827, Titus King came and bought a piece of land of Mr. Kelley, 
which was located along the Whetstone, and there at once erected a fulling 
and carding mill, with a saw mill attachment. This was considered an 
extensive affair at that day, and quite a mammoth business was done there 
by Mr. King, who conducted the business with energy and success until his 
death, after which the fulling and carding were abandoned. The saw 
mill, however, is still running. 

A distillery was also erected at an early day, near the center of the 
township, and was run for a few years with indifferent success, and was 
finally abandoned. 

The mills were of much benefit and a great convenience to the early 
pioneers, giving them advantages both in easily securing "breadstuff" and 
preparing clothing material, also furnishing lumber for building purposes, 
which the early settlers of other townships did not enjoy. 

FIRST EVENTS. 

The first white child born in this township was Christian Staloy, Jr., 
grandson of Christian Staley, Sr., who came here with his family in 1820. 



952 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

The first marriage was that of Philip Shafer and Nancy Staley. Mrs. Cath- 
erine Emery states that she was one of the invited guests and that she at- 
tended the wedding in a homspun dress, woven and made by her own 
hands, and the wedding festivities seemed to have been as much enjoyed 
by those present, who were all dressed in clothing made of goods of similar 
material, as such occasions are at the present day, when the ladies appear 
in their silks and satins and the gentlemen in their broadcloth suits. 

The first death of aDy white person within the limits of this township 
was a child of William W. Smith, who died from the effects of a burn 
accidentally received. The first Justices of the Peace elected in this town- 
ship after its organization were Joseph Oborn and Thomas Rogers. 

Schools were established in the township at an early date and were prin- 
cipally supported by private subscriptions, and at present the township is 
dotted with a number of good schoolhouses, in which competent teachers 
are employed. 

RELIGIOUS. 

The first religious society that was formed in this township was organ- 
ized at Mr. John Emery's, by Rev. Jacob Bacon, in the year 1822. It was 
of the Methodist Episcopal denomination, and consisted at first of only five 
members, namely: John Emery and his wife, Catherine Emery, Jacob 
Emery and Zuba Wilcox. Of this number, Mrs. Catherine Emery is the 
only surviving member. 

The first house of worship erected in this township was a rude log 
structure, built by the Methodists on the farm now owned by Mrs. Emery, 
in 1826. Here, in this humble log church, with a few improvements from 
time to time, this society continued to worship until 1851, when they 
erected a frame building near the river, at a cost of $600. This building 
answered the wants of the society until the year 1879, when it had grown 
quite strong and prosperous. At that time the present house of worship 
was built, at a cost of $2,400, in addition to the grounds, which were do- 
nated by Michael Jacoby. This church building is a fine frame edifice, 
modeled after the modern church buildings, and has been given the name 
of St. James' Church. This society has ever been prosperous. The pres- 
ent membership approaches nearly one hundred. A good Sabbath school is 
sustained in the church now the whole year round, and no society in the 
country can excel it in faithful, earnest and effective work. 

Zioii's German Methodist Episcojjal Church. — The German Methodists 
in this locality first began their public religious services in the year 1815. 
at the residence of Jacob Seiter; and the following June, 1816, a church 
was organized with twenty-one members, comprising Daniel, John and 
William Seiter, G. Beely, Jacob Schwaderer, Stephen Mack, J. F. and B. 
Gracely, M. Moyer and J. Schwartz and their wives. At the same time, a 
church building was completed on the farm of Daniel Seiter, 30x31 feet in 
dimensions. In 1878. a new church was erected, 31x56 feet, at a cost of 
$2,000. 

The Lutheran Church formed a society here in 1835. Their first meet- 
ings were held at private residences and in barns and groves, but in 1838 
this society and the German Reformed, together erected a house of worship on 
a piece of land donated to them for that purpose, by John Jacoby, Jr. This 
was also a log building. The Lutherans continued to worship here for a 
number of years, until a m«jre commodious building was erected in the 
southwest part of the township, at a cost of about $3,000. The first min- 
ister who had charge of this society was the Rev. Cline. He was paid the 
meager salary of $75 per year. 



RICHLAND TOWNSHIP. 953 

German Reformed. — Closely allied to the preceding society is that of 
the German Reformed, which, during its infancy, shared alike with the 
Lutherans the accommodations of the old log church above mentioned. The 
permanent organization of this society, however, was not effected until 
1850, at which time there were twelve or fifteen families who connected 
themselves with it and perfected a complete organization, after which the 
society met in a house of worship on the "mud pike. " which had been built 
for the use of the various denominations of the township, until the year 
1859, when they erected their present church edifice, near Daniel Firsten- 
berger, at a cost of $1,000. Their first minister was Rev. William Ruhl; 
their present minister is Daniel Schi-ote, of Marion. Their membership is 
growing and a good Sunday school is now sustained by this society during 
the summer of each year. 

Richland Church, Presbyterian.— This was organized April 26, 1805, 
by a committee appointed by 1 the Marion Presbytery, consisting of Henry 
Van Deman, John B. Blayney and Samuel K. Hughes. The first members 
were James Mannassmith and wife, Urias F. Luellen and wife, Mrs. 
Margaret Waddel, William Waddel, Daniel Oborn and wife, Catharine 
Oborn, Margaret J. Oborn and Mary Oborn. Messrs. Manassmith and 
Luellen were elected Elders The next day, Mrs. Mary Oborn, Mrs. Mar- 
tha Strine and Margaret Strine were added to the church. Others joined 
soon afterward, and November 30, following, when there were twenty-two 
members, a Board 1 of Trustees was elected, consisting of Daniel Brenner, 
John Strine and Daniel Oborn. The society prospered, and in a few years 
had a frame church, costing about $1,000, with a seating capacity of 200. 
upon a lot of ground donated by Daniel Oborn; but in the course of about 
ten years, the society went down, the last entry upon their church record 
being dated in March, 1860. The building is now used for miscellaneous 
meetings and public entertainments. The pastors of the church were Revs. 
J. Hess, T. Smith, J. Evans, William Fry and D. D. Waugh. 

The first Sunday school held in this township was organized in 1828 at 
the residence of Mrs. Conner, at which place it was continued for a loner 
time. It was a Union Sabbath school, in which various creeds and denom- 
inations participated alike. Some of those who were instrumental in or- 
ganizing this Sunday school were S. W. Knapp and his wife, Titus King 
and wife, John Emery and his wife Catherine. Jacob Emery and his fam- 
ily, William W. Smith and family, John Jacoby and his wife, Thomas 
Rogers and the two young men, Michael Jacoby and Hopkins Tbompsou. 

MISCELLANEOUS. 

Richland Township has a few men who have been somewhat connected 
with the political history of the township and county. Among them is 
Michael Jacoby, who was elected Township Clerk in the year 1830, which 
position he held fifteen successive years. In 1838, he was (elected Justice 
of the Peace, and this office he held for twenty-one successive jears. Mr. 
Jacoby is a stanch Democrat, he having cast his first vote with that party 
in 1830 and has ever since been voting with the same party. He is one of 
the few remaining old-time Democrats of this county who had the pleasure 
of voting for Andrew Jackson, in 1832, for the Presidency. 

AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS, ETC., FOR 1883. 

Wheat, acres sown, 2,449; bushels produced, 33,204; number of acres 
sown for harvest of 1883, 2,600. Oats, acres sown, 1,518; acres sown for 



954 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

crop of 1883, 1,900; bushels produced, 39,643. Corn, acres planted, 2,743; 
bushels produced, 97,100. Meadow, acres, 664; tons of hay, 813. Clover, 
acres, 1,512; tons of hay, 1,894; bushels of seed, 997. Potatoes, acres 
planted, 95|; bushels produced, 6,518. Butter, 68,025. Sorghum, acres 
planted, 9|; gallons sirup, 587. Maple sugar, 698 pounds; gallons sirup. 
312. Bees, 68 hives; pounds of honey, 529. Eggs, 49,843 dozen. Ap- 
ples, acres occupied, 384; bushels produced, 6,760. Peaches, bushels pro- 
duced, 274. Pears, bushels produced, 44. Lands, number of acres culti- 
vated, 11,036; number of acres pasture, 3,016; number of acres woodland, 
4,833; number uf acres lying waste, 242; total number of acres owned, 
12,208. Wool, 6,507 pounds. Milch cows, 406. Dogs, 150. Sheep 
killed by dogs, 52; value, $17] ; injured by dogs, 82; value, $216. Hogs 
died, 64; value, $273. Sheep died, 14; value, $34. Cattle died, 13; value, 
$297. Horses died, 13; value, $1,095. 

PERSONAL SKETCHES. 

The history of Richland Township is substantially continued in the 
personal sketches which follow, of leading pioneers and residents: 

JOHN BERINGER. John Beringer is a worthy and prosperous citizen 
of Richland Township. He was born October 16, 1835, in Columbus 
County, Ohio, and is a son of Christian and Catharine Beringer, who came 
from Germany prior to 1820, locating in Columbus County until 1837, 
when they moved to Richland Township, settling where the subject of our 
sketch resides. They reared a family of eight children; the father died in 
1867, aged sixty-eight years. The mother still survives at the advanced 
age of eighty years. Mr. Beringer obtained a moderate education, and 
March 24, 1859, he married Miss Christina Rull, daughter of Christian and 
Magdalene Rull, of Richland Township. Their union has been blest witb 
seven children— two dying young. The living are Samuel D. , Frederick 
O. Franklin J., Alice M. and Amy M. For the first eight years after mar- 
riage, Mr. B. rented the home farm, which he inherited and purchased in 
1866, obtaining his present residence in 1876; altogether containing 252 
acres, valued at $80 per acre. His farm is well fenced and drained. His 
house has been renovated and added to, presenting an inviting appearance. 
The out-buildings are good — the latest being a barn 40x60 feet, constructed 
in 1881 at a cost of $1,000. Mr. B. has the best of stock, and raises 
annually large fields of wheat. His family belong to the Lutheran Church, 
with which he has been officially connected many years. At present, he is 
a Trustee. He was Treasurer of the township three years; also Treasurer 
of the Richland Mutual Fire Insurance Company for some time. 

MARTIN EMERY. Martin Emery was born in Monroe County, Ohio, 
November 26, 1818, the son of John and Catharine Emery. He was a 
Virginian by birth, while she was a native of Perry County, Penn. Mar- 
tin's mother's grandfather. Waggoner, was a Revolutionary soldier. His 
parents settled where he now resides in 1820, hence he and his mother are 
the oldest living settlers in the township. His people reared a family of 
nine children, all living — Martin being the oldest. His father died in 
1873, aged seventy-five years. His mother is still living at the ripe age of 
eighty-three years. Their only neighbors when they first came were the 
Worlines, the Oborns and the Rogers. Mr. Emery was educated in the 
common school. He was married, October 4, 1855, to Miss Mary Ann 
Arthur, daughter of Aaron and Maria Arthur, of Richland Township. 
Their union has been' blessed with six children — two dying young. They 



RICHLAND TOWNSHIP. 955 

are Newton, John, Maria C. and Rosa (living); William and Franklin are 
deceased. Mr. Emery purchased his present residence, consisting of forty 
acres, in 1860. He already owned ten acres besides. He made all the 
improvements, and values his farm at $80 per acre. His farm is drained 
with 200 rods of tile, and is under a good state of cultivation. Mr. E. and 
family are members of tbe M. E. Church, of wrrmh he is Trustee. His 
wife died very suddenly in 1882. 

DANIEL FIRSTENBERGER was born January 23, 1831, in Germany. 
State of Baden. His parents, Charles and Leena F. Firstenberger, came 
to America in 1833, settling one year in Crawford County, Ohio, coming 
then to Richland Township, where Daniel F. now resides. They reared a 
family of five children. The father died in 1852, aged forty-eight years; 
the mother died in 1876, aged seventy-six years. October 28, 1854, Daniel 
married Miss Caroline Mautz, daughter of Godlieb Mautz, of Pleasant 
Township. Their union was crowned with ten children — Jacob, Mary (wife 
of William Kingel), Daniel (deceased), Christena, John, Philip, Fred, 
Lydia, Catharine and Leena. Mrs. Firstenberger died in 1878, aged forty- 
five years. Mr. Firstenberger inherited and purchased the old homestead 
of seventy-nine and three-quarters acres, which he has increased to 289^ 
acres, valued at $80 per acre. He built his house in 1866, costing $2,500. 
Tbe farm is well tiled. Mr. Firstenberger officiated with the German Re- 
formed Church. He has been a powerful man physically, having cradled in 
a single day five acres of grain. 

ELIAS FIRSTENBERGER, the subject of this sketch, is a native of 
Richland Township, where he was born December 3, 1856. He is a son of 
John F. and Harriet Firstenberger, the former from Germany and the lat- 
ter from Pennsylvania. They settled in. Richland Township about 1836, 
and reared a family of eighteen childreu, only seven of whom survive. He 
died November 13, 1882, aged sixty -five years, while his widow passed away 
in 1866, aged forty years. Elias was educated wholly in the common 
school. His marriage took place January 6, 1876, to Miss Mary E. Hensel, 
daughter of Josiah and Elizabeth (Fulton) Hensel, of Richland Township. 
By inheritance, Mr. Firstenberger came into possession of eighty acres of 
good land in 1882. Upon this he intends building a fine house, at a cost 
of some $3,000. Our subject is a consistent member of the German Re- 
formed Church, of which he was recently elected Elder. 

JACOB FIRSTENBERGER is one of the stirring young men of Rich 
land Township. He is the son of Daniel and Caroline (Mautz) Firstenber- 
ger. He was educated in the common school, and was married October 22, 
1881, to Miss Catharine Schwarderer, daughter of Jacob Schwarderer, of 
Pleasant Township. The name of their child is Albert B. He has been 
renting his father's farm since his marriage, and in 1882 his father built 
him one of the most elegant houses in Richland Township, costing $3,000. 
He and his wife associate with the German Reformed Church. 

J. G. GOMPF. This family originated in Germany about 1800; five 
Gompf brothers were living in that country. One sailed for Rio Janeiro, 
South America, where he has become very wealthy, often visiting his boy- 
hood home in later years. Another embarked for Philadelphia, becoming 
a physician of repute and affluence. Two others l-eruoved to London, doing 
a thriving business. The fifth brother was our subject's grandfather, Philip 
Gompf. He served in the German Army fourteen years against Napoleon 
Bonaparte, escaping without a wound, the only man in the regiment who 
returned unimpaired. His son John G. was our subject's father. J. G. 



056 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Gompf is an intelligent, enterprising citizen, a native of Richland Town 
ship, where he was born February 3, L837. He is a son of J. G. and Sarah 
(Seltzer) Gompf. His father came from Hessia, Germany, in 1835, while 
his mother came from Pennsylvania in 1883. They located on what is 
known as the old Gompf farm, and reared a family of three children; the 
father died in 1879, aged eighty-two years, the mother still suviving at the 
age of eighty years. His grandfather Seltzer attained the remarkable age 
of one hundred and two years, and cradled wheat in his one hundredth 
year. Mr. G. obtained his education wholly in the common school. When 
a young man, he saved 265 sheep, worth $4,500, from drowning, by an ex- 
hibition of fortitude almost unparalelled in the county. June 5, 1862, he 
married Miss Julia A. Pontius, daughter of John and Anna (Warline) 
Pontius. Nine children have blessed their home, one dying young ; the 
living are Calvin O. G., John B. W., William H, Charles M. E., George 
D. N., Cicero B. F., Joseph H. M., Mary J. M. and Francis M. W. Mr. 
Gompf purchased thirty acres of the south farm in 1862, which he has in- 
creased to 277| acres, valued to-day at $80 per acre. His farm is well 
fenced and underdrained. He cultivates with special care fine sheep, of 
which he owns at present 200 head. Mr. G. and family belong to the Meth 
odist Episcopal Church, of which he has served in pearly every capacity, 
being Class Leader at present. His fellow-citizens have continued him as 
Justice for three years, and made him Land Appraiser in 1870. He is now 
President of the Boai'd of Education. He has settled several estates sat 
isfactorily. 

FREDERICK HALT was born July 22, 1846, in Wittenberg, Ger- 
many, where .he operated a brewery for seven years. He migrated to 
America in 1871, and worked for his brother, John Halt, for one year. 
February 19, 1873, he married Miss Mary Swartz, daughter of Jacob 
Swartz. This union has been crowned with six children, three dying 
young. Henry, Ida and Fred, Jr., are living. Since marriage, Mr. Halt 
has been renting his father-in-law's place of ninety-six acres, and is rear- 
ing good stock generally. Before coming to America, our subject served 
nearly four years in the German Army; was engaged in the late war with 
France and Germany as a member of the Fifth and Sixth Army Corps, 
under Crown Prince Frederick. He is a member of the German Methodist 
Church. He brought to this country $14, and to-day is worth some $2,500. 

JOHN HEIMLICH is an intelligent German, living in the southern 
part of Richland Township. At the time of his birth, September 5, 1842, 
his parents, Jacob and Derosa Heimlich, were living in Alsace, France, now 
a German province. He emigrated to America in 1847, buying eighty 
acres, where our subject now resides. Their children numbered three, and 
the father died in 1873, aged sixty-four years, while the mother passed 
away in 1879, aged seventy-two years. Our subject having obtained an 
ordinary education, bought and inherited the old homestead, to which he 
has been adding, until his farm consists today of 200 acres, well drained 
and fenced. He has good buildings, and he values his farm at $80 per 
acre. He has accumulated not less than $20,000. June 19, 1864, he mar- 
ried Miss Barbara Augenstein, daughter of Ernest and Christina Augen- 
stein. Ten children have blessed this union — William S., Mary A., 
Charles F., John J., Emma C, Wastey P., Henry F., Clara S. and Ella S. 
(twins) and Dora B. Mr. H entertains the Democratic principles, and the 
family worship at the Lutheran Church, with which he has been officially 
connected. 



RICHLAND TOWNSHIP. 957 

MICHAEL JACOBY, the oldest settler of Richland in residence, was 
born March 30, 1809, in Pine Grove Township, Schuylkill County, Penn. 
His parents, John and Catherine Jacoby, likewise his grand-parents and great- 
grand-parents, were natives of the same township. His people came from 
Holland originally, and settled along the Delaware River. His great-grand- 
father, Gideon Myers, attained the remarkable age of one hundred and four 
years. His grandfather, Bartholomew Jacoby, served in the Revolutionary 
war; also several of his uncles. His parents arrived in Richland Township. 
Feb. 15, 1824, having traveled GOO miles by wagon, and bringing a family 
of nine children, having left four in Pennsylvania. They entered eighty 
acres a little east of our subject's present home. His father died in 1844, 
aged seventy-three years, while the mother passed away in 1837, aged sixty - 
three years. Our subject obtained a moderate education, and remained with 
his parents until his marriage, which occurred November 1, 1832. The next 
day he voted for Gen. Jackson for his second term of the Presidency. This 
school of politics he has followed faithfully all his days. The object of his 
affections was Miss Elizabeth Warline, daughter of Hem-y and Catharine War- 
line. Ten children have resulted from this union — Catharine (deceased), wife 
of Samuel Waddel; Mary, Daniel Myer's widow; Henry, who served two years 
in the late war, becoming Lieutenant, and was killed at Gettysburg; James, 
also a soldier and Lieutenant; Michael, Jr. ; John; Elizabeth, wife of 
Morris J. Aye; Margaret, wife of John Waddel; Elias, attorney, of Indian- 
apolis, Ind. ; Maria, wife of Elmore C. Smith. January 1, 1833, he entered 
160 acres, kDown to-day as the "Old Jacoby Farm," but altogether he owns 
700 acres, stretching one and a half miles along the Whetstone River. His 
house, which he built in 1842, was the fourth frame house built in the town- 
ship. Mr. J. has the finest stock of all kinds. In 1850, he built a large 
barn 54x132 feet. At an early age, he and his wife joined the Methodist 
Episcopal Church, which he has served in every capacity, acting as Steward 
for the past thirty years. He has ever been prominent in the home politics, 
being elected Town Clerk when just twenty-one, and was continued for 
fifteen years; also made Justice of the Peace and served twenty-one years. 
A few years since he was Land Appraiser of Tully, Scott, Claridon and 
Richland Townships. In 1879, he gave the lot and $1,000 for the building 
of the Methodist Episcopal Church near his home. Mr. J. has been a 
remarkable man in many respects, especially in physical endurance. He 
cleared 500 acres of laud, and in a day and a half cut and split from the 
stumps 515 rails; when aged twenty-four, he mowed two acres with scythe; 
he has often reaped with sickle one acre in a day. With his brother Jacob 
he split 1,100 rails in a day. When temperance became an issue, he re- 
ceived 61 cents more each day for abstaining. He is hale and hearty still. 
Upon the occasion of Mr. and Mrs. Jacoby's golden anniversary, November 
1, 1882, there were present four sons and four daughters, thirty grand chil 
dren and three great-grand-children. After congr ablations, they surrounded 
the bountifully spread tables; the bride and groom of fifty years ago were 
placed at the end of one of them, the pastor and the bride's sister, Mrs. 
Kern, the only one present who had attended the wedding fifty years be- 
fore, sat opposite; four sons sat on the father's righl ; four daughters on the 
mother's left. The husband of the deceased daughter occupied the chair 
that would have been hers: and the gallaut son who fell at Gettysburg, was 
represented by a namesake grandson, Henry Waddel. Mr. Jacoby is a 
remarkable man; he is of the stamp of men who succeed, but anyone would 
have succeeded with that t% sweet faced christian woman," who has stood by 



958 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

his side ;i help-mate fifty years. To their children they bequeath an honest 
and an honorabln name, and not by anyone of them has it been tarnished. 

ADAM KLINGEL was born April 11, 1844, a native of Richland 
Township, and the son of Lucas Klingel and Doratha (Harsch) Klingel. 
He came from Germany about 1825, settling in the southwestern part of the 
township. They were owners in time of nearly 200 acres there; he cleared 
about seventy-five acres. In his early days, he was both a tailor and shoe- 
maker; his death occurred in 1872, aged fifty-nine years. The mother 
still survives, aged sixty-eight years. Our subject received a common 
school education, and in 1864 enlisted in Company K, Seventy- fourth 
Rftgiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry; his principal engagements were at 
Decatur, Ala., battle of the Cedars, Overall's Creek and Kingston, N. C. ; 
he served mostly under Gen. Schofield. For two weeks he was confined at 
Fortress Rosecrans in the hospital. He continued until the close of the 
war. being honorably discharged in July, 1865. April 25, 1867, he mar- 
ried Miss Mary E. Firstenberger, daughter of Frederick Firsfcenberger. 
Six children have been born to this union — William H., Charles W., John 
F., J. AVallace, Henrietta L. and Emma M. He rented his farm a number 
of years, but purchased it in 1876. It consists of 100 acres, valued at $80 
per acre; he paid $6,500. Our subject has been Treasurer of the town- 
ship for *our years. The family belong to the German Reformed Church, 
with which he has been officially connected. 

WILLIAM C. KRAMER is one of the stirring, leading men of Richland 
Township. His birth took place the 30th of September, 1837, in Germany; 
his parents, Christian and Christina Kramer, emigrated to America in 1849. 
nettling in Richland Township. They bought first forty acres, but added 
later sixty-one acres more. They reared but two children — our subject, and 
Charles C., who was an engineer, was killed near Bellefontaine, upon the 
Quincy curve. These parents are still living, aged eighty-three and eighty 
years respectively. Our subject's education was commenced in the German 
schools, but he finished it in our common schools. He was married to Miss 
Elizabeth Linius. daughter of William Linius, of Galion, Ohio, March 9, 
1869. Seven children have been born to them. The names of the living 
are William H. and Ida (twins), John C, Mary A., Henry A. and Augusta D. 
He purchased his present home in 1872, then containing forty acres; he now 
owns 120 acres, well-fenced and drained and with good buildings. Mr. R. 
has fine stock; his work horses are the Norman and English draught, and 
he owns a registered English draught horse; his merino sheep are the beso 
in the township. During the war, Mr. K. was in the Quartermaster de- 
partment of the Government, working at Nashville, Tenn. He and family 
are members of the M. E. Church. 

ALBRIGHT MACK was born November 5, 1823, at Wittenberg, Ger- 
many, the son of Stephen and Magdalena (Sheerer) Mack, who emigrated 
to America in 1840, locating in Richland Township, buying ninety-five 
acres of land. They raised a family of six children. The mother died in 
1859, aged fifty four years, and the father died in 1867, aged seventy-three 
years. Our subject having obtained a limited education, married upon the 
anniversary of his birth in 1859, Miss Susanna Gable. Eight children 
have crowned this union— Peter (deceased), Henry (deceased), Jacob, David, 
Abraham, Elizabeth, wife of Thomas Graham; Amanda, wife of Samuel 
Milisor, and Anna. Mr. M. inherited the old homestead of ninety-five acres, 
and by industry and frugality he has become possessed of 199 acres more; he 
values the home place at $100 per acre. His house, which he built at an expense 



RICHLAND TOWNSHIP. 959 

of $3,000, was burned in 1882. A neat new house stands upon its site to-day, 
occupied by his son David. At present, our subject is living in Marion; he 
and wife are members of the Evangelical Church, with which he has been 
officially connected for many years. Mr. M. holds to the principles of 
Republicanism. 

JACOB F. MARTIN is a highly respected citizen. He was born in 
Baden, Germany, November 17, 1817, the son of Christopher and Margaret 
Martin, who came to America in 1830, requiring forty-nine days in passage, 
locating in Pennsylvania, but came to Richland Township in 1833, settling 
where Jacob now lives, buying at first twelve and a half acres, but made it 
forty acres in time. His family numbered six children. In 1853, their 
father died, aged sixty years. The mother still survives, aged eighty-seven 
years. Jacob F. commenced working by the day and month, when aged 
sixteen years, and continued till his marriage, which occurred in the sum- 
mer of 1858, to Miss Casiah Anderson, daughter of Abraham and Mary 
Anderson, of Marion Township. Ten children have been born to this union, 
four dying young. The living are James H. , George C, Charles S., Mary 
M., wife of Frederick Augenstein, Maria E. and Haly. For sixteen years 
he labored as tanner for Thomas Henderson in Marion; but in 1S50, he 
purchased his present residence, then of 160 acres, adding since forty acres, 
valued at $75 per acre. He also owns 320 acres in Paulding County, Ohio. 
His farm is in excellent repair, with good improvements ; he is cultivating 
the best of stock. His family belong to the Evangelical Church Associa- 
tion, in which he formerly acted as class leader, but during the past five years 
has been local preacher. Mr. Martin had two sons in the late war — James 
H. and George C, both honorably discharged. For eleven years, he was 
Township Clerk, and County Commissioner for one term. 

JOHN L. McCLENATHAN was born May 10, 1857, in Morrow County, 
Ohio, son of Blair and Mary A. (Dalrumple) McClenathan. Their fathers 
both came from Ireland, but they migrated from Pennsylvania in 1837, and 
settled in Tuscarawas County, Ohio. They remained there till 1853, when 
they came to Morrow County, Ohio. They arrived in Marion County, Oc- 
tober, 1868, with a family of seven children. The father accumulated a 
property of $20,000, and died August 18, 1870, aged fifty-nine years ; 
the mother is still living with our subject, aged seventy years. Mr. Mc- 
Clenathan obtained a fair practical education at the district school. He 
married. December 31, 1879, Delora C. Bolinger, daughter of George and 
Mary A. (Singer) Bolinger. This union has been , crowned with the birth 
of three children — Elsie, Mary I. and Cora. Our subject inherited ten and 
a half acres, but has been renting seventy-nine acres of the old home farm for 
a number of years. His family worship at the Methodist Episcopal Church, 
and he entertains the principles of the Democracy. 

JACOB MAUTZ is one of the substantial citizens of Richland Township. 
He was born August 29, 1834, in Pennsylvania. His parents, Godleib F. 
and Christina Mautz came to Pleasant Township in 1830; the mother still 
survives. Mr. Mautz obtained his education in the common schools, and 
married, August 24, 1858, Miss Margaret Beoler, daughter of Christian 
Beoler, of Crawford County, Ohio. Their children have numbered ten, 
three dying young. The names of the living are Mary, Christian F., Cath- 
erine, Henry, Matilda, Albert and Harry. Mi - . M. purchased his present 
residence in 1864, consisting then of 100 acres, which he has increased to 
354^ acres, valued at $80 per acre. He gives special attention to the rais- 
ing of wheat and corn, and the fattening of cattle. He also keeps 



960 HISTORV OF MARION COUNTY. 

Clydesdale horses. He built his house in 1880, costing $3,000. He has 
officiated as Township Trustee ten years, and was formerly Director of the 
'Home Insurance Company." He and family belong to the Lutheran 
Church, in which he has acted in nearly every capacity, at present as 
Trustee. 

JOSEPH MORRIS is an estimable citizen, living in the eastern part of 
Richland Township. His birth took place in Burlington County, N. J., 
June 23, 1804. In 1680; his great grandfather, George Morris, came to 
America, a mere boy, settling in the above State. His grandfather, An- 
thony Morris, had a family of fourteen children. He is the sixth child of 
Joseph aud Rachel (Zelley) Morris, who came to Columbiana County, Ohio, 
in 1821, rearing a family of twelve children, only four of whom are living. 
The Morrises have been Quakers for generations. His mother became such 
subsequent to marriage. This is probably the only Quaker family in the 
county. Our subject having received a common school education, married, 
November 27, 1828, Miss Jane Warrington, daughter of Abraham and Re- 
ziah (Woolman) Warrington, and seven children have crowned this union. 
Their names are Abraham W. ; Tabitha, wife of Thomas E. Hartley; John 
P., Joshua, Keziah. Rachel E. and Joseph C. Mr. Morris came to Richland 
Township in 1837, locating where he now resides, where he entered 120 
acres. Through industry, he at one time owned 400 acres of land. He has 
at present a 100- acre farm, having disposed of the remainder mostly to his 
children. He built a frame house in 1848. During the past forty years, he 
has been cultivating a nursery, sending many specimens to distant parts of 
the State. During the civil war, Mr. M. visited many parts of the East 
and South, inspired by his love for humanity, leaving tracts, clothes and 
contraband goods, wherever he found a waiting opportunity. He was also 
a member of the " Underground Railroad." Some years later, he published 
a record of his life and labors in a work known as " Reminiscences of Jo 
seph Morris." Its every page bespeaks a life prompted by the highest mo- 
tives. He is still a Quaker in custom, act and word, and a worthy citizen, 
honored by all who know him. Though in his seventy-ninth year, he is 
still vigorous, reaping this season twenty-six dozen of wheat with a sickle. 
He spends his winters in Florida, where he has a little farm of twenty 
acres, upon which he has 300 orange trees. 

CHARLES NEUBAUER was born April 9, 1842, in Saxony, Germany, 
and bavin? obtained a fair education, he acquired a knowledge of stone- 
masonry. When aged eighteen years, he sailed for America, and stopped 
at Columbus, Ohio, working by the day and month, until 1862, when he 
came to Richland Township. He first purchased twenty acres, for which he 
paid SI, 000. But he and his wife at present own 240 acres of good land, 
which he keeps in excellent repair. He already has out 1,100 rods of tile; 
he values his place at $90 per acre, and anticipates building in the immedi- 
ate future. November 12, 1862, our subject married Hannah, daughter of 
William Baechler, and the names of their four children are Frederick, Mary, 
Emma and Charles. Mr. N. is a Democrat, and he and his family belong 
to the Evangelical Lutheran Church. In money-making, Mr. N. has made 
a success, for he came to this country with nothing, and is worth to-day 
$25,000. 

GEORGE RETTERER was born May 4, 1821, in Alsace, France, now 
a province of Germany, the son of George and Martha Retterer. The com- 
mon school gave him his education. He left home aged twelve years, and 
became a stable and general chore boy. For nine years he drove a stage- 



RICHLAND TOWNSHIP. 961 

coach between Marion and Upper Sandusky, and most of that time he met 
often with Indians. Having received from his father's estate 1200, together 
with eighty acres of land in Henry County, Ohio, he purchased in 1842 his 
present home, then of eighty acres, which he has increased to 195 acres to- 
day, valued at $90 per acre. He has made all the improvements, having 
built his attractive house in 1873, costing $8,000. November 12, 1842, our 
subject married Miss Catherine Moyer, daughter of John and Catherine 
Moyer. This union has resulted in fourteen children, four dying young; 
the living are George, Jacob, Henry, Philip, Catherine, Fredrick, Mary, 
John, Charles W. and Emma. Mr. Retterer and family belong to the 
Lutheran Church, of which he has been deacon the past six years. Mr. 
Retterer' s public career embraces the following offices: Trustee of Richland 
Township five yeais, member of Board of Agriculture fourteen years, three 
years its President and seven years its Vice President, Director of County 
Infirmary seven years, and is County Commissioner at present. 

JACOB RETTERER is another respected and enterprising citizen of 
Richland Township. His birth took place March 13, 1826, the son of John 
G. and Martha Retterer, who migrated to America in 1831, settling in Ma- 
rion County, and entering eighty acres in Pleasant Township. They re- 
mained there until 1837. when they moved to Richland Township upon 
eighty acres, where Jacob now lives. His family consisted of eight children. 
He died in 1863, aged sixty- nine years, and his mother in 1873, aged 
eighty-one years. Jacob Retterer married, November 5, 1848, Miss Sophia 
Myers, daughter of George J. and Catherine Myers, of Richland Township. 
Their children are nine in number — David, Sarah (wife of John Hinaman), 
Elizabeth (wife of David Deich), Sophia (wife of William Stark), Mary 
(wife of George Shanlaub), Catherine, Martha, Samuel and Clement H. 
Mr. Retterer inherited and purchased eighty acres of his present residence, 
and has increased these to 277 acres, valued at $90 per acre. In 1875, he 
built and repaired his residence, worth some $2,000 to-day. He erected a 
barn in 1869 at a cost of $2,000. One thousand rods of tile drain his farm; 
in connection with his agricultural pursuits he rears graded stock. He 
and family are members of the Lutheran Church, in which he has acted in 
nearly every official capacity. He has been Trustee of the township for 
two or three terms, and has been President of the Home Insurance Com- 
pany. 

DANIEL SEITER, Sb., a highly respected citizen of Richland Township, 
Marion Co., Ohio, was born in Baden, Germany, August 13, 1813, and emi- 
grated with his parents, Jacob and Magdalena Seiter, to America in 1830. 
He bought ninety-five acres of timber land, on which they settled, and 
cleared about fifty acres, where he still resides. The father died in 1851, 
aged seventy-three years, and the mother in 1880, aged eighty-seven years. 
He was married to Miss Margaret Klingel, who is still his companion, Jan- 
uary 3, 1841. This union has been blessed with ten children, seven sons 
and three daughters, a daughter and son dying in infancy; two were killed 
in the late rebellion, and four sons and two daughters are still living. Mr. 
Seiter purchased the old homestead, and owned several good farms of 
which he has disposed. He has been a hard worker, clearing about one 
hundred acres of heavy timbered land. He and companion have been mem- 
bers of the German Methodist Episcopal Church for over thirty years, with 
which he has been otficiallv connected for many years. 

ELIAS WOLFINGER 'was born July 20, 1848, in Richland Township, the 
son of Jacob and Christiana Wolfinger, who came from Germanv about 1S36, 



962 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

buying ninety-six acres, which increased to 119 acres in time. The father 
cleared sixty live acres of timbered land. He reared a family of nine chil- 
dren, and died in 1879, aged seventy-four years. The mother died in 1851, 
aged thirty four years. Our subject having obtained a moderate education, 
inherited and purchased the old homestead of ninety-six acres, which is 
well-drained and fenced. He built a good house in 1862, at a cost of $800, 
and he has greatly increased its facilities this season, expending thereon 
$1,000. October 20, 1874, he married Miss Caroline Hall, daughter of 
Frederick and Caroline Hall. This union has been blessed with four chil- 
dren — Samuel A., AnnaR., John F., and William H. This family associate 
with the Lutheran Church. He is a Democrat, but liberal in his views. 

GEORGE J. WTCK was born November 12, 1854, and is a native of 
Richland Township. He is a son of Jacob and Margaret (Wilt) Wick, who 
came from Germany in 1832. At first they bought eighty acres, where our 
subject now resides. But prosperity had so highly favored their labors, that 
when the father passed away, he left an estate of $50,000. The family 
numbered seven children, C. Jacob being the eldest. The father died in 
1878, aged fifty-eight years, while the mother died in 1866. Our subject 
having obtained a limited education, inherited by the death of his father 
his farm of eighty acres, upon which stands a house built in 1862, at a cost 
of $2,000. The large barn was built in 1874 for $1,000. Mr. Wick breeds 
the best of graded stock. He received from his father's estate in money and 
land $6,000, and is worth to-day some $8,000. April 1, 1877, he married Miss 
Minnie, daughter of Edward Stiekel. The names of their two children are 
Jacob E. and Charles W. His family associate with the Lutheran Church. 

JACOB YAKE was born October 8, 1852, in Richland Township, the 
son of George and Catharine (Wick) Yake. His grandfather Yake came 
from Germany about 1*833, entering eighty acres near where our subject re- 
sides, and cleared nearly the whole farm. He died when aged eighty-five 
years, his only child having inherited the property, and increased it to 440 
acres, all joining, and also purchased 150 acres in Morrow County, where 
he still resides. His family consists of three sons and one daughter. 
Recently he gave to each child eighty acres, obliging them to pay $1,600 
each. Our subject having received a common school education, married 
March 18, 1875, Miss Caroline Groll, daughter of Frederick Groll. The 
names of their three children are Harvey J., Charles W. and Ella C. B. In 
1878, Mr. Yake built a neat house, expending therefor $1,500. His farm 
is worth $75 per acre. His politics are Democratic. 



CHAPTER XII 



SALT ROCK TOWNSHIP. 

OALT ROCK is one of the original townships of Marion County. A dili- 
k3 gent search of the records has failed to reveal any formal entry of its 
organization, but from the first session of the County Commissioners, the 
township has been duly recognized in all of their subsequent proceedings. 
It at first contained the entire original surveyed Township No. 4. Range 
No. 14, but when the county of Wyandot was erected, and the boundaries 



SALT ROCK TOWNSHIP. 963 

of Crawfoi'd and Marion Counties were changed, in the year 1845. two tier 
of sections from the north side were taken off' and given to Pitt Township, 
Wyandot County, leaving this township to only twenty-four sections; but Salt 
Hock, in common with all the northern tier of townships, was re-organized, 
and has thus ever since remained. The following is the entry of re-organ- 
ization: 

Auditor and Commissioners' Office. Marion, Marion Co.. Ohio. ) 

March 23, 1845. f 
Ordered, That the several fractions of the townships of Washington, Tully, Scott, 
Grand Prairie, Salt Rock and Grand in Marion County, by reason of the passage of 
the act of the General Assembly of the State of Ohio, entitled "An act to erect the 
new county of Wyandot and alter the bounds of the county of Crawford," passed Feb- 
ruary 3, 1845, be and they are respectively organized into separate townships, and that 
said townships so re-organized respectively retain their original names and numbers 
on the records and duplicates of Marion County for all purposes whatever. 

John Uncapher, ) f < • • 
Hugh V. Smith! \ Commtsmmtr,. 

This township received its name in a rather singular manner. It is 
said that upon an occasion when the early settlers, who were few in num- 
ber at that time — the time when the organization and naming of the town- 
ships were in contemplation— were gathered together discussing these sub- 
jects, when Ebenezer Roseberry sought to enliven the occasion, as was his 
wont, by relating a few incidents drawn from his varied experience; and 
among others he related the following: 

" Soon after 1 came to this place, I shot and wounded the largest buck 
I ever saw; not so seriously, however, but that he could get over the tall 
grass pretty rapidly on three legs. In the pursuit, I stumbled and fell 
over what I supposed to be a rock; but as it looked so white, I turned to 
break off a piece, which, I declare, was pure salt." 

Of course this provoked the mirth of the company, and, in the laugh 
which followed, Piatt Bush said, " That will do; ' Salt Rock ' shall be the 
name of the township." Accordingly, Salt Rock was the name proposed 
to the Commissioners for this division, aDd it was also the name adopted 
by them. Thus it will be observed that even the relating of a trifling in- 
cident, incredible as it maj' have been, was the means of furnishing a name 
for one of Marion County's finest divisions. 

Salt Rock embraces a portion of the " Sandusky Plains," and its sur- 
face is very level. Timber is found around the border of the plains, and 
along the banks of the few streams. The Little Sandusky and a few trib- 
utary branches flow from the southeast to the northwest, through the 
eastern part of the township, forming a good natural drainage for that por- 
tion of this division; but the western part has required a great deal of 
drainage, by means of large, open ditches, chief among which are Prairie 
Run ditch, Carroll ditch and the Thompson ditch. The low places and the 
few ponds here have been pretty generally redeemed by the combination of 
the natural and artificial systems of drainage, though during the spring and 
other wet seasons of the year, much water still stands on the lowest por- 
tions of its territory. 

Among the most noted ponds here, of former times, was that of "Goose 
Pond," well-known, at the time of its existence, to sportsmen in every city 
west of the Alleghanies. It covered an area of about fifty acres, and 
seemed to be the half-way stopping-place for the numerous migratory birds 
in their semi-annual flights from the lakes of the North to the bayous of 
the South. During the spring and fall of the year, often for weeks at a 
time, this pond was literally covered with geese, ducks and other aquatic 



964 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY". 

fowl, and the noise occasioned by their squawking was annoying, almos 
past endurance, for several miles around. In early days, there were no 
shot-guns in use here; the flint-lock rifle was all the sportsman carried, 
and it is related that a single discharge of one bullet from one of these 
rifles would often kill a half-dozen geese, so thick were they upon the 
bosom of this pond at times. But this pond has long since disappeared. 
Proper drainage has made the place tillable, and now, instead of a vast 
pond, frequented by legions of water-fowl, there are well-cultivated fields, 
annually yielding abundant crops, from which the husbandman reaps a rich 
reward. 

The most of the soil in this township is of inexhaustible fertility, ad- 
mirably adapted to the raising of grain, and to grazing purposes. The 
streams and ditches are usually well bridged, and good roads extend 
through many portions of the township. Fine farms, with good buildings 
and cultivated fields, are found on every hand, and schoolhouses at con- 
venient localities. A number of artesian wells have been* sunk, to the 
depth of from thirty to fifty feet, which raise the water from five to ten feet 
above the surface, thus furnishing an abundant supply of water for stock. 

In the year 1883, the following exhibiC shows the agricultural status of 
Salt Rock Township: Wheat, acres sown, 2,119; bushels produced, 14,770; 
number of acres sown for harvest of 1883, 1,524. Oats, acres sown, 519; 
acres sown for crop of 1883, 586; bushels produced, 8,585. Corn, acres 
planted, 3,032; acres planted for crop of 1883, 3,356; bushels produced, 
122,700. Meadow, acres, 1,275; tons of hay, 1,425. Clover, acres, 300 
tons of hay, 166; bushels of seed, 5. Potatoes, acres planted, 36|; acres 
for crop of 1883, 39|; bushels produced, 3,790. Butter, 22,390 pounds. 
Bees, 216 hives; pounds of honey, 4,665. Eggs, 25,000 dozen. Orchards: 
Apples, 88| acres; bushels produced 1882, 1,375. Peaches, bushels pro- 
duced 1882, 28. Pears produced 1881, 8 bushels. Lands, number of acres 
cultivated, 5,149; acres of pasture, 3,789; acres of woodland, 1,228; total 
number of acres owned, 10,614. Wool, 24,360 pounds. Milch cows, num- 
ber owned in 1882, 174. Dogs, 69. Sheep killed by dogs, 5; value, $46. 
Hogs died, 92: value, $570. Sheep died, 208; value, $380. Cattle died, 
12; value, $240. Horses died, 12; value, $1,040. 

EARLY SETTLEMENT. 

Ebenezer Roseberry, from New Orleans, was the first settler of this 
township, locating near what has since been the residence of A. Martin, 
about eight miles south of Upper Sandusky. It was on the Radnor road, 
which passed through Big Island into Delaware County. 

Messrs. Vulgamat and Alcott came in 1819. Hugh V. Smith, original- 
ly from Clark County, Va., arrived in 1820; Enoch Clark and Mahlon 
Marsh and family, in 1821; Richard Hopkins in 1821 or 1822; and John 
McElvy, Isaac Woods, George King' and others about the same time. 

John Green was the first Justice of the Peace. The* first school was 
taught at John Green's in 1823. The first hunting hounds were brought 
from Virginia, in 1826, by Robert Martin and his sons. The first merchant, 
Ora Bellis, from New York, located in 1819, and died the same year, being 
the first death. The first birth was that of Rosanna Bowser, in 1820. Her 
father, a few days after, was at the first election in the township, and his 
voto was challenged]on account of minority. He could not testify to his 
age, but " thought he was entitled to vote, for he had a wife and baby. " 
This eloction was held at Ebenezer Roseberry's, near the present site of 



SALT ROCK TOWNSHIP. 965 

Amos Taylor's residence. Roseberry kept an entertainment house, being 
the first and last for over fifty years. 

A combat between two Indian chiefs, near Carpenter's Cross Roads, in 
this township, was witnessed by a settler, unknown to them, and is thus 
described: " They met, dismounted, and immediately rushed into deadly 
strife; one with a tomahawk and the other with a long butcher knife. 
They fought like madmen, and dealt stroke after stroke, and cut after 
cut, till both fell to the ground exhausted. One soon recovered, took the 
tomahawk of the other and threw it into the bushes, then, staggering to 
his pony, remounted and went out of sight, dripping with blood." The 
eye-witness to this terrible hand-to-hand combat went to the nearest house 
and reported it, and, accompanied by the writer, then a boy seven years old, 
returned to the scene of encounter. The wounded Indian had recovered, 
so that, with a little help, he was soon on his pony, wending his way back 
to his tribe. The wild grass was stained with blood, marking the track of 
the struggle. 

ARCH^OLOGICAL. 

Little Sandusky Creek, a sinuous stream, meanders across the township, 
and along its banks are many springs, in early days the haunts of wild ani- 
mals, and the scene of many hunting adventures, whites and Indians often 
joining in the wild sport. Near the banks of this stream are the remains of 
extensive wigwams. The plan seems much like the Pawnee houses, though, 
before the ground was disturbed, some two years since, the tracings of a 
large amphitheater were quite perfect. Near by, on the table-land, is an 
oblong circle around the highest point in the vicinity, inclosed by a ditch 
550 paces in length. The break, or passage-way, in the ditch is on the 
southwest and northeast, in a direct line with the fallen buildings. Two 
wells are distinctly visible on the southeast. Oak trees are standing in 
the ditch, to mark the passing of hundreds of years. In the immediate 
vicinity, as the trees were cut down a few years s*nce, ax marks were found 
in several trees, plain and perfect as though made by a recent hand, though 
over a hundred years had covered up the scars. 

The footprints of the Mound-Builders were left, to an interesting ex- 
tent, in the northeast part of the township. In the vicinity of Morral is a 
circular mound, several feet high, and in the days of the early settlers quite 
prominent, with a hickory tree upon its apex. The tree is now gone, but 
the ground has never been disturbed, and its tracings are still distinct. 
One mile from this are other curiosities, undisturbed till six y«ars ago, 
showing that this section has been the home of those of an unknown past. 

One mile northwest of these ancient mounds, on the edge of the prairie, 
and near a large pond, as the sod was turned over for the first time a few 
years since, lead bullets were discovered in the furrow, and boys found 
them by the pocketful. They were near or quite an ounce in weight. Being 
six or eight inches under the surf ace, shows they were not of recent deposit. 

\ 

A PIONEER WEDDING. 

About the year 1825, on the banks of 'he Little Sandusky Creek, a wed- 
ding took place, at Robert Martin's, father of A. Martin, of Morral, on the 
place now occupied by Amos Taylor. The ceremony was performed about 
8 o'clock in the evening, in the month of October. During the day, a good 
lot of pies and cakes had been baked in the brick oven down on the hill- 
side — a characteristic institution of those days — and a huge pot, filled with 
cooked chicken, hung upon the crane in the fire-place. Those who came 



966 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

hither bent on some fun were Samuel and John Harmon, Samuel Morral, 
Sr., Reuben Johns. Mr. Neff (father of Squire Neff, of Morral), Mr. Green 
and others. These old soldiers watched for their opportunity, and just be- 
fore the ceremony was said, marched in and formed a close line in front of 
the fire-place, concealing it from the company. The Captain, S. Morral, 
stepped behind this line, clandestinely seized the pot with its contents, and 
saying, "Forward, march!" out they strode with their prize thoroughly 
concealed. The company, though somewhat chagrined at the loss of their 
" chicken fixins'," consoled themselves with the idea that they had a plenty 
of pies and cakes in the oven. But what must have been their disappoint- 
ment when they went out and found that all those luxuries also had disap- 
peared, and even the oven, too; for those same brave soldiers had put pole* 
under it and carried it off, with all its contents, about a half-mile down the 
creek, and gone " into camp!" 

FREE-WILL BAPTIST CHURCH OF MORRAL. 

In 1878, Rev. L. Johnson held a series of meetings at this place, and or- 
ganized a society, composed of persons of various Christian denominations. 
Samuel Morral was chosen Deacon. Meetings were held in schoolhouses 
until 1880, when a committee, composed of Samuel Morral, J. P. Barnt- 
house and J. Stanffer, were appointed to raise funds and build a house of 
worship. Samuel Morral donated land for a site, and the house, which was 
35x45 feet in size, was completed in 1881, including the bell, at a cost 
of $1,800, The church was dedicated to its holy purpose on the second 
Sunday in September, by Rev. O. E. Baker, who preached the dedicatory 
sermon, assisted by Revs. J. Seitz, S. D. Bates and W. H. Gibson. In 
February, 1882, Revs. Seitz and Bates re-organized the society into the 
present church, at which time the membership numbered twelve. Rev. 
L. Johnson was succeeded by Rev. Isaac Seitz as pastor, who continued to 
preach to the congregation until April, 1882, since which time, Rev. S. D. 
Bates has "ministered the Word." The church has a present membership 
of twenty, with Samuel Morral, J. P. Barnthouse and J. Stauffer as Trust- 
ees, and Mrs Huldah Barnthouse, Clerk. 

In connection with this church, a Sabbath school and missionary society 
are maintained. 

PERSONAL SKETCHES. 

We subjoin personal notices of a number of the pioneers and citizens of 
Salt Rock Township : 

JAMES IRVINE & BROS. These gentlemen, James, William, Wilson 
and Richard, are known throughout the county as purchasers and shippers of 
stock. Their parents, David and Catherine Irvine, were born and married in 
County Donegal, Ireland, in 1840. Mr. Irvine, before coming to this country, 
plied the plasterer's trade and possessed freehold property. The family, then 
consisting of five children — John, James, Catherine, William and Eliza — emi- 
grated to America in 1849, locating at Independence, Penn., for eleven years. 
From there they moved to Marion County, near Bryan Station, on the " Camp- 
bell farm," remaining three years, when they went to " Gorton Grove farm " 
for four years, and still later to Big Island Village, where the father died in 
1870, aged sixty years. The family then rented the "Corey farm," in Wyan- 
dot County, Ohio, until 1874, when they purchased where they now reside. 
They bought the Corey farm of 480 acres, also sixty-four acres near Marion 
and 32(1 acres where they live. For enterprise and industry, the Irvine Bros. 
deserve commendation. About the time they came to Salt Rock, they began 



SALT ROCK TOWNSHIP. 967 

buying and shipping stock, and have been very successful. Wilson and Will- 
iam attend principally to farming, while Richard buys and ships to James, who 
attends to the sales at Buffalo or New York City. They deal altogether in cat- 
tle, sheep and hogs. 

A. L. D. KING, farmer, was born in Salt Rock Township in 1836. His 
father was a native of the State of Delaware, whence he came to Pickaway 
County, Ohio, where he was married to Miss Hessy Hopkins. He came with 
his family to Marion County in 1823, and entered 160 acres of land, and after- 
ward made additions to this land until he owned 448 acres. He served in the 
war of 1812, and died in Salt Rock Township January 10, 1857. He was an 
influential and respected citizen. His widow died in 1874. The subject of this 
notice is a grain and stock farmer, owning a farm of 117 acres. He is a mem- 
ber of the Grange and of the ^Presbyterian Church, and is also a Democrat. 

GEORGE J. KING, farmer, was born in Salt Rock Township March 31, 
1852. During his minority, he secured a good practical education, and fol- 
lowed the occupation of teaching for a short time. He was married, November 
16, 1875, to Annie Alkire, and now resides on his farm of 133£ acres in Salt 
Rock Township. Mr. King is a prosperous farmer, and has served the town- 
ship in the various local offices. He is a member of the Grange, and in poli- 
tics is a Republican. Mr. King's mother, Jane, was the first white child born 
in Salt Rock Township. 

SAMUEL H. KING, farmer, was born in this township June 5, 1827. He 
inherited from his father forty acres of land, where he now lives. He has in- 
creased his possessions, and now owns 155 acres. He was married, November 
7, 1850, to James Thompson. Mr. King is a stock and grain farmer, and 
makes sheep a specialty. He is a Republican, and is now serving as Justice 
of the Peace. Himself and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church. 
He is an ardent sportsman, and while on a hunting trip in Michigan in 1881 
he killed eighty-nine deer, and last fall, 1882, besides other game, killed a 
black bear in the same State. 

SAMUEL MAHAFFEY is a native of Donegal County, Ireland, and was 
born April 7. 1836. His father was a farmer, which occupation Samuel has 
always followed. He, with his mother and five brothers, came to the United 
States in 1847, and settled in this county. Until twelve years of age, Mr. Ma- 
haffey attended the parish school in Ireland, and, after coming to Marion Coun- 
ty, a few months in the township schools. In the fall of 1858, he was married, 
and the same year bought 120 acres of land in Salt Rock Township. He has 
since made other purchases, so that the homestead now consists of 240 acres. 
His residence is on Section 24. Mr. Mahaffey is politically a Democrat, and 
is an active worker in the interests of his party. In December. 1879. he was 
elected County Commissioner, and re-elected in 1872. During his official ca- 
reer, he served the people faithfully. 

SAMUEL MORRAL, Sr., was born in Salt Rock Township July 31, 1829. 
His father, Samuel Morral, was born in Virginia in 1800, and came with his 
father. William Morral, to Pickaway County. Ohio, when he was quite young. 
In 1818, his parents moved, bringing him with the rest of their family to Salt 
Rock Township, where they settled. William Morral, above mentioned, was a 
Captain under Gen. Hull, during the war of 1812, and his son Samuel, the 
father of our subject, was a Captain in the general militia, and at the time of 
his death owned 430 acres of land. He left a widow and five children, four by 
his first wife, and one by the last. Samuel Morral, the subject of this sketch, 
was married, February 16, 1853, to Margaret Harmon, of Wyandot County. He 
had very limited means at the start ; his worldly possessions were comprised in 
two colts, valued at $125. When twenty-five years of age, he bought fifty-three 
acres of land in Salt Rock Township, but he gradually increased his landed es- 



968 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

tate, so that he now has 205 acres of land, and also owns one-half interest in 
the tile works at Morral, at which place he was in the grain business for some 
years. This town was named in honor of his father. The subject of this sketch 
has been Treasurer of the township for the past five years, and now fills that 
office. Himself and wile have a family of nine children, and he is a member of 
the Church of God. 

SAMUEL MORRAL, Jr., son of William Morral, and nephew of the pre- 
ceding, was born in Salt Rock Township in 1854. He owns a farm, where he 
lives, of 200 acres, and is principally engaged in stock-farming. He was mar- 
ried, in November, 1879, to Jennie King, of this township. In politics, he is a 
Republican. 

ROBERT I. MOUSER, farmer, was born in Salt Rock Township in 18-45, 
and is at present one of its substantial citizens. He enlisted in Company M, 
Third Regiment Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, and served as a soldier in the Union 
army for two years, during the great civil war, and was taken prisoner by the 
rebels, and confined for five months in the infamous and notorious Anderson- 
ville (rebel) Prison. Mr. Mouser is the owner of a fine farm of eighty acres. 

HENRY RHOADS (deceased), pioneer farmer, came to this county in 1825, 
the same year purchasing 240 acres of land in Salt Rock Township, from the 
Government. He was married, December 8, 1839, to Elizabeth Ann Crabb. 
She was a native of Ross County, Ohio. The}" had a family of six children, 
and at his death, March 11, 1855, left a farm of 397 acre 3 of land, including 
other property. His propert}' was valued at $20,000. He was a man of ex- 
cellent judgment, and of more than ordinary abilit}-. He filled many of the 
township offices, and was an influential citizen of the county. His widow mar- 
ried again, and died Februaiy 5, 1880. Mr. Rhoads' remains lie in the Union 
Cemetery, her remains in the Marion Cemetery. 

MILTON H. RHOADS, farmer, was born in Salt Rock Township, Septem- 
ber 24, 1840. His parents, Henry and Elizabeth Ann (Crabb) Rhoads. are 
mentioned elsewhere. Milton H. was reared a farmer, an'occupation that he has 
always followed. At the breaking-out of the war, in 1861, he enlisted in Com- 
pany D, Sixty-fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantr}', and served his coun- 
try as a soldier on the Union side ; he was a Corporal. Mr. Rhoads has one 
of the best watered farms in the county, consisting of 207 acres, on which he 
erected, in 1877, a large and commodious residence, the finest in the township. 
On the place is a never-failing spring or well. He is largely engaged in stock- 
farming, and makes a specialty of registered Spanish Merino sheep, at which 
he has been very successful. He has served as Trustee of the township. Is a 
member of the I. O. O. F., and of the Encampment of the G. A. R., and of the 
Methodist Church. Political^* speaking, he is a Republican, and, in a general 
sense, is one of the most enterprising men of his township. 

WILLIAM H. ROBINSON, farmer, was born in Delaware County, Ohio, 
He is the owner of seventy-three acres of land in Salt Rock Township. He 
volunteered as a soldier to serve on the Union side, during the civil war, in 
Company D, Sixty-fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and participated 
in various engagements during the war. He was married, March 7, 1867, to 
Annah Riley, and they have four children. He is a substantial farmer and 
good citizen. Politically, he is a Republican, and himself and wife are mem- 
bers of the Methodist Church. He has lived in Marion County since 1851. 

AMOS TAYLOR, one of the substantial men of Salt Rock Township, born De- 
cember 16, 1836, the son of William and Elizabeth (Davis) Taylor. The former 
came from Ross County, Ohio, and the latter from Maryland when a child. They 
settled on the Thomas Thompson farm, entering 160 acres, which was subse- 
quently increased to 400 acres. He reared a family of six children, and died 
in 1858, aged fifty-nine years, and the mother died in 1851, aged forty-two 



SALT ROCK TOWNSHIP. 969 

years. Our subject's education was obtained wholly at the district school, and 
in his younger days was very active, having frequently mowed two and a half 
acres of grass in a day with a scythe. In 1866, he purchased thirty acres in 
Wyandot County, Ohio, which he still holds. His home farm consists of 
ninet}' acres, inherited by his wile, and ninety-two acres purchased by himself. 
He owns in all 470 acres, 290 in Wyandot County. Ohio. In 1873. he built his 
residence. December 1, 1859, he married Miss Sarah Martin, daughter of 
Robert Martin. This union has been crowned with six children — Louisa, 
Elizabeth, Cora, Kate, Anna and Hortense, the latter deceased. Mr. Ta) lor is 
a genial gentleman, a Republican in spirit and practice, and has been prominent 
in the township officially. 

THOMAS A. THOMPSON is a native of Salt Rock Township, born Sep- 
tember 5, 1830 ; the son of John M. C. and Martha (Alcott) Thompson, the 
father coming from Virginia and the mother from New Jersey. They settled 
near where our subject resides about 1820, entering 400 acres, which in later 
years they have increased to 1,100 acres. Mr. Thompson was prominent in the 
organization of the township, and was its Treasurer fifteen years. He reared a 
family of seven children, and died in 1864, aged sixty-six }*ears, while the 
mother passed away in 1861, aged sixty-four years. Our subject received a 
common school education. He inherited from his father's estate 200 acres of 
land, and several thousand dollars. His farm at present consists of 550 acres. 
He is a cultivator of good stock generally. Mr. T. has ever been a stanch 
Republican ; and of the township offices, he has held that of Trustee, Asses- 
sor and Treasurer, the latter for five }'ears. March 15, 1865, our subject mar- 
ried Miss Isabel Sharp, daughter of Andrew and Ann (Wirts) Sharp. The 
names of their five children are Emma, John, Dessie D., Anna and Hayes. His 
grandmother's people came from Ireland, and his great-grandfather fell in the 
war of the Revolution, while her great-grandfather died from wounds received 
in the same war. The Wirts came from Switzerland. 

HENRY R. WOLFE, deceased, was a worthy pioneer of Grand Town- 
ship, and settled there in 1835. He was born in Adams County, Penn.. in 
1800, and while }'et a young man came to Marion County. He had then a wife 
and three children. His wife died in 1839, and he was married in 1840 to 
Studia Raker. He died October 23, 1879, leaving a widow and six children in 
comfortable circumstances. He was much respected as a citizen, and had held 
at different times nearly all the township offices, and was Justice of the Peace 
for nine years. He was a member of the Methodist Church. He moved to 
Salt Rock Township in 1850, where he died at his homestead. His father was 
a soldier in the Revolutionary war. 

NELSON L. WOLFE, farmer, son of Henry R. Wolfe, was born in Mar- 
ion County March 24, 1837, and has lived in Salt Rock Township since he was 
thirteen years of age. He was educated in the township schools. He was 
drafted into the army in 1862, and served a short time as a soldier in the civil 
war. March 29, 1866, he was married to Eunice Matteson, of Wyandot 
County, Ohio. On attaining his majority, Mr. Wolfe had very little financial 
means, but by industry and good management has become the owner of a tine 
farm of eight}- acres, on which he resides. He is a member of the F. & A. M., 
and is a member of and Deacon in the " Church of God." 



970 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 



CHAPTER XIII. 



SCOTT TOWNSHIP. 

TERRITORIAL. 

TpROM the best authority obtainable, Scott Township was organized either 
lJ June 7, 8 or 9, 1824, one of the first three days of the first session of 
the County Commissioners after the organization of the county, although 
the entry of such organization has been entirely omitted from the record. 
But on June 10, 1824, a division into districts of the townships then organ- 
ized was made for the purpose of collecting the county tax, and among the 
townships then mentioned was Scott. This township at its original organ- 
ization comprised all of surveyed Township 4, Eange 16, and Township 4, 
Range 17. But in March, 1828, Tully Township was organized and took 
its territory from the eastern part of Scott, and was made to include more 
than one surveyed township, or thirty-six sections. At the June session in 
the same year, the Commissioners restored to Scott Township the east tier of 
sections, of surveyed Township 4, Range 16. 

Thus the township remained until after the formation of Crawford 
Connty, when two tiers of sections from off the north part were placed with- 
in the limits of that county, and when the county of Wyandot was erected 
a similar portion was taken off of the remaining northern tier of townships, 
which made it necessary, as the Commissioners thought, to re-organize the 
fractional townships. 

A few years later, the people of Scott Township desired to extend their 
boundaries further south and take into their territory one tier of sections 
off of the north side of Claridon, or rather, it seems a portion of the resi- 
dents of that tier of sections of Claridon Township desired that so much of 
their territory as above named should be placed in Scott Township, as will 
appear from the following entry from the record: 

Auditor and Commissioners' Office, Marion County, Ohio, ( 

March 7, 1848. j 
This day came Lawrence Buskirk and others, being a majority of the house- 
holders residing within the boundary of the portion of Claridon hereinafter named, and 
made application, by petition, for an alteration of the boundaries of the townships of 
Claridon and Scott as follows, to wit: To attach to said township of Scott, one tier of 
sections from off the north side of said township of Claridon, and it appearing to the 
satisfaction of the Commissioners that legal notice has been given and that all things 
appertaining to said application have been done in due form of law, it is ordered that 
the said one tier of sections from off the north side of said Claridon Township be and 
the same is hereby attached to the township of Scott. 

Huon V. Smith, 
John Uncapher, 



' [ Commissioners. 



For some reasons, which the records do not explain, in the following 
year another application by petition of similar import, asking that the very 
same territory be detached from Claridon Township and attached to Scott, 
was made and the prayer of the petitioners was granted, and the northern 
tier of sections was again attached to Scott, as appears from the following 
entry: 



SCOTT TOWNSHIP. 971 

Marion County, Ohio, March 5, 1849. 

This day the Commissioners of Marion County met pursuant to the statute. Present: 
John Uncapher. Hiram Knowles and Lewis Topliff, Commissioners, and Lawrence 
Van Buskirk, County Auditor. 

This day came Adam Hipsher, James Tight, and others, and presented their petition 
to the County Commissioners in the words and figures following, to wit : 

To the Honorable the Commissioners op the County of Marion and State 

op Ohio: 

Gentlemen — We, your petitioners,would humbly represent that Claridon Township 
is six miles wide from north to south, and that Scott Township is but four miles wide 
from north to south, and that we believe it would conduce to the public benefit if one 
tier of sections were set off of the north side of Claridon Township and attached to 
1 said Scott Township. We, your petitioners, therefore pray your honors to attach one 
tier of sections from off the north side of said Claridon Township to said Scott Town- 
ship, thereby making the said townships equal or nearly so, and we, your petitioners, 
as in duty bound, will ever pray, etc., etc., January 30, 1849. 

And the said Commissioners being satisfied that said petition is signed by a ma- 
jority of the householders residing within the boundaries of the proposed change or 
alteration, and it having been proven to them that notice of such intended application 
had been given by advertisements set up in three public places within the bounds of 
such proposed change or alteration, for the period of thirly days and more previous to 
this date, and it appearing necessary to said Board of Commissioners that the altera- 
tions as prayed for in said petition should be made, it is therefore ordered by said 
Board of Commissioners that so much of the territory of Claridon Township in the 
said County of Marion, as is included in Sections 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, in Township 5, 
south of base line in Range 16 east, be, and the same hereby is attached to and made 
a part of Scott Township. 

Whereupon came Gany Clark, one of the householders residing upon said terri- 
tory, and gave notice of his intention to appeal to the Court of Common Pleas. 

The matter was duly appealed to the Court of Common Pleas and there 
reviewed by that tribunal, the Coniinissioners' proceedings reversed and the 
territory restored to Claridon Township. But the subject of the division of 
Claridon Township, for the purpose of augmenting or enlarging the terri- 
tory of Scott was not permitted to rest long; for at the March session of the 
Commissioners in the year 1851, another effort was made to have the same 
territory set off to Scott Township, as will appear from the following entry 
taken from the record: 

March 4, 1851. 

This day the Commissioners of Marion County met, pursuant to the statute. 
Present, Thomas Parr and Hiram Knowles, Commissioners, and E. Peters, Auditor of 
Marion County. 

This day came S. C. Parcell, James Bell and others, and presented their petition to 
the County Commissioners, in the words and figures following: 

To the Commissioners of Marion County: 

We, the undersigned residents of Claridon Township, pray your honorable body 
that you will take one tier of sections from off the north side of Claridon Township, 
and attach it to Scott Township, which will make them of equal dimensions; Claridon 
Township is six miles square, and Scott Township is four by six miles only. 

Your Humble Petitioners. 
January 31, 1851. 

And the said Commissioners being satisfied that the said petition is sigued by a 
majority of householders residing within the boundaries of the proposed territory of 
land petitioned to be struck off from Claridon Township, and attached to Scott Town- 
ship, and it having been proven to the satisfaction of the said Commissioners, hy the 
affidavit of James Parcell, George Boyles. Jr.. and James Osborn. that lawful notice 
has been given by advertising, in three different public places in said territory, pro- 
posed to be struck off and attached to said township, of the intention of said petitioners, 
for the period of thirty days and more previous to the presentation of this petition, 
and it appearing necessary, just and right to -aid Board of Commissioners that the 
alteration as prayed for in said petition should be made, it is therefore ordered, by 
the said Board of Commissioners, that so much of the territory of Claridon Township, 
in said County of Marion, as is included in Sections 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and H. in Township 5, 
south of the base line in Range Hi east, be and the same is hereby attached to and 
made a part of Scott Township. 



972 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Whereupon came Gany Clark, James M. Briggs, two or the householders residing 
upon said territory, and gave notice of their intention to appeal the same to the Court 
of Common Pleas. 

The appeal was duly taken, and upon review by the Common Pleas 
Court, the proceedings of the Commissioners were set aside and the terri- 
tory restored again to Claridon Township, where it ever since has remained. 

TOPOGRAPHY. 

Scott Township is composed wholly of Congress lands, and was named 
in honor of Mr. Scott, one of the early settlers of this territory, he having 
located here with his family in 1821. It consists partially of prairie and 
partially of woodland, there being portions of the great Sandusky Plains 
within its borders. Its surface is gently rolling and soil fertile, and is 
well adapted to raising corn, wheat and oats, and it also comprises excel 
lent pasture land for the grazing of horses, shoep and cattle. The lands 
are reasonably well watered, there being numerous pools and springs and 
several creeks and runs. Among the latter, the Whetstone and Mud 
Run, which pass through the eastern portion of the township, are the larg- 
est. 

The Columbus & Sandusky Turnpike, which runs through the middle 
of this township, north and south, is described in Chapter VIII. 

In early days, the level portions of the township were covered with 
water. The tract of land now owned by James Lindsey was until a com- 
paratively recent date covered with water, which some forty years ago was 
designated the "Green Sea" by a man bearing the name of John James. In 
many places, also, a growth of wild grass and a species of cane called 
maiden cane had sprung up, and were of a very luxuriant growth, often aris- 
ing to a height of from fifteen to twenty feet, and of such strength and 
thickness as to prevent persons from passing through, except by following 
beaten paths. 

THE EARLY SETTLEMENT 

Of this township, for the most part, was made by emigration from 
Knox County, and was not commenced until the year 1821. During that 
year, Nathan Parson, Henry Parcell, John Beckley, Martin McGowen, Con- 
stant Bowen and Josiah Packard, each with his family, located in the south- 
eastern portion of the township near the Whetstone, and were soon joined 
by Solomon Wilkinson, Jason Gleason, Alanson, Phineas and Horatio 
Packard. Farther north on Muddy Run, in the autumn of the same year, 
another settlement was started, in which William Shaffer, Samuel Spur- 
geon and John Humphrey were among the first to "pitch their tent. " They 
were, however, soon joined by Jacob Stateler, Mr. Kline, John Johnson 
and their families. In the northern part of the township, near where Le- 
timberville now stands, and yet to the westward, another settlement was 
started about the same time; and among the first families that located here 
were those of Capt. Benjamn Fickel, Moses Vansky, Isaac Foreacre and Mr. 
Scott, from the last of whom the township received its name. Daniel Wal- 
ters came to this township in 1821. Each of the settlements constantly 
received new accessions, and in time grew and extended their limits until 
they finally became quite large and prosperous communities. Among the 
earlier accessions wore Adam Hipsher and family, who came here from 
Fairfield County, Ohio, in 1824. Also James Likens and his three sons, 
who came from the same county, and Seth Knowles and family, Samuel 
Hill with his family, and others. The last-mentioned families came in the 
year 1829. 



SCOTT TOWNSHIP. 973 

John Hill, one of the sons of Samuel Hill, still lives on a farm located 
in Section 21 of this township, and is now fast approaching his four 
score years, he having been born in 1805. John Hill came to 
Scott Township with his father in 1829, but had visited the lands here the 
year previous and entered eighty acres of it in his own name, as he was 
then twenty -three years of age, and was already seeking a site and secur- 
ing a location for his future habitation. He, hovever, came to this town 
ship with his father's family from Knox County in 1829. The goods and 
the family were moved across the county in a wagon; and it is related by 
John that when they reached the bank of the Middle Fork of the Whetstone 
the stream, on account of the recent rains, was so swollen that the embank- 
ments were overflown, and as there were no bridges across the streams in 
those days, they were compelled to wait until the waters subsided sufficiently 
to permit them to "ford" the stream. During this time, which was of three 
or four days' duration, the family took refuge in a deserted cabin. On the 
first evening of their delay occasioned by this impediment, and about the time 
the family had gotten into the deserted cabin and everything prepared for a 
brief stay in their temporary home, a horseman came dashing down the bridle 
path leading by the cabin, and coming to the river bank, was about to plunge 
into the stream with his horse: but the spirited animal refused to enter the 
deep water, and was frisking and shying under the urgent demands of 
the rider, when Mr. Hill, recognizing him as a Knox County neighbor, 
whose name was Hedington, accosted Jbim with, " What are you trying to 
do?" He replied very emphatically that he was determined to cross the 
stream, as his "sweetheart" lived beyond, and he was anxious to see her 
that very night. Mr. Hill soon discovered that the attempt of this reck- 
less feat by the equestrian was occasioned by the " spirits " within him, 
for he was slightly intoxicated. After some importunity, Hedington was 
dissuaded from the dangerous trial of crossing the river until the water 
had somewhat subsided, and was offered the hospitality of the family at the 
cabin, that they temporarily occupied, which he gladly accepted; and. after 
being comfortably seated by a blazing tire for the evening, wishing, no 
doubt, to show his appreciation of the kindness extended to him, and de- 
siring to reciprocate as far as was then in his power to do, he produced a 
well tilled whisky flask and offered Mr. Hill a drink, saying, " John, we 
must have something to drink. " Mr. Hill, who was then a good temper- 
ance man, as he now is. at first refused, but Hedington insisted, and fear- 
ing that an absolute refusal would give offense, Mr. Hill finally said, 
" Well, if we must drink, you are the oldest and should drink first." This 
Hedington did and gave the following rather humorous toast: "John, if 
this be war, may we never have peace; but have three engagements every 
day and a scrimmage between times. " 

Several persons of prominence in the history of the county were 
among the early settlers of this township. Among them may be mentioned 
Hon. John Rosencrans, now a resident of Bucyrus, Ohio, who has repre- 
sented the county of Marion two years in the State Legislature, and served 
as Justice of the Peace in this township for thirty-one years consecutively. 
He has also served the county in the capacity of County Commissioner for 
six years, and here made an able and efficient officer, whose services were 
duly appreciated. Also Capt. Hiram Knowles. who came to this township 
with his parents, Seth and Mary Knowles. from New York State, in 1828, 
and who acquired his title by being chosen as the worthy commander of a 
rifle company organized in this township in the year 1835. Capt. Knowles 



974 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

has long been a inaD of some social and political influence, and has hold 
several township offices and had the honor of being the first constable of the 
township, having been appointed to that position by the Trustees. He has 
also held the office of Countv Commissioner. 

Among the first teachers that swayed the scepter and ruled a portion of 
the urchins of this township and trained their " young ideas how to 
shoot," was Samuel Hill. He taught his first term during the winter of 
1828, while his family was yet in Knox County. 

After the construction of the Columbus & Sandusky Turnpike in 1828, 
many of the early settlers hauled their wheat and other grain to Sandusky 
City, it being the nearest market available. It usually required a week to 
make a trip, and the farmers made the most out of these trips possible by 
bringing loads of goods on their return to the merchants of Bucyrus and 
Marion. At Sandusky City, they also frequently secured their flour and 
meal, as there were no mills until 1834 nearer than Bucyrus, Mount Gil- 
ead and Mount Vernon. At that date, however, Mr. Langdon erected a 
horsepower grist mill at Letimberville, with a capacity for grinding ten 
bushels per day. A grist mill, even with this small capacity, put in opera- 
tion in their midst, was hailed with delight by the people of Scott Town- 
ship. 

TORNADO. 

In 1825, a tornado commenced in Scott Township and took a northeast 
course, extending beyond New Haven, making sad havoc in its track, 
which was about 100 rods wide, leaving nothing standing but an occasional 
stub, with top and limbs torn away. Old Jake Stateler's cabin stood fully 
in the track. He was there alone that day, and when he heard the roaring 
of the storm and saw the trees tumbling, he, with remarkable presence of 
mind, snatched up a puncheon from the floor and darted under; none too 
soon, for he had barely made good his retreat when the tornado struck his 
cabin and scattered it to the winds, leaving but three or four rounds of 
logs in their places. 

LETIMBERVILLE. 

The only effort at building a town in this township was the oue made 
in the northern part on Section 15, and it has by no means proven a suc- 
cess. Its founder, Marturen Lati rubra, no doubt had as bright dreams of 
its future greatness as had the founders of other towns that had been laid 
out in unpromising places which had grown and flourished until they be- 
came cities, for he was a Frenchman, with a characteristic Frenchman's 
imagination. He had purchased all of Section 15, and he laid out the town 
on the southern portion of it, in hopes, no doubt, of greatly enhancing the 
value of his property. But the growth of the place for the first few years 
was quite slow, and more recently the improvements have been scarcely 
perceptible. 

It was laid out as early as 1832, and the first house bu'lt was occupied 
by Ross Arbuckle and his family, and they there kept a tavern for a num- 
ber of years for the accommodation of the traveling public. Thomas Mon- 
nett, Esq., kept the first stock of goods brought to the place, and occupied 
a little frame building as a store room just south of where Esquire Rosen- 
crans recently lived. 

FARM PRODUCTS FOR 1883. 

Wheat, acres sown, 1,190; bushels produced, 21,673; number of acres 
sown for harvest of 1883. 1,253. Oats, acres sown, 671; acres sown for 



SCOTT TOWNSHIP. 975 

crop of 1883, 754; bushels produced, 15,931. Corn, acres planted, 3,093, 
acres planted for crop of 1883, 2,728; bushels produced, 104,010. Meadow, 
acres, 1,029, tons of hay, 1,271. Clover, acres, 273; tons of hay, 333; 
bushels of seed, 263. Potatoes, acres planted, 45^; acres for crop of 1883 
estimated 41|, bushels produced, 4,391. Butter, 20,355 pounds. Ecro-s, 
9,375 dozen. Apples, bushels produced, 1882, 3,065. Peaches produced 
1882, 14 bushels. Lands owned, number of acres cultivated, 4,085, num- 
ber cf acres pasture, 3,194; number of acres woodland, 1,447; total num- 
ber of acres owned, 9,201. Wool, pounds shorn, 1882, 22,473. Milch 
cows, number owned in 1882, 209. Stallions, 2. Dogs, 5. Sheep killed 
by dogs, 31; value $99; injured by dogs, 30; value, $50. Cattle died, 2; 
value, $40. Horses died, 8; value, $665. 

CHURCHES. 

The Methodist Episcopal Church was first organized in this township as 
early, perhaps, as 1831, but their first church building was not erected un- 
til in 1837. It was then built at Letimberville, at a cost of $300, but this 
building was afterward sold, and in 1868, another church buildino- was 
erected in its place on the same site, at a cost of about $1,200. Among 
their early ministers was the Rev. "Wilson. 

Christian Church. — As early as 1830 or 1831, Rev. Harrison Jones, of 
this denomination, preached in this township in the neighborhood of the 
Hipshers, near Caledonia; and January 12, 1840, a church was organized 
at Letimberville with about sixteen members. Jackson Dowliu», James 
Till and John and William Hill were the first officials. During the follow- 
ing spring, they erected a hewed- log church at an expense of $100 in Le- 
timberville. Subsequently, this was replaced with a frame building 36x40 
feet, at a cost of $1,000. Rev. Jackson Dowling ministered to this con- 
gregation from 1840 to 1854; then Michael Kiddle one vear; David 
Sharpies, 1856-57; Eake, 1858; John Stannard, 1859 to 1861; *Ebert, 1861 
to 1863; William Hunt, 1864 to 1866; Alexander Reed, 1867-68; Eder 
Rumfield, 1869 to 1871. Present membership, thirty. Official members, 
Samuel Hill, Wesley Dowling, Charles Rano and Norman Brooks. Five 
ministers have been sent out into the world by this church. 

PERSONAL SKETCHES. 

Personal histories of some of the prominent settlers of Scott, both of 
the past and present, follow for a few pages, as a most essential part of 
the history of the township. 

WILLIAM CLUTTER was bora in the State of New Jersey, July 27, 1798, 
this making him now eighty-five years of age. His father, Samuel Clutter', 
was a '■ Jersey Dutchman," while his mother, Rebecca Clutter, was a " Jersey 
Yankee." His father was drafted for the Revolutionary war, but was exempted 
by a man offering to take his place for the paltry sum of .$100. His father al- 
so came to Washington County. Penn., in 1799, rearing a family of ten chil- 
dren, three of whom still survive. His death took place in Knox County, Ohio, 
where he moved in 1825. William Clutter obtained a limited education, and 
remained with his parents until aged twenty-seven years. The first six years 
of his married life he spent in Knox County, Ohio, but in 1831 he settled where 
he now lives, thus remaining for fifty-two years in the same locality and living 
in the same cabin. His marriage to Miss Edy McCown. daughter of Isaac and 
Mary McCown, of Virginia, took place in 1825. Eleven children crowned this 
union, two dying ; the surviving are Samuel ; Rachel, wife of Joseph Merriss ; 



976 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Jackson, deceased ; David, deceased ; Louisa, maiden lady ; William ; Lafa- 
yette, of Kansas ; Washington, and James M., of Illinois. Mr. C. has seen 
some hard times. In 1818, he was compelled to live on pumpkins and squashes; 
but he is worth at present $10,000. He is a generous pioneer, one of the 
few still remaining. He has been a member of the Disciple Church for forty 
years. 

J. HARVEY COULTER is one of the solid men of Scott Township ; he 
was born in Huntington County, Penn., April 7, 1827, the son of Samuel and 
Sarah Coulter, who came to Crawford County, Ohio, in 1832, entering forty 
acres. They raised a family of thirteen children, of whom J. H. is the eldest, 
and nine of whom are living. Their father died, aged eighty years. Mr. Coul- 
ter, the subject of this sketch, having received a limited education, commenced 
life at fourteen, working at $7 per month, but he gave his father all his wages 
until his twenty-second year. His wife received from her father 160 acres of 
land, the eastern portion of the farm. In 1845, he added by purchase 140 acres 
more, and in 1866 he bought eighty acres in Crawford County, lying near. In 
the same year he built across the road a fine residence, costing $4,000. In 
1880, he built the finest barn in Crawford County, costing $2,000. In 1879, he 
purchased a grist mill at Caledonia, for $10,000, with four run of stone ; he al- 
so has some other town property. He values all his possessions at $35,000. 
For thirty-five years he has followed threshing , he introduced the first thresher 
into the county ; in three seasons he turned out some 40,000 bushels of grain 
and seed. Mr. C. is forward in ever} 7 public enterprise ; was identified with the 
grange from its inception ; has been Township Trustee many years, both in 
Tully and Scott Townships. Upon the formation of the Crawford County Mu- 
tual Fire Insurance Company, he became a member, and is now its Vice Presi- 
dent. He and family are members of the M. E. Church, of which he is also 
Class-leader, and has also acted as Steward. In the time of the civil war, he 
offered his services to his countr}-, but he was declared physically disabled. 
December 31, 1 850, he married Mary A. Carmean, daughter of Matthew and 
Rachel Carmean, of Crawford County, Ohio, both of whom are living. The 
old gentleman, aged seventy-five years, has cleared some 200 acres of plain 
land in his day. Mr. Coulter has had fourteen children, three dying young. 
The living are Melissa, wife of Louis Speice ; Rachel, wife of J. W. Dowling ; 
William C., Mathew C., Sarah, wife of Samuel Hurr ; Samuel, Edwin, Sher- 
man, Effie, Orpha and Edgar J. 

ELI AS CRISSINGER is one of Scott's enterprising voung men, the son of 
William and Mary Crissinger, born August 11, 1853. His father died in the 
late war, so that Elias, at ten years of age, was left fatherless and penniless. 
He made his home among the neighbors — John and Hiram Lee, Philip Stein- 
man, Franklin Swisher and Washington Kennedy four years. He was then 
eighteen, and he worked by the month until twent} T -one. October 20, 1874, he 
married Harriet L. Howser, daughter of Anthony and Eliza Howser, and they 
have had four children - Manifold R., Daisy V., William A. and Hudson R. 
His wife received from her parents forty-seven acres, and in 1882 they bought 
twenty acres more. In 1880, he built a $500 barn, and he has improved the 
old home considerably. In March, 1877, the contents of a shotgun were dis- 
charged into his left hand, completely destroying it. His townsmen have made 
him their Assessor for four successive years — one in Tully Township, before 
coming to Scott. Mr. and Mrs. Crissinger have been members of the M. E. 
Church since their mnrriage. 

JOHN W. DOWLING, a vigorous, enterprising young man, born Juty 15, 
1853, in Illinois, whose parents, Joseph and Maria Dowling, were natives of 
Pennsylvania. At ten years of age, he came to live with John Hill, of this 
township, with whom he remained until twenty-three, when he was married. 



SCOTT TOWNSHIP. 977 

November 28, 1876. to Miss Rachel Coulter, daughter of J. H. and Mary A. 
Coulter. They have one child, Elma. In 1881. he purchased forty-eight acres 
near the center of the township, paying $63 per acre. He is worth all of $4,000*. 
For the past five years, Mr. D. has been renting 220 acres of Madison Mounett, 
which, by industry and frugality, is paying him finely. Both himself and wife 
are exemplary Christians. He as an Elder of the Disciple Church. 

ALEXANDER HILL is a rising young man of Scott Township, born 
September 16, 1847, and the son of Samuel and Jane Hill. His education was 
obtained at the common school. He remained with his father until his twenty- 
first year, when he married, June 19, 1868, Miss Luvain Seckel, daughter of 
Joshua C. and Elizabeth Seckel, and they have had five children, three dying 
infants ; Delphus and Franklin survive. B3 7 the death of his wife's father in 
1880, he came into the possession of ninety -eight acres of land in the southern 
part of the township, upon which he built in 1881 an elegant home, costing 
$2,000. He values his property at $7,000. He is a strong man, having scarce- 
ly ever seen a sick day. He barely escaped drowning when a youth, being a 
long time unconscious. Mr. Hill is a consistent Christian. 

EDMON R. HILL, an enterprising young man and a native of this town- 
ship, was born April 15, 1855. His parents, Ross and Caroline Hill, of Irish 
descent, came here about 1838. Upon arriving, they purchased forty acres, 
where their son now lives, and reared a famiby of five children, the father dying 
in 1868, aged forty-five years ; the mother is also deceased. Edmon's educa- 
tion was obtained in the common school, but at thirteen years of age he went 
to live with Henry Wright, with whom he remained until he was twenty-one. 
He inherited seventy-five acres from his father's estate, and his wife, Mrs. Hill, 
seventy-five acres from her father's estate. They value their present property 
at $10,000. He is improving and draining his farm, getting the best of stock. 
He has been quite a speculator, greatly to his advantage. March 6, 1879, he 
married Miss Laura Bell, daughter of James P. and Mary A. Bell. Their one 
child is Eva Ellen. He is a Granger, and his wife for several years has been a 
consistent member of the M. E. Church. 

SAMUEL HILL is another of Scott's most worthy and estimable citizens, 
who lives in a beautiful residence upon the eastern border of the township. He 
is a native of Knox County, Ohio, and was born December 5, 1817. His father, 
Samuel J., came from Ireland about 1780, when sixteen years old. His mother. 
Margaret H., was a native of Penns}dvania. His parents reared a family of 
nine children ; they moved to Coshocton County, Ohio, 1808-10, thence to 
Knox County, Ohio, and arrived in Marion County, Scott Township, in 1829. 
The old gentleman died in 1850, aged eighty-six years. Samuel Hill lived with 
his father until his twenty-fifth year, when he married, December 29, 1842. 
Miss Ann J. Mitchell, daughter of John and Isabella Mitchell, of Crawford 
County, Ohio, who were of Irish descent ; during the j'ear they married they 
bought forty acres, lying west of their present residence, but subsequently sold 
that, and purchased, in 1865, where they now live, 320 acres, for $11,000. He 
built his house in 1878, costing $2,000. Three years later, he put up a good 
barn, worth $800. Mr. Hill is worth to-day $20,000. He has always been a 
hard worker, clearing in his day 150 acres of land. He has been Township 
Trustee three or four terms. He has been a prominent member of the Disciple 
Church, serving it in all official capacities. He is also connected with the Grange 
movement. Mr. and Mrs. Hill have had twelve children, two dying infants — 
Isabella, wife of Alvin Zuck; Alexander; Martha, wife of William Likins; Frank. 
John, Silas, Jennie. Emma, Hattie and A. D. He keeps the Durham thorough- 
bred stock. 

ADAM HIPSHKR is one of the highly respected citizens of Scott Town- 
ship, born January 1. 18(15. in Center County. Ponn.. and whose parents, Adam 



978 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

and Rhoda Hipsher, came to Fairfield County, Ohio, in 1819, thence to Scott 
in 1824. These people were among the earliest settlers. His grandfather, 
Lawrence, was born in Germany in 1740, and came to this country aged ten 
years. Our subject has always been a stout man. He recalls splitting 200 
rails in one day, from the tree. When his people first moved to Scott Town- 
ship there was but one bouse between their home and Bucyrus— Conrad 
Rhodes' — and none between them and Marion. At that time, Mr. Davis kept a 
hotel at Marion in a double log cabin. Milling was done at Frederick, Dela- 
ware and Mount Vernon. In 1832, Adam received from his father 151 
acres, to which he added subsequently 111 acres, making in all 262 acres of 
fine plain land. Mr. Hipsher has cleared in his time some 125 acres. His mar- 
riage to Miss Samantha Gleason, daughter of Amasa and Lydia Gleason, oc- 
curred September 28, 1 828. Their children numbered nine — Matilda (deceased), 
wife of James Bell ; Lawrence; Minerva, wife of James Osborne; Louisa, wife 
of Samuel Guchenor ; Zaccheus W.; Mary, wife of Spencer Bales ; Francis (dead). 
Harriet, wife of Louis Osborne ; Huldah, wife of Harrison Kinnamon. In 1873, 
Mrs. Hipsher died, aged sixty-three years. Mr. Hipsher served as Town Trus- 
tee twenty five successive years. He has never been confined to his bed by 
sickness, except in 1850, when he was down with the typhoid fever. He is 
still rugged, and best of all, without an enemy in the world. 

LEMMA HIPSHER is the son of Adam and Rhoda Hipsher, and was born 
December 30, 1822. He still lives upon the old homestead, where his father 
settled in 1824, thus living in the same house sixty years. His father died in 
1861, aged eighty-two years ; his mother died in 1856, aged seventy-three years. 
Lemma Hipsher received from his father 129 acres, which he increased to 352 
acres, 212 located in Iowa. He married, March 13, 1845, Miss Eliza A. Gar- 
berson, daughter of Job and Hannah Garberson, of Scott Township. Their 
children are three — Rhoda, wife of Alva Osborne ; Lucretia, wife of Cyrus Lee, 
and Andrew J. Mr. Hipsher is a quiet, inoffensive man, who has always led 
an exemplar} 7 life. 

URIAH HIPSHER was born December 9, 1813, and his parents, Adam 
and Rhoda Hipsher, were natives of Cumberland County, Penn. They came to 
Fairfield County, Ohio, as early as 1819, and pushed their way to Scott Town- 
ship in 1824, entering at that time 160 acres of land, and subsequently, not 
later than 1830, 390 more. He secured during his life a deed of 700 acres. 
Adam and Rhoda Hipsher brought up five boys and one girl, all to become 
heads of families, and securing a good competence. The home of the Hipshers 
was frequented at that early day by the Indians. Uriah and brothers were 
well acquainted with John Standerton, Capt. Dowdy, Killbuck, Capt. Pipe, 
chiefs of the Delawares, Tom Lyons (said to be 165 years of age) and George 
Lyons, his son, who could talk fairly well in the English, French and Dutch 
languages. Gen. Crawford, who was burnt to death by the Indians, passed 
within ten feet of Adam's doorway. These Hipsher brothers' grandfather 
Lawrence, was in the French and Indian war. Their uncle Henry participated 
in the war of 1812 ; was reduced once to the extremity of eating horse-flesh. 
He helped also to defend Gen. Ross. Uriah Hipsher inherited from his father's 
estate 140 acres, to which he has added 120 more. He was seriously affected 
in 1840 from the effects of the measles, settling upon the lining of his lungs. 
A few years since he greatly injured his shoulder. His marriage, September 14, 
1837, to Miss Eliza Garberson, has since been complemented with ten children, 
two dying infants, Isabella (dead), Lucetta (wife of Joseph Doyle), La Fayette, 
Emily (dead), Millis M., Milinda (wife of Curtis Foos), Salinda (wife of Nathan 
Foos), and Irvin W. 

Z. W. HIPSHP]R, son of Adam Hipsher, was born in Scott Township March 
10. 1839. Such education as he received he obtained in thfe common schools. 



SCOTT TOWNSHIP. 979 

May 10, 1873, Mr. Hipsher married his present wife, Miss Frances Mason, 
daughter of John and Man' Mason, of Crawford Count}', Ohio. Her grand- 
father Lyons was one of the first settlers in Crawford County. They have had 
one child — John L. Mr. Hipsher received from his fattier eighty acres of land, 
to which his wife has added fort}' acres more by purchase in 1879. He com- 
pleted a fine barn in 1881. He keeps good stock. He has been Town Trustee 
for the past ten years, and is an influential member of the Caledonia Lodge of 
the I. 0. 0. F., No. 299. 

ANTHONY HOUSER is a native of Richland County, Ohio, where he was 
born August 28, 1819. His father Michael came from Maryland, while his 
mother, Christina, was from Pennsylvania. They moved to Richland County 
as early as 1817, settling upon a small farm near Mansfield, Ohio. Anthony 
Houser was one of ten children. He was apprenticed to a carpenter, Adam 
Bear, of Bucyrus, at sixteen years of age for five years. He married. April 
22, 1841, Miss Eliza Wise, daughter of John Wise. They are the parents of 
ten children, four dying infants. The living are John C, Eliza A. (divorced 
wife of Michael Mathias), Catherine, Robert, Higley, Sarah (wife of Elliot 
Denman), Harriet (wife of Elias Crissinger), Malinda (wife of Jacob Spiece. 
He plied his trade for fifteen years after marriage, but he bought his present 
farm, then of 200 acres, about 1852, which he has increased by great industry 
to 800 acres. His property is valued at $50,000. His large brick house and 
substantial barn are the pride of the township, the former was built in 1866 for 
$5,000, the latter in 1881 for $1,500. He is improving his many acres yearly. 
He and family attend the German Presbyterian Church. They are both able to 
labor, though he has never fully recovered from serious injuries received by a 
runaway team in 1875. 

WILLIAM T. HUMMER is one of Scott's worthy men, and was born in 
Pickaway Count}-, Ohio. July 25, 1843, the oldest of a family of twelve 
children. His father's family moved to Marion County in 1859. The 
old gentleman is still living. William, having received a good common- 
school education, married October 14, 1869, Martha Monnett, daughter of 
Thomas and Martha Monnett, of this township. They have no children. 
They rented farms till 1871, then purchased their present home, con- 
sisting of fifty well-tilled acres of land. He is a great admirer of good stock, 
keeping the Hambletonian and Clydesdale horses. Himself and wife have 
been members of the M. E. Church since youth, he holding a license to preach, 
which prerogative he exercises occasionally. He is also an official member of 
the K. of P., Calantha Lodge, No. 116. He met with a physical misfortune, 
when a boy, twice breaking his left leg. Mrs. Hummer has a local reputation 
as a physician and nurse. 

THADDEUS C. KENNEDY was born June 29, 1838, in Richland County, 
Ohio, but his parents, John and Maria Kennedy, came to Scott in 1846, buying 
400 acres, where T. C. Kennedy now lives. His father died in 1853. aged fifty- 
five years, but his mother still lives, aged seventy-two years, hale and vigorous. 
July 25, 1860, he •married Miss Martha Walton, daughter of David and Louisa 
Walton. He enlisted in Company D, Eighty-second Regiment Ohio Volunteer 
Infantry, and served eighteen mouths. He was engaged in the battles of 
Cedar Creek, Cedar Mountain, Bull Run (second battle) and McDowell, under 
Gen. Sigel. He moved to his present home in 1874, farming 138 acres. Owing to 
poor health, Mr. K. has been engaged for many years in buying stock. His 
experience with horses has been disastrous to himself, having his ribs broken 
on both sides, also collar bone, and front teeth knocked out. 

ROBERT KERR. This well-known pioneer of Marion County was born 
in Mifflin County, Penn., October 27, 1807, and is the son of James and Betsy 
i Arbuckle) Kerr. The grandparents on both sides were natives of Ireland. 



980 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

named respectively James Kerr and William Arbuckle. Robert Kerr's father was 
a farmer, and migrated with his wife and family to Knox County, Ohio, in 1818. 
where he bought a farm of 1G0 acres in Clay Township. His wife Betsy died 
on this farm, aged forty-two years ; he subsequentl}' sold this farm to his son 
Robert, and moved to Licking County, Ohio, where he resided with his son-in- 
hiw. Aquilla Barber, until his death, at the age of eighty-seven years. Robert 
Kerr remained with his parents until nineteen years of age, receiving scarcely 
any advantages for securing an education. He now began to learn the tanner's 
trade, at Martinsburg, Ohio, and completed his apprenticeship in two years and 
five months. At the end of this time, he hired out to drive hogs through to 
Baltimore. Md., at three shillings a day and board, excepting dinner, which he 
had to furnish himself, if he had any. On his return to Ohio, he found em- 
ployment at general work around a saw-mill for several months, at $11 a month. 
While emplo3'ed in the following harvest, he was prostrated by a fever. This 
sickness, with the expenses attached to it, soon took the greater part of his 
earnings On his recovery, and for some time thereafter, he followed the busi- 
ness of clearing up land for different parties, at from $2.50 to $3 per acre. His 
part of the contract was complete when everything was cleared up within twelve 
inches of the ground ; 113 or more acres of land was cleared up by him in that 
manner. While clearing this land he cut 1,000 cords of wood and upward, at 
20 cents per cord, and made many thousand rails at 50 cents a hundred. About 
this time, or a little before, he had bought two eighty-acre pieces of land, then 
in Scott Township. Marion County, but now in Crawford County ; for the first 
eighty acres he paid $100, and for the other $200. He was married, August 
29, 1833, to Matilda Swaggert, a daughter of Daniel and Betsy (Coonrod) Swag- 
gert, and at once commenced keeping house on his 160 acres of land. From 
this time he gave his attention to farming, clearing $100 cash the first year. 
About the third year on the farm he began handling stock, which turned out 
tolerably well. He now. with what mone} T he had made, purchased 360 acres of 
land in Scott Township for $1,500, on five years' time, at six per cent interest, 
payments to be made of $300 yearly. He stocked this land with sheep, and 
made enough money to meet his pa} T ments promptly as they fell due. He was 
then told by an old Pennsylvanian, one Stephen Ulery, that he could make 
more money by raising sheep than in anything else, and Mr. Kerr, acting upon 
his advice, bought quite a large number. The first year he sold his wool for 
21^ cents per pound, the second for 22^- cents, the third crop at 29 cents, the 
fourth crop at 33^ cents, the fifth crop for 40 cents, the sixth for 50 cents, and 
the seventh crop at 80 cents a pound. The last season his receipts from the 
sale of wool and sheep amounted to $33,000. After this the price of wool de- 
clined to 50 cents, and kept going lower, and Mr. Kerr sold out all his sheep 
and quit the business. Up to 1876-77, his principal business had been han- 
dling sheep and stock, and he now owns (1883) a herd of 1,024 head of cattle in 
the Indian Territory, 1,059 acres of land in Crawford County, 443 acres in Wyan- 
dot County, and 2.573 acres in Marion County. He was one of the original 
stockholders of the Farmers' Bank of Marion, Ohio, and of the Nevada Deposit 
Hank, of Nevada, Obio, and now owns a large amount of stock in each ; he is 
also a stockholder in a bank at Winfield, Kan., which has but recently been es- 
tablished. He built, and still owns, the Kerr House at Marion, at a cost of 
$<i<U>00, and the Kerr House, at Nevada, at a cost of $18,000, both fine build- 
ings and an ornament to the towns where the}' are located, and monuments 
that speak well for the enterprise of the builder. He has made various dona- 
tions of considerable amounts, one of about $53,000 to Hiram College, and 
another of $23,000. to Bethany College, of Virginia, and various minor amounts 
to other institutions. He is the wealthiest citizen and largest landholder in 
this section of the country. He has 4,007 acres of valuable land, free of incum- 



SCOTT TOWNSHIP. 981 

brance. and other property, which, at a cash valuation, would amount to $600,000. 
This large property was acquired by fifty-four years of untiring energy, combined 
with excellent financial ability and strict integrity in all business transactions. 
He was formerly a member of the Disciple Church for many years ; but, for what 
he considered unchristian conduct of some of the members, he withdrew from 
that church, and has not been a member of any Christian denomination since. 
His wife, Matilda, died in February, 1859. By this marriage there were eleven 
children, six of whom are living, named Elizabeth, Sarah, Stephen, Mary. 
John and Amanda. Mr. Kerr was married the second time, in July, 1861, to 
Martha Williams, by whom there was one child — Addie. On New Year's Day, 
1883, Mr. Kerr met with a serious accident at Caledonia, while walking down 
the street, which was very icy ; he slipped and fell, causing a fracture or dislo- 
cation of the hip joint on the left side, and has not been able to walk since 
(September, 1883), and has made his home at Nevada, Ohio. He lived for 
forty-four years on the place where he first commenced keeping house, but for 
the ten years previous to the accident above mentioned, had lived in a house 
erected on his land in Scott Township, a short distance from his old home. 
Barring his inability to walk, he is enjoying good health for a man of his years. 
He is now seventy -six. We give Mr. Kerr's portrait in this work. 

CAPT. HIRAM KNOWLES was born in New York State January 16, 1811, 
and was the son of Seth and Mary Knowles, who came to Delaware County. 
Ohio, in 1816 ; thence to Knox County, Ohio, until 1828, when they came to 
Scott Township, settling upon the Kennedy farm, then consisting of 160 acres. 
They reared a family of eight children. The old gentleman died in 1864, aged 
seventy-seven years. Our subject has been a strong, healthy man all his life. 
He purchased eighty acres before marriage, but increased that number to 510 
acres, being worth at one time $25,000. From his fortieth to his sixty-fifth 
year, he was known far and near as a stock speculator, having once $30,000 in- 
vested in a single drove. He served as Treasurer of the township twenty-five 
consecutive years, also as Constable for fifteen years. He was County Commis- 
sioner two terms. Has seen all of the wilds of a new country, besides the hard- 
ships attached thereto. Indians by the score, wild deer by the hundred, 
wolves by the score, and foxes and all other wild animals of a new country were 
plenty. 

JAMES LIKINS is one of Scott's most venerable men, born March 11, 
1803, in Fairfield County, and who came with his parents, James and Jane 
Likins, in 1828, to Marion County, settling on " Mud Run," where Samuel Hill 
resides at present. He remained with his parents until seventeen or eighteen 
years of age. He bought his present residence in 1830, from the Turnpike 
Company. It then consisted of 160 acres, to which he has since added 359 
acres At one time he owned 897 acres, but he has given to his son 240 acres 
and to his daughter 108 acres. He still owns 549 acres. He values his estate 
at $40,000. He has ever been a very muscular man, clearing in his day 300 
acres of plain land. He is still active, hearing and sight good, and was never 
confined to his bed until his seventieth year. He buys and breeds the best of 
stock. He has been a member of the M. E. Church for the past fifty years. 
His father, James, was a soldier of the war of 1812, and he (the father) helped 
to organize Scott Township. Mr. Likins was a Jackson Democrat, but voted 
for Lincoln. He married, in 1829, Catherine Black, who lived five years, bear- 
ing him three children, one living, Sylvester Likins. He married again, 1835, 
Frances Crow, who died in 1868. His present wife, the Widow Scales, he mar- 
ried in 1870. We present the portrait of Mr. Likins in this work. 

JAMES LINDSAY was born June 25, 1814, in Center County, Penn., and 
his parents, John and Jeanette Lindsay, were natives of the same county. Hi9 
parents came to Fairfield County, Ohio, as early as 1822. but moved to Marion 



982 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

County about 1825. His mother was known far and near as Mother Lindsay, 
on account of her excellent qualities as a nurse in that early day. When these 
people moved here, there was one house at Caledonia, a double log cabin, and 
that without a tenant. Mr. Lindsay lived with his parents until he was twenty- 
four years of age. He did a great deal of rail-splitting, clearing and bridge- 
building in his younger days. January 5, 1839, he married Miss Hannah Mon- 
roe, daughter of Lemuel and Margaret Monroe, of Claridon Township. Ten 
children have been born to them, two dying in infancy. Their names are Eliza- 
beth J. Ulsh. Margaret A., dead ; Jeanette, wife of Jacob Kurts ; John F.; 
Oliver N.; Mary O., wife of H. C. Henson ; Isadora ; and Zula, wife of G. G. 
Curtis. Mr. Lindsay first entered 120 acres in Van Wert County, but soon 
exchanged that for 120 acres near his present home, to which he has added 
many rich acres, owning now 347 acres, all clear of indebtedness, and he is at 
present worth some $20,000. He has cleared altogether 160 acres of forest 
land. Mr. L. worked in early days at 50 cents per day. He attended the In- 
dian sale of ponies at Upper Sandusky in 1843. 

JOSEPH MASON is a solid and substantial citizen, born in West Torring- 
ton, England. February 28, 1817, with Robert and Mary Mason as parents. 
His mother died the year Joseph was twenty -one. His father brought him and 
his brother to the old Mason farm in Crawford Count}-, Ohio, in 1840, where 
his father died in 1874, aged eighty-two or eighty-three years, owning 330 acres. 
February 28, 1842, Mr. Mason married Miss Sarah Towers, daughter of Thom- 
as and Nancy Towers. Their children are Mary, wife of Samuel Weir ; Louisa, 
wife of John Mathews ; Helen, wife of James Noblet ; Isaac, who married P. 
L. Lucas, daughter of A. Lucas ; Ann, wife of Thomas W. Monnett ; Harry, 
who married A. Clutter, daughter of Samuel Clutter ; Thomas, who married M. 
Lucas, daughter of A. Lucas ; Elizabeth, wife of Oliver Lindsay ; Jane, de- 
ceased, and Lydia, wife of W. M. Coulter. In 1847, Mr. Mason purchased his 
present home of 120 acres, to which he has added 240 acres ; he also owns 22 
acres in Tully Township and 140 acres in Claridon Township. He is a stanch 
Democrat. Is Township Treasurer, also Infirmary Director of the county, and 
has held many minor offices. His farm was crossed by Gen. Crawford upon 
his way to attack the Indians. His estate is not less than $35,000 at present. 
The character of his fields and the quality of his fences declare him to be one 
of the neatest farmers in Marion County. His blooded stock speaks well for his. 
enterprise. He believes in tile and uses it advantageously. 

MRS. MARY MILLER is the widow of James Miller, and was born De- 
cember 21, 1818, in Clinton County, Penn. Her parents came to Scott Town- 
Rhip from Fairfield Count\r, Ohio, with the Hipsher family in 1823. Her father's 
father was a Revolutionary soldier. She married James Miller, son of Thomas 
H. and Sarah Miller, April 14, 1840. Their children are Eliza, Isabel (wife of 
Nelson Myers), Thomas L. and Jones J., who married, January 12, 1882, Mary 
A. Stagle, and who cares for the home place to-day. Seven months after their 
marriage. Mr. and Mrs. M. moved upon their 240-acre farm, to which in subse- 
quent years they added many acres, owning at one time 700 acres. Notwith- 
standing his vast estate, he became badly involved through sickness and giving 
bail in law suits, mid a year or two before his death he made an assignment. 
He died aged seventy-nine }ears, known and regarded as an honest man. 
His life was insured slightly, so that Mrs. M., with the forty acres presented her 
by her lather, has a competency. Mrs. M. has been a member of the Universal - 
ist Church for the past twentj' years. 

T. S. MILLER was born September 24, 1828. in Pennsylvania. His par- 
ents were Thomas II. and Sarah Miller, the father coming from London, Eng 
He came to America with a brother while both were youths. When Thomas 
S. was only six weeks old. his parents started for Ohio, stopping in Scott Town- 



SCOTT TOWNSHIP. 983 

ship in 1828. entering 800 acres. The father died in 1842, leaving an estate of 
$12,000. The mother died Januar}- 25, 1879, aged ninety-six years. Mr. 
Miller lived with his parents during their lives. He married, March 6, 1860, 
Miss Ann Clathart, daughter of Christian Clathart, originally from Germany. 
Their children are three - Melville P., Flora B. and Ida L. He received from 
his father forty acres of plain land and forty acres of timber, to which he has 
added 105 acres, also owns thirty-four acres in Tully Township. In all. he pos- 
sesses 230 acres, valued at $15,000 to $20,000. Mr. M. has seen many sick 
daj's, but is still vigorous. He is identified with the Grangers, being a member 
of Lodge No. 1080 at Letimberville. 

ABRAHAM MONNETT (deceased). Few of the pioneer settlers of Marion 
County ever rose to a position of such prominence as a citizen and a man of ster- 
ling worth and business ability as that attained by the honored and highly es- 
teemed subject of this sketch. Mr. Abraham Monnett. He was a descendant of 
Mr. Abraham Monnett, who with his family moved from Virginia to Ohio in the 
year 1800, settling near the village of Chillicothe, Ohio. His family consisted 
of Isaac, Thomas, Margaret, Jeremiah (father of our subject). John. William 
Osborn and Elizabeth. Jeremiah Monnett returned to Virginia, where he mar- 
ried Miss Alice Slagle. They settled near Cumberland, on the Potomac River, 
residing there until 1814. He then, with his family, consisting of his wife and 
five small children, one of whom was the subject of this memoir, removed to 
Ohio, settling in Pickaway County. Their trip was attended with many diffi- 
culties, and probably would not have been undertaken but for the timely assist- 
ance of a Widow Jones, who accompanied them to this State. Upon arriving 
at the above destination, Mr. Monnett had only $5 in money, his team and a 
small supply of household goods. He was a regularly ordained minister of 
the M. E. Church, and a resident of that county until 1835, when he removed 
to Crawford County, locating four and a haff miles south of Bucyrus, living 
there until his death, in September of 1863. Mr. Abraham Monnett was born 
on the 12th of October, 1811, in the Old Dominion, near the Maryland line. He 
passed his life in the place of his nativity until he removed with his parents to 
Ohio. In that early day of the settlement of Pickaway County, but limited 
opportunities were afforded him for obtaining an education. Always active, 
energetic and decisive in character, he had, before leaving the above county 
with his father in 1835, exercised a potent influence in local matters ; and while 
residing there, he joined a company of militia and became its First Lieutenant. 
His commission for the office was signed by George McArthur. Soon after coming 
to Marion County, he purchased forty acres of land in Scott Township, and about 
that time he became a member of the Marion County Militia, and succeeded to the 
First Lieutenantcy again. In June of 1836, he returned to Pickaway County, 
and, on the 9th of that month, married Miss Catherine Brougher, who had 
been an orphan from her fourth year, and by whom he received $2,500, the pro- 
ceeds of a sale of land of which she was the heir. This, with the exception of 
$120 given him by his father, was the only means received by him, and the 
only part of his extensive fortune not acquired by his individual energy, indus- 
try and economy. Shortly after his marriage, Mr. Monnett took up his resi- 
dence in Scott township. In 1838, he commenced handling cattle, bringing 
them often from Illinois, the drive requiring sometimes thirty-five days. Later 
in life, he assisted in the organization of the Marion County banking institution, 
in which he continued to hold an interest, and of* which he was President from 
June, 1864, until his death. He was also President of the Farmers' Bank at 
Marion, and at the head of the Crawford County Bank of Bucyrus, where he 
spent most of the time during the last years of his life. Mr. Monnett owned 
at one time in Marion and Crawford Counties 11,000 acres of choice land. 
Truly, this was a princely fortune for one to accumulate, whose earlv life was 



984 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

environed by the vicissitudes incidental to pioneer life, and whose school was 
located two and a half miles from his father's residence. Mr. Monnett was not 
only successful in financial affairs, but in the rearing of a family of twelve 
children to honorable manhood and womanhood. They are situated as follows: 
Ephraim B., farmer, of Dallas Township, Crawford County; Martha, wife of 
G. H. Wright, of Marion ; Oliver, farmer, of Dallas Township, Crawford 
County ; John T., of Grand Prairie Township ; Alcy, wife of James Malcolm, of 
Bucyrus; Augustus, farmer, of Bucyrus Township, Crawford County; Marvin 
J., farmer and stock-dealer, of Dallas Township, Crawford County ; Mary J., 
wife of George Hull, banker at Findley, Ohio ; Madison W., Teller in Crawford 
County Bank of Bucyrus ; Nelson, on the homestead in Scott Township ; 
Amina J., wife of Calvin Tobias, Bucyrus ; and Kate, wife of Lewis Ross, 
farmer, of Dallas Township, Crawford County. Mrs. Monnett died February 8, 
1875, and May 30, 1877, Mr. Monnett was again married. The name of this 
wife was Mrs. Jane Johnston, daughter of Samuel Ludwig. In his early man- 
hood, Mr. Monnett was identified with the Whig party, but since the formation 
of the Republican party he cast his vote and influence for its support. His 
first Presidential vote was for J. Q. Adams. Mr. Monnett was a man of un- 
bounded public enterprises, and no movement either of a public or private 
character was ever presented to him but what it received his cordial and gen- 
erous support. He was liberal to a marked degree, and no man in Marion 
County gave more to religious, educational and benevolent enterprises than Mr. 
Monnett. He aided by contribution to build the majority of the Methodist 
Episcopal Churches in the county. This was the church of his choice, and he 
held a membership relation with it from the time he was eighteen years of age. 
In 1850, he bestowed a large sum on the Female Seminary of Delaware, and, in 
1853, to the Ohio Wesleyan University at that place. Mr. Monnett's life was 
one of usefulness and success equaled by very few. He was a man of uncom- 
promising honor and integrity, and enjoyed the respect and esteem of all who 
knew him. He departed the scenes of this life March 7, 1881, leaving a large 
estate and a name that was pure and free from any stain. 

JOSEPHUS MONNETT is one of Marion County's substantial young men. 
November 28, 1846, he was born to Thomas and Hannah Monnett, who came 
to Scott Township from Licking County, Ohio, about 1830. His father was a 
Marylander, who owned 400 acres at his death, which occurred in 1859, aged 
fifty years. Josephus' education was obtained wholly in the common school. 
He came into possession of 100 acres from his father's estate, purchasing his 
sister's share for $800. He purchased his present place, consisting of 100 
acres, in 1880. He also has 200 acres in the western part of the township, 
and 300 acres in the eastern part, upon Sections 26 and 23 — in all 660 acres, 
valued at $40,000. His beautiful home was built before he obtained it, at a 
cost of $3,000. A new barn stands near the house. He is farming upon an 
extensive scale, raising this year. 1883, seventy acres of corn and forty acres 
of wheat; tiles 300 or 400 acres annually. He keeps good stock, has 400 sheep 
— a small number for him — and is a Granger of six years' standing. He is 
Clerk of Board of Education of the township, while he and wife have been 
members of the Methodist Church since 3011th — twenty-one years — he acting 
in all capacities. December 28, 1871, he married Miss Malinda Carmean, 
daughter of Curtis Carmean. They have had six children — Hattie, Ollie, 
Charley (deceased), Oscar (deceased), Nettie and the baby. The baby's name 
is Ada Edith. 

M. H. MONNETT is beyond question the richest man in Scott Township. 
He is a twin brother of Madison Monnett, and they were born August 8, 1851. 
He is the son of Abraham and Catherine Monnett (see sketch of Abraham Mon- 
nett). Mr. M. H. Monnett, having obtained a common school education, married, 



SCOTT TOWNSHIP. 985 

October 27, 1874, Miss Ella Carmean, a daughter of Curtis and Harriet Carmean, 
of Ross County, Ohio. The name of their one child is Arthur A. Monnett. 
He bought his present home in 1878, consisting then of eighty acres, but he 
owns at present 560 acres of fine " plain land;" 160 acres lie south of the road, 
and 320 acres north; the latter is a mile in length, and a half mile in width. 
He also has an eighty-acre lot in Crawford County, through which the Scioto 
flows. In addition to this, he owns twenty-one city lots in Toledo. He has a 
large bank account, and at the least estimate he is worth $44,000. Upon his 
plains graze (1883) 120 head of cattle, many of them of the Kentucky grade. 
This season he is building a $7,500 residence, to be finished with all the mod- 
ern improvements. 

JOHN RICE was born April 28, 1822, in Canaan Township, Morrow Co., 
Ohio. His parents, Jacob and Lydia Rice, were natives of Pennsylvania, but 
came to Fairfield County. Ohio, when they were some fifteen or sixteen vears 
of age. They moved to Caiman Township in 1821. They raised a large fam- 
ily of thirteen children. John's great-grandfather was a commissioned officer 
in the Revolutionary war; his grandfather, Michael Rice, and his father did 
duty in the war of 1812. When quite young, he and his brother purchased 
ninety acres of land near their father's place, and upon this Mr. and Mrs. R. 
made their home the first ten years of their married life. In 1867, they bougiit 
their present residence, consisting of 110 acres; in all, they own 405 acres, con- 
trolling large tracts in Claridon and Canaan Townships. He is worth at pres- 
ent some $25,000, having begun with nothing. His marriage to Miss Sarah 
Bennett, daughter of Rev. Bennett, of the Methodist Episcopal Church, took 
place October 13, 1857. They have had six children, two dying in infancy. 
The survivors are Simeon B., a junior at Buchtel College, Ohio ; Ella, wife of 
William Weir, Ida and Cora. Mr. Rice stands well as an Odd Fellow and Ma- 
son. His membership of the former is at Caledonia, in Lodge No. 299; also a 
member of the Olive Lodge, No. 447, of the Masons of the same place. 

MADISON ROBERTS is a young farmer, born January 28, 1855, in Illi- 
nois, whose parents are Wesley and Elsie Roberts, of Crawford County. He 
married, February 17, 1876, Miss Emma Kenuedy, daughter of W. K. Kennedy, 
of Tully Township. The names of their children are Brauche, Irvin, Wesley 
and Riene Esma. The past few years Mr. Roberts has been renting 160 acres 
belonging to his father. He has obtained considerable property, and is on 
his wav to prosperity. 

THOMAS M. ROBINSON was born in Franklin Couuty, Ohio, July 30. 
1845. the son of Joseph and Mary Robinson, from Virginia and New York 
respectively. His grandfather, John H. Robinson, was a soldier in the Revo- 
lution. His parents came to Marion County in the spring of 1861, the father 
running a tan-yard at Letimberville. He died in 1881. aged seventy-eight 
years. The mother still survives. Thomas M., having obtained a fair educa- 
tion from the common schools, enlisted in defense of his country in 1862, 
in Company I, Ninety-fifth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. At the battle 
of Richmond, Ky., he was captured, and paroled the following day. He first 
married Mary Cramer, living with her seven years, having one child, Anne. He 
married again. July 4, 1878, Miss Lovina Walton, a daughter of David and 
Louisa Walton. He has a residence at Letimberville. which he purchased 
in 1881. He is a tanner by trade, hut can turn his hand to anything, such as 
carpentering, shearing sheep, etc. He has sheared as high as fifty-eight sheep 
in a day. He is an enthusiastic member of the G-. A. R. 

HON. JOHN ROSENCRANS. Ksq., now a resident of Bucyrus, Ohio, was 
for thirty-five years an honored and prominent citizen of Scott Township, 
Marion County. He was born August 14, 1808, at Nanticoke. Hanover Town- 
ship, Luzerne Co.. Penn.. where he lived until nine years of age, at which time 

uu 



986 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

bis parents, John and Olive (Downing) Rosencrans, with their famiLy, moved to 
Newport Township, Luzerne County, Penn. In that township he lived until he 
was thirty-nine years old. The Rosencrans family were originally from Hol- 
land, and emigrated to America at an early period, as John Rosencrans, the 
grandfather of John, was a soldier in the Revolutionary war. The father of 
our subject was for many years a school teacher, but during the latter years of 
his life was a farmer in Newport Township, Luzerne County, Penn., where be 
died in 1845, aged about seventy years. His wife died at the same place 
several years afterward ; she was aged about ninety years ; her maiden name 
was Olive Downing, and her birthplace was in Connecticut and was reared 
at Wilksbarre, Penn. John Rosencrans, the subject of this biographical 
notice, was reai'ed to the life of a farmer, and during his minority 
received the advantages of a good common school education ; when nine- 
teen years of age, he taught a summer school for two terms, and for the 
next nine years taught school each winter. He was married when in his 
twenty-second year to Margaret Fairchild, who was born May 14, 1811, and 
was a daughter of Solomon and Elizabeth (Lutsey) Fairchild, all of Newport 
Township, Luzerne Co., Penn The spring he was married he bought land, and 
during his subsequent residence in Pennsylvania was always interested to a 
greater or less extent in farming, and in buying and selling of farming lands ; 
at both businesses he was uniformly successful. When he was twent3 T -eight 
years of age, there were six school directors to be elected, and Mr. Rosencrans 
was a candidate ; the one receiving the highest number of votes was to hold 
office for six years, and those receiving a lesser number were to hold office 
from two to four years, according to the number of votes received by each. 
Esquire Rosencrans received the highest number of votes, and was in consequence 
elected School Director of Newport Township for six years. About this time 
a post office was established at his house in Newport, and named Painesville : 
he was appointed Postmaster, serving as such six years. When twenty-nine 
years of age, he was elected Auditor of Luzerne County, and upon the expira- 
tion of his term of three years as Auditor, which office he had filled with great 
satisfaction to the citizens of the county, he was elected and served as County 
Commissioner. While a resident of that county, he also served in many minor 
official positions, such as Township Assessor, Land Appraiser, etc. In 1847. 
he exchanged his home iu Newport Township, Penn., for 100 acres of land on 
the southwest quarter, Section 14, Scott Township, Marion County, and the 
same year came here to live with his wife and eight children, named as follows: 
Mary, Ann, George W., William, Elizabeth 0., John, Ellen and Emily (twins), 
Solomon F. ; two others, Margaret P. and Tacy. were born in Scott Township. 
On his arrival in Scott Township, he commenced improving his property, and 
was soon recognized by the citizens as one of the leading men of the town- 
ship in all its affairs, a position that he maintained throughout his long resi- 
dence in that locality. The autumn succeeding his settlement in the township, 
he was elected Justice of the Peace, and received his commission next spring. 
This office he filled with such impartiality and good judgment that he was con- 
tinued in the position b}' the unanimous votes of the people for thirty-three years, 
and, what is unprecedented, only one case was ever carried up to a superior 
court that came before his court. He also served on the School Board of 
Scott Township thirty-five years, as Assessor and Land Appraiser two terms 
each, Clerk of the Township four years, as County Commissioner of Marion 
County six }'ears, and as member of the Ohio House of Representatives two 
years. He was also Postmaster at Letimberville during President Taylor's 
administration. Since Esquire Rosencrans first purchased land in Scott Town- 
ship, he lias increased his landed possessions to 802 acres in that township, 640 
acres in McLean County. 111., and forty acres in Missouri. In the spring of 



SCOTT TOWNSHIP. 987 

1882, he retired from business and moved to Bucyrus, Ohio, and now resides 
in a neat residence on the south end of* Sandusky avenue. He is a Democrat 
in politics, and although a believer in the Christian religion, never was a mem-, 
her of an\ r church. He is one of those large-hearted, generous men, charac- 
teristic of the old-time pioneer and gentleman. He is still hale and vigorous, and 
while the writer was at his house, August 14, 1883, his children and grand- 
children began gathering in quite unexpectedly to him in honor of his seventy - 
fifth birthday. As an honored pioneer of Marion Count}', we present the 
portrait of Mr. Rosencrans in this work. 

S. F. ROSENCRANS is the son of John and Margaret Rosencrans, who 
were born in Pennsylvania and emigrated from that State. S. F. was one of 
twelve children. In 1847. his parents came to Scott Township, settling on the 
"old Young farm," consisting of 100 acres, which they increased in subse- 
quent years to 800 acres. The old people still live in Bucyrus (see Hon. 
Rosencrans' sketch). The subject of this sketch married in February of 1872 
Miss Amanda Lee, daughter of Sarah A. Lee, and their three children are 
Rosa, Flora and John. Mrs. Rosencrans died in 1876; he continued a widower 
two years, marrying then Mrs. Mary Fairchilds, Daniel Fairchild's widow. 
One child has been born to them — Emma May. Mr. Rosencrans owns eighty 
acres of land in Arkansas. He has been renting his father's farm of 505 
acres for the past few years, paying $1,100 annually. He is an extensive 
fanner, raising large fields of corn annually. He has been Township Trustee, 
and is a member of the K. of P. and of Calanthe Lodge, No. 116. 

ANDREW. SECKEL is a native of Scott Township, born November 17, 
1841, the son of Joshua and Elizabeth Seckel, who came from Pennsylvania 
about 1830, settling at Letimberville. They were the parents of six children. 
The father died in 1879, aged sixty-three years, and the mother was sixty-one 
years of age at the time of her death. They left an estate of $40,000. Our sub- 
ject having received a common school education, married, October 4, 1862, Mary 
Hutchenson, a daughter of Rev. J. H. Hutchenson of the Indiana Methodist 
Episcopal Church. Eleven children have been born to them, seven surviving 
— Charles H., Bertha B., Cora E., James H., Katie L., Minnie M. and Lo B. 
Mr. Seckel received from his father's estate 115 acres of good land. He owns 
also eighteen acres near Caledonia. He is quite an extensive grain raiser. In 

1881, from sixty acres he obtained a yield of 987 bushels of wheat, and in 

1882, from the same number of acres, 760 bushels. Our subject was severely 
wounded in his seventeenth year by an ax being struck into his spine, in con- 
sequence of which he was an invalid many months. 

SAMUEL WEIR is one of Marion County's most enterprising men, hail- 
ing directly from the Emerald Isle, County Donegal, where he was born in 1827. 
His parents were Samuel and Nancy Weir. He was obliged to work ex- 
tremely hard from his earliest youth, but when only earning $15 in six 
months, he accumulated $175, and started for America at twenty years of 
age. He stopped in Philadelphia for several years, sending mone}' to his 
mother for her support and subsequent passage to America. About 1857, he 
came to Caledonia with $91, and worked four years as foreman for Moses 
Kerr. June 13, 1861, he married Miss Mary Mason, daughter of Joseph and 
Sarah Mason, one son blessing this union — William J. In 1866, he bought his 
present residence, consisting then of 100 acres, costing $55 per acre, to which 
he has added eighty-three acres. His property is valued to-day at $15,000. 
with a house costing $2,000. He is improving and draining his farm by bury- 
ing tile annually. He keeps the best of stock. 



988 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 



CHAPTER XIV. 



TULLY TOWNSHIP. 

ORGANIC AND TERRITORIAL. 

r FVEE township of Tully was organized in 1828, at first including forty - 
1 two sections of land, as appears from the following entry: 

March 4, A.. D., 1828. 
Ordered, That surve) r ed Township 4 in Range 17, arid one tier of sections on 
the east side of Township 4 in Range 16 be and the same is hereby set off and organ- 
ized as a new township by the name of Tully. 

This was six sections more than the regularly surveyed township com- 
prised; but it was not destined long to remain thus. At the June session 
of the Commissioners, the same year, the six sections taken off of the east 
side of surveyed Township 4, in Range 16, were restored to Scott Town- 
ship. A year later, Tully Township was deprived of a tier of sections 
taken from off the eastern side and given to Washington Township which at 
that time belonged to Marion County, but which has since been 
given to Morrow County. But at the date of the erection of the 
county of Wyandot, Tully Township, in common with all the northern tier 
of townships of Marion County, suffered a greater loss of territory than at 
any time before, having to part with two full sections from off the north 
side, thus leaving only twenty sections to this township, which it has man- 
aged ever since to retain. After the loss of territory to the northern tier 
of townships of this county, of which Tully was one, they were so badly 
mutilated as to be scarcely recognizable, and the Commissioners thought it 
necessary to re-organize and re-name them, which they did, giving them the 
same names as they formerly had. 

Tully Township was so named at its organization at the suggestion of 
Alanson Packard, in honor of a township of that name in New York State, 
whence be had so recently come. 

PHYSICAL FEATURES. 

This township is composed wholly of Congress lands, consisting almost 
entirely of woodlands. The surface is generally rolling. The soil is fer- 
tile and productive, sustaining yearly abundant yields of corn, wheat and 
rye. The lands are well watered by perennial springs; a half dozen 
streams flow through its territory, making the soil fertile, and the chief of 
these is the Whetstone. The most of the land is under cnltivation, and 
there is none but what is available. 

The crop report for 1883 gives the following results: Wheat, acres 
sown, 1,199; bushels produced, 13,602; acres sown for crop of 1883, 1,130; 
oats, acres sown, 753; bushels produced, 21,778; acres sown for harvest of 
1883, 583; corn, acres planted, 1,682; bushels produced, 56,790; acres 
planted for crop of 1883, 1,641; meadow, acres, 919; tons of hay, 1,132; 
clover, acres, 703; tons of hay, 723; bushels of seed, 559; flax, acres, 92; 
bushels of seed, 934; potatoes, acres planted, 53^; bushels, 4,751; butter, 
25,410 pounds; cheese, 200 pounds. Sorghum, 318 gallons sirup; maple, 



TULLY TOWNSHIP. 989 

1883, 170 pounds sugar and 115 gallons sirup; bees, 78 hives; honey, 398 
pounds; eggs, 24,700 dozen; apples, acres occupied, 190|; bushels pro- 
duced, 2.521: peaches, 1j02 bushels; pears, 23 bushels; total lands owned, 
10.570; acres cultivated, 5,587; acres in pasture, 2,003; acres of woodland, 
2,042; acres wasted, 101; wool, 14,769; milch cows, 296; stallions, 1; dogs, 
85; domestic animals died from disease, hogs, number, 14; value, $109: 
sheep, number, 18; value, $53; cattle, 6, value, $165; horses, 3; value, $390. 

SETTLEMENT. 

But few settlers were located in this township at the time of the organ- 
ization of the county in 1824, and they were in what was known as the 
Clyde settlement, which was so named by Alanson Packard, a member of 
that early settlement, from an old song, the " Banks of the Clyde," sung 
by Samuel Hazlet, a young man who came to the county with Father 
Beckley in 1821, and afterward was an early settler of this township. In 
this settlement were the Wilkinsons, Gleasons, Manleys. etc. John Camp 
bell, Esq.. who came to Canaan Township in 1822, which township was 
then in Marion County, but which more recently has been set off to Morrow 
County, says, at the time of his locating there, that Tully Township as it 
now stands contained cot a white inhabitant. But at a later date and 
before the organization of the township in 1828, Jacob Stateler, the Widow 
Ferrill, John Williamson, Jotham Clark, Nathan Arnold, Mr. Welsh, Asa 
Gordon and Daniel Smith had located in the northeastern portion of the 
township. 

Those forming the Clyde settlement at that date were Alanson Packard, 
James B. Packard, Phineas Packard, Henry Parcel and sons — John Parcel, 
Daniel Parcel — and two families of the name of Gleason. 

There were still other settlers here at this date. Among them were 
Noah Lee, John Lindsay, Wiliam Van Buskirk, George Beckley, Benaja- 
min Warren, Adam Hipsher, John Rudd, James Decker, Amos A. Boyan- 
ton, John Beckley, Charles Larrabee, Adam Hipsher, Sr., George Walton, 
James Larrabee, Daniel Smith, Simon Van Horn, Jr., Amariah Throp, Ja- 
son Gleason, John Jamison, Nathan Arnold and James H. Larrabee. Dur- 
ing that year (1828), John McNeal and Philip Hubbert came. John Auld 
and his wife, Margaret, and John McKinstry and family came in the year 
1833; David Noble and William Noble in 1832; Archibald Brownlee in 
1836 and James Brownlee and wife in 1837. 

John McKinstry (deceased), was born in Ireland and was brought to this 
country by his father. Nathaniel McKinstry, when but eighteen months old. 
He settled in Bucks County, Penn., in 1775, and from there moved to 
Franklin County, Penn. In 1807. John McKinstry married Miss Mary Pat - 
ton, and the same year moved to Washington County, Penn., where he re- 
mained till 1833, when he moved to this county and settled in Tully Town- 
ship, having a family of four children. Here he lived the remainder of his 
life, enduring the hardships of pioneer times. The family is extensively- 
known for their hospitality. It is related that Benjamin Masters brought 
with him a flock of sheep from Guernsey County, but that in a short time 
the entire flock was taken by the wolves. After the most of them were cap- 
tured, he determined to save the remnant of the flock by putting them in 
a pen built adjacent to his cabin: in fact, the two outside walls along one 
side and one end of the house formed a part of the walls to this inclosure. 
But all efforts were in vain: those bold, hungry wolves made nocturnal 
visits to the pen until the last lambkin was stolen away. 



990 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

BEGINNINGS OF IMPROVEMENT. 

The first schoolhouse, a log structure, was built in 1831; now there are 
six comfortable school buildings. 

At the organization of this township in 1828, there was but one regular- 
ly laid out road through it, and that was the Marion & Mansfield State 
road. It was then, by no means, opened up and made traversable. The 
settlers in going to either point mentioned, whether with a team or on 
horseback, always abandoned the road and followed a winding track cut 
out over the highest ground available. Philip Hnbbert and Joseph McNeal 
headed the list of petitioners for the first county road secured, a portion of 
which passes through this township. 

There were one or two grist mills close at hand — one owned and oper- 
ated by Benajmin Sharrock and the other by Jotham Clark. But both of 
these were small and very inferior, and the people were compelled to go to 
greater distances to get their grinding done. In some instances they have 
been known to go to the "Clear Fork of the Mohigan," near Belleville, and 
other places equally remote. 

It is related that when Isaac Dickson first entered lands in this town- 
ship in 1832, he, not desiring to leave his home in Pennsylva ia to locate 
here until the country became more thickly settled and better cleared, leased 
his lands here for a few years to a man then also residing in Pennsylvania, 
by the name of Toben. Mr. Toben was to have full control of the prem- 
ises for a few years and was to clear a number of acres and receive the en- 
tire crops during the time for recompense for his labor. The arrangement 
was perfected, the contract closed, and Mr. Dickson helped to move Toben 
and his family here and provided quarters for them in a cabin near where 
William Braden now lives. Mr. Dickson at once started back to Pennsyl- 
vania. Stopping, however, a short time in Guernsey County with some 
friends, he was delayed a few days in his arrival home. The first night 
Toben spent in his cabin, a violent wind storm arose and passed over that 
portion of the country, tearing up trees along its track, hurling deadened 
timber in every direction and shaking the cabin to its foundation. This 
was too much for Mr. Toben; the next day he sold all his goods and started 
back to Pennsylvania, where he arrived before Mr. Dickson made his ap- 
pearance there. Mr. Toben had received a genuine and lasting fright, and 
from that day he could not be induced to return to Ohio. 

Many of the old settlers, some of whom are yet living, never expected 
to see this part of the country settled, cleared and put under cultivation, 
and some of them even thought it never would become properly inhabited, 
as a remark or too will readily illustrate, related by Archibald Brownlee, 
as overheard by him between a few settlers while attending an election in 
1840. It had been a severe winter and an unpromising spring. The yield of 
corn, wheat and potatoes off the small patches of cleared land here and 
there ai*ound the cabins of the settlers, had been almost exhausted, and the 
outlook was then truly very discouraging. One of the men above referred 
to, in the course of a gloomy conversation, in which these discouraging 
features, with others, were fully discussed, finally put this question to the 
company: " Will this part of the country ever be settled? " The united 
answer of the others present was to the effect that it never would be. 

MISCELLANEOUS. 

Among the early settlers of this township who had their residence here 
for nearly or quite a half century, and who are still living, are Mrs. Jane 



TULLY TOWNSHIP. 991 

Kerr, who caine with her two brothers, David Noble, in 1832; Robert 
Clements, who came the same y«ar; Mrs. Margaret Auld, who came in 1833; 
Henry Leathen, who came in 1834; and Mrs. Martha Baden, wife of Will- 
iam Baden, and daughter of John McNeal. Her father, John McNeal, was 
a native of Ireland and was born in the year 1778. He came to America in 
1800, and was married in Washington County, Penn. , in 1802. He re- 
moved to Tully Township in 1828 and died at Iberia in 1883. 

Philip Hubbert located in Tully in the year 1828. more than a half cent- 
ury ago. He bore quite a prominent part in the political history of the 
town, having held the office of Township Treasurer for eighteen years, also 
the office of Township Trustee for a number of terms and served as Justice 
of the Peace for twelve years. 

Mr. Hubbert related an amusing incident that occurred while he was act- 
ing as Justice of the Peace. One day iu June a young man called to solicit 
him to perform the ceremony which should unite the young gentleman to 
his lady love in the holy bonds of matrimony. The time was designated; 
the place was mentioned, and after receiving a promise from the magistrate 
that he would be on hand, the young man departed. The days sped away, 
and soon the time arrived for the consummation of the nuptials, and Mr. 
Hubbert drove over to the house of the expectant bride; but as the hour for 
the marriage drew nigh, it was discovered by the Squire that the residence 
was in another county, and it would have been illegal for the ceremony to 
be performed by him in any other than the county in which he held 
his commission; and the marriage, too, would have been absolutely void. 
To obviate all difficulties and to have the marriage consummated without 
unnecessary delay, it was suggested that, as only a few rods intervened be- 
tween that point and the Marion County line, in fact, only the width of 
the road, the young couple should at the proper time step across the limits 
into the territory of Marion County and there be united; which was ac- 
cordingly done. The ceremony was performed in a potato patch, in the 
presence of a number of guests, after which all returned to the residence 
and partook of the marriage feast, and all went off as pleasant as a mar- 
riage bell. 

THREE LOCUSTS. 

This town came into existence soou after the Indianapolis Division of 
the Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati & Indianapolis Railroad was built, 
which division passes through Tully Township, angling from the northeast 
to the southwest corner. The place was at first a mere station, containing 
a post office and a few houses; but more recently it has assumed greater 
proportions, until now, lying as it does at the junction of three railroads 
— the Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati & Indianapolis, the New York, 
Pennsylvania & Ohio and the Ohio Central— it promises soon to become 
a prosperous village. In August, 1881, it was surveyed, replatted and laid 
out into sixty nine lots; the plat was at that time duly recorded, which is 
the first appearance of a record of a plat of the town to be formed. Con- 
stant accessions are annually made, which indicates a rapid growth of the 
place. The town already contains three stores, one hotel, one millinery 
and dress-making establishment, one saw mill and one blacksmith shop and 
a drug store. ' 

The first house built where this town now stands was once owned by 
John M. Baker. 

The town derived its name from the post office here, and the post office 
received its name from the department in the following manner: Mr. Ba- 



992 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

ker was anxious that the post office should be named after him; hence he 
forwarded the name "Baker" to the Department at Washington; but it was 
rejected. At this time there were three beautiful locust trees standing in a 
group near the place. One day. shortly after the rejection of the name of 
"Baker," several persons met to discuss the subject of the name for the new 
post office, with a view of determining what was the most appropriate name 
that had not already been used elsewhere in the State. It was in midsum- 
mer; the sun was beating down with almost scorching heat. The party had 
sought the inviting shade of the friendly three locusts, and was there 

" Calmly enjoying the breeze 
Wafting its way 'mid the trees." 

Many names had been suggested, and in their turn had been rejected 
by the little party, when a happy thought occurred to one of the number, 
who, pointing: to the foliage of the trees as it waved in graceful beauty 
over them, asked, " Why not name the new office in honor of these 
friendly denizens of the forest?" The suggestion was a good one, and was 
readily accepted by all present; and it was determined that the name 
should be forwarded at once to the Post Office Department at Washington, 
which was accordingly done, and in due time the Department christened 
the new office, giving it the name above designated. Mr. Baker was the 
first Postmaster here, and held the office for a number of years. 

TULLY CITY. 

In March, 1881, Dr. G. T. Harding caused. a town to be surveyed, platted 
and laid out just across the Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati & Indianap- 
olis and the New York, 'Pennsylvania & Ohio Kailroads from Three Lo- 
custs, which he gave the name of Tully City, but it is now known as a part 
of Three Locusts. 

CHURCHES IN TULLY TOWNSHIP. 

Emanuel's Reformed Church. — The first meetings of this denomination 
were held in 1851, in the schoolhouse in District No. 3, by Rev. Geurge 
Wiler. During the spring, at the same place and by the same minister, a 
church of twelve members was formed, consisting of George Plotner, J. 
Crissinger, George Diegle, G. Reichart. D. Ganzhorn, J. Heiney, S. Shu- 
maker, Lewis Kaltsmith, J. Spece, D. Crissinger, J. Reichart and J. 
Reister. The first Trustees were J. Reichart, J. Plotner and J. Reister; 
and Deacons, L. Kaltsn ith and S. Shumaker. This church, conjointly 
with the Lutherans, immediately erected a house of worship, a frame, 30x 
44 feet, at a cost of $700, in the same district. In 1868, they moved a 
half mile east and built a brick church, 30x50 feet, at an expense of $2,000. 
Rev. George Wiler was pastor four years; M. Stern, four years; D. Zim- 
merman, fourteen years; Mr. Heinze, two years; Weiss, two years; and 
now Rev. J. Winter is serving his fourth year. There are now seventy 
members. Trustees, Peter New T man, J. Baldinger and H. Lomiller; Elders, 
L. Kaltsmith and David Crissinger; Deacons, Henry Winters and Freder- 
ick Winch. 

German Methodist Episcopal Church. — The first meetings of this church 
were conducted by Rev. Jacob Rothweiler, in 1858, and the society was or- 
ganized about the same time by Rev. Christian Nachrieb. John and Will- 
iam Snyder were the first official members. There are now forty members, 
with Peter Whitamie and John Burkhart as officials. They built a frame 
church in 1858, on Section 16; it is 30x40 feet in dimensions and cost 



TULLY TOWNSHIP. 993 

$700. A good Sunday school is maintained during the summer. Rev. 
Philip Gracely is the pastor. 

The Methodist Episcopal Church, known as "Whetstone Chapel," is also 
located in this township. 

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 

We continue the history of Tully Township by giving biographical 
sketches of many of the leading pioneers and citizens: 

JOHN A. AULT was born in Belmont County, Ohio, September 20, 
1810, the eldest of nine children, remaining with his parents till he was 
twenty -four years of age, and giving them his wages. June 15, 1836, he 
married Miss Leah Nace, daughter of Peter and Elizabeth Nace, of Penn- 
sylvania, and of their six children since born, four are still living, namely: 
George W., soldier in the late war; Lucinda, wife of George Plotner; 
Jerome; and Melinda, wife of Augustus Askine. In 1837, Mr. Ault bought 
eighty acres of land in Belmont County, but sold that in 1843 and bought 
fifty acres where he now resides; his home at present comprises seventy 
acres; has owned at one time 300 acres, and was worth $20,000. He has 
been a hard worker, having cleared 100 acres of land, and in a single day 
has split 256 rails from the stump, cradled five acres of oats, and often 100 
dozen of grain. He is still a stout man. His wife died at the age of sev- 
enty-five. Mr. Ault's father, John Ault, was a native of New York, and a 
soldier in the war of 1812, with Gen. Harrison. His mother, Eve Ault, 
was a native of Washington County, Penn. His parents moved to this 
State in 1806. 

JACOB BALDINGER hails from Switzerland, Arjan City, where he 
was born October 22, 1824; his education is limited, but he early imbibed 
a love for America and American institutions; accordingly, after laboring 
faithfully seven long years with his uncle, he earned from him money 
enough to pay his way to America; he came to Galion, having $1 left, and 
he twenty -two years old; he worked in Galion twenty -eight years as switch 
man, accumulating sufficiently during that time to pay for his present farm, 
some $8,900; he settled upon this farm in 1874; he is an honest, straight- 
forward man, having been a Christian all his life; he is a member of the 
Reformed Church, which society he has served in every official capacity ; 
his present and second wife he married March 22, 1869. She is one of the 
intelligent women of Tully Township. They have eight children, one 
dying in infancy; the names of the living are John, Louisa (wife of Jacob 
Lowmiller), Emma, Mary, Henry, Minnie, Caroline and Fred. Mrs. B.'s 
maiden name was Elizabeth Wiser, and she was a daughter of William 
Wiser. 

JOHN BEACH was born January 22, 1839, in Crawford County, Ohio. 
His parents, George and Mary Beach, came from Germany, settling in 
Whetstone Township, and entering forty-four acres of land; he was a cab- 
inet-maker by trade. Our subject received a limited education, and worked 
by day and month until August of 1862, when he enlisted in Company K, 
Eighty-first Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving three years, going 
with Gen. Sherman to the sea. His marriage took place March 23, 1866, 
to Miss Harriet A. Smith, daughter of Jefferson and Catherine Smith, of 
Morrow County, Ohio, whose father owned at one time nearly all the land 
where Climax, Ohio, now stands. Their one child, Charles M. Beach, is being 
fitted for college. Mr. B. works at repairing considerably, and has invented 
the Eureka saw. In politics, he is neutral, and in religion he communes 
with the Seventh-Day Adventists, holding a membership at Pine Grove, Ohio. 



994 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

D. W. BROWNLEE is a bachelor, and a son of James and Angelina 
Brownlee, with whom he lives, and for whom he cares. His education was 
obtained in the common school, and he lives a quiet, unostentatious life, 
" living acid letting live." He is benefiting his neighborhood and county 
by rearing tine stock of all kinds, particularly cattle. His farm of 160 
acres he values at $100 per acre. 

JAMES BROWNLEE, residing near the boundary line between Marion 
and Morrow Counties, is one of the oldest of Tully's citizens. He bears his 
seventy- five years gracefully, though nearly blind for the past two years; his 
native place is Buffalo, Penn. James Brownlee, his grandfather, of Scotch 
descent, came to this country when seven years of age. James is the eldest 
of eight children, who were educated in the very common schools of that 
day. He remained with his father, farming and milling, until his marriage, 
which occurred March 2, 1837, to Miss Angelina Danley, of Washington 
County, Penn. Her grandfather sailed for America during the progress of 
the Revolutionary war, and did duty in the war of 1812. Mrs. B. is first 
cousin to ex-Governor Shannon, of Ohio, aud is at present (1883) in her 
sixty-fifth year. She rode to Ohio on horseback, 180 miles. Their children 
are ten in number, three deceased; the living are Rev. Hugh L., pastor of 
Portland Mills Associate Church; Nancy, wife of James Jackson, of Kan- 
sas; James E. , of Kansas; David W. ; Archibald D., of Kansas; Robert A., 
of Caledonia Mill; William M., also of Kansas. The Kansas cbildren'all 
have farms joining. In the spring of 1838 Mr. B. moved to Tully Township, 
buying, in the southern part of the township, 240 acres. At one time they 
owned 500 acres. They lived in a cabin fourteen years. In his prime, Mr. 
B. was a successful cradier, never finding a man who could follow him with 
a rake, and he has swept down 110 dozens " between sun and sun." He is 
a stanch Republican, and himself and wife are members of the United 
Brethren Church at Iberia. 

JOHN S. BURKHART is one of the thoroughgoing young citizens of 
Tully. He was born February 22, 1834, in Lycoming County, Penn., and 
is the son of Gottleib and Margaret Burkhart, the former dying when our 
subject was an infant, but he remained with his mother until twenty-one 
years of age. In his seventeenth year, his mother brought the family to 
Tully Township, settling where John S. now resides; she died in 1880, aged 
eighty-three years. Mr. B. has added thirty acres to the 110 acres which he 
inherited, and is worth about $10,000. In the winter of 1856, be married 
Elizabeth Shafer, of Morrow County, Ohio. Their children have numbered 
five, one dying in infancy. The names of the living are Mary L., wife of 
Abraham Gunther; Sarah E. ; Sanford W. and John O. Mr. B. and family 
are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, with which he has been 
identified for thirty- two years, and of which he has been a Leader for fif- 
teen years, and Steward for the same length of time. 

JOSEPH CLARK is one of the active men of Tully; his birth occurred 
May 30, 1835, son of Jonathan and Roxanna (Joslin) Clark, the former 
from Marshfield, Yt., and the latter from Montreal, Canada. They settled 
first in Franklin County, Ohio, about 1820, but about 1830 located in Tully 
Township, among the first, if not the first settlers in the township. He 
built the first grist mill upon Whetstone Creek. He built the first brick 
house in the township, upon the old homstead, but it has since crumbled 
away. He was a skillful surveyor, and a miller by trade. His death took 
place in 1842, but his wife attained the remarkable age of ninety-one years. 
Joseph Clark received a limited education; he enlisted in the civil war in 



TULLY TOWNSHIP. 995 

Company H, Sixty- fourth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving one 
year, and was honorably discharged. In 1876, he moved to his present 
residence, a neat, good farm. March 2, 1875, he married Miss Clara F. 
Busard, daughter of Prof. David Busard, of Knox County, Ohio; both of 
her grandfathers engaged in active service in the war of 1812, and her 
great-grandfather, Francis Pomeroy, was a Colonel in the war of the Revo- 
lution. Mr. and Mrs. Clark have three children— Lewis S., Grace W. and 
Joseph. Mrs. C. is a member of the Free-Will Baptist Church. 

ALEXANDER COCHRAN, the subject of this sketch, is a highly re 
spected citizen of Tully Township. He was born November 17, 1825, in 
Guernsey County, Ohio, the son of Jacob and Mary Cochran, who came 
from Pennsylvania; his mother was of Irish descent. About 1840, Mr. C. 
came with his parents and settled near Iberia, Washington Township, Mor- 
row County, Ohio, remaining there ten years. He next passed three years 
in Indiana, but since 1853 has been living in Tully Township. His tirst 
marriage to Miss Margaret Hill was of brief duration; his wife died three 
months subsequently. August 30, 1853, he married Miss Elizabeth Kerr, 
daughter of James and Jane Kerr, two children blessing their union — Mary 
J., wife of Jackson Sharrack. and James, at home. Mr. C. is building a 
$1,000 barn this season (1883.) He belongs to the I. O. O. F., and is an 
exemplary member of the Presbyterian Church. 

DAVID CRISSINGER is one of the respected citizens of Tully Town 
ship, born October 28, 1813, in Northumberland County, Penn. , son of 
John and Catherine Crissinger. They moved to Crawford County, Ohio, in 
1832, where David lived until his twenty-sixth year, giving bis father all 
his ^wages for a year and a half; he received only $6 per month. His 
grandfather, Leonard Crissinger, entered active service during the Revolu- 
tionary war, going barefooted some of the time. In 1845, our subject 
bought eighty acres of land in Crawford County, Ohio, paying $50 annually 
until paid for. He successfully met these obligations. In 1851, he pur- 
chased eighty acres of his present farm, which now consists of 200 acres. 
He lives to work; he began with an ax, has cleared 120 acres, and is 
worth some $18,000. His first marriage occurred October 17, 1839 to 
Miss Sarah Phillips, daughter of Henry and Christina Phillips, of Penn- 
sylvania. They had eight children— Henry (dead); Savilla, wife of Frank 
Swisher; Harriet, wife of George Whitamire; Joel (dead); John; George 
(dead); Eliza, wife of Charles Timson, and Christina, wife of John Fink. 
His tirst wife died August 17, 1876. Mr. C. married again, September 27, 
1878, Barbara Hart, daughter of David and Gertrude Hart. Our subject 
was quite a hunter, having brought down his three deer in a day, and seven 
turkeys another day. Though his whole schooling did not continue more 
than three months, he has been instrumental in settling several estates, and 
has been Township Trustee three or four years. Mr. C. is an active mem- 
ber of the Reformed Church, of which he has been Elder for twenty years. 

BARNET CYPHERS was born in Susses County, N. J., February 2, 
1826, the son of Paul and Hannah (Campbell) Cyphers, natives also of the 
same county. Mrs. Cyphers' father, McDonald Campbell, was born in 
Pennsylvania, of Scotch descent, and served from the beginning to the end 
in the Revolutionary war. He was an officer, and was woiinded three times. 
He came to Morrow County, Ohio, at an early day, and died there. Paul 
and Hannah Cyphers came to the same county in 1835, settling in Gilead 
Township (then a part of Marion County) among the early settlers. He 
purchased 120 acres in the N woods, of John P. Truax. The Indian wigwams 



996 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

were standing in this place when Mr. Cyphers bought it. They had six- 
teen children, of whom eleven are living, and of whom our subject is the 
eleventh. He was reared upon the homestead, and had but few educational 
advantages. When aged eighteen, he commenced to learn the shoe-maker's 
trade in Iberia, and continued to work at it until 1863, when he came to 
Tully Township, buying eighty acres near Three Locusts. All was woods, 
and he has cleared and improved the most of it. He married February 15. 
Miss Elizabeth Burghard, daughter of John Burghard, who was born in 
1849, in Carlisle, Penn. Nine children have been born to them, seven 
living — Arvilla, Essmiralda (wife of Thomas Ettinger), John, Luella (wife 
of Preston Btizzard), Emma, Alice and James. The deceased are Francis, 
Presley and Hannah Rettie. Mr. Cyphers is a Democrat politically, and has 
been School Director several years. 

ISAAC DICKSON was born in Washington County, Penn., February 14, 
1800. His father, Henry Dickson, sailed from Ireland, his native country, 
in 1783-84. His mother was American born, and of English descent. 
Isaac is the last survivor of eleven children. Having received a limited 
education, he came to Tully Township in 1832, entering 240 acres, located 
in thfi central part of the township, paying $300 for the same. He did 
not move here until the spring of 1856, when he purchased the "Joseph 
Brownlee^ Farm " of 260 acres, thus owning 500 acres. Upon the latter 
place, he lived until the spring of 1880, when his wife's health failing, he 
came to live with Sergeant Brownlee, his son-in-law. He married in his 
native county September 14, 1826, Miss Mary Hanna, daughter of Thomas 
Hanna, from Ireland in 1801. They have had nine children, one dying when 
an infant. Their names are Thomas, Henry, James, William H. , Mary (wife 
of W. N. Downs), Margaret (wife of James Davidson, of Nebraska), 
Elizabeth (wife of J. V. Harrison), and Eleanor (wife of Sergeant Brownlee). 
Mr. Dickson has been identified with the Democratic party since its forma- 
tion, having voted three distinct times for Gen. Jackson for the Presidency. 
Both himself and wife have been consistent Christians for sixty years. 
Since coming to Tully, their membership has been with the "United Presby- 
terians at Iberia. 

THOMAS DICKSON, Esq., is a prominent and leading citizen of Tully 
Township. He is a native of Washington County, Penn., born October 7, 
1828, the son of Isaac Dickson, and the eldest of eight children. He was 
married in his native place March 17, 1853, to Mary A. Ross, daughter of 
Mathew Ross. Their children are Mathew T. . Elizabeth H. (now married 
to John T. Giddis), Isaac C. and William A. In May, 1854, he settled in 
this township, upon some land which his father had entered. He has since 
purchased land, having 100 acres in his home farm, also fifty-three acres 
near Three Locusts, upon which are several town lots platted, whose value 
is increasing daily, and forty acres in Page County, Iowa. Our subject 
enjoys the confidence of his neighbors in a remarkable degree; was Trustee 
of the township from 1857 to 1861, then Olerk of the township twenty-two 
successive years; also Justice of the Peace since 1866. His leading prin- 
ciple in the settlement of suits is to have the belligerent parties compromise. 
He has " passed the chair " as an Odd Fellow, and is a Master Mason. He 
is not a member of any church, but affiliates with the United Presbyterians. 
He has been recently nominated by the Democratic party as County 
Treasurer. 

W. H. DICKSON is a native of Washington Count}', Penn., born Octo- 
ber 8, 1834. the son of Isaac and Marv Dickson; having obtained a fair 



TULLY TOWNSHIP. 997 

education in the common schools of his native State, he came to Ohio with 
his parents, and married, March 10, 1863, Miss Alice Richardson, daughter 
of Robert and Margaret Richardson. Children: Mary N., Maggie J., Ivy 
M. and Frank L. The first seven years after marriage, he resided in 
Canaan Township, Morrow County; engaged in farming; he then came to 
Tully Township, settling on his farm of 120 acres. In the spring of 1882, 
he came to Thr^e Locusts, and in company with Sergeant Clark and E. A. 
Benfield erected a grist mill, at a cost of $9,000, This mill is intended to 
manufacture flour by the roller process, to turn out seventy-five barrels every 
twenty-four hours, and to employ five men regularly. Mr. D, has a resi- 
dence in the village of Three Locusts. He is an esteemed citizen, and 
has been Trustee of the township ten years. 

JOHN DROLLSBOUGH is the son of Henry and Anna Drollsbough, 
born in Pennsylvania August 8, 1823. He has be«n a farmer all his days, 
first in Pennsylvania, then six years in Scott Township, and afterward, in 
1852, purchasing his present farm of seventy- two acres for $2,500. Mr. 
D. is an industrious citizen, having cleared in all some fifty acres of forest 
land. In 1864, obeying his country's call, he became a member of Com- 
pany C, Sixty-sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Owing to sickness, he lay 
for some time in hospitals at Savannah and Washington; he accompanied 
Sherman to the sea, and was honorably discharged at Columbus, Ohio; his 
first marriage to Martha Coulter, daughter of James and Elizabeth Coul- 
ter, occurred December 25, 1847. Their three children are Arabella, wife 
of John Jones; Ebenezer (deceased) and William. His wife died, aged 
thirty-six years. He was married again in 1851, to Nancy McMullen, 
daughter of William and Nancy McMullen, also of Pennsylvania. Four 
children have blessed this union — Robert and Mary deceased; Tirzah and 
Samuel are still living. Our subject has been an exemplary member of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church for nearly half a century, acting in nearly 
every official capacity. He is a respected citizen, now holding the position 
of local preacher in the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

DAVID JONES was born in Wayne County, Ohio, April 16, 1817, the 
son of Oliver and Rebecca Jones, the former from Virginia and the latter 
from Pennsylvania. David was the youngest of twelve children; his edu 
cation was obtained in a log cabin schoolhoase. In 1844, he bought 80 
acres of his present home, but lately added 152 acres more, selliag ninety 
acres. He built his fine house in 1878, at a cost of $2,500; a fine barn 
stands near that; cost $1,000. In 1840, he married Elizabeth Taylor, 
daughter of Matthew and Mary Taylor. Their children are five — George, 
at home; Marion; Ella, widow of Henry Crissinger; John; and Stephen L. ; 
deceased. Mr. Jones was a Democrat until the slavery question became 
momentous, when he joined the Republican ranks; he remembers distinctly 
the Indians, wolves and deer about his father's door. He is a quiet, re- 
spectable and successful farmer; beginning with $600, he is now worth 
$20,000. 

GEORGE KELLOGG is an old gentleman, seventy four years of age, 
having been born January 7, 1809; he is a native of Ulster County, N. Y.. 
and a son of Josiah and Catherine Kellogg, who came to Medina County, 
Ohio, 1830. At the early age of ten or twelve years, George took to the 
sea, coasting along the Atlantic shore, visiting the West Indies and the 
Islands; he continued this for seven years; before he quit sailing entirely. 
he coasted lakes Ontario and Erie one season. He spent mauy years work- 
ing on an engine; he was in Columbus several years and was with Gen. 



998 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Gregory for a time. To-day he owns some seventy-seven acres, having 
owned at one time 140 acres, and having cleared forty acres of forest land. 
He is a bachelor; a Democrat of the Jacksonian persuasion; has accumu- 
lated a good property. 

\Y. H. KELLOGG is the son of Perry and Harriet Kellogg, and is living 
with and caring for his uncle, George Kellogg. His birth took place 
March 2, 1847. Having acquired a fair, practical education, he married 
May 30, 1872, Miss Emma Humphrey, daughter of John and Rebecca 
Humphrey, of Ashland County, Obio. Four children have been born to 
them — Henry P., Ralph H. (deceased), Harriet R. and Mary B. His pres 
ent farm of twenty- four acres, he purchased in 1876, giving $2,040 for it; 
his residence he built in 1877, at a cost of $1,000; he makes a comfortable 
living by renting farms in the neighborhood; his place is supplied with 
good stock. He is a member of the Masonic Lodge at Caledonia, and was 
its Treasurer at one time; is also a member of the I. O. O. F., of the same 
place. He has been Trustee of the township five successive years. 

J. W. KENNEDY is the son of W. K. and Margaret Kennedy, born in 
November, 1853. He received a good education at Bucyrus, and taught 
two terms of school. He married Miss Emma Holverstott, daughter of P. 
W. Holverstott, an able farmer of Madison. The name of their child is 
Mabel Edna. He keeps good stock and is worth about $8,000; his resi- 
dence is just across from his father's in Crawford County. 

W. K. KENNEDY is financially one of the most prosperous men in 
Tully Township. He began life by working for $6 a month, and is worth 
$60,000. He was born February 16, 1818, in Mifflin County, Penn., and is 
the son of Thomas and Nancy Kennedy, of Irish descent, who came to 
Crawford County, Ohio, in 1832. The common school gave Mr. Kennedy 
his education. In 1843, he purchased eighty acres of land, paying $400 
cash, wages he had previously earned working by the day or month. His 
subsequent labors were greatly prospered, having owned at one time 820 
acres of good land; he owns 650 acres of land, 375 acres of homestead and 
115 acres timbered land in Tully Township, eighty acres in Polk Township 
and eighty acres in Dallas Township. His stock of thirteen horses is val- 
ued at $1,500, ten steers at $500, and 200 sheep at $1,000. As an index 
of his labor, we note that he cleared 100 acres of timber land. As a citi 
zen, be has been quiet and successful, never suing or being sued at the bar 
of justice. Mr. Kennedy contracted his first marriage May 28, 1844, with 
Miss Margaret Shank, daughter of Jacob and Lydia Shank, of Crawford 
County, Ohio. Nine children have blessed their union, two dying in in- 
fancy; the living are Lydia J. (wife of Samuel Baker). Thomas S. , Martha 
(wife of George Watts), J. W. (at home), Emma (wife of Madison Roberts). 
Auzilla, and Ella (wife of John Hill). His wife's decease occurred June 
23, 1800. In 1862, he married Miss Mary Lance. Their one child, Sami- 
ra, is the wife of Elsie Jones, of Iberia. Mr. Kennedy is the grandfather 
of twenty-six children; his attractive home cost $5,000. 

MRS. JANE KERR is the widow of James Kerr, and the daughter of 
William and Arniel Noble, who came from Rome, Ireland, soon after their 
marriage, about 1790. Mrs. Kerr's marriage occurred August 13, 1832, in 
Tully Township, where she now resides. Mr. Kerr entered 160 acres. She 
recalls vividly to mind the owls, wolves and suspicious Indians frequenting 
her door. Her husband's death took place in 1841, leaving five children, 
all less than seven years of age, for his widow to care for. She bravely 
labored, and, like a true heroine, conquered. Following are the names of 






TULLY TOWNSHIP. 999 

her children: Elizabeth (wife of Alexander Cochran), Andrew (who died 
from disease contracted in the war), Augustine (at home), William (of Illi 
nois) and Mary Ann (deceased). This mother, with her little boys, cleared 
fifty to sixty acres of timber land. Since 1830 she has been a faithful, con- 
sistent member of the Presbyterian Church, and is now only waiting for the 
Master's call, " Come up higher. " 

JOSEPH LANCE is a native of Crawford County, Ohio, born January 
10, 1845, the son of George and Susan Lance, of Pennsylvania. The com- 
mon school gave him his education, and he remained with his parents until 
marriage. April 8, 1867, he married Miss Catherine Hart, daughter of 
David and Gertrude Hart, of Tully Township. Four children have blessed 
this union — Phoebe, James S., Gertrude and Maud. He bought his present 
farm of eighty acres in 1870, paying $30 per acre; he also has a good farm 
of ninety-four acres in Crawford County; he built his house in 1879. He 
is a member of the Disciple Church, and is an energetic and worthy citizen. 

HENRY LEATHAM was born January 21, 1804, the son of William 
and Mary Leatham; the former emigrated from Ireland about 1794. Our 
subject received a fair education and taught two terms of school. He came 
to his present farm in 1834, entering 160 acres, and clearing, with his 
boy's help, 135 acres. He accompanied William Blair to this place Janu- 
ary 6, 1835. He married Miss Mary Black, daughter of John and Cather- 
ine Black, of Virginia; he met this lady while teaching. Their union has 
been crowned with nine children, seven of whom are living; Amanda J. 
died aged twenty-four years. The surviving are William W., Mary C. (wife 
of Henry Spranner), Sarah (wife of Samuel Lennis), Agnes (widow of Jo- 
seph McClung), John B., Luther M. and Joseph W. ; John B. was wounded 
in the late war while gallantly carrying his stricken Colonel from the held. 
Mr. Leatham has been a Republican since the formation of the party, but 
voted at first for Gen. Jackson. He has been an earnest worker in the 
United Presbyterian Church at Iberia. 

MATHEW McKINSTRY, the subject of this sketch, is very comfortably 
and pleasantly situated one mile south of Martel, in Tully Township. He 
was the son of John and Mary McKinstry; the former was born in Antrim 
County, Ireland, in 1773, and was brought to this country when only eight- 
een months old. He parsed the majority of his days in Franklin and 
Washington Counties, Penn. In the war of 1812, he belonged to the " Light 
Horse Brigade," and was on his way to do service when he was discharged 
at Pittsburgh. His family consisted of six children, all of whom are living. 
Maria, aged seventy-six years, the widow of James Brownlee, resides with 
our subject, who is next to the youngest. Mr. McKinstry was born in Wash- 
ington County, Penn., June 19, 1815, and, receiving a limited education, 
came West with his parents in 1833, settling where he still resides. His 
father entered 160 acres, and purchased eighty acres more lying imme- 
diately west of the first, paying $600 for the latter. Thus did Mr. Mc- 
Kinstry' s father invest $800 in a wilderness. Around his father's hearth 
fire also played Maria. Rosanna, James, Thomas and Rebecca. The Mc- 
Neals, the DicksoDs, the Nasters. the Bentleys and the Clydes were their 
near neighbors. Mathew grew up to manhood, and married Miss Phebe 
Garberson, a daughter of William and Eleanor (Slater) Garberson, and they 
have had eleven children, five married — four daughters and one son; the 
names of his sons-in-law are J. F. Morrow, J. W. Hubbert, R. R. Douce 
and John Neff. all strong temperance Republicans; the name of his daugh- 
ter-in-law is Nettie (Williams) McKinstry. He began in life by purchas- 



1000 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

ing 160 acres, but has added to that until he owns 451 acres of highly tilla- 
ble land. He has given his time and energies exclusively to the farm, with 
the above result. He is a leading farmer of his township, and an exemplary 
citizen; is a stanch Republican, representing the temperance wing. He 
has acted as Clerk of his township, and himself and family are members of 
the Presbyterian Church at Iberia. Mrs. McKinstry is an agreeable lady, 
and vies with her husband in giving the stranger a cordial reception within 
their doors. 

ALLEN McNEAL, the subject of this notice, was born in Washington 
County, Penn. , June 17, 1809, and came with his parents to Marion County 
in the spring of 1827, where they settled upon a farm in what is now Tully 
Township, which farm he owned at the time of his death. He lived in 
this county on that farm or in the near vicinity in Morrow County. 
He was descended of Scotch-Irish stock and developed many of the 
character} sties of that strong-minded, rugged people. His long residence 
in this county, his prominence, extensive acquaintance, and his strong per- 
sonality demand more than passing mention. Of strong and vigorous mind, 
wide and extensive general information, he was logical in thought, loved argu- 
ment and always attracted attention to his views. It is said that he attended 
school but about three months, yet by solitary study he acquired a liberal 
education, including nearly all the sciences taught in our colleges. He was 
not satisfied either with a smattering, but was only contented when he had 
mastered a study. Of modest and retiring disposition, he was noted for 
preferring the right to the merely popular. Notwithstanding his lack of 
mere policy in his action he was appreciated. In early manhood, he was 
elected and served as Colonel of his regiment of Ohio Militia. He was 
also repeatedly elected to offices in his township, although he was always 
in the minority party. He attracted more attention and became more widely 
known because of his determined opposition to slavery than for any other 
reason, and any notice of him would be lacking which did not note this fact, 
He was an original Abolitionist. It he ever had a hobby it was a worthy one, 
for it was human freedom and political equality. He was originally a Whig, 
but soon become a Free- Soiler, and was a member of that party until the 
organization of the Republican party, which then resolved against the ter- 
ritorial extension of slavery. He was the candidate of the Abolitionists 
for Congress — of course without hope of election. Everybody now says 
that slavery was wrong. Allen McNeal said so when it was dangerous so 
to express himself. He made speeches against the "crime of ages" when 
it was the custom to break up such meetings and to mob and egg the 
speakers. He passed through these scenes never faltering or wavering in 
what he deemed his duty. He practiced, too, what he professed, keeping a 
station on what was known as the Underground Railroad, and helping many 
a poor fugitive on his way from the darkness of slavery to the light of free- 
dom. The poor, oppressed and needy always demanded more of his atten- 
tion and time than their more fortunate neighbors. No man was too poor, 
if he behaved himself, to sit with him at his table. All who happened at 
his home at the right time were invited to partake of his hospitality, but the 
laborer, white or black, sat down first. In those days, when prejudice was 
strong, his action was frequently resented, but the visitor who would not 
sit with a black man would have to wait. For many years, this course 
brought upon him ridicule and scorn, but later it won the respect of all. 
He was radical in all matters of belief. He thought the use of liquors as a 
beverage, and the use of tobacco, injurious, and was consequently an ab- 



TULLY TOWNSHIP. 1001 

stainer and an advocate of abstinence. He was public spirited. He was 
one of the founders and particular friends of Ohio Central College at Iberia, 
which, through the influence of him and men like him, years ago opened its 
doors to all, male and female, white and black. He continued official con- 
nections with this school until his death. After his removal to Morrow 
County, but a short time ago, he assisted in organizing a Farmers' Club in 
that communit. , which proved to be eminently successful and profitable, 
and during his illness hepropared a paper or lecture which was read before 
the club only last March. He was a religious man. In early life, he joined the 
Associate, now the United Presbyterian Church, and for forty years last past 
he was Killing Elder and the Clerk of the session of the Church of Iberia. 
His Christianity was of the quiet unobtrusive kind, never boastful or arro- 
gant, and was evidenced rather by his life, and his discharge of religious 
duties than by speech. He was, in religious matters, as in all others, radi- 
cal and thorough in his belief, yet sufficiently charitable to believe that 
others might honestly entertain views differing with his. He was so ex- 
treme in his views as to the proprieties of speech that he would not tolerate 
about him the use of the aparent most innocent of expletives or by- words, 
always saying " Let your yea be yea,'' etc. He was in sympathy with 
every cause that aimed at the assistance and elevation of the poor, and his 
sympathy was evidenced by work and actual giving rather than by talk. 
Circumstances rather than choice seem to have made him a farmer, for his 
wish was to practice law, yet he pursued his calling with a good measure of 
success. His motto was, " Whatever is worth doing at all, is worth doing 
well." and he tried to live by it. A useful and respected member of the 
community, he enjoyed its confidence and friendship, and was universally 
respected. He died at his residence in Iberia, Morrow Co., Ohio, on Sab- 
bath, July 1, 1883, aged seventy-four years and fourteen days. His fu 
neral services were held at the United Presbyterian Church in Iberia, and 
was largely attended. 

MRS. ROSANNA NEFF is the widow of Godfrey Neff, who was the 
son of Michael and Rosanna Neff, originally from Germany. He was born 
on ship while his parents were coming to America in 1818. Mrs. Neff's 
maiden name was Mutchler. Her parents came from Germany also, about 
1825. In 1834, when Mrs. N. was only eight years old. her parents died, 
both the same day. Mr. and Mrs. Neff were married February 26, 1846. 
having speut two years near home in Pennsylvania. They emigrated near 
" Sandusky Plains," but moved to their present place in the spring of 1849; 
here they purchased eightv acres, to which ninety-seven have since been 
added. Mr. N. cleared in his day some seventy-five acres. Nine children 
were born to this couple — Mary, A., wife of Peter Christman; Jacob (de- 
ceased); John, a carpenter; Elizabeth, wife of Alfred Campbell; Samuel, 
a school teacher; Catherine C, an excellent musician; Joseph W.. caring 
for home place; Emma and William N. The father was removed by death 
in 1875, aged fifty-seven years. 

MRS. SARAH PLOTNER is the widow of Joseph Plotner. and was 
born in Northumberland County, Penn., February 11, 1815, one of 
sixteen children, and the daughter of John and Catherine Crissinger. Her 
grandparents came from Germany. Her people came to Crawford County, 
Ohio, in 1832. Her marriage to Mr. P. took place in May, 1835; in 1845, 
they purchased eighty acres of their present home, now consisting of 220 
acres. Joseph Plotner was a strong, vigorous, active and highly resppcted 
citizen. He tilled with great commendation the offices of Trustee, Constable 



1002 • HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

and Clerk of the township, but his earthly career was cut short by death at 
the age of fifty five years; he left an estate of $15,000. His widow is still 
strong, and a consistent member of the Reformed Church. She has two 
sons living with her — J. W. and John Plotner; the former owns one-half 
interest in an engine (Westenhouse), thresher and huller. At Mount 
Vernon last year (1882) they threshed 25,000 bushels of grain. John D. 
" shares " the old farm. His marriage to Miss Emma F. Simpson occurred 
May 9, 1875. She is the daughter of George and Rebecca Simpson, of 
Crawford County, Ohio, and they had three children, one dying when an 
infant. The names of the living are Harley R. and Melvin L. 

MRS. CATHERINE (RISER) ROSTON was born March 16, 1822, in 
Wurtemberg, Germany; when aged six years she was brought to America, 
settling at Zoar, Ohio, then at Lexington, Ohio, but in 1841 came to Marion 
County, locating near the " Canaan Church " in Tully Township. Our 
subject worked by day or week until about thirty years old, when she mar- 
ried James Roston; they lived until 1873 in Morrow County, Ohio. She at 
present owns her farm of forty acres, and has acquired a good source of 
income. She has been a faithful member of the Free- Will Baptist Church 
for forty years. Her three children are Miles C. , Mary L. and Nettie L. 

MILES ROSTON, son of Catherine Roston, was born September 22, 
1854; and at eight years of age was put to cutting corn with a case-knife. 
His education is good, having attended the Iberia Seminary one term. For 
seven years, he has been a regular communicant of the Presbyterian Church. 
He owns twenty acres of good land adjoining his mother's. 

TIMOTHY SHARROCK was born in Guernsey County, Ohio, October 
9, 1819, the son of Timothy and Ellen (Cronck) Sharrock, who were mar- 
ried and removed to Senecaville, Guernsey County, before the war of 1812, 
where they lived and died, the father in the summer of 1879, aged ninety - 
five years; his brother Benjamin died at Iberia in January, 1881, aged one 
hundred and seven years. Timothy's grandfather, Rev. James Sharrock, 
served as Chaplain in the war of the Revolution, and died in the same 
county as his brother, about 1826, aged ninety-five years. Mrs. Sharrock 
died in the winter of 1840, aged ninety-five years. Timothy is the ninth 
of twelve children. He was reared on a farm, and his advantages for an 
education were limited ; he helped to clear the homestead, and remained at 
home until he attained his majority. In the fall of 1841, he settled in 
Crawford County, Ohio. In 1857, he moved to Tully Township, buying 
eighty acres of woodland of Joseph Moody. He was obliged to clear a 
site for a home. He made several additions, owning at present 233 acres; 
has one corner in Three Locusts, so that his residence and three houses and 
lots belonging to him lie in the village. His marriage took place in 1841, to 
Miss Jane Overly, daughter of John and Mary Overly. They have had nine 
children, four living — Ellen, wife of John P. Watts; James, married to 
Rebecca Reed; William W., to Phoebe Swisher, and George W., to Eliz- 
abeth Reichert. Mr. and Mrs. Sharrock have been members of the Meth- 
odist Episcopal Church forty years. He has served in nearly all the offices 
of the church, and was a prominent contributor to the building of Whet- 
stone Chapel. He left Guernsey County with $5, and came into Tully 
Township with $100. He is one of the solid financial men of his township. 

JACOB SLAGLE is a native of Athens County, Ohio, and a son of 
Joseph and Mary Slagle. His fathers family lived at one time in Picka- 
way County. Ohio, then in Seott Township: later, near Marion, but at 
present resides in Hardin County, Ohio. The old gentleman, seventy- four 



TULLY TOWNSHIP. ] 003 

years of age, is still hale and hearty. Jacob received a fair education, but 
has followed farming all his days. He purchased this farm of 140 acres at 
$00 per acre in 1874. He is a consistent Christian, having been a member 
of the Methodist Episcopal Church the past sixteen years, and havin<<- 
served in nearly every official capacity. He is raising good stock, and in 
cattle, preferring the Durham blood. He married, March 2, 1858, Miss 
Jane Foos. His children are Mary A., wife of Jones Miller, Joseph A.. 
Elizabeth M. and E. Grant. 

CHRISTOPHER STEINHELFER was born February 14, 1820, in 
Germany, the son of George and Mary Steinhelfer. He was brought to 
this country by his uncle Christopher Dingle, when eighteen months old. 
His passage cost $55, which he was obliged to repay in later years; he lived 
several months with this uncle, and also with Jacob Shear several years. 
In 1848, he bought forty acres of his present farm, which now comprises 
190 acres; his house cost $2,000, and his barn $1,000; he values his farm 
at $15,000. As another evidence of his ability to work, he has cleared 100 
acres of land, and never found but Iwo men that could keep up raking arid 
binding after his cradling. In 1838, he married Lydia Crock, daughter of 
George and Eve Crock, of Crawford County, Ohio. Fourteen children 
were born to them, three dying young. The living are George, Henry. 
John, Tobias, Samuel, "William, Elizabeth (wife of Frank Rush), Joseph. 
James, Daniel and Mary J. His wife died in 1872, and May 18, 1875, 
he married Mrs. Barbara Purpey, and they have had four children- 
Henry A.; Sophia A., wife of John Allmen; Emma J., widow of Joseph 
Moore, and Elizabeth C, wife of Wiliiam Steinhelfer. Mr. S. and familv 
are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which he has been 
Class-Leader and Steward. 

JxVCOB H. SULSER is one of Tully's wealthiest citizens, living in the 
northeast part of the township. He came from Baden, Germany, where he 
was born of humble parentage, September 30, 1835. His mother, with $18 
in money, landed with him when ten years of age at New York, having 
shipped as a common steerage immigrant; they immediately found their 
way to Galion, where they lived with Louis Boyal for two years. Their 
mother married George Buch, of Whetstone, Crawford Co., Ohio; they 
passed the first winter with nothing but blankets for doors to the cabin. 
Mrs. B. is still living, though her husband died in 1857. Jacob married 
when twenty- one, living with his father-in-law, George Brick, oneyear; then, 
receiving forty acres from both his father and father-in-law, he located near 
his father's farm. He built a cabin upon it, and lived there three niunths. 
when his father's death caused him to return to his mother, with whom he 
lived till 1801. Mr. Sulser served three years in the civil war, and was 
engaged in thirteen battles, received three slight wounds, never taken pris- 
oner, never wholly disabled, marched with Sherman to the sea, and was 
honorably discharged in July of 1804. His regiment was the Eighty -first 
Ohio Volunteer Infantry. Upon his return from the service, he found he 
had saved .^1.000 of his pay as a soldier, with which he purchased eighty 
acres of his present farm, which he has increased to 300 acres, nearly clear 
of indebtedness. For the past thirty years, he and his wife have been 
identified with the German Reformed Church, located in Whetstone Town- 
ship, which church he has served in every official capacity. Mr. Sulser has 
also plied the carpenter's trade for the past seven years. The products of 
his labor are the comfortable residences of Adam Christman, Benjamin 
Shearer and David Jones. His marriage to Miss Elizabeth Brick took place 



1004 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

September 11, 1856, and thirteen children have been born to them, three dy- 
ing in infancy. Their names are Jacob W., George A., Mary (wife of W. 
Pletche, of Whetstone Township), Catherine. John, Samuel, William. 
Henry, Manda and Tilla (twins). 

MRS. PRISCILLA WRENN is a pleasant landlady, living at Three 
Locusts, Ohio, and was born December 22, 1836, in Kenton County. Ky. 
She was the eldest child of John and Alice Atkinson, natives of New York. 
Her father came from Durham County, England, about 1820. The Lord 
Mayor of Sunderland, England, is her own cousin; his father built a ship 
with his own money, christening it "Mary Mathew" after his wife. Mrs. 
Wrenn's ancestors came from Scotland. When aged eighteen years, she 
married John W. Burton, a wealthy citizen of Boone County, Ky., thus 
connecting herself by blood and marriage to many of the first families of 
Kentucky. Mr. Burton was a slaveholder, having at one time twenty-live 
slaves, many of them very valuable-, one sold for $1,200, another for $950, 
and a third for $850. Mr. B. was "drafted" into the Confederate army, 
buying his way out, but her father and brothers were captured in Missouri 
by the Union army. Mr. Burton died of consumption at the age of forty- 
eight years. Mrs. B. married Alfred Wrenn, of Morrow County, Ohio, 
June 12, 1875. This union did not prove happy, so they lived together only 
three and a quarter years. In 1878, Mrs. W. purchased fifty-three acres of 
land near the village of Three Locusts, and is at present keeping (1883) 
a respectable boarding house. She presides very cheerfully at her board, 
giving the stranger little suspicion that she once was a belle of Kentucky. 
Her children by Mr. B. are John W., Susan M. (wife of Albert Tullilove), 
Laura M. (wife of Clay Vance), and William W. Mrs. W. has been a 
member of the Church of Christ for thirty years. 



CHAPTER XV. 

WALDO TOWNSHIP. 

This township is the oldest of the divisions of Marion County. It orig- 
inally formed a part of Marlborough Township, Delaware County, whose 
territory extended north to the Greenville treaty line. That portion of 
Waldo lying south of the treaty line remained a part of Marlborough until 
the formation of Morrow County in 1848. At the March session of the 
Commissioners of Marion Coun ty of that year, the following entry was made: 
" On application of the citizens of that part of Marlborough and Radnor 
Townships which was attached to the county of Marion from the county of 
Delaware, by the act of the. Legislature erecting the county of Morrow, 
passed Februaiy 24. 1848; and appearing to the Commissioners that said 
territory contains an incorporated town, to wit, the town of Waldo, it is 
Ordered, That so much of said territory (including said town) as is con- 
tained in the following metes and bounds, to wit: Beginning on the Green- 
ville treaty line at the northeast corner of that part of Marlborough Town- 
ship which was attached to said county of Marion from said county of Del- 
aware aforesaid; thence south along the line between the now counties of 
Marion and Morrow eleven hundred and twenty -one poles (1,121) to the 



WALDO TOWNSHIP. 1005 

county line between the counties of Marion and Delaware ; thence west 
along said line, being the south line of Marion County nineteen hundred 
and fifty poles and a lot line; thence north along said old line to the 
Greenville treaty line; thence eastwardly along said Greenville treaty line 
to the place of beginning; be and the same is erected into a new township 
to be named and styled ' Waldo.' " In June following, at a session of the 
Commissioners, a number of the citizens of Waldo Township presented a 
petition requesting that certain territory lying north of the treaty line be 
added to Waldo Township. Accordingly, the following entry was made: 
" Ordered, That the whole of Fractional Sections No. 34, 35 and 36, and 
the east half of Section No. 33, and the south halves of Sections 25, 26 and 
27, and the southeast quarter of Section No. 28, in Township No. 6 south of 
Range No. 15. be and the same is attached to and made a part of the said 
township of Waldo, and that the boundaries thereof be recorded accord- 
ingly." 

EARLY SETTLERS. 

Long before the Indians had surrendered their claim to the original 
county of Marion, and before any whites had settled upon its territory, 
Nathaniel Wyatt, Sr., and Nathaniel Brundige settled in what is now 
Waldo Township in the spring of 1806. Mr. Brundige was born in Ul- 
ster County, N. Y., of which county his parents, William aDd Anna, nee 
Perkins. Brundige, were also natives. In 1797, Nathaniel Brundige 
removed to Washington County, Va., to which place Nathaniel Wyatt had 
emigrated several years before. In 1805, Mr. Brundige, with his wife 
and nine children, and Mr. Wyatt and his wife (nee Anna Brundige), 
migrated to Ohio in a wagon and settled in Pickaway County. The same 
year, they removed to Liberty Township, Delaware, then Franklin County, 
where they remained a short time. In February, 1806, they came and set- 
tled in what is now Waldo Township. Mr. Brundige entered 160 acres. 
On his arrival here, he met Col. Kilbourn, who was laying out the town of 
Norton. Kilbourn told Brundige that ho had a piece of land that he would 
sell for $400. Brundige paid him the amount, and K ilbourn returned to 
the land office at Chillicothe, had the land entered in Nathaniel Brundige's 
name, thus clearing 1200 on land that he had not located. This land is a 
part of the farm owned and occupied by John Brundige. Subsequently, he 
purchased 150 acres north of Waldo. They were the first white settlers in 
what is now Marion County. They cut out the first road in the county, as 
there were then only half beaten paths of the Indians. Mr. Brundige 
erected a log cabin, 18x20 feet, in size, which he occupied a few years, then 
built a hewed-log house, 18x30 feet in dimensions. This pioneer dwelling 
was raised by the early settlers, some of whom came from Radnor. Mr. 
Brundige was a member of Capt. Drake's militia company, and was con- 
nected with the "defeat." Mr. Brundige died July 11, 1825, and Mrs. 
B. August 11, 1856, aged eighty-five. 

Stephen Brundige moved to Virginia with his parents, married, went to 
Tennessee, and thence to Illinois, where he died. 

John Brundige went also to Pickaway County; thence to this place 
with his parents in 1806. He rented his father's farm and lived thereuntil 
his removal to Waldo Village in 1840, where he died and was buried. He 
was Justice of the Peace in Marlborough about fifteen years; was Associate 
Judge, as a successor to Judge Drake; Commissioner of Delaware County 
two terms. He was formerly a \\ r i ig, and subsequently an Abolitionist, in 
which faith he died. He took active part in local politics. He engaged in 



1006 HISTORV OF MARION COUNTY. 

mercantile business in Waldo prior to 1837, with Wesson & Hass, under 
the firm name of Wesson, Hass & Brundige. He built a frame house where 
Gabler & Gumpf's store now stands. For his first wife, he married Phoebe 
Drake, by whom he had 'the following children: Mary, Rebecca, Uriah, 
Anna, Joseph, Daniel, Nathan, Abba and Lydia For his second wife, he 
married Mrs. Elizabeth Taylor, now deceased. They were the parents of 
nine children, viz., Mary, born August 9, 1794, married Reuben Drake and 
died in Wyandot County; Anna, born February 11, 1796, married James 
Trindle and died in Westfield, Morrow County, Leyinab, born April 5, 
1799, married Samuel D. Wyatt, and after his death married Mr. Dudley., 
she is now a widow and is living at an advanced age; Elizabeth, born 
August 25, 1800, married David Mitchell and died in Hardin County, Iowa; 
Rachel, born January 21, 11802, married L. S. Hull, and died in Waldo 
Township in the winter of 1882; James, born July 22, 1805, and resides in 
Polk County, Iowa; William, born December 3, 1808, resides in Morrow 
County; Sarah, born September, 1810, married Evan Norris and died in 
Wood County. Ohio, John was born September 10, 18 IB. the day of Per- 
ry's victory. 

The same year (1806) Mr. Brundige's parents came and settled on the 
land now owned by Philip Bender, where they passed the remainder of 
their days. Mr. Bruudige died November 12, 1825, aged eighty-four years. 
Mrs, B. died October 23, 1823, at the age of eightv. They reared four 
sons and four daughters, viz., Nathaniel (the foregoing), Thomas, Stephen, 
John, Anna (married Nathaniel Wyatt), Mary (married Samuel Drake), 
Elizabeth (married Mr. Mitchell) and Sarah (married Isaac Bush). Thomas 
Brundige married Nancy Johnson, daughter of a Virginia slaveholder, and 
preceded his parents to Pickaway County, Ohio. He was a Major of the 
State militia. 

Nathaniel Wyatt. Sr., was born in Albany, New York State. He re- 
moved to Virginia, and subsequently to Pickaway County, Ohio, and re- 
mained there only a short time, and removed with his wife and seven chil- 
dren, and settled in what is now Waldo Township, then a part of Frank- 
lin County. He purchased 160 acres, on which Wyatt's tavern and old 
Fort Morrow were built. Mr. Wyatt married Anna Brundige, daughter of 
William Brundige, and had ten children, viz., Daniel, Mary, Sarah, Eliz- 
abeth, William. Nathaniel, Samuel. Nancy, Temperance and Ruth. Mr. 
Wyatt served in the Revolutionary war, and was in some of the leading 
battles of that war. He died on the homestead August 18, 1824. Mrs 
Wyatt died at the home of Hira Wilcox, about a half-mile north of Waldo, 
February 25, 1858. Daniel marriel Betsey Perkins, and moved to Claridon 
Township; thence to Williams County, where he died. Mary married 
Lieut. John Millikan, who lived in Waldo Township until the war of 1812. 
when he enlisted in the service and was given the rank of Lieutenant. He 
was assigned to the duty of conducting British prisoners to Chillicothe, 
where he died while on garrison duty. He had five children — William, 
Jesse, Nathaniel, Anna and John. His widow married Hira Wilcox, who 
was a soldier in the war of 1812, and had one daughter — Clarissa, who mar- 
ried Daniel S. Drake. Sarah married Thomas Van Horn, and had the fol- 
lowing children: Walter, Betsey. George, Harriet, Anna and William, a 
soldier in both the Mexican and civil wars. After his death. Mrs. Van 
Horn married Mr. Cummins, and had one son —Wyatt Cummins. Elizabeth 
married Jacob Phipps and lived in Waldo Township, where she died. Will- 
iam married Betsey Hanna nan and had five children — Daniel, Nathaniel, 



WALDO TOWNSHIP. 1007 

Hiram, Mary and Solomon. He moved to Vermillion County, Ind. ; thence 
to Iroquois County, where he and his wife both died He was also a sol- 
dier in the war of 1812. Nathaniel, Jr.. married Sallie Wyatt and had four 
children — Charlotte. Leonard, Ezra and Mary Ann. He was a soldier in 
the war of 1812, and died at Fort Morrow. Samuel D. married Lovina 
Brundige in March, 1818, and had nine children — Editha, Cyrus, David 
H., John B., Jane A., Eliza, Clara, James B. and Ruth E. Mr. Wyatt 
was a Baptist minister for twenty years. He died August 12, 1842. Mrs. 
Wyatt, in 1861, married Rev. David Dudley, who died May 31, 1867. Mrs. 
Dudley was born April 5, 1799, and is still living. Nancy married Col. 
Nathaniel Hull, and lived and died in Waldo Township. They had ten 
children, viz.. Martha, Lucretia, Mary, Elias, Edward, Elizabeth, Amanda, 
David, John and Mariah. Temperance married Timothy Aldrich, and had 
the following children: James, Sylvester, Anna, Lucinda, Cynthia and 
Almira. She died near Westfield. Ruth was the first white female child 
born in Marion County. 

Nathaniel Wyatt, Sr., exchanged eighty acres of military land in Pick- 
away County for a tract of over 200 acres on Section 3, Waldo Township. 
On this he built the old Wyatt brick tavern, and it was on his place that 
Fort Morrow was built. In his time he was a Justice of the Peace and held 
other township offices. 

Rev. Samuel Wyatt, referred to above, used to go down to preach in the 
vicinity of Chillicothe and Newark, and in collections would obtain money 
equivalent to only 1 shilling a sermon. 

Isaac Bush was the next settler after the Brundiges and Wyatts. He 
also came from Ulster County, N. Y., and settled on Section 22, where he 
entered 168 acres of land, lived a number of years and died; but previous 
to his death he sold that land to Henry Peters. His wife had died somo 
time before, in Troy Township, Delaware County. 

Capt. William S. Drake, from Orange County, N. Y., settled near the 
Brundiges in October, 1807. His parents, as well as those of his wife. 
Rebecca, came from Liverpool, England, in 1768, settling in Orange Coun- 
ty. His father, John, was a Captain through the Revolutionary war, and 
died near Poughkeepsie. N. Y., at an advanced age. On his arrival here, 
Capt. W. S. Drake entered 109 acres, and in 1809 he purchased a whole 
section, 640 acres, north of W T aldo. He served six months as Captain in 
the war of 1812, and also, until its close, Indian Agent under Gen. Harri- 
son. From 1815 to 1838, he was a mail route agent. He owned a num- 
ber of routes in Northern Ohio, that from Columbus to Sandusky being one 
of them; was associated with Judge Hinton and Mr. Neil, of Columbus. 
He withdrew before Judge Hinton was detected in his squandering. He 
also dealt extensively in cattle, purchasing them near Detroit and driving 
to Eastern markets. He was Associate Judge on the bench of this district 
four years. He died September 1, 1851, and his wife survived him until 
August 30, 1856. They were members of the regular Baptist Church. Of 
their fourteen children, only two are now living, namely, Rebecca A., 
widow of Benjamin Welch, and Harriet, a widow, residing in Clinton, 111. 

The deceased are Reuben; Rirar, who raised a crop of corn at Lower 
Sandusky, the site of what is now Fremont, for Maj. Butler, of Delaware, 
and on his return, near Upper Sandusky, was shot by hostile Wyandots for 
his money, being instantly killed, at the age of twenty-three; Mary, who 
married Jud Moses, and died in Delaware, aged forty-five; Phebe. who 
married Judge Brundige, and also died in Delaware aged forty -five; Clarissa, 



1008 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

who married Adam Welch, and died in Clinton, 111., in 1881, aged over eighty; 
Eliza, who died at the age of eighteen; John, who died in childhood; Abba, 
wife of James Coldora, and died in Delaware Connty; Daniel S., who died 
December 30, 1881. an old resident in this county, and William W., who 
died in 1850 near Upper Sandusky, aged forty-three. 

While Capt. Drake was in the military service, eight or ten drunken 
Indians came to his house one day, and demanded that one of his sons, a 
young boy, should drum for them, which he refused to do, because it was 
Sunday and it would raise the neighbors. They seized him and set him in 
the center of the room and began a war dance. They hopped and skipped 
and yelled, flourishing their tomahawks and scalping-knives around his 
head, and once or twice seized his hair as if they intended to scalp hitn! 
Mrs. Drake hurried the other children to the woods, there being snow on 
the ground, fearing they would all be killed, after which she got a hand- 
spike, or wooden poker, from the fireplace and ordered the Indians to leave. 
They left the house, and she then blew the dinner-horn to alarm the neigh- 
borhood, which served to increase the fears of the children, who hastened 
to the nearest cabin and related what was occurring. Two men with guns 
then hastened to the rescue, but on their arrival were happy to learn that 
the Indians had fled and no one injured. 

Daniel S. Drake, who was born December 12, 1805, in Orange County, 
N. Y. ; married, for his first wife, Margaret Tindle, who died in 1833-34 T 
leaving one daughter — Evaline, wife of O. E. Kichardson, of Morrow Coun- 
ty, Ohio. For his second wife, he married Clarissa Wilcox, of Waldo 
Township, in March, 1836. She was born September 13, 1817. Their 
children were Daniel W., Margaret (wife of Robert Douglas), Francis M., 
William S. (dentist in Marion), John M., Charles H., Annetta, Thomas E., 
May R. (wife of W. Coonse), Carrie, Iza and Olive. 

Hira Wilcox settled in the Brundige neighborhood in the fall of 1807. 
He was born near Hartford, Conn., in 1785. On arriving here, he had 
barely enough to enter 160 acres of land, although, to save expenses, he 
footed it all the way through Youngstown, Akron and Mansfield, keeping 
up with the stage, forty five miles a day. He entered his 160 acres in 
Marlborough Township, about three and a half miles from Waldo, which is 
about two miles from the Marion County line. His parents came the next 
spring, and settled near Delaware, where they died. His father, Johiah, 
was nearly seven feet high, and died in 1840, aged one hundred and six 
years. Hira Wilcox resided on bis farm until 1812, when he sold and re- 
moved to Waldo Township, where he [entered 120 acres of land, which he 
sold some years afterward, and bought 400 to 500 acres north and north- 
west of Waldo. Mr. W. was nine months in the war of 1812, as drummer. 

In 1867, he moved to Waldo, and died in June, 1871. About 1808, he 
married Miss Cleveland and they had three children — Elmer, who died in 
1869; Lucretia, who died in 1872, and Sylva, widow of Miles Payne, de- 
ceased, now of Indianapolis, Ind. Mrs. W. died about 1815, and in 1816 
Mr. W. married again. Miss Mary Wyatt, daughter of Nathaniel Wyatt, 
and had one child — Clarissa, who married Daniel S. Draka, and died No- 
vember 16, 1874 Mrs. Mary Wilcox died in 1844, and Mr. W, married 
the third time, namely, Mrs. Mary Dutton, nee Fuller, and she died in 
1870. 

Joseph Curran and family settled in this township in 1800. David 
Curran was born here in 1822. 

Joseph Wesson bought 110 acres of Judge Drake, on Section 18. He 



WALDO TOWNSHIP. lUO'J 

engaged in mercantile business in Waldo for a time; then went to Iowa, 
where he died. A man named Hannaman squatted a short time on land 
now owned by Jacob Schaaf. After him was named " Hannaman's Ford," 
on the Whetstone, opposite Mr. Brundige's house, William Wyatt mar- 
ried his daughter. 

There were very few settlers here as late as 1825. This year came 
Joseph Curran, Jacob Coldren, John Moses, Peter and Frederick Dunkel - 
barger, William and John Justus and their father,*all settling in the east 
ern part of Waldo Township. The western part of the township was 
swampy, and in 1825 there was not a settler west of the present gravel road. 
In 1830, there was only Henry Schaffer, who had come from Germany and 
been sold in Baltimore for his passage, which he paid for in work He first 
settled east of the river. The first west of the gravel road were Aaron S. 
Kenyon and John A. Norton. In 1830, Benjamin Williams and Christo- 
pher Maddox were living east of the river, and west of the gravel road were 
Samuel Hull, Silas Davis and sons— Dela, Van Rensselaer S. , Dr. 
Ames, James Smith, Ezra M. Conklin, Daniel Sturges and Philip Parks. 

THE MILL. 

Henry Schaffer built the first mill, a water saw mill, where Drake's mill 
now stands, and constructed the present mill-race. He added a corn-cracker, 
but sold it, with seven acres of ground, to Nathaniel Wyatt, Sr. , who ran 
the mill till his death. He put in a pair of French buhrs, which Samuel 
Wyatt drove to Cincinnati with an ox-team to obtain. Those stones were 
placed in a frame mill erected by Nathaniel Wyatt, Sr. who had destroyed 
the old one. A half interest fell to Samuel D. Wyatt, the other half to 
Jacob Phipps, his brother-in-law. Mr. W. sold his interest to Nathaniel 
Brundige. at whose death his interest fell to Luff S. Hull, and Phipps & 
Hull subsequently sold it to Schaffer. Jacob J. Idleman afterward bought 
it and destroyed it. and erected the present mill, which contains the same 
French buhrs which Mr. W. brought from Cincinnati. He sold it to J. C. 
Evans, who added steam works and then sold it to Michael Hake, who sold 
it to William Hake. F. M Drake is now running the mill. 

FIEST EVENTS. 

William Brundige was the first male child born in Marlborough Town- 
ship. The first marriage, it is thought, was that of John Millikan and 
Mary Wyatt. The first death, according to one account, was that of Levina 
Bush, in 1808; some authorities say it was Ellen Reed. The death of Ruth 
Wyatt was the first in the territory now iucluded in Marion County. 

FORT MORROW. 

This fort was built some time during the war of 1812. This structure 
and Wyatt' s hotel were comprised in one inclosure of pickets made from 
split slabs. It contained about one-half or three-fourths of an acre, and 
was built by Capt, Taylor, of that war. The pickets were about three 
inches thick, and from five to six feet in height, Whenever there was an 
Indian alarm, the settlers would lodge in this fort. It stood a good rnany 
years. It contained two block-houses, one at the southwest corner and one 
at the northeast ; one was made of round logs and the other of hewn logs. 
On the top log of the latter was painted. " Fort Morrow. Built by Capt. 
Taylor." These block-houses were built with a full upper story projecting 
out all around about four feet, over a basement six feet high. It had port- 
holes, and one cannon was kept at the fort. 



1010 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Wyatt's Hotel was a brick house 20x36 feet, two stories high, and was 
run until about 1830. 

BETHLEHEM. 

This is the name of a section of country or settlement, derived from the 
following incident: In the spring of 1833, Frederick X. Zachman and 
John Holler were on their way to the residence of Jacob J. Idleman, 
three miles distant, each bearing on his shoulder an empty sack; and when 
they passed the house of Mr. Kraner, father of Christian Kraner, he in- 
quired where they were going. They replied that they were going to Mr. 
Idleman's for corn meal, when Mr. Kraner remarked, "Oh, poor Bethle- 
hem!" probably from the fact that they were " begging." Ever since then, 
the community there has been known by that name. It comprises all the 
land west of the Marion & Delaware pike as far south as the treaty line, 
and includes about a mile north and south by two miles east and west, in 
Pleasant Township. The first settlers in Bethlehem were Martin Snyder, 
William Kaufmann, Jacob Klingel and F. X. Zachman, in 1832. The last 
named was from Baden, Germany. Charles Butler and Christian Cross 
came in 1834. They were followed by Adam Wells, B. Anselment, John 
G. Gabler, J. Wolhnger, Mr. Bender (father of Philip), Christian Fox, 
Jacob F. Moyer, James Johnson, J. Mechtley and Mr. Davids. 

GRAVEYARDS. 

Wyatt's Graveyard is the oldest in Marion County. It was laid out on a 
beautiful knoll about thirty feet high, on Nathaniel Wyatt's farm, on the 
west bank of the Olentangy, now Whetstone. Originally, it contained one 
acre of land, but this year (1883) a half-acre has been added. Among 
these buried here are Ruth Wyatt, who was born in 1807 and died August 
20, 1820; Nathaniel Wyatt, Sr., who died August 18, 1824, aged sixty-two 
years; Anna Wyatt, his wife, who died February 25, 1858, aged seventy- 
five years and six months; William Brundige, who died November 12, 
1825, aged eighty- four years; Ann, wife of William Brundige, who died 
October 3. 1823, aged eighty years; Nathaniel Brundige, who died July 11, 
1825. aged fifty-four years; Elizabeth, wife of Nathaniel Brundige, who 
died August 14, 1856, aged eighty-five years; Elder Samuel D. Wyatt, who 
died August 25, 1844, aged nearly forty-six years; Nathaniel Wyatt, Jr.. 
who died August 3, 1829, aged thirty-four years; Hester M., wife of Luther 
Welch, who was born December 12, 1804, and died March 16, 1877, aged 
twenty -two years. 

On the north side of the knoll there is an apparently vacant spot, two 
tiers of graves in width and fourteen Yards in length, which is occupied by 
soldiers of the war of 1812. There is also the grave of Jesse Allison, who died 
January 26, 1829, aged forty-four years. Since 1880, several bodies have 
been removed here from other graveyards; among them some members of 
the Schaffer family, as follows: Henry Schaffer. who died July 11, 1849, aged 
ninety -four years six months and sixteen days; Mary, wife of Henry Schaffer, 
died September 2, 1854, aged eighty-six years and eight months. 

The Drake Graveyard is situated on the north side of the Greenville 
treaty line, on Section 36, and was laid out as a private family burial- 
ground by Capt. W. S. Drake, who deeded it to the township in 1826. This 
not being known, it was again deeded to the township in 1880, by Daniel 
S. Drake. It contains a quarter of an acre of ground, with about fifty 
graves. Among the earliest pioneers buried here are Capt. W. S. Drake 



WALDO TOWNSHIP. 1011 

and wife, Wolsey Drake, Samuel Drake, Samuel Devore and wife and Mrs. 
Cyrus Brown. 

The Augenstein family graveyard was laid out in 1845, and George F. 
Augenstein was the first buried here. It contains half an acre and forty- 
two graves. Although a private family burying-ground, numerous other 
families have interred their friends in this knoll. 

CHUECHES. 

Methodist Episcopal Church.— Tins was first organized at a private 
house in 1834 or 1835. Isaac Dutton and wife and Marshall Mason and 
wife and daughters, and others, were the first members. The first church 
building was erected about the year 1838, on the main street in "Waldo, 30x 
45 feet in size; but this has been replaced by a new one on the same site, 
34x48 feet, at an expense of $2,000. There are now thirty-eight members 
of this society, with S. Wilson, J. Powell and S. Lewellen as Class Leaders, 
and S. Wilson as Steward. 

St. John's Church Evangelical Association. — The preliminary meetings 
held by these people were in 1834, at Martin Snyder's, and conducted by 
Rev. J. Klinefelter, and the congregation was organized the next year, by 
Rev. A. Shaf er, at the residence of William Pontious, with twelve members, 
comprising F. X. Zachman and wife, J. Klingel and wife, Mr. A. Kem and 
wife, J. Smith and wife, Mr. Fritz and wife and Mr. Wells and wife. Mr. 
Zachman was Leader and Mr. Akem, Exhorter. Since organization, meet- 
ings have been held at Martin Snyder's, J. Klingel's, Mr. Fritz's and J. 
Smith's, 1834 to 1853, and in the meeting- houses since the latter date. The 
first church building was erected in 1853, in Bethlehem, 30x40 feet in size, 
at a cost of $250; and the second was erected in 1879, 35x47 feet, and cost 
$1,600. 

The pastors of this church have been Revs. Shafer, Gates, Holly, Nebel, 
Shireman, Harnecker. Dresbads, Kopp, Negley, Heinrich, Thaurer, Swats, 
Stroman, Stull, Kuentzler, Zeller, Stranch, Crouse, Haldeman and others. 
Present membership, thirty. Official members, C. Fox, F. X. Zachman, M. 
Zachman, F. Zachman, William Seiter, George Fox and Lewis Zachman. 

The principal revivals have been, in 1850, at J. Smith's dwelling-house, 
under the ministry of Rev. George Hoeley, and in 1858, by Rev. A. Munk, 
at the first log church. Some rowdies molested these meetings. Many 
who have been converted here have moved away; some of them doing good 
work in Indiana. Illinois, Missouri and Wisconsin, leaving but few here, 
but these few are all zealous. 

Olive Branch Church, United Brethren. — The first meetings of these peo 
pie were held in January, 1855, by Rev. Thomas Rose, and the church or- 
ganized February 21, 1855, by the same minister, in the Methodist Episco- 
pal Church building, a half-mile east of O. B. Church. The following 
were the first members: Wilson and Dilla Martin, Calvin and Elizabeth 
Smith, Jesse Shaw and wife — eight in all. The ministers have been Revs. 
Thomas Rose, Joseph Fields, Bell. Downey, Gordon. Rex, Bender. Fr} 7 , H. 
A. Bovey, W. W. Nipple. Present membership, fifteen. Official members, 
Jacob Miller, Isaac Kern, William Young and S. V. Benedict. Their 
house of worship, 30x40 feet, was built in 1856; cost, $500. 

Marlborough Free- Will Baptist Church.. — In the year 1824, the Marl- 
borough Free- Will Baptist Church was organized in the township of Waldo, 
by Rev. David Dudley. In 1827, Samuel A. Wyatt. a member of the 
church, was ordained and became its pastor, the meetings being held most- 



1012 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

ly in his residence, and he remained its pastor until his death. Rev. Mar- 
cus Kilbourne was also a member of this church, and supplied it with 
preaching to some extent. Both were good men and preachers, and have 
rested near each other in the same cemetery many years. After Rev. David 
Dudley lost his first wife, he married the widow of Rev. S. A. Wyatt, but 
now sleeps by his side. The widow of these two excellent men still lives, 
now about eighty-five years of age. The church was always small, and lost 
its visibility soon after the death of its pastor, S. A. Wyatt, in 1841. 

CROP REPORT FOR 1883. 

Wheat, acres sown, 1,973; bushels produced, 29,516; acres sown for 
harvest of 1883, 1,995. Oats, acres sown, 502; acres sown for crop of 
1883, 408; bushels produced, 14,803. Corn, acres planted, 2,013; acres 
planted for crop of 1883, 2,053; bushels produced, 73,155. Meadow, acres, 
685; tons of hay, 928. Clover, acres, 683; tons of hay, 952; bushels of 
seed, 1,009. Potatoes, acres planted, 60^; acres for crop of 1883, 60|; 
bushels produced, 4,357. Butter, 55,150 pounds. Sorghum, acres planted, 
3£; gallons sirup, 376. Maple sugar, 1,318 pounds; gallons sirup, 1,016. 
Bees, 29 hives; pounds of honev, 300. Eggs, 34,725 dozen. Apples, acres 
occupied, 226; bushels produced, 231. Land, acres cultivated, 7,520; 
acres pasture, 1,724; acres woodland, 2,491; total number of acres owned, 
10,564. Wool, 7,238 pounds. Milch cows, 405. Stallions, 7, Dogs, 148. 
Sheep killed by dogs, 4; value, $26; injured by dogs, 2; value, $6. Hogs 
died. 89; value, $467. Sheep died, 12; value, $61. Cattle died, 14; val- 
ue, $505. Horses died, 9; value, $875. Losses by floods: Live stock, 
value, $65; grain, etc., value, $300; fences, etc., value, $1,000. 

TOWNSHIP OFFICIALS. 

Waldo Township was organized April 3, 1848. At this, the first, elec- 
tion, Jacob J. Idleman, Silas Davis and Phillip Miller were Judges. Total 
number of votes cast, 124. 

Trustees: 1848— Isaac Jones, William Selanders, Samuel Hull. 

1849 — Andrew Denman, Samuel Hull, Philip Strine. 

1850 — Samuel Hull, Sylvester Boyd, Nelson Jones. 

1851 — Jacob Crawford, Eben Lewis, L. S. Hull. 

1852— D. W. Elliott, Jacob Crawford, Eben Lewis. 

1853 — Jacob Crawford, Eben Lewis, Valentine Coleman. 

1854 — Eben Lewis, Jacob Crawford. John Brundige. 

1355— Jacob Crawford, Ebeu Lewis, John Brundige. 

1856 — David Potter. James Manassmith, Eben Lewis. 

1857 — James Manassmith, Nelson Jones, David Potter. 

1858--James Manassmith, Nelson Jones, David Potter. 

1859 — James Manassmith, Nelson Jones, Valentine Coleman. 

1860 — James Manassmith, Neslon Jones, John Van Brimer. 

1861 — John Van Brimer, Nelson Jones, James Manassmith. 

1862 — James Manassmith, Valentine Coleman, Jr., Levi Jones. 

1863 — James Manassmith, Levi Jones, Valentine Coleman, Jr. 

1864 — James Manassmith, Valentine Coleman, Jr., Levi Jones. 

1865 — Daniel Augenstein, Solomon Boyer Abrarn Stull. 

1866 — Daniel Augenstein, J. R. Rupp, Levi Luellen. 

1867 — Daniel Augenstein, J. R. Rupp, Levi Luellen. 

1868 — James McDonald, Jacob A. Schaaf. Isaac Denman. 

1869 — Isaac Denman, Hartman Dickhout, Jacob A. Schaaf. 



WALDO TOWNSHIP. 1013 

1870 — Hart man Dickhout, M. Zachman, Jacob A. Schaaf. 

1871 — Hartman Dickhout, Daniel Augenstein, James Emery. 

1 872— John B. Justice, Isaac Denman, John S. Smith. 

1873 — Isaac Denman, Jacob Coleman, Christian Knickel. 

1874 — Jacob Coleman, Daniel Augenstein, C. W. French. 

1875 — J. R. Rupp, Christian Kuickel, Levi Luellen. 

1876 — Peter Jones, J. R. Rupp, J. P. Gompf. 

1877 — Daniel Augenstein, Peter Jones, E. M. Conklin. 

1878 — Daniel Augenstein, J. P. Grompf, M. Zachman. 

1879 — Daniel Augenstein, J. P. Gompf, M. Zachman. 

1880 — John S. Smith, J. P. Gompf, Caleb Almandinger. 

1881 — Jacob Reiner, Caleb Almandinger, E. W. Conklin. 

1882 — Isaac Denman, Johu G. Augenstein, Simon Culp. 

1883 — Isaac Denman, Juhn G. Augenstein. Jacob Reiner. 

Clerks— L. S. Hull, 1848; P. K. Francis, 1849-50; J. M. French, 1851: 
P. K. Francis, 1852-55; L. S. Hull, 1856-61; ^Samuel F. Hull. 1862-65; 
Robert Wilson, 1866-67; Joseph E. Crow, 1868; Robert Wilson, 1869-70; 
Lathan Jones, 1871-72; C. D. Jones, 1873; G. W. Strine, 1874-75; G. 
W. Straub, 1876; S. T. Elliott, 1877-79; G. W. Crawford, 1880-81; S. 
T. Elliott, 1882; G. W. Straub, 1883. 

Treasurers — P. K. Francis, 1848; John Brundige, 1849; Andrew Stroub, 
1850-57; Silas Crawford, 1858-61; Robert Wilson, 1862-63; L. S. Hull, 
1864; William S. Stroub, 1865; James Manassmith, Sr., 1866; Valentine 
Coleman. Jr., 1867-68; James Manassmith, 1869; C. D. Jones, 1870-71; 
Hartman Dickhout, 1872-73; Michael Hoke, 1874; Hartman Dickhout, 
1875-81; William Gabler, 1882-83. 

Justices of the Peace, with dates of election— John Porterfield, 1848, 
1851, 1854, 1857; Robert Porterfield, 1862, 1865, 1868, 1871, 1874, 1877, 
1881, 1882; Silas Davis, 1850; Jacob J. Idleman, 1853; William Waddel, 
1856, 1859, 1862, 1865; P. K Francis, 1859; C. D. Jones, 1868; G. W. 
Strine, 1871, 1874, 1877; Daniel Augenstein, 1879; Peter Boyer, 1881. 

WALDO VILLAGE. 

The site of Waldo formerly belonged to Robert Hayes, father of Presi- 
dent R. B. Hayes, of Baltimore, Md. It contained about one section. It 
lay as commons for a number of years, and at last Mr. Hayes let it sell for 
taxes. Eliza Porter, from the State of New York, bought 100 acres where 
Waldo now stands, and the other part, east of the Whetstone, is known as 
the Dickhout farm. Waldo was laid out in 1831, by' Milo D. Pettibone, 
and named after his son Waldo. Mr. Pettibone, owned 900 acres in this 
vicinity, built several small houses, and a double hewed-log tavern, the 
house now occupied by Mr. John Lunger. Wesson, Haas & Brundige were 
the first merchants. They continued a few years, when Wesson went out, 
and subsequently Haas went to Wabash, lnd. , and died there. Dr. Glid- 
den and Mr. Brundige were in the business for awhile. Daniel Sturgess 
was the first blacksmith, and James Patterson was about next. Dr. Lewis 
was the first physician. 

Waldo now has two stores, three blacksmith shops and two churches. 

The village was incorporated by a special act of the Legislature during 
the winter session of 1844-45, and on the third Thursday of May follow- 
ing an election of village officers was held, at the residence of William W. 
Burroughs, in Waldo, then Delaware County. Judson A. Bebe, late Judge 
of the Commmon Pleas Court of Morrow County District, received twenty 



1014 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

votes for Mayor, and Andrew Stroub eighteen votes. For Recorder, John 
J. Jacobs received nineteen votes and P. K. Francis eighteen votes. 

The Trustees elected were John Porterheld, Andrew Straub, Jasper Par- 
tridge, John Byers and Chancy Lewis. Since incorporation, the following 
have been the officers of Waldo: 

Mayors— Judson A. Bebe, 1845; P. K. Francis, 1846; Thomas Tibbits, 
1847; JohnBvers, 1848; John Brundige, 1849; Henry Olds, 1850; Silas 
Crawford, 1851-52; Robert Porterfield, 1853-57; Charles Bishop, 1858; 
J. N. Shibles, 1859; John Lunger, 1860: S. Crawford, 1861; R. Porter- 
field, 1862-65; James Manassmith, 1867-69; Robert Wilson, 1870; J. E. 
Crow, 1871-72; G. W. Strine. 1873-74; James M. Francis, 1875: Robert 
Porterfield, 1876-83. 

Recorders — John J. Jacobs, 1845; Miles R. Payne, 1846: Samuel Sel- 
anders, 1847; John J. Jacobs, 1848; P. K. Francis, 1849; E. F. Hull, 
1850-51; John Storer, 1851; James Crawshaw, 1852; P. K. Francis, 1853- 
57; R. Porterfield, 1858; Abel Hart, 1858-59; J. H. Van Dernan, 1860; 
Robert Willson, 1861-63; Elam Taylor, 1864; P. K. Francis, 1865-66; D. 
D. Smith, 1867: J. E. Crow, 1868; P. K. Francis. 1869; Latham Jones, 
1870-72; G. W. Straub, 1873-77; J. J. Straub, 1878-83. 

POST OFFICE. 

This was established November 26, 1847, through the instrumentality of 
M. R. Payne; since which time the following have served as Postmasters, 
with the dates of their appointment: Andrew Straub, November 26, 1847: 
John Porterfield, February 8, 1858; Robert Porterfield, May 30, 1859; J. 
S. Armstrong, August 22, 1861: Lewis B. Pennell, July 2, 1863; Jacob J. 
Idleman, August 1, 1863; David B Johnson, January 30, 1865; Joseph E. 
Crow, September 1, 1865; Daniel D. Smith, May 15, 1867; George W. 
Strine, April 14, 1874; Jacob Rosenthal, January 12, 1875; Nathan Mez- 
zer, November 11, 1878; Philander K. Francis, March 7, 1881, the present 
incumbent. 

PERSONAL SKETCHES. 

We now complete the history of Waldo Township by giving the biog- 
raphies of many of the pioneers and leading citizens: 

DANIEL ATJGENSTEIN, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Waldo, was 
born in Baden, Germany, March 8, 1822, and is a son of George F. and 
Barbara Angenstein, of Baden, Germany. He was reared on a farm and 
was educated at the common schools. In 1837, when but fifteen years of 
age, he came alone to America and to Pleasant Township, this county, the 
same year; he worked by the month in Pleasant and Richland Townships 
for three years, at wages of from $6 to $8. He then went to Marion, where 
he was engaged as hostler in the Baker Stables one year. In 1841, be 
returned to Germany, and in March of the following year he and his par- 
ents came to this- continent, settling in Waldo Township. Our subject's 
father bought 240 acres of land in Waldo Township of R. B. Hayes, pav- 
ing him $10 per acre; all except six acres of this land was covered with for 
est. George F. Augenstein died September 7, 1845, aged sixty-two; his 
widow died March 23, 1865, aged seventy-two. They had six children, 
three living, of whom our subject is the eldest. He received sixty acres of 
the homestead, which he cleared and improved himself. To this he from 
time to time added till he was possessed of nearly 400 acres, but having 
divided the most <>f it among his children, he now owns but 115 acres. As 



WALDO TOWNSHIP. 1015 

a stock-raiser, Mr. Augenstein has been engaged in rearing, with considera- 
ble success, short-horn cattle of a superior grade. On March 2, 1845, our 
subject was married to Margaret, daughter of Justus and Katie Bender. 
She was born in Hessia, Germany, January 7, 1828, died May 22, 1879, 
leaving three children — Hannah, wife of John Kraner; William D. and 
John F. Mr. Augenstein chose for his second companion in life Mrs. Jen- 
nie White, widow of Elijah White, whom he married September 4, 1879. 

This lady was a daughter of Overdeer, and was born in Shelby 

County, Ohio, January 27, 1827. Our subject and his wife are members of 
the German Reformed and the Methodist Episcopal Church respectively. 
Mr. Augenstein is a member of the I. O. O. F., and in politics is a Demo- 
crat. He has served as Trustee of Waldo Township eighteen years, has 
been Justice of the Peace one term and has declined to hold office longer. 
Industry and perseverance have obtained for him the competency he now 
deservedly enjoys. 

GEORGE F. AUGENSTEIN, farmer, P. O. Waldo, was born in Baden, 
Germany, November 18, 1829, and is the youngest son of George F. and 
Barbara Augenstein. He was reared in Germany till thirteen years of age, 
when he came to America, with his parents, who settled in this township. 
Our subject remained at home till he came of age, and then received forty 
acres of the homestead. To this property he has since added, till he is now 
owner of ninety-seven acres. He has made all the improvements, and in 
addition to cultivating the farm he pays considerable attention to stock- 
raising. Mr. Augenstein was married, November 1. 1865, to Henrietta, 
daughter of John and Mary Winehart. She was born in Tuscarawas Coun- 
ty, Ohio, June 16, 1843. By this union there have been six children, four 
living, viz., Mary A., Catharine, Lucy, Henrietta and Daniel. Mr. and 
Mrs. Augenstein are members of the German Reformed Church. In poli- 
tics, he is a Democrat. 

W. D. AUGENSTEIN, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O Waldo, was born 
in this township October 5, 1849, and is the eldest son and third child of 
the four children of Daniel and Margaret (Bender) Augenstein. He was 
reared on the homestead and educated at the common schools. He remained 
at home till 1872, aiding in clearing up the farm. On November 23, 1872, 
he moved on his present farm; on September 26, same year, he married 
Maggie J., daughter of Henry and Massa King, of Delaware County, Ohio. 
She was born in Richland Township February 15, 1849. By this union 
there have been three children, two living — Lydia H, born October 20, 
1873; and Finley E., born September 26, 1875; Ellen Edna, born October. 
1880, died February 4, 1881. In 1874, our subject built his residence, at 
a cost of $1,400. He is owner of a Huber steam engine and threche"-, 
and did the "season's" threshing for seventeen years. He is also the owner 
of 148 acres of land, well cultivated and improved. At present he is in the 
employ of the Toledo Reaper and Mower Works. In politics, Mr. Augenstein 
is a Democrat. He has been a member of the Waldo Martial Band since 
1860. 

PHiLIP BENDER, farmer" and i^tock-raiser, P. O. Waldo, was born in 
Hesse, Germany, September 16, 1826, and is a son of Justus and Catharine 
(Rule) Bender, also of Hesse, Germany. They came to this county in 
1839 and settled in Waldo Township. In March, 1843, Mr. Bender bought 
forty- seven acres of land covered with forest. This he cleared, and erected 
a log house, 20x30 feet in size. Here he lived most of the time until his 
death. He died in February, 1877, aged seventy-six. Mrs. Bender resides 



1016 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

with our subject, and is now in her eighty-first year. They were the par- 
ents of two-children — our subject and Margaret (deceased), who was married 
to Daniel Augenstein. Our subject was reared on a farm and was educated at 
the common schools. He, with his parents, came, in 1877, to this farm. 
He bought 168i acres of land. He also owns 210 acres near the old toll- 
gate in Waldo Township, most of which he has cleared. He was married, 
in 1847, to Caroline, daughter of Joseph and Catharine' Bensler. She was 
born in Baden, Germany, December 1, 1827. By this union there have 
been eleven children, eight living, viz., Hannah, wife of Frederick Strable; 
Philip; Kate, wife of Jacob Hager; William, John, George, Susannah, and 
Caroline. Those deceased are George, Margaret and Charlie. Mr. and 
Mrs. Bender are members of the German Reformed Church. In politics, he 
is a. Democrat. 

JOHN BRUNDIGE, a leading citizen of Marion County and one of its 
oldest inhabitants, was born on the old " Brundige " homestead September 
10, 1813, the day of Commodore Terry's victory on Lake Erie. He is the 
son of Nathaniel and Elizabeth (Kniffin) Brundige, whose sketch appears 
in the history of Waldo Township. Mr. Brundige is the youngest of a 
family of nine children, whose names are as follows: Mary, Anna, Levina 
(married to Samuel D.Wyatt, and on his death married to William Dudley, 
also deceased; she is now living in Delaware), Elizabeth, Rachel, James, 
William, Sarah, and John our subject. The latter was reared to manhood 
on the homestead farm and received his education in the log schoolhouse of 
primitive times. He remained at home till of age, aiding in clearing the 
homestead, of which he is now the sole owuer. Mr. Brundige was married 
in September, 1837, to Miss Harriet, daughter of Joel and Elizabeth Tay- 
lor, and born in Marlborough Township, Delaware County, Ohio, December 
15, 1816. To this union were born seven children, four living, viz., 
Chai'les, Mary E. (wife of J. J. Powell, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; she grad- 
uated from Granville Seminary and taught in that institution for three 
years), Josephine, (a teacher who also graduated from Granville Seminary), 
and John F., the youngest. Sanford (deceased) was born June 16, 1838; 
he enlisted in Company B, on its organization, Forty-eighth Regiment 
Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and was wounded at Shiloh, from the effects of 
which he died in the hospital at Fort Pickering, Memphis, Tenn., Novem- 
ber 20, 1862; Elizabeth was born February 1, 1854, died June 25, 1858, and 
Thomas N. was born July 27, 1862, died August 1, 1876. Our subject, like 
many of the early pioneers of Marion County, started for himself with but 
limited means, with great resources of energy, however, which he has in- 
dustriously applied, and by perseverance and judicious economy he has ac- 
quired success and accumulated a large and valuable property, and now 
ranks among the substantial citizens of Marion County. Mr. Brundige is 
a gentleman of live enterprise, and has always taken a leading part in 
movements tending to the benefit and prosperity of the community in which 
he lives. He and family are ardent members of the Norton Baptist Church, 
with which our subject has been prominently identified for a great many 
years. In politics, he was formerly a Whig, but on the organization of the 
Republican party, he united himself with it, and has since been an earnest 
advocate of its principles. While in Delaware County, he was for nine 
years Trustee of Marlborough Township. He has also served as Trustee of 
Waldo Township for a term of years. He was a juror in the United States 
District Court at Toledo in 1882-83. In military affairs, he was Lieuten 
ant Colonel of a rifle battalion for five years. When our subject came of 



WALDO TOWNSHIP. 1017 

age, he received one-third of 100 acres and bought the rest, adding from 
time to time till he is now owner of 293 acres, besides a stock farm of 238 
acres in Marlborough Township, and sixty -two acres on the Olentangy 
River. In addition to the ordinary cultivation of his farm, Mr. Brundige 
engages in stock raising and keeps a high grade of stock. He rears and 
feeds cattle, and has usually on hand from fifty to seventv head. 

JOHN F. BRUNDIGE, farmer and stock-raiser. P. O. Waldo, young- 
est son of John Brundige. was born November 24, 1850, on the old home- 
stead and was reared there. In 1875, he entered on a collegiate course at 
Denison University, of Granville, and graduated in June, 1880. From the 
time of his return home he has been engaged in farming and stock-raising. 
He keeps a good grade of stock-cattle, horses and hogs. In the spring of 
1883, he moved to his present farm and married, March 22, 1883. Minnie 
O. Hyde, of Columbus, Ohio. She graduhted from the Institute of Gran- 
ville in June, 1879, and taught three years in the Deaf and Dumb Institute of 
Columbus. She is a member of the Baptist Church. Mr. Brundige owns 
125 acres of land on the Olentangy. 

EZRA M. CONKLIN, farmer, P. O. Waldo, was born in Westfield 
Township, Morrow, then Delaware, County, Ohio, August 21,1824, and is 
the second son and third child of Jacob Conklin, born in St. Alburgs 
Township, Grand Isles County, Vt., June 10, 1787. His father, grand 
father of our subject, was a soldier in the Revolutionary war. Jacob Conk- 
lin came to Liberty Township, Delaware County, Ohio, in 1813, and in the 
following year enlisted in the light horse, or cavalry, under Capt. Murray 
and Gen. McArthur. participating in several skirmishes, and suffering 
many vicissitudes during the war of that period. He served till the close 
of the war and was mustered out at Chillicothe, Ohio, September 17, 1818. 
He was married in Liberty Township, Delaware County, Ohio, to Orra 
Payne, born July 0, 1798, in New Hartford, Litchfield Co., Conn. She 
came with her father. Ezra Payne, in 1817, to Delaware County. Mr. and 
Mrs. Ja^ob Conklin moved to their future home in Westfield Township, 
April, 1821, and here they resided till their death. The former died March 
12, 1875; the latter October 20, 1880. Our subject remained on the home 
farm during his minority and was married, February 28, 1847, to Clarissa 
C, daughter of Samuel and Cherrissa (Wilcox) Hull, who were among the 
early settlers of Waldo Township. To this union there were born five chil- 
ren, two deceased in infancy; the names and the dates of births of those 
living are Orra C, June 17, 1849; William P., July 17, 18d1; Clarissa O., 
January 10, 1854. Mrs. E. M. Conklin died March 14, 1859; Mr. Conklin 
December 11, 1859, married a second time, the lady of his choice being 
Amanda E. Winegarner. By this marriage there were eight children, three 
dying in infancy. The live living are Mary E. , born April 18, 1862; 
Charles F. , born June 13, 1863; Emma L.. born November 27, 1864; Ben- 
jamin F., born March 17, 1866; and Myrta M., born February 25, 1868. 
Mr. Conklin moved to his present home in Waldo Township April 2, 1851, 
and has been a prominent citizen of the township ever since. He has served 
as Township Trustee several terms, and is a member of the I. O. O. F. 
Lodge, No. 588, at Waldo. He has been a member of the Baptist Church 
since 1852, and has been a Deacon in the same for many years. His farm 
consists of 126^ acres of excellent land, supplied with all modern conven- 
iences. 

HUGH CURREN, farmer, P. O. Waldo, was born in Waldo Town- 
ship, December 12, 1831, and is a son of Joseph and Elizabeth Curren, the 

WW 



1018 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

former a native of Ireland, the latter of Tennessee. Joseph Curren came 
to America with his father when four years old, and in 1809, came to Marl- 
borough Township. Delaware County. In 1814, he moved to near Waldo 
Mills, where he resided till 1885, and then moved to Marlborough Town- 
ship, where he bought 203 acres of land. He died afterward in that town- 
ship. Our subject is the youngest of twelve children, was raised in Dela- 
ware County and received his education in the common schools. On April 
3, 1853, he was married to Sophrouia, daughter of John and Catherine 
Portertield. She was born in Marion County, January 7, 1833. To this 
union have been born six children, five living, viz., Orrel E., wife of John 
J. Griffiths: John D., married to Elizabeth Garhiser; Hattie M., wife of E. 
L. Adams; David C. and Joseph B. Mrs. Curren died February 18, 1880. 
In 1853, he moved on the farm where he at present resides. He bought 
forty-three acres, which he has brought to an excellent state of cultivation. 

ISAAC DENMAN, farmer, P. O. Waldo, was born in Orange County, 
N. Y., March 31, 1829, and is a son of Andrew and Eleanor (Sillwell) 
Denman, also of Orange County, N. Y They came to Ohio in July, 1837, 
and settled in Richland Township, Marion County. Mr. Denman bought 
eighty acres of land, most of which was covered with timber. This he sold 
the following year and came to Waldo Township, where he bought 10O 
acres in the northwest part. This he cleared and improved. In 1853, Mr. 
Denman removed to Marshall County, Ind., and died in February, 1870. 

Mrs. Denman died in . The father of our subject served eight months 

as a soldier during the war of 1812, on Long Island, and his grandfather, 
Isaac Denman, served as a drummer boy in the Revolutionary war. He 
died in Orange County, N. Y., at the age of eighty. Our subject is the 
third son and seventh child of a family of nine, and was reared and edu- 
cated in Marion County. He aided in clearing up the homestead and re- 
mained at home till he came of age. In 1856, he and Peter Brenner 
bought the homestead. He had moved on his fifty acres at his marriage 
and resided on it till 1861, when he sold and moved one mile and a half 
east of Waldo and then bought ninety- four acres. He4ived in various 
parts of Waldo Township till 1866, when he bought 127 acres of his pres- 
ent farm, and he now owns 167 acres. He has cleared about thirty acres 
and erected all the buildings, and made all the improvements. He lived in a 
log cabin till 1875, when he built a two-story frame "L" house, at a cost of 
$1,200. He was married, February 16, 1856, to Mary, daughter of Jacob 

and Julia A. Crawford. She was born in Waldo Township in , and 

died February 14, 1864, leaving six children, five now living, viz., Lydia, 
Ida, Rosalinda, George M. . John A. and Emma. Mr. Denman again mar- 
ried in August, 1865, chosing for his second companion Rachel, daughter 
of Jacob and Julia Crawford. To this union four children have been born, 
three living — Myrtie M. , Jacob F. and Mary A. Our subject enlisted Sep 
tember 21, 1864, in Company K, One Hundred and Seventy-fourth .Ohio 
Volunteer Infantry. He served in the Army of Tennessee and fought at 
Overall's Creek, the Cedars and Wise's Forks. He was discharged at the 
latter place, March 14, 1865. He is serving his fourth term as a Township 
Trustee, and has been Assessor for two years. In politics, he is a Democrat. 

ALFRED L. DONITHEN, farmer, P. O. Waldo, was born in Frank- 
lin County. Penn., November 23, 1841. He was reared on a farm till 
twelve years of age, when he took up the milling business, serving three 
years in Bridgeport. Penn. He worked in the Bridgeport Mills seven years. 
On April 21. 1861, he enlisted in Company D, Sixth Pennsylvania Reserve. 



WALDO TOWNSHIP. . 1019 

He served in the Eastern Department, and was wounded by a bullet in thp 
right thigh, in the second battle of Bull Run; he was confined in Fairfax 
Seminary Hospital. He also fought at Drainesville, Malvern Hill and Fair 
Oaks. He was discharged in December, 1862, on account ui disability; 
he returned home, and in February, 1865, came to Waldo Township and 
bought a half interest in the Obcrn mills, in Richland Township, which he 
operated six years, wben he sold out his interest. He had worked five 
years in the Waldo Mills before he went into the Oborn Mills. In 1876, 
he bought 134 acres of land and has since been occupied in farming and 
raising stock. On December 15, 1868, he was married to Charlotte M. 
Hoke, daughter of William and Mary Hoke, and born in Franklin County, 
Penn., March, 1847. To this union have been born six children — Nettie 
B., Howard O., William H, Mary G., Ida and Daisy. In politics. Mr. Don- 
ithen is a Republican. 

FRANCIS MARION DRAKE is the second son of Daniel S. and Cla- 
rissa Drake, and was born on the old homestead, January 31, 1842. There 
he was reared and was educated at the common schools of his native place. 
AVhen nineteen years of age, he rented part of his father's farm, which his 
grandfather had owned. This he farmed for two years, when he bought 
ninety acres from his father in Pleasant Township known as the " George 
Rupp Farm," and lived on it two years. This property he traded for the 
"Zeig Farm" of 100 acres i^ the same township; here he resided also for 
two years. Selling the latter farm in 1866, he moved to Cass County, 
Mo., and became engaged in various businesses for about a year, when he 
returned to Waldo. Here he dealt in stock for a period of about twelve 
years, shipping largely to the Eastern markets. In June, 1867, he bought 
the Lewallan farm in Waldo Township, containing nearly 200 acres, and 
here he resided till April, 1877, when he traded the farm for the Waldo 
Mills, which he has since been operating. Our subject was married De- 
cember 10, 1861, to Miss Minerva J., only daughter of David and Elizabeth 
Curren. She was born in Waldo Township, April 26. 1844. To this union 
have been born three children, viz.. Clara Maud, born April 7, 1864; Den- 
nis David, born June 2, 1868; and Zepha Francis, born October 23, 1874. 
Mr. and Mrs. Drake had the misfortune to lose their home by fire in No- 
vember, 1880, but in the following yea^ they rebuilt, erecting a two-story 
frame house, at an expense of $1,000. Mrs. Drake is the owner of the mill 
property and twelve acres of land. When an infant, Mr. Drake was dubbed 
"Captain" by Captain Dowdy, an old Indian, who frequently nourished 
him when paying visits to his father's house. 

JAMES EMERY, farmer, P. O. Waldo, was born in Richland Township, 
Marion County, Ohio, July 4, 1826, and is a son of John and Catharine 
(Harter) Emery, of near Charleston, W. Va., and Perry County, Penn., re- 
spectively. The former was born November 14, 1797; the latter on August 
8, 1800. They were married in Monroe County, Ohio. Mr. Emery came 
to the neighborhood of Wheeling, W. Va., with his parents when six years 
old. Mrs. Emery's parents came to Monroe County in 1816. They were 
married in 1817, and moved to Fairfield County, Ohio. Then, in 1820, 
thpy moved tc Richland Township. Mr. Emery cut the road loading from 
Waldo to their farm. They first settled on school land and lived in a bark 
tent while a house was being built. Mr. Emery entered eighty acres, 
which he cleared up. He assisted in constructing the first roads in that 
part of the township and in erecting the Methodist Episcopal Church, 
which was built on his farm and went by the name of "Emery Church" for 



1020 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

twenty-live years. Mr. Emery died May 26, 1873. He was the parent of 
nine children, eight living- -Martin; Rebecca, wife of John Haruff; Eliza- 
beth, wife of William Waddell; James; Susan, wife of George Paratt; 
Fanny, wife of Jacob Jacoby; Ann, wife of Henry Brenner; Mary Jane, 
wife of William Obone, and Catharine, wife of Michael Jacoby, Jr. John 
YY. died in infancy. Our subject was reared on the homestead and was ed- 
ucated at the common schools. He remained at home till he came of age, 
aiding in clearing up the farm. In 1865, he bongbt fifty acres in Rich- 
land Township, on which he resided till he came to Waldo Township in 
1869. In 1S76, he built his residence, at a cost of $1,500. He married, 
June 16, 1853, Rachel, daughter of Joseph and Mary Showers. She was 
born in Crawford County, Ohio, April 8, 1836. To this union have been 
born twelve children, nine living, viz., Lucinda J., Ann V., Clement V., 
John W., Benjamin B., Laura P., James, Joseph and Ella G. Mr. Emery 
is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church; is a Prohibitionist; has 
served as Trustee of Waldo Township two years. He is owner of 180 acres 
of land, eighty being one-quarter of a mile north. He has been engaged 
for the past five years, in addition to farming, in raising fine stock, and 
keeps on his stock farm Cotswold sheop, thoroughbreds, etc. 

P. K. FRANCIS was born in Chenango County, N. Y. , December 28, 
1811, and is a son of Levi and Hannah (Stearns) Francis, of Saratoga 
County, N. Y., and Newport, R. L, respectively. They both died in 
Chenango Conuty, N. Y. Thomas Francis, grandfather of our subject, 
served three years in the Revolutionary war; he died in Chenango County. 
N. Y. The subject of this sketch is the second of nine children; he was 
reared on a farm and educated at the common schools. Before he was nine- 
teen years old, he was engaged in teaching, and followed that profession 
almost every winter till 1876. In 1835, he came to Marion County and 
taught school at Mount Gilead, the following winter and fall. In June, he 
went to New York, and in the fall of the next year returned to Mount Gil- 
ead. He taught the Mount Gilead Schools three consecutive terms. In 
1838, he came to Waldo and became interested in the Armstrong Hotel till 
July, 1830. He then removed to near Caledonia and farmed till October, 
1841, when he went to Woodville, Sandusky County, and in March, 1842, 
returned to Waldo and took charge of the Armstrong Hotel. All this time 
he still was occupied during winters teaching. He has taught forty-five 
three-month terms during his life time. On March 12, 1881, he was ap- 
pointed Postmaster, which office he still holds. He has served as Town- 
ship Clerk six years, Mayor two terms, Justice of the Peace one term, and 
Township Treasurer one term. He has also served as Corporation Recorder 
three years. In politics, he is a Republican. On October 29, 1837, he was 
married to Clarinda, daughter of Joshua and Phoebe (Stearns) Armstrong, 
the latter a native of Massachusetts, the former a native of England, came 
to America in 1803, settling in Monroe County, N. Y. He served in the 
war of 1812. Mrs. Francis was born in Monroe County, N. Y., December 
25, 1817; her parents came to Champaign County, Ohio, when she was two 
years old. They removed in 1822 to Miami County; thence to Delaware 
County in 1824, and Marion County in 1831. Mr. Armstrong died June 
10, 1868; his widow is residing in Waldo, in the eighty-eighth year of her 
age. Mr. and Mrs. Francis had. a family of five children, three living, viz., 
Joshua A., James M. and John M; Levi K. and Mary A. are deceased. 
Our subject and wife are members of the Mount Gilead Universalist Church. 
He is a member of the I. O. O. F., is owner of nine acres of land and a 



WALDO TOWNSHIP. 1021 

inilliner shop. Mrs. Francis has followed the millinery business for a peri- 
od of forty-eight years. 

WILLIAM GABLER, of the firm of Gabler & Gompf, merchants, was 
born in Waldo Township, September 2, 1839. His parents, John G. and 
Dora (Weinert) Gabler, emigrated from Wurtemberg, Germany, in 1827. 

and settled in ■ County, Penn., where they lived about two years; at. 

the end of which time they came across the Alleghany Mountains in a one 
horse wagon to Pleasant, now Waldo, Township, where Mr. Gabler en- 
tered 120 acres of land. A site was cleared and a log cabin erected, which 
they occupied until 1S49, when a two-story [brick house was built. This 
was their home until their death. Mr. Gabler departed this life in Au- 
gust, 1882, at the age of eighty-six years; his companion preceded him in 
May, 1878, aged seventy-eight years. They were the parents of twelve chil- 
dren, of whom our subject is the youngest. He remained on the home- 
stead until Fort Sumter was fired upon, when, the same month, he joined 
Company D, Seventh Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry. He fought 
at Phillipi and Cheat River, and was honorably discharged at Indianapolis 
at the expiration of his term of service. He returned to this county and 
followed agricultural pursuits uutil the fall of 1872, when he engaged in 
the grocery trade at Waldo, in which he continued up to 1880. He then 
started in the dry goods trade, and in July, 1882. moved to his present 
store room and admitted J. G. Gompf as a partner. They built their large 
store room at a cost of $4,000. This firm carries a stock of $10,000 and 
enjoy a good business. December, 1869/ Mr. Gabler was married to 
Miss Laura A. Rupp, who died in November, 1872, leaving two children — 
Edson C. and Laura. Mr. Gabler again married in February, 1872, to 
Lucinda Stroup, by whom he has had four children; three are living — 
Dora, Ralph and Charles. Mr. Gabler is a member of K. of P., and in pol- 
itics is a Republican. He is serving his second term as Township Trustee. 

GEORGE W. GEARHISER, farmer, P. O. Waldo, was born on the 
old homestead in Waldo Township, April 23. 1848. and is a son of Jacob 
and Barbara (Renz) Gearhiser. He is the eldest son and second child of a 
family of ten children. He was educated in the common schools and re- 
mained at home till he came of age. aiding in clearing up the land. He 
farmed the homestead till 1877, when he bought eighty-six acres on the east 
bank of the Whetstone River. This he has also cultivated, and is engaged 
in raising stock, of which he keeps a good grade. He was married. March 
29, 1874, to Mary R., daughter of Jacob and Eliza Jacoby. She was born 
in Richland Township June 7, 1853. Their family consists of two children 
— Jacob Wesley and George Walter. In politics, our subject is a Demo- 
crat. Be owns eighty-six acres of highly-cultivated land. 

JACOB GEARHISER (deceased), was born in Baden, Germany, in 
May. 1814. He came with his parents, John and Catharine Gearhiser, to 
America in 1828. They settled in Waldo Township. Mr. Gearhiser bought 

eighty-three acres of land, part of the farm. He died in , leaving 160 

acres, of which our subject got sixty acres and his two sisters fifty acres 
each. Mrs. Gearhiser died in 1830. Our subject's sisters were Christina, 
wife of Peter Hoffman, and Catharine, wife of Dennis Hotman. Catherine 
died soon after her parents, and our subject bought part of her land. Be 
was married, December 4, 1846, to Barbara, daughter of Sebastian and 
Margnret Renz. She was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, October 22, 1828. 
Their family numbered twelve children, of whom ten are living, viz. : 
Catharine, George W., Elizabeth. Henry, Lewis. Jacob,* Sebastian, John. 



102:! HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

William and Charles Mr. Gearhiser die:! Novembor 2, 1872, leaving 
eighty -three acres of land. He was a prominent and active member of the 
German Lutheran Church up to the day of his death. In politics, he was 
a Democrat . 

JOHN P. GOMPF, of the firm of Gabler & Gompf, merchants, Waldo, 
was born in Richland Township. June 23, 1843, and is a son of George 
■ and Sarah (Celsar) Gompf, natives of Hesse, Germany, and the neighbor- 
hood of Little York, Penn., respectively. The former was born March 19, 
L795, and came to America in 1821, settling in Richland Township, this 
county. The latter was married in York County, Penn., to David Kelley 
and moved with her husband to Richland Township in 1820. where the lat- 
ter died. Mrs. Kelley s ubsequently, in 1832, married Mr. Gompf. He 
died, September 23. 1879, and his widow is now residing on the homestead 
in Richland Township. They had three children — John P., Sarah, widow 
of Daniel Obone, and our subject. John P. Gompf was reared on the 
homstead and received a common school education, remaining at home till 
he came of age. He farmed the homestead for three years, and in 1870 
bought fifty-one acres in Waldo Township, on which he resided till 1880, 
when he sold and bought sixty-two and a half acres adjoining Waldo. He 
is now owner of twenty- two lots in Waldo Village, having his house within 
the coropration limits. Fifty-six and one-third acres are outside the cor- 
poration. He has paid considerable attention to sheep raising for sixteen 
years, and in September. 1882, embarked with Mr. Gabler in mercantile 
business. He was united iD marriage, August) 15, 1863, with Christina 
Metzger, daughter or Philip Metzger, and to this union were born eight 
children — Flora. Rosa A, Elmira, Clara A., John, W'ebster, Mary and 
Maud S. Mr. and Mrs. Gompf are members of the Lutheran Church. In 
politics he is a Democrat; has served as Trustee of Waldo for nine succes 
sive years, and is a thoroughly representative, self-made man. 

J. R. HIPPLE. M. D., Waldo, was born in Washington County, Penn.. 
December 14, 1829. He is a son of Frederick and Mary HElingland) Hip 
pie, the former a native of Cumberland, and the latter of Washing 
ton County, Penn. Mrs. Hippie died in 1840, and Mr. Hippie re- 
moved to Ohio, settling near Delaware, where he resided until L857, 
when he removed to Waldo, at which place he died, October, 1859. 
Dr. Hippie was reared and brought up on a farm. In 1852, he be- 
gan reading medicine under the preceptorship of Dr. Carothers, of 
Eden, Delaware County. After prosecuting his studies for two years 
and a half, he took a course of lectures in Starling Medical College, of 
Columbus. Ohio. In March, 1855, he came to Waldo and engaged in the 
practice of his profession. The Doctor has built up a large practice aod 
has good success in his profession. May 17, 1858, he was united in mar- 
riage to Miss Ada S., daughter of Richard and Elizabeth Waters. Mrs. 
Hippie is a native of Muskingum County, Ohio; was born October 8, 1837. 
This union was blessed with two children, one living — Richard W. , born 
May 24, 1867. Zana died at the age of six months. Mrs. Hippie is an ac- 
tive member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Dr. Hippie is a member 
of the Masonic order: he is also identified with the Marion Couuty Medical 
Society; of the former he served as Vice President. 

LEVI JONES, farmer, Waldo, was born in Perry County, Penn., Janu- 
ary 1'), L8I7, and is a son of John and Susannah (Wagner) Jones, of Perry 
County, Penn. They wore married there and in the spring of 1824 came 
to Marion County and settled in Waldo Township. Mr. Jones bought 



WALDO TOWNSHIP. 1023 

eighty acres one mile north of Waldo. He had some years previously come 
to Marion County and entered seven 160-acro tracts, one quarter section 
each, for six sons and one daughter. This tract was located in Waldo, 
Pleasant and Marion Townships. After 1824, he also entered 200 acres 
one mile north of Waldo. He lived to clear a good portion of the land and 
to assist to cut out and make manyjjof the roads in south Marion County. 
He was born May 12, 1765, died October 2, 1847. His home was used as a 
house of worship by the Presbyterians for fifteen years. His widow was 
born February 15, 1771, died May 16, 1864, at the patriarchal age of nine- 
ty-three. Her father, Hanry Wagner, served in the Revolutionary war: he 
died in Pennsylvania. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Jones numbered eleven 
children, four living, of whom our subject is the youngest. Catherine 
Sypher is the eldest, and is living in Lycoming County, Penn., in the 
eighty-eighth year of her age. Mr. Levi Jones was reared principally in 
this county and was educated at the common schools, remaining at home 
until he came of age. He lived with his father till 1837, when he pur- 
chased the land where the north part of Marion is now located. There he 
lived till 1840, when he married and moved on a farm one mile and a half 
east of Marion and lived there till 1847, in which year his father died. Our 
subject then moved to his father's farm in Marion Township, and in 1853 
came to Waldo Township, and bought eighty-eight acres of land, where he 
has since resided. Besides cultivating his farm. Mr. Jones engages largely 
in stock-raising. He was married, January 24, 1839, to Electa, daughter 
of Zoath and Persis Higgins: she was born in Union County, Ohio, Feb- 
ruary 3, 1819. Five children were born to this union, of whom three are liv- 
ing — Jasper L. , married to Sarah Clinchey ; Olive O. , wife of George Arthur; 
and Manoah, married to Henrietta Wolf. Jasper L. has seven children — 
Sarah E., George, Isadora, Biehard L., Earl, Bertie and Gertie (twins). 
Olive O. has four children — Joseph J., Eva M., Valley E. and Dellie M. ; 
an infant son is deceased. Manoah has one child, an infant son. Naomi 
E. (deceased), was married to William Brookins and had two children — 
Allie and Eva F. Jasper L. enlisted in Company H, Fourth Ohio Vol- 
unteer Infantry, serving eighteen months. He was with Sherman in his 
celebrated "march to the sea," and was honorably discharged at the close of 
the war. Mr. and Mrs. Jones have been members of the Free- Will Baptist 
Church for over thirty years. He has served as Trustee four years and 
School Director two terms. In politics, he is a Democrat. 

NELSON JONES, farmer, P. O. Waldo, was born in Augusta County, 
Va., May 19. 1807, and is a son of Peter and Martha (Breaden) Jones, of 
Loudoun County, Va., and Augusta County, Va., respectively. They both 
died in Virginia. Their family numbered twelve children, our subject be- 
ing next to the youngest, four living. He was reared on the farm and ed- 
ucated at the common schools. He farmed in Augusta County till 1S27,* 
when he came to Robs County, Ohio, where he remained till February, 
1832. In that year he came to what is now Waldo Township. Here he 
bought 105 acres in 1835, most of which was woodland. This he cleared, 
and in 1853 bought thirty-seven acres adjoining, on the west, part of which 
he also cleared. In 1872, he came to his present location. Our subject has 
helped to make all the roads in this section and has resided constantly in 
the township ever since 1832. He contributed to the Methodist Episcopal 
Church of Waldo, the United Brethren Church of Waldo Township, and the 
Presbyterian Church of Richland Township. On June 3, 1830, Mr. Jones 
was married to Lydia, daughter of William and Jemima Griffith. She was 



1024 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

born in Augusta County. Va., December 7, 1807. Their family numbered 
nine children, eightliving — Mary, wife of Jacob Ileely; Arthur, deceased; 
John; Martha, wife of William Morgan, of Kansas: William; Latham; 
Esteline. at home; Peter and Nelson. Mrs. Jones died June 22, 1883. Mr. 
Jones has served Waldo Township six years as Trustee. In politics, he is 
a Democrat. 

C. P. KELLER, farmer, P. O. Waldo, is a native of Wurtemberg, Ger- 
many, where he was born November 10, 1843. His parents, John U. and 
Christina C. (Cooleyj Keller, also natives of Wurtemberg, emigrated to 
America in 1847 and settled in Waldo Township, this county. Here John 
U. Keller bought eighty acres of land, all excepting ten acres covered with 
forest. Our subject's father died October 6, 1875, aged nearly seventy-six, 
and his mother died in Pleasant Township May 23, 1847, aged forty-three. 
Their family numbered eight children, six living, of whom our subject is 
the youngest. He was reared on the homestead and received a common 
school education. He was married February 9, 1869, to Mary E , daughter 
of Rudolph and Margaret (Sulser) Hecker. She died June 17, 1874, leav- 
ing two children — John and Rudolph D. Our subject subsequently mar- 
ried the second time on January 28, 1875, Barbara, daughter of George 
and Elizabeth (Sulser) Gattner. To this union were born four children — 
Charles H, Mary R. , Emma E. and Bertha C. Mr. and Mrs. Keller are 
members of the German Methodist Episcopal Church, of which he is 
Steward. Mr. Keller owns 157 acres in Waldo Township, 110 acres in 
this county and forty-seven east. Besides engaging in farming, he is 
interested in stock-raising, making thoroughbred Norman and Clydesdale 
horses a specialty. On September 20, 1864, he enlisted in Company H, 
One Hundred and Eightieth Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He served 
in the Army of the Cumberland and fought near Kingston, N. C. He was 
honorably discharged at Newbern, June 8, 1865, and returned home. In 
politics, Mr. Keller is. a Republican. 

LUCAS KLINGEL, farmer, P. O. Waldo, was bom on the old Klingel 
homestead in Richland Township, Ohio, April 7, 1848, and is the fifth son 
and child in a family of ten. His parents were Lucas and Dorotha Klingel. 
He was reared on the old homestead, and received a common school educa- 
tion. He remained at home till 1872, aiding in clearing up the farm. 
From 1872 to 1876, he lived with his father-in-law, Jacob Kalber, and then 
bought 114 acres of land, on which he moved the same year. On March 
14, 1872, he was married to Christina S., daughter of Jacob and Caroline 
Kalber. She was born in Baden, Germany, January 27, 1852. To this 
union four children have been born — Charles Wesley, born February 3, 
1873; Rosa C, born March 7, 1876; Lydia C, born August 8, 1878, and 
Emma J., born March 28, 1880. Mrs. Klingel's parents came to America 
in 1853, and settled in Richland Township, this county. Our subject and 
his wife are members of the German Reformed Church. He is owner of 
ninety-four acres of land, and is, in addition to farming operations, much 
engaged in stock-raising, keeping a good grade of cattle, etc. In politics, 
he is a Democrat. 

CHRISTIAN KNICKEL. farmer, P. O. Waldo, was born near Frank- 
fort on -the-Main, Germany, August 21, 1834, and is a son of Henry and 
Anna Mary (Bender) Knickel, of Germany. They came to America with 
their family in 1853, and settled in Prospect Township, Marion County, 
Ohio, where Mr. Knickel bought 100 acres of woodland. The family had 
to live in a primitive cabin till they were enabled to build a log-house, 



WALDO TOWNSHIP. 1025 

hewing the timber from the dense forest that surrounded them, and cutting 
out a road, as an approach to the farm, three-quarters of a mile in length. 
Our subject's father died about the year 1873, aged sixty-four, and bis 
widow now resides in Green Camp Township (this county), at the age of 
seventy-three. They had five children, of whom Christian is the second. 
He was reared in Germany, and received a common school education. He 
learned the weaver's trade, which he worked at till he was nineteen years 
of age, when he came to America with his parents. He assisted in clearing 
some forty acres of the homestead, and lived with his mother till 1867, 
when he moved to his mother-in-law's farm in Waldo Township. Here he 
remained till 1873, when he bought 100 acres, and, in 1878, an additional 
piece of land of fifty-one acres, all well improved and cultivated. In 1878, 
he built a two-story house at a cost of $2,000, and has laid on his farm 300 
rods of tile, and ditched 100 rods. Mr. Knickel was married, in Septem- 
ber, 1860, to Theresa Klingel, daughter of Jacob and Eve Klingel. She 
was born in Waldo Township. To this union were born five chil- 
dren, three living — Christian H., Anna and Laura. Wesley and 
Mary are deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Knickel are members of the Ger- 
man Reformed Church. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., No. 588, 
of Waldo. In politics, is a Democrat; has served as Trustee of Waldo two 
years, and as School Director seven years. As a stock-raiser, our subject 
has met with considerable success. He keeps Cotswold sheep, French 
horses, Poland-China and Chester-White hogs, besides short-horn cattle, 
all of high grade. In his exhibits of horses and sheep at county fairs, etc., 
he has taken first premiums. He has been successful with his farm also. 
In 1880, he had twentv-one acres which yielded 672 bushels of wheat. 

JACOB MILLER" Jr., farmer, P. O. Waldo, was born in Fairfield 
County, Ohio, February 1, 1811, and is a son of Jacob and Elizabeth 
(Weaver) Miller, natives of Old Virginia, where they were married. In 
1791, they moved to Ohio and settled in Fairfield County. Mr. Miller 
bought land there, and in 1827, came to what is now Waldo Township, in 
the eastern pai't of which he entered 160 acres of land; he subsequently 
removed one mile north, and died in January, 1865. aged eighty-six. Mrs. 
Miller died in January, 1856, aged seventy-two. Our subject's paternal 
grandfather, Christian Miller, served in the Revolutionary war, and his ma- 
ternal grandparents, John and Weaver, came from Germany. Our subject 
is the third son and fifth child in a faiuily of seven children. He was 
reared mainly in this county, and received his education at the common 
schools. He remained on the homestead, which he had assisted in clearing, 
till he came of age, when he bought fifty acres where he now resides. All 
this was woodland, but was soon cleared by our subject and cultivated; he 
now owns fifty- four acres. On February 8, 1834, Mr. Miller was united in 
• marriage with Charity, daughter of Thomas and Deborah Rogers. She 
was born in Pennsylvania, June 23, 1810. Their family numbered ten 
children, eight living — Catharine, wife of Martin Walton; Mary, wife of 
Alva Rhoads; Deborah, wife of Henry Rupp; George W.; Thomas; Eliza 
beth. wife of Daniel Corytendall; Sarah A., wife of Daniel Cutchall, and 
Jacob M. . Delilah and Rebecca are deceased. Mrs. Miller died August 24, 
1880. Mr. Miller has been a member of the United Brethren Chur3h 
for thirty-five years, is the oldest member of Olive Branch, and was one of 
the principals in building that church; is an earnest leader in it. and is 
Class Leader and Trustee. In politics, he is Republican. 



1026 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

GODFREY REINER, farmer, P. 0. Waldo, was born in Wurtemberg, 
Germany, February 28, 1806, and is a son of Godfrey and Margaret Reiner, 
also of Wurtemberg. They died in their native place, and in 1830, our sub 
ject came to New York City, where he worked for one year, and then went 
to Reading, Penn., working there by the month two years, principally on 
the Schuylkill Canal. From Reading he returned to New York, where he 
was engaged as porter for the " Western Hotel," on Courtland street, for 
two years. On the expiration of that time he. went home to Germany, and 
returned to New York in October of the same year (1835); in New York, he 
worked for a year and a half. In the spring of 1838, he came to Marion 
County and settled in Waldo Township, where he bought 160 acres ol land, 
two miles southeast of Waldo, and nearly all covered with forest. In 1844. 
he built this house and made all the necessary improvements on his land. 
He was married, September 18, 1836, to Miss Eva, daughter of John and 
Catherine Steckly; she was born in "Baden, Germany, May 7, 1811. To 
this union have been born eight children, three living — Catherine, Jacob, 
and Susie, wife of William Conklin. They have two children — Charles 
Milton and Clarence William. Catherine is married to William Swint, by 
whom she had one child — Emma (deceased). Those children of our sub- 
ject and his wife who are deceased are Godfrey, died aged twenty-three; 
Dora, died aged thirty; Augustus, died aged nineteen; Sophia, died aged 
seven, and Elizabeth at the age of six weeks. Mr. and Mrs. Reiner are 
members of the Lutberau Church. In politics, Mr. Reiner is a Democrat 

JACOB REINER, farmer, P. O. Waldo, was born in this township 
July 19, 1843, and is a son of Godfrey and Eve Reiner, the second child of 
three living. He was reared on the homestead; was educated at the com- 
mon schools, and remained at home till he came of age. In 1872, he 
bought forty acres of land, on which he moved April 19, 1864. He was mar- 
ried to Harriet E., daughter of Samuel and Margaret Downing, born in 
Delaware County February 22, 1843. To this union were born two chil- 
dren — Dell Amelia, born February 27, 1865, and Margaret Estella, born 
March 6, 1875. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., and in April, 1883, 
was elected a member of the Board of Trustees of Waldo Township. He 
served as Trustee also in 1881. In politics, he is a Democrat. Besides 
the ordinary cultivation of his farm, our subject pays considerable atten- 
tion to stock-raising. In addition to the forty acres above referred to, 
which Mr. Reiner owns, he has the use of forty acres more of the home 
farm. 

JACOB A. SCHAAF, farmer, P. O. Waldo, was born in what is now 
Waldo Township August 3, 1834, and is a son of Henry and Anna Maria 
(Schaaf) Schaaf, of the Rhine Province of Bavaria, Germany. They came 
to America in 1833, settling in what is now Waldo Township. Mr. Schaaf 
bought eighty-four acres of land, nearly all covered with forest. In 1842, 
he bought eighty acres more in Marlborough Township, and, with the aid 
of his sons, cleared up these farms. He died in April, 1866, aged sixty- 
four. Mrs. Schaaf then resided with her son, Jacob A. (our subject), till 
her death. She di»d January 18, 1882, aged nearly seventy-nine. They 
had a family of seven children, five living — Eva, wife of Peter Hauck; 
Jacob A.; Henry; Mary A., wife of Jacob Stich; and Elizabeth, wife of 
James McVain. Pfiter J. and Catharine are deceased. Our subject was 
reared on the farm and educated at the common schools. In 1864, he 
bought 100 acres of land west of Waldo. This he sold in 1867. In 1870, 
he bought 171 acres, his present 'farm. This land he had lived on from the 



WALDO TOWNSHIP. 1027 

time of his marriage, and made all the improvements on it. In 1874 he 
erected his two- story frame house, 34x36 feet, at a cost of $2,500. Mr. 
Schaaf was married, January 17. 1856, to Susan A., daughter of John and 
Barbara Coleman. She was born in Richland County, Ohio, January 17, 
1835. A family of nine children has resulted from this union, seven of 
whom are living — Emma E., wife of A. P. Wintermute; Frank E., mar- 
ried to Alice A. Inskip, living at Chesterville, Ohio; John H., Charles W. 
Laura Letta, Carrie Matan and Walter Marion. Dora May and Wesley are 
deceased. Our subject enlisted, on May 11, 1861, in Company C, One 
Hundred and Forty-fifth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and served at Fort Run- 
yan, near Washington City. He was discharged August 5. 1864, on ac- 
count of expiration of term of service. Returning home, he resumed 
farming. In 1873, he was elected to fill the vacancy of Hobert Hill, as 
County Commissioner. The latter had been elected to the Legislature. 
Mr. Schaaf served out fifteen months, and, in 1875, was elected a member 
of the board and reelected in 1878 — serving in all seven years. He has 
also served as Trustee of Waldo three terms, and is at present serving his 
second term as member of the Board of Agriculture. He has been a mem- 
ber of the I. O. O. F. since 1855; in politics, is a Democrat. Mr. and 
Mrs. SchaaE are members of the Lutheran Church, of which he is an Elder. 
Besides being a successful farmer, our subject pays special attention to 
rearing of superior grades of stock, such as French and Clydesdale horses, 
short-horn cattle and Poland-China hogs. 

JOHN S. SMITH, farmer, P. O. Waldo, was born in Franklin County, 
Penn., May 13, 1838, and is a son of Frederick and Mary (Snider) Smith, 
of Franklin County, Penn. Frederick Smith was born May 9, 1810, and his 
wife in 1812. They were married in Franklin County, Penn., where Mrs. 
Smith died in September, 1856, and where Mr. Smith, Sr., at present resides. 
They had a family of ten children, of whom our subject is the second son 
and third child. He was raised on the farm and was educated in the com 
mon schools. Mr. Smith was married to Miss Annie Elizabeth Hoke, 
daughter of William and Mary (Shearer) Hoke. March 6, 1862, and then 
moved on a farm near London, Franklin County, Penn., and remained there 
two years. They then came to Waldo Township and moved on a farm of 
101 acres, one an 1 a half miles southeast of Waldo, which was deeded to 
Mrs. S. by her father. Their married life has been blessed with eight 
children, of whom Mary M. and Wilda were born in Franklin County, 
Penn., and six were born in the State of Ohio. Their names are xArthur, 
McLellan, John R., Willy H, Harry S., Lottie M., Clarence V. Of these 
Wilda and Lotta M. are deceased. Besides carrying on his farm Mr. Smith 
is eno-ao-ed in raising stock. Mr. Smith in politics is a Democrat. Mrs. 
Smith's parents came to Waldo Township in 1865, and settled about a mile 
south of Waldo. Mr. Hoke bought 168 acres of land, where they resided 
for some time, and then moved to the farm where George Gearhiser now 
lives; they lived there one year when his first wife died; and the same 
year he married again and moved to Parsons, Kan., where he resided until 
his death. Mr. Hoke died at the age of seventy years one month and four- 
teen days. His remains were brought to Waldo and buried in the Waldo 
Cemetery. He left a widow and son. Mr. Hoke was born and raised on 
the old homestead in Franklin County, Penn. They bad eight children, 
five living and three deceased. 

JOHN STRINE was born in Cumberland County, Penn., August 20, 
1803, and is a son, of John and Margaret (Coble) Strine of York 



1028 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

County. Penn. They came to Marion County in 1827, and settled in Rich- 
land Township. Mrs. Strine died July , 1843, aged sixty-seven, and 

his widow followed in 1845. Our subject was reared on a farm in Penn- 
sylvania and lived there until April, 1831, when he came to Ohio and 
bought 142 acres in Richland Township; here he resided till 1856, when he 
bought 144 acres on the east side of the Whetstone River. His farm in 
Richland Township was all woodland except three acres. He cleared sixty- 
acres of that, however, and forty acres of his present farm. He assisted in" 
constructing several roads and building two schoolhouses and the Rich- 
land Presbyterian Church. May 16, 1832, Mr. Strine married Mary, 
daughter of John and Elizabeth (McCormick) Mannassmith; she was born 
in Cumberland County, Penn., January 13. 1813, and came to Marion 
County in 1831. By this union there have been twelve children, eight liv- 
ing — Margaret, wife of Isaac Waddel; John M. ; Elizabeth, wife of Salmon 
Boger; James; Martin; Nancy J.; Mary M., wife of John M. Drake, and 
William H. Jacob; Catherine, Peter and Henry E. are deceased Jacob 
B. Gulp married Catharine Strine and after her death married Margaret 
Strine, wife of Isaac Waddel (deceased). Peter was a member of Company 
B, One Hundred and Twenty-first Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry and 
was killed near Kenesaw Mountain, June 22, 1864. He fought at Perry - 
ville, Shelbyville, Chickamauga, Mission Ridge, Atlanta, Dallas, Manetta 
and Kenesaw Mountain. His age when killed was twenty-three years four 
months and eleven days. Jacob and John were members of Company E, 
Thirty-eight Regiment, and were efficient soldiers. Mr. and Mrs. Strine 
are members of the Presbyterian Church. He has held various offices from 
time to time. 

DANIEL STOCKMAN, farmer, P. O.Waldo, was born in Stark County, 
Ohio, February 9, 1819, and is a son of Peter and Catharine (Whetstone) 
Stockman, of Frederick County, Md., and Bedford County, Penn., respect- 
ively. Peter Stockman, Sr., served in the Revolutionary war under Gen. 
Washington, and was m the battle of Bunker Hill. He also served in the 
war of 1812. He and his wife and children crossed the Alleghanies 
with pack-saddles, soon after that war, aud settle! in Stark County, Ohio. 
In 1833, they came to Liberty Township, Crawford Co., Ohio, and, some 
years after, moved to Richland County. They subsequently died in Craw- 
ford County, well advanced in years, Mr. Stockman at the age of ninety- 
six. The subject of our sketch is the youngest but one of a family of 
twelve children; was reared on a farm and received a common school edu- 
cation. In March, 1839, he was married to Elizabeth, daughter of Peter 
and Thursie Schultz. He then moved with his wife to Norton, Delaware 
County, Ohio, and rented a farm of 160 acres for three years. After rent 
ing land till 1851, he bought 110 acres in Waldo Township, which he 
cleared and thoroughly improved. By this marriage there was a family of 
eight children, six living— Sarah A.. Elias G., Thursie M., David S., 

Henry L. and Francis M. Mrs. Stockman dying in , our subject took 

for his second wife, July 9, 1870, Mrs. Hannah E. Paschall, widow of 
Cyrus Paschall, and a daughter of Isaac and Ann (Smith) Dutton, the 
former a native of West Virginia, the latter of Pennsylvania. Mr. Dutton 
came to Marion County. Ohio, about the year 182-, and Mrs. Dutton came 
with her mother to Prospect Township. Here Mrs. Stockman was born 
July 4. 1829. She was the mother, by her last marriage, of one child — 
Nettie. Mr. Stockman owns eighty acres of land, under good cultivation. 
In politics, he is a Democrat, 



WALDO TOWNSHIP. 1029 

WILLIAM WADDEL, farmer, P. O. Waldo, was born in Ohio County, 
W. Va., December 25, 1820, and is a son of John and Margaret (Griffen) 
Waddel, the former a native of Wheeling. AY. Va., the latter of Ohio County, 
W. Va. John Waddel was born June 22, 1797, and his wife December 24, 
1799. They were married June 22, 1818, and in March, 1821, cam« by 
wagon to Marion County, Ohio, where Mr. Waddel entered 160 acres, sev- 
enty of which he cleared. Here he erected a log house 18x20 feet in size, 
and moved into it before it had either windows or doors. Mr. Waddel died 
January 4, 1841, and Mrs. Waddel December 1, 1851. The former had 
served as Trustee and Treasurer of Richland Township. They were both 
members of the Presbyterian Church. They had a family of ten children, 
all of whom grew to maturity. Their names are as follows: Nancy (wife of 
Urias F. Lawelleu), William, Daniel, John, Samuel, Benjamin, Isaac (de- 
ceased), Elizabeth (wife of Jonas Rupp). Mary (wife of Daniel Giffen) and 
Jane (deceased). Our subject was reared on the homestead, and received a 
common school education. He assisted in clearing about 100 acres of the 
home farm, and lived on the homestead till 1850, when he bought sixty- 
five acres in Waldo Township. In 1873, he added twenty-five acres, making 
a total of ninety acres. He erected a house in 1858, at a cost of $800. He 
is engaged in both farming and stock -raisijg. On November 7, 1844, he 
was married to Elizabeth, daughter of John and Catherine Emery. She 
was born in Richland Township^ this county. By this union there have 
been four children — Margaret J. (wife of A. C. Holly, of Chicago), Cathe- 
rine, John E. and Ella E. All the family are members of the St. James 
Methodist Episcopal Church of Richland Township. Mr. Waddel has 
served as Justice of the Peace twelve years, and Constable of Richland 
Township two years., In politi s, he is a Democrat. 

SAMUEL WILSON, deceased, was born in Fauquier County, Old Vir- 
ginia, September 15, 1808, and was a son of Samuel and Mary Wilson, of 
Virginia and England respectively. They came to Muskingum County, 
Ohio, about 1820. On the death of Mrs. Wilson, Mr. Wilson again mar- 
ried, and moved to Big Island Township, where he died. Our subject was 
brought up mainly in Muskingum County. On September 19, 1830, he 
married Lovina, daughter of Hiram and Sarah (King) Swain, the former of 
New Jersey, the latter of Virginia. Mr. Swain served as a private in the 
war of 1812. They moved to Ohio in 1818, settling in Muskingum County, 
thence they went to Darke County, where they both died. Mrs. Wilson 
was born in Fayette County, Penn., June 30, 1809. To this union were 
born nine children, six living — Harriet (wife of A. B. Bress), Mary (wife of 
Jasper Mutchler), Harvey, Martha (wife of James Leonard), Elizabeth (wife 
of Thomas Stone of Columbus) and Samuel J. The deceased are Laban, 
Katurah and Sarah. Samuel J., the youngest of the family living, was 
born on the homestead April 17, 1852. He was reared on the farm and 
had a common school education. When he came of age, he fell into pos- 
session of eighty-three acres of the homestead farm, and in March, 1882, 
he bought forty-five acres more of the homestead, making a total of 128 
acres. In addition to farming, he engages extensively in stock-raising. 
On June 4, 1873, he was married to Emma E., daughter of Elijah and 
Sarah White. She was born in Mansfield, Ohio, November 22, 1849. Mi*. 
and Mrs. Wilson are the parents of two children, one living — Lawrence 
Richard, born December 7, 1875. Clarence Jesse, born July 31, 1874, died 
Augxist 31, 1875. Our subject and wife are members of the Methodist 



1030 HISTORY OF MARION COUNTY. 

Episcopal Church in Waldo, in which he is Trustee, Class Leader and 
Steward. 

DAVID H. WYATT (deceased) was born in what is now Waldo Town- 
ship, MariCn County, Ohio, November 25, 1823, and was the second son and 
third child of Samuel and Levina (Brundige) Wyatt. who had a family of 
nine children. He was reared on the old homestead and educated at the 

common schools. His father died , 1842, aged forty-two years, 

and his mother resides in Waldo Township. Our subject was married, July 
4, 1853, to Mary S.. daughter of Abram and Margaret (Crawford) ConkliD. 
of Vermont and New Jersey respectively. Mr. Conklin and his brother 
Jacob came to Ohio in 1816, and settled in Waldo Township. Mrs. Conk 
lin came to this county with her mother immediately after the close of the 
war of 1812. They were married near the Waldo Mills, about the year 

1824. Mr. Conklin died in February, 187- aged years. Mrs. 

Conklin had preceded him in September, 1841. They were the parents of 
nine children, of whom Mrs. Wyatt is the third, born in Westtield Town 

ship, — County, September 29, 1826. Our subject and his wife have 

had four children — Charles E. and Ada, living; John Q. and Eva are de 
ceased. Mr. Wyatt became the owner of ninety-seven acres of the home 
stead, and on this farm the first tree was cut in Waldo Township. Fort 
Morrow is situated on the farm and it was on this land that the first log 
house was built in Marion County. The first brick house in Marion Coun 
ty, was erected on Mr. Wyatt's property. Our subject enlisted. September 
21, 1864. in Company I, One Hundred and Ninety- fourth Ohio Volunteer 
Infantry. He was taken ill on the march, and died at Murfreesboro, Tenn. 
October 11, 1864 He and his family were members of the United Brethren 
Church of Waldo, of which Mr. Wyatt was one of the leading members and 
most active workers. In politics, he was a Republican. Mrs. Wyatt and 
the heirs still own the homestead of ninety-seven acres. 

FRANCIS X. ZACHMAN, farmer, was born in Ersingen, Baden, Ger- 
many, December 3, 1803, and is a son of Michael and Catharine (Casper) 
Zachman, also natives of Ersingen, Baden, on Otrant Pforzheim. Our 
svdrject came to America in 1832, and settled in what is Waldo Township, 
this county. He entered eighty acres, to which he added by purchase till 
he became owner of 240 acres. He was the first settler in what is known 
as Bethlehem, and was one of the founders of St. John's Evangelical Church, 
in which he has been Class Leader and exhorter alternately for forty nine 
years. Mr. Zachman was married June 4, 1829, to Mary E., daughter of 
Daniel and Barbara Beekman, born in Ersingen, Baden, June 9, 1806. To 
this union have been born thirteen children, nine living — John N., Joseph 
G, Henry, Magdalene M., Solomon, Michael, Daniel, Lewis and Frank. 
Lewis, Charles and William and Jacob (twins) are deceased. Michael, the 
fifth son and sixth child, was born in Waldo Township September 15, 
1838; was reared on the farm aacl educated at the common schools. He 
remained at home till of age, aiding in clearing up the homestead. On 
January 26, 186 4, he was married to Christina, daughter of Gottleib and 
Elizabeth Almendinger, born in Pleasant Township, this county. November 
17, 1842. The family by this union consists of two children living — Mary 
E., born November 20, 1864, and Clara Irene, born February 26, 1873. He 
and wife and eldest daughter are members of the Evangelical Association. 
He is serving as Class Leader and Trustee of the church; has also served as 
Trustee of "Waldo Township two years. He owns 160 acres of land, and is 



WALDO TOWNSHIP. 



1031 



fully engaged in farming and stock-raising, making a specialty °f rearinp- 
iine French horses. In 1881 he erected a frame residence at a cost of 
$2,000. On October 12, 1861, he enlisted in Company D, Eighty-second 
Regiment Ohio Volunteer Infantry, serving in the Army of the Potomac. 
He fought *at McDowell, and was discharged at Newark, N. J. , September 
80. 1862, on account of disability. In politics, he is a Republican. 







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